Laredo, Texas, located along the Rio Grande River is a great destination for those moving here. This river separates American Laredo from the Mexican city of Nuevo Laredo. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. Laredo is nicknamed "The Gateway City." It has a dry desert-like climate. The city is home to three sports teams: the Central Hockey League's Laredo Bucks, the Laredo Heat soccer team and the Laredo Broncos baseball team.
Economy:
Laredo plays a key role in the United States trade with Mexico. The North American Free Trade Agreement between the United States, Canada and Mexico has really bolstered Laredo's economic health. Importing and exporting as well as warehousing commercial and industrial goods are integral to Laredo's economy. Falcon International Bank, International Bank of Commerce, Laredo National Bank and Texas Community Bank are all based in Laredo. The city's retailers benefit from the close proximity to Texas since many Mexicans travel across the border to do some shopping in Laredo.
Tourism:
At the end of January downtown Laredo turns into Bourbon Street with its Mardi Gras like festival called Jamboozie. Jamboozie is part of a month long February celebration commemorating George Washington's birthday. This festival began back in 1898 and is the largest one in the country with nearly 400,000 attendees annually. Hal's Landing is a real hotspot that is filled with bars, restaurants and nightclubs. The Strip is another happening area in Laredo. If you love water sports, you can head out to Lake Casa Blanca where you can water ski, fish and swim. There also many several museums to visit as well as The Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center Planetarium.
History:
Laredo was founded in 1755 by Don Tomas Sanchez. The city's original and official name was Villa de San Agustin de Laredo. In 1840, Laredo was the capital of the Republic of Rio Grande was established by the area's citizens as a sign of defiance against their homeland of Mexico. By the end of that year, the Republic was back under Mexican control. During the Mexican American war of 1846, Texas Rangers occupied Laredo and through the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo, Laredo officially became part of the U.S.