Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park: Alerts, Map, Weather & Trailie Planner

About Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

On May 8, 1846, U.S. and Mexican troops clashed on the prairie of Palo Alto. The battle was the first in a two-year long war that changed the map of North America. Although the two countries have developed strong bonds and friendly ties since the war ended in 1848, these neighbors continue to contend with the legacy of the war.

Weather Information

Summer
are hot and humid.
Winter
are usually mild but cold fronts can drop temperatures by up to 30 degrees in about an hour.

Tropical weather systems generally affect the area from August to October.

Operating Hours

Park grounds are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Visitor center hours of operation differ from park hours of operation and are dependent upon staffing. The visitor center may be closed when the grounds are open. Park trails close to new traffic at 4:30 pm. All gates are locked at 5 pm. All vehicles must clear the park by 5 pm.

Monday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Tuesday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Wednesday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Thursday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Friday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Saturday8:00AM - 5:00PM
Sunday8:00AM - 5:00PM

Resaca de la Palma Battlefield Unit

The site officially closes at dusk and is closed on all federal holidays.

MondayClosed
Tuesday9:00AM - 3:00PM
Wednesday9:00AM - 3:00PM
Thursday9:00AM - 3:00PM
Friday9:00AM - 3:00PM
Saturday9:00AM - 3:00PM
SundayClosed

Planning Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.

Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Palo Alto Battlefield. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.