Page 17 Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2023-2024 of this Memorial will pass through generations to the Nation’s children and their children’s children, who are our future leaders. It allows them to better understand our Nations struggles and sacrifices to be free. Entrance and admission are free, open 24/7. All are invited to visit this schoolroom of history. International Museum of Art & Science The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) was developed through the efforts of the McAllen Junior League to increase the quality of life for the citizens of the Rio Grande Valley. The mission of IMAS is to promote a deeper appreciation of the arts and sciences through its exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs; and to preserve, expand, and display its permanent art and science collections. IMAS is a Smithsonian Affiliate, fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and is the premier art and science museum of South Texas containing over 50,000 square feet of exhibit spaces. The fine art galleries host a number of permanent and revolving international and regional art and science exhibits. The museum houses the McAllen Public Utility (MPU) Science Lab and Ann Moore Art Studio, which host a variety of hands-on activities that change monthly. A must-see exhibit at IMAS is Science on a Sphere, an interactive theater space with daily presentations on space and weather. The Discovery Pavilion offers an interactive learning space for younger visitors and a display of minerals from the permanent collection. IMAS is located at the corner of Bicentennial and Nolana, at 1900 W. Nolana Ave. in McAllen. Regular hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Current admission is $5 for general, and $3 for children ages 4-12, students ages 13-18, and seniors age 65+. Please check the website at www.theimasonline.org or call (956) 6812800 for more information. Also see the IMAS Facebook page. McAllen Heritage Center Visit the McAllen Heritage Center to learn about McAllen’s vibrant past! You can enjoy the city’s history chronologically displayed in photos and other artifacts, and special exhibits about schools, musicians, businesses, and other historical items. Local talented artists are honored in the “Artist’s Corner” where artwork is displayed on a rotating basis. The museum offers various historical videos that visitors can enjoy in the presentation room, a children’s coloring area, a Book Nook, and various special exhibits hosted throughout the year. Please check the website or Facebook page for updates. The museum store, “La Tiendita”, which is also online, carries many historical books including the Valley Land Fund books along with an array of tee shirts and fun McAllen souvenirs. Also offered are items crafted by local glassworks artisan, Yoli Cantu. There is much to see and enjoy at the museum and you are welcome to come visit! Some restrictions may apply for museum entry depending on Covid19 or other conditions, including but not limited to: face mask or covering of mouth and nose required for entry and while inside the museum galleries. Call to inquire about group tours or field trips. There is no admission fee, however door donations are gratefully accepted. Limited free parking is available in the rear parking lot. The McAllen Heritage Center is located at 301 S. Main St. in McAllen. The hours are Wednesdays through Fridays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call (956) 687-1904, email info@mcallenheritagecenter.com, or visit www. mcallenheritagecenter.com or the Facebook page for current exhibits and other information. Payne Arena The Payne Arena is a multi-purpose complex that features a 6,800-seat arena that will configure up to 5,500 seats for basketball, ice hockey, football, and soccer and a center stage concert capacity of 7,000 seats. The arena fea-
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