Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Guadalajara, Mexico. #Top Attractions

Spread the love!

Wondering where to go this holiday? Try Guadalajara, Mexico. Explore the top activities to do and sights to see in Guadalajara, Mexico, to make the most of your time there. Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Guadalajara, Mexico, and the best places to visit in Guadalajara, Mexico below. Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, hopes to have a significant impact on the world.

Avenida Chapultepec

A night out on Avenida Chapultepec

The major core of Guadalajara’s nightlife is Avenida Chapultepec, although it also hosts a weekly cultural tianguis. 

Vendors set up shop on Chapu’s primary reserve, Paseo Chapultepec, every Saturday evening and afternoon. 

Because of its prominent position, this market is quite popular with visitors and residents and may become extremely congested. 

This is a must-see in Guadalajara because it has everything from Huichol beaded jewelry to handwoven rucksacks to used books.

This popular boulevard is packed with clubs, pubs, and restaurants and is a great place to spend any night of the week.

If you are not staying in this area, come here in the late afternoon and spend the evening doing one of the fun things in Guadalajara at night.

Spend a night out with your friends and relax while you explore the exciting nightlife Guadalajara has to offer.

Address: Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan

The glorious past lingers over the decaying present.

Zapopan is a modest and charming jewel in the heart of Guadalajara.

This 17th-century Franciscan church complex is in Zapopan, about 8 kilometers northwest of Guadalajara Cathedral.

The basilica is built in a dramatic colonial Baroque style, with two huge Ionic columns on either side of the entrance.

The Basilica sits at one end of a plaza, with a very attractive “entry” at the other. Both are worthwhile viewings. 

The Virgin of Zapopan is housed within the Basilica. A little museum of Huichol culture on one side is intriguing.

When you walk into the courtyard, you’ll see a beautiful facade of scrolls and carved reliefs between two bell towers with domes.

The inside is equally striking, with fluted polychrome sculptures, columns, murals, and copious amounts of gold leaf.

The church hosts Mexico’s third-largest pilgrimage on October 12.

More than a million people marched from Guadalajara Cathedral to the shrine of the Virgin of Zapopan.

Address: Calle Eva Briseño 152, Zapopan, 44250 Zapopan, Jal., Mexico

Bosque Colomos Park

Take a trip through the beautiful Bosque Colomos Park.

The Bosque Colomos Park is a hidden treasure in the center of Zapotan, a region in the Guadalajara metropolitan area famed for its gorgeous gardens. 

The roads are lined with sculptures, making this a pleasant getaway from the rush and bustle of downtown.

There are numerous lovely picnic areas here, including a Japanese garden provided by Kyoto, Japan. 

Guadalajara’s historic heart is a wonderful day excursion from Bosque Colomos Park, and it is so close.

It’s not far from Guadalajara’s historic center, so as one of the best places to see in Guadalajara, a visit here doesn’t have to last all day. 

Bring a camera and comfortable shoes since you’ll want to spend as much time as possible in the forest. 

Other options to explore the region include horseback riding if your legs begin to hurt.

You can simply come for a relaxing morning and just enjoy the calming scenery.

Address: C. El Chaco 3200, Providencia, 44630 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Expiatory Temple

This church is just gorgeous whenever you look at it.

The Templo Expiatorio del Santsimo Sacramento is one of Guadalajara’s newer cathedrals. However, it is still one of the city’s best religious buildings.

The church, built in the neo-Gothic style, is noted for its elaborately adorned façade and various European-made components. 

Its elaborately carved doors, gorgeous mosaics from Italy, a one-of-a-kind German clock, and a wonderful carillon capable of playing 25 different pieces of music while figurines of the 12 Apostles walk around it highlighted.

The building’s richly designed Golden Altar, with its numerous biblical tales, and the beautiful stained-glass windows from France, are also noteworthy.

The sort that takes your breath away as you go through it. 

It is equally gorgeous during the day as at night. 

There is a presentation of small sculptures of the 12 disciples to music and bells ringing at the top of the hour. 

The statues emerge from small doorways beneath one of the cathedral windows.

Though this is a church, it is worth taking a second trip just to view the magnificent designs and beauty.

Address: C. Manuel López Cotilla 935, Col Americana, Americana, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Guachimontones Archaeological Site

An ancient ruin that’s still standing even now.

Indigenous cultures in Mexico go back thousands of years. The Aztec and Mayan cultures are the most well-known ones.

However, Mexico is home to several indigenous groups that have left their imprint on history.

From 300 BC to AD 900, the Teuchitlan people resided in what is now known as the Tequila Valley west of Guadalajara. They left behind massive structures that make for a terrific day trip from Guadalajara.

The archaeological site of Guachimontones consists of remarkable circular step pyramid constructions that resemble beehives and spring out of the green valley bottom. 

This is one of the only rounded pyramids in Mexico. Still, discoveries at other Teuchitlan sites point to the possibility of similar structures.

It is one of the most stunning places in Jalisco, but bring water and good shoes. 

It’s a difficult hike up to the archaeological site, but definitely worth the effort.

Address: Piramide circular, Carretera Estatal 604 Guadalajara-San Marcos Gral. Lucio Blanco, Estanzuela, 46762 Guachimontones, Jal., Mexico

Guadalajara Cathedral

The city’s beating heart

The Guadalajara Cathedral, or Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Guadalajara and is located in Centro Historico. 

The cathedral, built between 1558 and 1616 and greatly renovated since then, is primarily Baroque in appearance.

It is also Guadalajara’s minor basilica. Except for the Neo-Gothic spires, it was built in the Spanish Renaissance style in 1541.

Tourists come from all over the world to view the cathedral’s spectacular interior and exterior architecture. 

When you enter the cathedral, it’s as if you’ve returned in time. The main altar, made of marble and silver, is one of eleven other altars here.

Each altar honors a different saint, such as Our Lady of Zapopan, Saint Christopher, Our Lady of the Assumption, and Saint Dominic. 

The altars are all embellished by some of Mexico’s most talented painters.

Not all are religious, but there’s no disputing that the Guadalajara Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Guadalajara.

Address: Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Guadalajara Zoo

A True City Treasure

The Guadalajara Zoo is located just a few minutes north of the city. 

This fun place to visit is one of the most important and largest zoos in Latin America. It is set in a beautiful place above the Santiago Gorge.

Its collection has many rare animals, like white, black panthers, Bengal tigers, and lions. There are also orangutans, gorillas, and some animals that live in Mexico, like Mexican wolves.

Among the features are a reptile enclosure and a big aquarium with several spiders, lizards, and snakes. 

The zoo is especially known for its enormous aviaries, two of which are devoted to tropical species and songbirds, respectively. 

Other family favorites at the zoo include the train, an aquarium with a glass tunnel, and the Antarctica Zone, where you can temporarily feel how cold it is and see happy Gentoo and Adélie penguins.

Safari Masai Mara is a thrilling trip through the African savannah filled with rhinoceros, antelope, and other wildlife.

Book a ticket in advance to avoid the hassle of lining up and just enjoy the attractions.

Address: C. P.º del Zoológico 600, Huentitán El Alto, 44390 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Historical Centre of Guadalajara

A trip through the Centro Historico is the best way to get to know Guadalajara.

Wandering around the Centro Historico will give you a flavor of Guadalajara’s distinct culture. 

There are prominent cultural enterprises, busy marketplaces, tree-lined boulevards, a gorgeous cathedral, and much more. 

The neighborhood has numerous pedestrian-only streets, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The Plaza de Armas is surrounded by the ancient Governor’s Office and the Guadalajara Cathedral, making it a perfect spot to start your trip. 

After that, stroll across Liberation Square to the Guadalajara sign for a photo opportunity.

Several museums, including the Regional Museum of Guadalajara, are a short walk away. You might also relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the views.

After seeing Tequila and buying pottery in Tlaquepaque, a trip to the historic center is a great way to get your energy back by looking at the buildings and eating lunch before ending the day at a bar.

There are tons of trips for you to experience the culture and history of Guadalajara.

Address: Guadalajara, Mexico

Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

It is among the most underrated spots to visit.

The Instituto Cultural Cabanas is a beautiful Neoclassical building built at the start of the nineteenth century in the downtown historic district.

The Cabanas Cultural Institute and the Cultural Heritage of Humanity are now housed in the complex. 

The beautiful collection of 57 paintings by José Clemente Orozco, widely thought to be some of his best, is the main attraction here. The elegant architecture of the building is based on similar designs in Paris and Madrid.

The spacious nave and cupola are adorned with most of his paintings, including his famous The Man of Fire fresco. 

Guided tours in English and Spanish are offered and highly recommended.

After the tours, you’re free to go to the adjacent Mercado Libertad, where you can buy regional costumes, musical instruments, paper flowers, and ceramics.

If you’re visiting Guadalajara, you should absolutely include this museum on your schedule.

Address: C. Cabañas 8, Las Fresas, 44360 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

José Clemente Orozco’s Frescoes

Explore and find the hidden gems made by Jose Clemente.

Various venues across the city display artwork by one of Mexico’s most recognized artists, José Clemente Orozco (1883–1949). 

Some of his best work may be found in frescoes in a former church at the Instituto Cultural Cabanas building. 

Between 1938 and 1939, these huge murals were painted. They show Science, Art, the Four Elements, the Four Riders of the Apocalypse, and the Conquest.

The magnificent fresco, The Man of Fire (El Hombre del Fuego), is the high point in the dome.

A range of displays related to Orozco’s work and life may be seen in various rooms across the complex. 

The ideas are global, but they are presented from a Mexican point of view, which helps build a more complete picture of what’s happening in the world today.

The Government Palace is another location with samples of Orozco’s frescoes (Palacio de Gobierno).

View the fascinating and amazing artwork all around Guadalajara.

Address: Guadalajara, Mexico

Live without making excuses, and travel without looking back with remorse. Time to fly and travel. Experience different cultures around the world by checking out the traveling around the world guide. When you roam around the world, you have to visit the USA. The United States is home to an abundance of breathtakingly gorgeous open landscapes. It also features a wide range of climates and topographic conditions. Click here for the what are the best states to visit in USA?

Lake Chapala

One of the most popular things to do in Guadalajara is to visit Lake Chapala.

Mexico’s largest freshwater lake is a little over an hour’s drive from the metropolis. 

This section of Jalisco state is genuinely lovely, with a vast shimmering body of water protected between towering mountains.

Guadalajara has two renowned tourist destinations that are only a 15-minute drive apart.

Your first stop from downtown Guadalajara to Lake Chapala should be a stroll along the picturesque coastline.

Next, on your list of the greatest things to do in Guadalajara, visit the colorful street art-adorned streets of Ajijic and cobblestone. 

The town has been a haven for creatives and artists for a long time. The town has a distinctly bohemian vibe, with lovely handicrafts on sale.

There is a fantastic market if you can make it on a Wednesday. 

There are several eateries near Malecon and the center square. 

Take a quick rest and experience relaxation at Lake Chapala.

Address: Guadalajara, Mexico

La Barranca de Huentitan

La Barranca de Huentitan is a great place to go hiking and take in the park’s natural beauty.

A must-see for nature enthusiasts is La Barranca de Huentitán, a breathtakingly beautiful natural park. 

Unlike some locals who rush down the steep, cobblestone slopes, I take it slowly and stroll down to the bottom of the valley before continuing the track along the river. 

Before you know it, you’ll be at the thermal baths, for which this gorgeous region is well known. 

This is the ideal spot to relax your sore muscles after a long day of trekking. Still, there are no changing facilities, so bring your swimming suit and be prepared to get wet on the way back. 

To get there, take the Macrobs to Mirador and get off at the last stop.

The quickest method to travel to the trailhead from Guadalajara is to take an uber.

Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and water bottles because you will need them on your exciting adventure at the park.

Address: Av. Perif. Pte. Manuel Gómez Morin s/n, Tetlán Río Verde, 44720 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco

Explore the spectacular government structure, filled with figures of leaders and paintings.

Inside, local artist José Clemente Orozco has created some very magnificent socialist realism murals. 

The building is free to the public, but it is closed on weekends.

As you ascend the main staircase, you will be greeted by an imposing statue of the legendary Miguel Hidalgo, one of the revolution’s leaders.

In 1810, Hidalgo put an end to slavery in Mexico. This is shown in the large fresco on the main staircase.

The mural’s basis shows struggles and combat against communism and fascism.

Hiring a guide explaining the mural’s richness is recommended, as there is a lot to see and learn from.

If you have time, take a tour to discover more about the Mexican post-revolutionary painters and their masterpieces.

It’ll be quite breathtaking once you’ve seen it, and no photograph can do it justice.

Visiting this magnificent structure, which houses the state government offices, is unquestionably one of the top things to do in Guadalajara.

Address: Av. Ramón Corona 31, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Parque Agua Azul & Bosque Colomos

The biggest city park in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The lovely Parque Agua Azul, roughly translated as “Blue Water Park,” is Guadalajara’s most popular public park. 

The park, which opened in 1952, has an area of approximately 168,000 square meters and is a beautiful spot to wander amid the sculpted trees and gardens.

Highlights include a tropical orchid house, an aviary, and a butterfly house, both home to a diverse range of indigenous species. 

The neighboring Casa de las Artesanas, which sells and exhibits local folk art, an open-air theater, a tiny anthropological museum, and a flower market, is well worth a visit.

Bosque Colomos is another renowned park in Guadalajara. 

This calm natural park, densely forested in places and interrupted by meandering canals where ducks glide, provides a pleasant reprieve from the city’s hustle. 

Among the attractions are a cultural center, running paths, and a quiet Japanese garden featuring art-related programs in genres such as sculpting, sketching, painting, and folk dancing. 

Other popular activities include picnics and bird watching.

Have an exciting time here at the Parque Agua Azul & Bosque Colomos, where you can experience many exciting attractions.

Address: Calz Independencia Sur 973, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Parque Mirador Independencia

A beautiful view that would leave you in awe.

Head up to Parque Mirador for some wonderful canyon views and fresh air. 

In the 1970s, a park was built on the canyon’s rim, providing sweeping views across the 500-meter valley.

The Rio Grande de Santiago cut the Barranca de Oblatos canyon, the best place to go hiking near the city. 

It is just north of the zoo, on the northern edge of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area.

This makes for an easy and enjoyable half-day vacation out of town.

The chairs near the amphitheater provide the most spectacular views of the park’s cliffs and green slopes.

After ascending to the viewpoint, you may dine at the Restaurant El Mirador.

It’s difficult to move about on public transit, so you’re better off hiring an Uber. 

Anyone who likes nature and magnificent vistas should visit this spot on a nice afternoon.

Address: Volcán Hueytepec, Panorámica de Huentitán, 44259 Mascuala, Jal., Mexico

Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres

Pays respect to the State of Jalisco’s most notable personalities.

The Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres is in Guadalajara’s Plaza de Armas, right next to the cathedral.

It is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and is situated in a magnificent park-like environment.

It’s also a monument behind fences in the city’s heart, near the cathedral.

This massive circular stone monument was built in 1952 to commemorate the state’s most famous historical figures, including acclaimed artist José Clemente Orozco, whose work can be seen in murals around the city.

The rotunda was designed by Vicente Mendiola and built in 1952. It is made up of 17 fluted columns without bases or tops.

Some of these people are commemorated with statues on the adjacent lawns.

Painter José Clemente Orozco, Luis Barragán, the Pritzker Prize-winning architect, and poet Enrique González Martnez are among them.

Visit the site after dark, when it is spectacularly lit up, heightened by a blazing cauldron in the center of the rotunda, for a spectacular nighttime experience.

Address: Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 108, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

San Juan de Dios

Guadalajara features Latin America’s largest indoor market.

The San Juan de Dios Market, which covers 40,000 square meters and has 2,980 booths, was erected in 1958.

These offer nearly everything, including electronics, eyeglasses, shoes, homewares, DVDs, and apparel.

Tourists come to the market to buy fresh food and arts and crafts from the vendors on the first floor.

Located on three stories and divided into areas ranging from footwear to dry herbs to Mexican wrestling masks,

Going up a level will bring you to the food booths and restaurants, which are quite popular.

A torta ahogada is a dish from Guadalajara that is made with a bolillo bread sandwich filled with beans, chicken, or fried pig and served on a deep plate with a sauce made with vinegar, garlic, and chilies.

You can choose how hot the sauce is and how “drowned” your sandwich is.

Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, including San Juan de Dios on your list of things to do in Guadalajara. 

You really must visit this location when you’re in Mexico.

Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

Teatro Degollado

A beautiful structure with fantastic performances for you to enjoy.

The Neoclassical Teatro Degollado, opposite the cathedral, is the city’s most attractive and prominent performing arts theater. 

This magnificent theater, completed in 1866, is worth seeing for its superb architectural elements and opulent interior design. 

The front of the building has a marble statue of Apollo with the nine muses on either side of him and 16 Corinthian columns.

The theater, known for its exceptional acoustics, is home to the Guadalajara City Ballet and the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra, among other local cultural institutions. It also holds international Mariachi competitions. 

Even if you can’t see a show here, it’s worth peeking inside to see the sumptuous, golden décor. 

Five levels of balconies rise up above the stage like a red and gold layer cake, and the roof is covered with dramatic murals of scenes from Dante’s Divine Comedy.

Bring your romantic partner to the theater for an unforgettable experience for both of you.

Address: C. Degollado s/n, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

The Regional Museum of Guadalajara

A treasure trove of pre-Hispanic relics.

The Regional Museum of Guadalajara is a short walk from the Plaza de Armas and is well worth a visit.

The museum opened in 1918 and is housed in a former 18th-century seminary that also functioned as a prison and headquarters during the War of Independence. 

It has various scattered ethnographical displays and pre-Columbian discoveries, although the explanations are primarily in Spanish.

Highlights include:

• Exhibitions about local fossils and geography.
• 14 dioramas.
• A good collection of colonial-era, contemporary, and modern art.
• A significant mineral collection that includes an 800-kilogram meteorite.

Many noteworthy instances of machinery are employed in numerous fields in Jalisco. 

The best part of the show is the collection of huge paintings that show St. Francis’ life.

If you have time during your visit to the city’s main plaza, stop by this beautiful museum. It is well worth your time.

Address: C. Liceo 60, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Tlaquepaque

Explore the tiny community filled with riches.

Tlaquepaque is a tiny community outside Guadalajara known for its clay pottery, which can be purchased from sellers across Mexico, including urban Guadalajara.

This Guadalajara neighborhood is visually appealing with its vividly painted homes and cobblestone walkways. 

The town center has a complex crisscross of streets with numerous top-grade pubs and restaurants and various businesses selling these pots.

El Parián is another well-known Tlaquepaque location that you should see. 

This cultural center is made up of a group of restaurants around a central bandstand where mariachi singers and bands play every night.

On the other hand, Tlaquepaque, although less than ten kilometers from the city center, has its own distinct vibe.

Guadalajara’s Calle Independencia, dotted with lovely handicraft artisan stores, is a terrific spot to go shopping. 

In the guise of a tequila shop, one may also discover the world’s largest commercially accessible tequila.

A busy weekend market takes place in Jardin Hidalgo, a lovely square lined with historic churches. 

This is one of the best stops for you to explore Mexico and its unique cuisines and other kinds of products.

Address: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

Spread the love!