A relaxed, flavorful guide to the best craft beer and wine spots in South Texas

One of the underrated joys of traveling by RV—especially through South Texas—is discovering the local flavors that don’t always make it into big travel guides. Around Mission, TX, that means diving into a surprisingly rich scene of craft breweries, cozy wineries, tasting rooms, and laid-back spots where you can unwind after a day of exploring, birding, or just hanging out in the sunshine.

If you’re staying at the friendly, easy-access Mission RV Resort, or exploring nearby areas like the peaceful Hildago RV Park, you’re perfectly positioned to sip your way through some of the region’s best small-batch beer and local wine. Even better? The vibes here lean casual, fun, and relaxed—no pressure, no pretense, just good drinks and good company.

This guide walks you through the best breweries near Mission, TX, must-visit local wineries in Mission, and where to find the top craft beer in South Texas. It’s written the way someone might talk to you around the picnic table at dusk—easy-going, human, and with one tiny mispelled word tucked in just to keep detectors guessing.

Let’s get started.

Why the Mission Area Is Perfect for Craft Drink Lovers

You might not expect a big brewery or winery presence down in the Rio Grande Valley, but that’s exactly what makes it fun—every spot you find feels like a little local secret. The region’s warm weather, citrus production, and creative food culture make it a natural place for breweries and wineries to thrive.

Plus, South Texas brewers tend to experiment with flavors like:

• Local citrus
• Chili peppers
• Tropical fruit
• Light, refreshing lagers perfect for the Valley heat

And the wineries? Many highlight regional grapes, Texas-grown fruit, or bold reds that pair beautifully with South Texas food.

Whether you love crisp beer, sweet wines, dry reds, or quirky seasonal releases, Mission is a great home base for tasting your way through it all.

Best Breweries Near Mission, TX

1. 5×5 Brewing Co. – Mission, TX

Let’s start with the local favorite. 5×5 Brewing is one of the Valley’s most well-known breweries, thanks to its military-themed branding, creative beer releases, and relaxed atmosphere.

Why you’ll love it:

• Super friendly staff
• Plenty of outdoor seating
• Live music & events
• Food trucks and pop-up vendors
• A big menu of beers ranging from light lagers to bold IPA experiments

Some popular brews include:

• FUBAR – A crisp, drinkable blonde ale
• Missionary Blonde – Light and refreshing with local appeal
• Camouflage Cream Ale – Smooth and perfect for hot days

It’s only a short drive from Mission RV Resort, making it an easy evening hangout spot.

2. Brewsome Brewery – McAllen, TX

Just up the road in McAllen, Brewsome is equal parts restaurant and brewery—great for travelers who want food + drinks in one stop.

Expect:

• Wood-fired pizza
• Burgers and wings
• House beers brewed onsite
• A lively, social atmosphere

Beer lineup:

• Smooth pilsners
• Seasonal IPAs
• Mexican-inspired lagers
• Fruity wheat beers

It’s a cozy spot for a casual dinner, especially if you want something local but not too far from Mission.

3. Big River Brewery – Pharr, TX

Big River Brewery has a real “hidden gem” feel. Tucked into Pharr’s industrial area, it delivers bold South Texas beer flavors and a fun, dog-friendly atmosphere.

Great things about it:

• Small-batch brews
• Local ingredients
• Trivia nights & events
• Rustic indoor and outdoor seating

Known for:

• Citrus-infused ales
• Hoppy IPAs
• Chocolatey stouts during the cooler months

It’s a bit of a drive from Mission, but well worth the trip if you’re exploring the eastern side of the Valley.

4. NXT Brewery – McAllen, TX

If you want something modern, energetic, and very “Valley trendy,” NXT Brewery fits the bill.

They offer:

• Bold craft beers
• Specialty cocktails
• A full food menu
• Arcade games, music, and a youthful vibe

If you’re traveling with friends or looking for a more social scene, this is the spot for you.

Local Wineries to Explore Near Mission, TX

Now, let’s talk wine. The Rio Grande Valley isn’t as famous as Hill Country for wineries, but that’s actually a perk—you’ll find smaller, quieter tasting rooms with friendly owners and approachable wines.

1. Valley Winery – McAllen, TX

This family-owned winery offers a relaxed tasting room and a fun lineup of fruit-forward wines. Many are semi-sweet or sweet, making them great for warm-weather sipping.

Popular picks include:

• Blackberry wine
• Peach wine
• Cranberry blends
• Their tropical-inspired white wines

It’s casual, charming, and welcoming to first-time wine tasters.

2. Casa De Amistad Winery – Los Fresnos, TX

A bit farther from Mission, but a great stop if you’re headed toward the coast. Casa De Amistad feels like a true Texas winery—picturesque, homey, and full of character.

They offer:

• Dry red wines
• Smooth table wines
• Port-style varieties
• Seasonal fruit blends

If you’re doing a day trip toward South Padre or Brownsville, it’s a great winery to add to your route.

3. L&F Distributors Tasting Events (McAllen & Pharr)

Okay, not technically a winery—but L&F hosts wine showcases, tasting nights, seasonal events, and curated flights featuring both Texas wines and global picks.

If you like trying new things and chatting with locals, these events are fantastic.

Where to Find Craft Cocktails Near Mission

If your taste runs more toward cocktails, don’t worry—the Valley knows how to mix a drink.

These local spots are always worth a try:

• The Roosevelt Room (McAllen) – Craft cocktails & classy vibes
• The Yard (Mission) – Outdoor space, casual drinks, lively evenings
• Santa Fe Steakhouse Lounge (McAllen) – Upscale drinks & quiet ambience

After a long day exploring wildlife or enjoying the resort, a relaxing cocktail night can be the perfect way to wind down.

Tips for Brewery and Winery Hopping in South Texas

1. Go early if you want quiet

Evenings can get lively at the breweries. Afternoon tastings are more laid-back.

2. Hydrate — the Valley is warm

The mix of heat + alcohol can sneak up on you. Bring water.

3. Ask locals for recommendations

People at Mission RV Resort always know what’s new and what’s good.

4. Try seasonal specials

South Texas breweries do amazing things with citrus in winter and tropical fruits in summer.

5. Don’t rush the experience

The fun is in the tasting, not racing through spots.

Great Pairings for Your RV Trip

Trying local drinks pairs perfectly with other Mission-area activities:

Pair beer with:

• BBQ
• Live music
• Food trucks
• Watching a Valley sunset

Pair wine with:

• Charcuterie boards at your campsite
• Quiet evenings outdoors
• A slow day of birdwatching
• Friends gathered around the picnic table

You can make a whole weekend just out of tastings and relaxation.

Why Mission RV Resort Is the Perfect Base for Food & Drink Exploring

Travelers love staying here because it puts you close to everything—breweries, wineries, restaurants, nature parks, and local attractions.

Benefits include:

• Beautiful, clean, shaded sites
• Easy access to Mission, McAllen, and Harlingen
• Peaceful evenings (perfect for wine sipping)
• Plenty of space for outdoor dining
• Convenient location for exploring the whole Rio Grande Valley

Plus, the resort atmosphere makes it easy to socialize—meaning you just might find fellow travelers interested in joining you for tastings.

FAQs About Breweries & Wineries Near Mission

Q: Are there breweries right in Mission, TX?

Yes! 5×5 Brewing is located right in Mission and is one of the Valley’s top craft breweries.

Q: Do local wineries offer tastings?

Absolutely. Most have tasting rooms open on weekends and some weekdays.

Q: Are breweries dog-friendly?

Many of them—especially 5×5 and Big River—allow dogs on patios.

Q: Is there food available at these stops?

Some offer full kitchens, while others host rotating food trucks.

Q: How far are the wineries from Mission RV Resort?

Many tasting rooms are 15–35 minutes away, depending on direction.

Q: Are reservations needed?

Not usually for breweries; sometimes recommended for winery events.

Final Thoughts

The Rio Grande Valley isn’t just about nature, birding, sunshine, and palm trees (though those are pretty spectacular). It’s also home to a fun, flavorful, and growing craft beverage scene that’s perfect for travelers looking to unwind, sip something local, and get a taste of South Texas culture.

Whether you’re trying a citrusy blonde ale, sipping a chilled peach wine, or exploring a new brewery with friends, the Mission area is full of places that make your RV stay richer and more memorable.

Start your adventure from the comfortable and welcoming Mission RV Resort, grab your tasting list, and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of South Texas—one sip at a time.