Founded 1848, "New Laredo" across border is a bustling city. Fine hotels, motels, and restaurants cater to large flow of visitors throughout year. Tourist and market areas are located within comfortable walking distance from downtown Laredo. Shoppers find profusion of gift shops specializing in jewelry, crystal, onyx, and metallic arts. El Mercado, traditional marketplace two blocks from international bridge, features handicrafts, baskets, hand-dyed cloth, serapés, clothing, leatherwork, silver goods-all with Mexican flair.

The Nuevo Laredo Turf Club, within walking distance from International Bridge, offers wagering via live transmission from major U.S. and Mexican horse and greyhound tracks; restaurant and bar, opens 11 a.m. daily.

On seasonal basis, bullfights are held at the Luis Longoria Plaza de Toros bullring, six miles from the bridge.