12 Best Things To Do In Chihuahua, Mexico

Are you looking for the best things to do in Chihuahua, Mexico?

Chihuahua, the capital city of its namesake state in northern Mexico, is one of the largest cities in the country. It boasts a wealth of history and cultural heritage, which is seen in its numerous art galleries and museums, as well as various cultural events.

One of the most charming and authentic colonial cities you can visit in Mexico, Chihuahua also offers a vibrant nightlife experience and a diverse culinary scene. It is a hub for business and industry as well, with various national and international companies operating here, which says a lot about the city’s economy.

Overall, Chihuahua is a dynamic and progressive city with a warm atmosphere that both locals and visitors love. If you are visiting soon, here are some of the best things to do in Chihuahua, Mexico.

12 Best Things To Do In Chihuahua, Mexico

 

1. Start your exploration at the city’s historic center

Centro Historico de la Ciudad de Chihuahua in the heart of the city is the perfect starting point of your tour of the city.

It is a must-visit destination for history, culture, and architecture buffs since the district is famed for its historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and nicely-preserved colonial-era architecture.

In addition, Centro Historico de la Ciudad de Chihuahua is also teeming with cafés, restaurants, and shops along its cobblestone streets.

2. Visit the Cathedral of Chihuahua

Located in the city’s historic center, the Cathedral of Chihuahua is one of the most important structures in Chihuahua. It is an exquisite example of Spanish Baroque architecture which dates back to the 18th century.

The Cathedral of Chihuahua features beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate decorations. It still has many of the original bells in its Church towers. You should explore its interior to appreciate the intricate details and learn about its history.

Also check out the Sacred Art Museum in the crypt, where paintings by Miguel Cabrera, José de Alcíbar, José de Páez, and Antonio de Torres are showcased.

3. Relax at the Plaza de Armas

Surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, shops, and restaurants, the Plaza de Armas is an ideal place to relax with a coffee or ice cream in hand.

Here you can people-watch and simply enjoy the lively atmosphere while sitting on one of its benches. The plaza is a must-stop on your tour of Chihuahua’s historic center.

4. Visit the Museo Casa Chihuahua

The Museo Casa Chihuahua is located in a beautiful historic building that used to be the Federal Palace. This space is allotted for visiting exhibits and Miguel Hidalgo’s jail cell.

The museum features a collection of art, artifacts, and historical documents. If you want to learn about Chihuahua’s history, this is the place to be!

5. Check out the Palacio de Gobierno

Another notable landmark you can find in the historic center is the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), right next to the Museo Casa Chihuahua.

Palacio de Gobierno houses a museum dedicated to the Mexican War of Independence, which is one of the must-not-miss activities in the city.

Palacio de Gobierno is the very place where the Spanish firing squad executed Catholic priest and Mexican War of Independence hero Miguel Hidalgo in 1811.

In 1956, the Altar de la Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) was installed in the same exact spot where he fell.

6. Tour the murals of Chihuahua

Chihuahua is home to vibrant and colorful murals decorating the walls of many buildings throughout the city. These murals are an important part of the city’s cultural heritage and serve as a reminder of its rich history and traditions.

One of the most famous murals you must never miss in Chihuahua is the one in the Palacio de Gobierno.

Local artist Aarón Piña Mora painted the mural called El Mestizaje due to the blending of Indigenous and European cultures in Mexico that is depicted there. It measures more than 1,000 square meters and covers the entire interior courtyard of the Palacio.

Another notable mural in Chihuahua is the one you can find at the Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua (Autonomous University of Chihuahua), which depicts the history of the universe according to Mesoamerican mythology.

Other murals in Chihuahua are scattered around the city’s parks, plazas, and other public spaces.

7. Visit the Quinta Gameros

The Quinta Gameros, or the Gameros Country House, is a historic mansion located on Paseo Bolívar 401, in Chihuahua’s historic center. It was constructed between 1907 and 1910, and owned by the wealthy businessman Manuel Gameros.

The mansion, adorned with marble columns, stained glass windows, and ornate ironwork, is a stunning example of a neoclassical style with elements of Art Nouveau.

The Quinta Gameros was declared a Historic National Monument of Mexico in 1987. It serves as a cultural heritage site in Chihuahua and currently housing a regional museum.

8. Explore the Museo Histórico de la Revolución Mexicana

Museo Histórico de la Revolución Mexicana, or the Historical Museum of the Mexican Revolution, was once the residence of the celebrated Mexican revolutionary Francisco “Pancho” Villa and has been converted into a museum in his honor.

The museum houses artifacts and exhibits associated with the Mexican Revolution (1910 – 1920). It hosts a good number of permanent exhibitions, which include showcases on the life and legacy of Pancho Villa. Temporary exhibitions and educational programs are also held here.

Museo Histórico de la Revolución Mexicana is a prominent cultural institution not only in Chihuahua but in the whole of Mexico, offering a treasure trove of knowledge and information about this pivotal period in Mexican history.

9. Chill at the Parque El Palomar

The Parque El Palomar is a great place for relaxation or walking around. Located in the heart of the city, the park features beautiful gardens, fountains, and a lake with paddle boats.

It’s a great place for a picnic, especially if you have kids in tow. Here they can play and run around. If you happen to be visiting in the summer, free concerts are held at the park.

10. Enjoy some local cuisine

There are many restaurants and cafés in the city where you can enjoy some delicious local food.

Some of the popular dishes in Chihuahua that you must partake in while here include machaca (dried beef), asado de puerco (pork roast), carne asada (grilled beef with beans, avocado, and tortillas), menudo (tripe and red chili pepper soup), enchiladas, and burritos.

11. Visit the Grutas Nombre de Dios

There are several caves in Chihuahua, the most popular of which is the Grutas de Nombre de Dios.

Many tourists visit this beautiful natural cave system for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites and to learn about the caves’ history and geology.

Located just outside of Chihuahua, the Grutas de Nombre de Dios boasts stunning rock formations and underground lakes. The area also allows visitors to enjoy stunning views.

12. Shop for souvenirs at the Mercado de Artesanias (Craft Market)

The Mercado de Artesanias is a bustling craft market in the historic center of the Chihuahua. It offers a vast array of handcrafted souvenirs you can take home with you as keepsakes of your visit to Chichuahua.

The Mercado de Artesanias sells local arts and handicrafts in an interesting setup. You will find various unique items here from typical local crafts like ceramics, textiles, wood carvings, wrought iron, blown glass, and jewelry. These items are all created by local artisans and are of excellent quality.

Apart from shopping, here you can also learn about Chihuahua’s culture and tradition from sellers who are eager to share their knowledge and information.

The market is near the Chihuahua Cathedral and the main plaza, so it’s hard to miss.