10 Fun Things To Do In Guadalajara, Mexico

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

The state of Jalisco is home to Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara. Two of Mexico‘s most famous exports originate in this city: tequila and mariachi music.

Guadalajara is a fascinating city full of historical landmarks, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. It’s impossible to get bored in this city, and it’s a great alternative to the crowded capital.

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico and want to visit cities other than the capital, include Guadalajara on your itinerary. This city has something for everyone, whether you want to learn about the city’s history and culture, go on an adventure, or eat some delicious Mexican food.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Guadalajara, Mexico, to make the most of your visit.

10 Best Things To Do In Guadalajara

1. Explore the Historical Centre of Guadalajara

Wandering the Centro Historico (Historic Centre), you’ll get a taste of Guadalajara’s unique culture. Tree-lined boulevards, a stunning cathedral, significant cultural establishments, vibrant markets, and much more can be found here. There are several pedestrian-only streets in the area, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll.

The Guadalajara Cathedral, with its twin spires, and the historic Governor’s Office enclose the Plaza de Armas, an ideal place to begin your exploration. After that, amble through Liberation Square to the Guadalajara sign for a picture.

Several museums, including the Regional Museum of Guadalajara, are within walking distance from here. Alternatively, you could sit back with a cup of coffee and take in the sights.

2. Step Inside Guadalajara Cathedral

Located in Centro Historico, the Guadalajara Cathedral, or Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Guadalajará. It is also the minor basilica of Guadalajara. Except for the Neo-Gothic spires, it was originally constructed in 1541 in the Spanish Renaissance style.

Tourists flock to see the cathedral’s stunning interior and exterior architecture. It’s as if you’ve stepped back in time when you enter the cathedral. Eleven additional altars can be found here, including the main altar, which is made of marble and silver.

Each altar is dedicated to a different saint, including Our Lady of Zapopan (Guadalajara’s patron saint), Saint Christopher, Our Lady of the Assumption, and Saint Dominic. All of the altars are decorated by some of Mexico‘s finest artists.

3. Tour Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco

One of the best things to do in Guadalajara is to take a tour of this magnificent structure, which houses the state’s government offices.

José Clemente Orozco’s socialist-realist murals can be found inside the building, and are easily among the top attractions in Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco.

One of the revolution’s most revered leaders, Miguel Hidalgo, greets you as you ascend the main staircase. An anti-communist and anti-fascist war are depicted in the mural’s base. No photograph can do it justice but be sure to take a photo as it is one of the. most impressive parts of the building.

Join a tour if you have time as it is a great way to learn more about Mexican post-revolutionary muralists and their works. However, the building is closed on the weekends for visitors to enjoy.

4. Admire The Frescoes In Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Instituto Cultural Cabañas (formerly known as Hospicio Cabañas), is located in the historic core of Guadalajara. This stunning Neoclassical building was a former hospital and orphanage.

The Cabañas Cultural Institute and the Cultural Heritage of Humanity now occupy the complex, home to José Clemente Orozco’s 57 magnificent frescoes. The building’s graceful architecture, inspired by the ones in Paris and Madrid is also noteworthy.

The frescoes in Instituto Cultural de Cabañas are among Orozco’s 57 best.
Most of the murals decorate the ceiling and walls around the enormous nave and cupola, including his famous “The Man of Fire” (El Hombre del Fuego) mural. Apart from the art, this cultural center has fantastic English and Spanish-speaking guided tours.

Once you’re done exploring, head over to the nearby Mercado Libertad, where you can buy regional costumes, pottery, paper flowers, and instruments. This is also the largest indoor market in Latin America.

5. Visit Guachimontones Archaeological Site

The Mayan and Aztec civilizations, the most well-known of Mexico’s indigenous cultures, have each left a lasting imprint on the country’s history.

Indigenous peoples in Mexico, however, have left their imprint on history in significant numbers.

Within what is now called the Tequila Valley outside of Guadalajara, the Teuchitlan people settled from around 300 BC until around AD 900. If you’re in Guadalupe, it’s well worth a day trip to see these historic sites.

The Guachimontones Archaeological site features distinct circular step pyramid structures that resemble beehives and appear to spring out of the grassy valley floor. Excavations at other Teuchitlan sites suggest that there may be other examples of rounded pyramids in Mexico.

Guachimontones is one of Jalisco‘s most stunning sights, but you’ll need to bring comfortable shoes and water with you. You’ll need some stamina to make the ascent to the structures.

6. Hike Bosque Colomos Park

Located in the heart of Zapotan, a district in the Guadalajara metropolitan area known for its stunning gardens, the Bosque Colomos Park is a hidden gem. Numerous sculptures line the paths, making this a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

There are many beautiful spots for a picnic here, including a Japanese garden that was donated by the city of Kyoto, Japan. Since it’s so close to Guadalajara’s historic core, Bosque Colomos Park makes for an excellent day trip.

Bring comfortable shoes and a camera because you’ll want to stay in the forest for as long as possible. There are many ways to explore the area, and you can even go horseback riding if your legs begin to ache.

7. Stroll The Tlaquepaque Neighborhood

This area of Guadalajara, with its cobblestone streets and brightly painted mansions, is a visual treat. However, Tlaquepaque, despite being less than ten kilometers from the city center, has a distinct atmosphere all its own.

The Calle Independencia, which is lined with cute handcraft artisan shops, is a great place to go shopping in Guadalajara. One can find the world’s largest selection of commercially available tequila here as well, in the form of a tequila shop.

On weekends, a bustling market takes place in Jardin Hidalgo, a picturesque plaza dotted with colonial churches. El Parián, meanwhile is a great place to grab a drink or two.

Take a bus from Guadalajara’s downtown to get there. Tlaquepaque is served by a slew of buses beginning around August 16; ask the driver before boarding to confirm service.

8. Listen to live Mariachi Bands in Guadalajara

It’s hard to think of a more popular form of Mexican music than mariachi. Mariachi music is so distinctly Mexican that it was even added to the UNESCO list of the world’s most important non-material cultural heritages. Mariachi music can be heard everywhere in Mexico, from beachside strolling bands to national holiday processions.

Jalisco, the Mexican state in which Guadalajara is located, is thought to be the birthplace of modern-day mariachi music. As a result, Guadalajara is the only place to experience authentic Mexican music. You may even hire a band to perform for you at Plaza de los Mariachis at night.

9. Drink Tequila in Guadalajara

Did you know that Mexico’s most popular beverage is named after a town? Indeed, Tequila is a town in Mexico that is located not too far from the city of Guadalupe.

One of the most interesting things to do in Guadalajara, Mexico, is to visit the agave fields and distilleries up in the mountains of Tequila.

Tequila can be reached in a variety of ways, such as by taking a local bus or the Tequila Express train, both of which are popular choices. If you love tequila or simply want an authentic experience, this is an incredible tour that you won’t regret.

10. Treat Your Tequila Hangover With Tortas Ahogadas

Tortas ahogadas, a local favorite, is a must-try while in Guadalajara. When you see one, you’ll understand why it’s called Tortas Ahogadas, or “drowned sandwiches.”

Birote bread and fried pork are commonly used to make this sandwich. Sauce made primarily from dried chili peppers is then drizzled over the sandwich.

As an accompaniment, they’re served up with slices of white onion, radish, and the usual assortment of salsas and hot sauces found on any Mexican table.

In Guadalajara, it is widely believed that one of the best things to do when you have a hangover is to eat one of these sandwiches.