Best things to do in Guadalajara
Find out more about those top places in Guadalajara
Guadalajara, Mexico: Where Siesta Meets Street Art (Think Tequila, Tortas, and a Whole Lotta Mariachi!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Mexican Maverick!
¡Órale, wanderlusters! While everyone's busy flocking to Mexico's mega-capital, let's let you in on a little secret: the country's second largest metropolis, the magnificent Guadalajara, remains a gloriously hidden gem. This isn't just another sprawling city; it's a place where the art of the laid-back siesta culture harmoniously blends with a cutting-edge scene of art and gastronomy that will tantalize your senses and maybe even inspire a midday nap.
Step into the downtown area, the historical heart of Guadalajara, and you'll feel like you've wandered onto a colonial-era movie set. Centered around the golden spires of the city’s wonderful cathedral, this area has changed little since the days of conquistadors and caballeros. It's a feast for the eyes and a fantastic place to visit for a dose of authentic Mexican history.
But wait, there's more! Guadalajara is practically the birthplace of numerous iconic Mexican traditions. We're talking about the soul-stirring sounds of mariachi music that will have your feet tapping and your heart swelling. We're talking about those gloriously oversized sombreros that are perfect for both sun protection and making a grand entrance. And we're talking about charreadas (Mexican rodeos) that showcase incredible horsemanship and a whole lot of "yeehaw!" This city is a living, breathing celebration of Mexican culture, offering incredible things to do that are uniquely Guadalajaran.
Now, don't let all this history fool you. Despite its palpable past, Guadalajara is also Mexico’s undisputed capital of all things cool. The hipster Chapultepec district is a vibrant explosion of street art that will make your Instagram feed sing, chic galleries showcasing the city's burgeoning art scene, and artisanal coffee houses where you can fuel your explorations with some seriously good caffeine. It's the perfect place to visit for a taste of modern Mexican creativity.
And let's talk food, because Guadalajara is a culinary adventure waiting to happen! Fusion chefs are fearlessly reinterpreting traditional Guadalajaran classics, taking dishes you thought you knew and giving them a delicious, modern twist. You absolutely must try the pozole, a hearty pork and ground maize stew that's like a warm hug in a bowl. But brace yourselves for the torta ahogada, a meat-filled roll that's gloriously (and hilariously) smothered in a deep red, spicy salsa. "Drowned cake" doesn't quite do it justice – it's more like a flavor explosion that might require a bib (and definitely a cold cerveza!).
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Mexican maverick. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring colonial cathedrals and soaking in vibrant street art to experiencing iconic Mexican traditions and indulging in a culinary scene that's both traditional and cutting-edge, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Guadalajara a truly special and hilariously authentic destination.
Top Attractions: Cathedrals, Culture, and Culinary Delights!
Guadalajara offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy:
Guadalajara Cathedral: Golden Grandeur
Marvel at the stunning Guadalajara Cathedral with its iconic golden spires, a centerpiece of the city's historic downtown. A must-see attraction for your Guadalajara sightseeing.
Tlaquepaque: Arts, Crafts, and Mariachi
Explore the charming suburb of Tlaquepaque, known for its beautiful pedestrian streets, art galleries, craft shops, and lively mariachi performances. A key place to visit for cultural immersion and things to do.
Instituto Cultural Cabañas: Murals and History
Visit the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former orphanage, famous for its stunning murals by José Clemente Orozco. A top attraction for art and history lovers.
Chapultepec Avenue: Hipster Haven
Wander down Chapultepec Avenue, the heart of Guadalajara's trendy district, filled with street art, galleries, cafes, and a vibrant nightlife. A great place to visit for a taste of modern Guadalajara.
Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios: A Shopper's Paradise
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios, one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America, offering everything from local produce to clothing and souvenirs. A must-do thing to do for a true cultural experience.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Mexican marvel!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Guadalajara vibe:
- Take a Tequila Tour: Explore the nearby town of Tequila, the birthplace of Mexico's famous spirit, and visit distilleries.
- Attend a Charreada: Witness the spectacle of a traditional Mexican rodeo.
- Explore the Hospicio Cabañas Murals in Detail: Spend time appreciating Orozco's powerful artwork.
- Enjoy the Nightlife in Chapultepec: Experience the trendy bars and clubs in the hipster district.
- Savor Authentic Guadalajaran Cuisine: Don't leave without trying pozole and, if you dare, a torta ahogada!
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Mexico that offer a rich blend of history, culture, delicious food, a vibrant modern scene, and a healthy dose of Mexican charm, Guadalajara is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to fall in love with its laid-back coolness – and maybe learn a few mariachi lyrics! ¡Salud! (Cheers!)
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Instituto Cultural de Cabañas
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, Guadalajara’s Instituto Cultural de Cabañas is one of Mexico’s most fascinating attractions. Housed in a breathtaking building, which believe it or not is a former orphanage, are a series of modernist murals by the renowned artist José Clemente Orozco alongside a collection of other works. All 57 of the murals were painted in the late-1930s and their near-biblical images of fire, crumpled armor, blood and rallying armies were intended to be a warning against fascism. To see these unrivaled works of art tours leave throughout the day.
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Catedral de Guadalajara
Capped with a series of iconic 19th century towers built following the originals collapsed in an earthquake, Guadalajara’s 16th century cathedral is as old as the city itself. The Gothic interior is somewhat gloomy but make sure to look out for the dazzling side altars bestowed to the cathedral by King Ferdinand VII of Spain who ruled in the early-19th century. Guided tours of this brooding building are available throughout the day.
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Plaza de los Mariachis
Famed as the birthplace of mariachi music, the best place in Guadalajara to listen to this infectiously charming style of traditional music is at the aptly named Plaza de los Mariachis. During the day there is not much to see but by night it becomes a buzzing square packed with colorful bands, beer stalls and loudspeakers.
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Tequila Tour
Just outside Guadalajara’s city limits is the UNESCO listed tequila producing region of Jalisco. Guided tours take you through the region’s rolling fields of agave, which is harvested, fermented and distilled to make one of the world’s favorite spirits. Of course, the tour concludes with a tasting of different tequila styles produced in the region.
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Lake Chapala
Tours depart Guadalajara daily to the shores of Lake Chapala and the picture-perfect town of the same name. Boardwalks let you walk out over the water and get close to some of Mexico’s best bird life while the town itself is one of the country’s most beguiling. Make sure to soak up the area’s literary pedigree by visiting the former homes of D.H. Lawrence and Tennessee Williams.
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Tonalá Street Market
Guadalajara is a mecca for food lovers and there is no better place to get to grips with the city’s vibrant gastronomy than at Tonalá Market. Open on Thursdays and Sundays, the labyrinthine market is gigantic and would take hours to explore alone. For the best experience, local food guides can take you to the best torta (sandwich) stalls and vendors selling refreshing michelada (beer and tomato juice).
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Basilica de Zapopan
The Basilica de Zapopan is one of Mexico’s main points of pilgrimage for devoted Catholics due to its petite but sacred statue of the Virgin Mary. The church itself is stunning with vaulted ceilings and more than its fair share of dazzling gold.
