We recently visited as a family of three—Liza (mom), dad, and our curious 9-year-old son Teo—and quickly realized that Querétaro is one of Mexico’s most family-friendly destinations. Between riding through cobblestone streets in a vintage-style electric car, walking through storybook plazas, and spending a day crafting traditional dolls in a nearby artisan town, our trip was packed with meaningful moments and unforgettable memories.

Here are our favorite experiences and why they belong at the top of your list of things to do in Querétaro with kids.

Explore the Historic Center on an Electric Ford T

One of the most exciting ways to introduce your kids to a new city is by making transportation part of the adventure. For us, that meant hopping into a replica electric Ford T for a one-hour guided city tour through Querétaro’s historic center.

The moment Teo saw the vintage-style car, his eyes lit up. “It looks like something from an old movie!” he said as we climbed in. Because the vehicle is electric, it glides quietly through the streets, making it easy to hear the guide’s stories while enjoying the scenery.

As we cruised through the UNESCO-listed historic district, we passed colonial mansions painted in warm yellows and pinks, lively plazas filled with street performers, and grand churches that date back centuries. The guide shared kid-friendly stories about Mexico’s independence movement and the important role Querétaro played in shaping the country’s history.

For families, this type of tour is ideal:

• It prevents little legs from getting too tired.
• It provides a structured introduction to the city.
• It keeps kids engaged with storytelling rather than long historical lectures.

Teo especially loved spotting the iconic aqueduct in the distance and learning fun facts about secret tunnels rumored to run beneath parts of the city. Liza appreciated that the tour gave us a strong sense of orientation on our first day. And for me, it was the perfect way to combine sightseeing with comfort.

If you're planning your itinerary and wondering about memorable things to do in Querétaro with kids, this unique electric car tour is a fantastic place to start (book it with Oh Queretaro).

Take a Guided Walking Tour of the Old City

After getting our bearings from the car tour, we decided to slow things down with a guided walking tour through Querétaro’s old town. Walking the historic center allowed us to notice small details we might have otherwise missed—ornate balconies, hidden courtyards, and colorful tiles decorating centuries-old buildings.

The heart of the city is full of life. In plazas, families gather under shady trees while children chase pigeons and musicians play softly in the background. It feels safe, relaxed, and incredibly welcoming.

Our guide did a wonderful job tailoring the tour for Teo. Instead of overwhelming him with dates and architectural terms, she shared stories—about brave revolutionaries, influential families, and legends passed down through generations. Storytelling kept him engaged and asking questions.

We visited historic landmarks, admired beautiful churches, and paused in charming squares where Teo could move around a bit. That flexibility is key when traveling with children. The city’s walkable layout makes it easy to stop for snacks, ice cream, or a quick break whenever needed.

What makes Querétaro especially appealing for families is how manageable it feels. Unlike larger cities, the historic center is compact and easy to navigate. Parents can relax a little more, and kids can explore without the constant stress of heavy traffic or overwhelming crowds.

For us, the walking tour deepened our appreciation of the city’s culture and architecture. It wasn’t just sightseeing—it was storytelling, connection, and shared discovery.

Acueducto de Queretaro

No visit to Querétaro would be complete without seeing its most iconic landmark, the Acueducto de Querétaro. Built in the 18th century, this impressive pink-stone aqueduct stretches across the city with 74 towering arches that immediately capture kids’ imaginations.

Standing beneath it, Teo kept trying to count the arches while we explained how it once carried water into the city—an easy and engaging way to turn history into a mini engineering lesson. There are several viewpoints where families can walk, take photos, and enjoy open space for kids to move around.

It’s a simple stop, but one that perfectly blends history, architecture, and a little bit of awe for travelers of all ages.

Museo de los Bichos (Insect Museum)

If you’re traveling with curious kids, a stop at the Museo de los Bichos is a fun and educational addition to your itinerary. This small but fascinating insect museum showcases an impressive collection of beetles, butterflies, spiders, and other arthropods from Mexico and around the world. For children, it’s both thrilling and slightly daring—especially when seeing larger specimens up close.

The interactive and approachable setup makes it easy for kids to learn about biodiversity, ecosystems, and the importance of insects in our environment.

For Teo, it was one of those unexpectedly cool experiences that sparked lots of questions and made science feel exciting rather than intimidating.

A Cultural Day Trip to Amealco

One of the most meaningful experiences of our trip was taking a day tour to Amealco, a charming town known for its rich Otomí heritage and artisan traditions. If you’re looking for cultural immersion beyond the city center, this is a must (we booked it with Somos Tours) .

Making Lele Dolls with a Traditional Artisan

Amealco is the birthplace of the famous Lele doll, an iconic handmade doll representing indigenous Otomí culture. In fact, the Lele doll has become such an important cultural symbol that it was officially recognized as cultural heritage by the state of Querétaro.

We had the incredible opportunity to sit down with local artisan women and learn how these dolls are made by hand. The experience was intimate and hands-on. Teo chose bright fabrics for his doll’s dress, carefully stitched simple pieces together, and listened as the artisan explained the meaning behind the doll’s colorful ribbons and braids.

This wasn’t just a craft activity—it was a cultural exchange. Watching Teo interact respectfully and ask questions about traditions and techniques was one of those proud parent moments. Liza loved seeing the artistry and patience involved in each doll. And I appreciated that we were directly supporting local women and preserving traditional craftsmanship.

For families wanting meaningful cultural experiences, this activity stands out among the most authentic things to do in Querétaro with kids.

Visiting a Local Bakery

After crafting, we explored Amealco’s town center, starting with a visit to a traditional local bakery. The smell alone was worth the stop. Fresh bread, sweet pastries, and warm conchas filled the air.

Teo was allowed to choose a treat, which immediately became his highlight of the morning. Sampling local baked goods is such a simple pleasure, but it’s also a great way for kids to connect with a new culture through taste.

We enjoyed our pastries in the main square, watching daily life unfold—neighbors greeting one another, children playing, and shopkeepers chatting outside their doors.

Exploring Town and Visiting a Charro Shop

No visit to Amealco would be complete without learning about Mexico’s charro tradition. We stepped into an authentic charro shop filled with beautifully crafted sombreros, embroidered jackets, leather boots, and intricate belts.

The artistry on display was impressive. Teo was fascinated by the detailed stitching and decorative silver accents. The shop owner explained how charro attire is worn during traditional equestrian events and celebrations. It was like stepping into a living museum.

For kids, seeing traditional clothing up close makes history feel real. Instead of reading about cultural traditions in a textbook, they can touch the fabrics and see the craftsmanship firsthand.

Exploring Amealco added depth to our family trip. It balanced our city experiences with rural charm and meaningful interaction.

Where to Stay in Queretaro with Kids

When it comes to accommodation options in Querétaro, families will find plenty of choices to suit different travel styles and budgets. The downtown historic center is especially convenient, with many boutique hotels set inside beautifully restored colonial buildings, allowing you to step right out onto cobblestone streets and walk to major attractions.

We chose to stay at Hotel Patio Santiago, a charming property that perfectly blended traditional architecture with modern comforts, making it both cozy and family-friendly. 

If you prefer a larger hotel with a more corporate feel, business-style amenities, and predictable international standards, NH Querétaro is another excellent option. 

Whether you’re looking for boutique charm or contemporary convenience, Querétaro offers accommodation to match your family’s needs.

Where and What to Eat

Food is an essential part of experiencing Querétaro, and the local cuisine offers plenty of flavors that both adults and kids can enjoy. Traditional dishes from the region include enchiladas queretanas (often served with potatoes, carrots, and pickled vegetables), gorditas stuffed with cheese or chicharrón, and comforting soups that reflect the area’s rich culinary heritage. 

For families looking for a reliable and delicious dining option, Restaurante La Nación is a great choice. The menu features a mix of regional specialties and familiar Mexican favorites, making it easy to please everyone at the table. 

We loved the welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, and it was the kind of place where we could relax while Teo happily tried new flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Querétaro Is Perfect for Families

What truly makes Querétaro stand out is its balance. The city offers walkable historic streets, engaging cultural tours, hands-on artisan experiences, safe family-friendly public spaces, and easy day trips to charming towns.

Traveling with a 9-year-old means finding activities that spark curiosity without causing exhaustion. Querétaro delivered exactly that.

From riding in a vintage electric car to crafting traditional dolls in Amealco, we experienced a destination that values culture, storytelling, and community. Liza loved the artistic traditions, I appreciated the history and architecture, and Teo found adventure in every corner.

If you're planning a family trip to Mexico and researching things to do in Querétaro with kids, don’t overlook this vibrant colonial gem. It offers the right combination of education, fun, and cultural immersion to create lasting memories for parents and children alike.

For our family of three, Querétaro wasn’t just a stop on the map—it was a place where history came alive, creativity flourished, and we connected in new and meaningful ways. And that, in the end, is what family travel is all about.

Outdoor Adventures

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tepic, Nayarit with a variety of outdoor activities perfect for kids. Explore the lush green landscapes by going on family-friendly hikes at Cerro de San Juan where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views.

 Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of nearby rivers or try your hand at fishing with your little ones. For a more adventurous experience, consider going on a ziplining tour through the treetops or embark on a gentle rafting trip along the river.

There's no shortage of fun and exciting ways to enjoy the outdoors with your children in Tepic!

Visit La Loma Park

La Loma Park is a beautiful recreational area that offers a variety of features for visitors to enjoy. The park boasts well-maintained playgrounds that cater to children of all ages, providing a safe and fun environment for them to play.

 Surrounded by lush green spaces, La Loma Park is ideal for picnics and relaxation, making it a perfect spot for families to spend quality time together.

 It features scenic walking trails that wind through the natural landscape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. The family-friendly atmosphere at La Loma Park ensures that visitors of all ages can have an enjoyable experience.

Explore Mexcaltitán Island

Visiting Mexcaltitán Island offers a unique experience rich in history, culture, and exciting boat tours. Steeped in heritage, this island is a hub of fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. For families with children, there are kid-friendly attractions such as museums showcasing the island's past and local art.

When it comes to cuisine, visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes that reflect the authentic flavors of the region.

Mexcaltitán Island promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and a glimpse into Mexico's vibrant traditions.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse your family in the rich culture of Tepic, Nayarit through these activities. Discover the vibrant local markets where you can taste authentic Mexican cuisine and shop for traditional handicrafts. Attend colorful traditional festivals that celebrate the region's history and traditions. Visit museums and art galleries showcasing the artistic heritage of Tepic.

Engage in workshops to learn traditional dances or crafts from local artisans. Explore historical sites such as colonial buildings and ancient ruins that offer insight into the city's past.

These experiences will truly deepen your understanding of Tepic's cultural richness.

Visit the Regional Museum of Nayarit

When you step into the Regional Museum of Nayarit, you are greeted with a rich display of exhibits that narrate the captivating history and heritage of the region. The museum proudly showcases archaeological treasures, indigenous artworks, and historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into the past of Nayarit.

One of the highlights of the museum is its interactive displays designed specifically for children. These engaging exhibits not only educate the young visitors about the region's history but also make learning a fun and immersive experience for them.

Attend a Traditional Dance Performance

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tepic, Nayarit by attending a traditional dance performance. These shows offer a captivating glimpse into the rich local traditions and heritage of the region.

From colorful costumes to rhythmic music, you will be enchanted by the energy and skill displayed by the talented dancers. Moreover, many of these performances are family-friendly, making it a perfect outing for visitors of all ages, including children.

Don't miss the chance to experience the authentic essence of Tepic through these mesmerizing dance shows.

Family-Friendly Attractions

When visiting Tepic, Nayarit with your family and kids, there are several top attractions that are perfect for a fun-filled day out. One of the must-visit places is La Loma Park, a beautiful park with green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

 The Magical Village of Jala is another great option, where you can explore the colorful streets and enjoy local crafts. Don't miss the Amado Nervo Museum, a cultural spot that offers insights into the life of the famous poet.

These family-friendly attractions in Tepic are sure to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones.

Water Park El Salto

Water Park El Salto offers a wide range of exciting features for visitors of all ages.

 From thrilling water slides that cater to adventure seekers to relaxing pools for those looking to unwind, this park has something for everyone. Children of all ages can enjoy specially designed water activities and play areas, ensuring a fun-filled experience for the whole family.

In terms of safety, Water Park El Salto prioritizes the well-being of its guests by implementing strict safety measures, including trained lifeguards stationed throughout the park and clear signage indicating rules and guidelines.

Amenities such as changing rooms, lockers, and on-site dining options enhance the overall visitor experience.

Tepic Municipal Zoo

The Tepic Municipal Zoo is a fascinating destination that offers a wide range of animals, providing an enriching experience for kids. Visitors can explore diverse species from around the world, making it an educational and entertaining trip. The zoo features special exhibits showcasing rare and exotic animals, creating a sense of wonder and excitement among visitors.

Interactive opportunities such as feeding sessions and animal encounters allow children to learn more about wildlife in a fun and engaging way. 

The Tepic Municipal Zoo is a perfect place for families to enjoy a memorable day while fostering a love for nature and conservation.

Shopping and Dining

There's a wide array of family-friendly shopping and dining options in Tepic, Nayarit. From traditional markets offering local crafts and souvenirs to modern shopping centers with popular retailers, there is something for everyone.

Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at charming restaurants and eateries scattered throughout the city.

Whether you're looking for a casual dining experience with delicious street food or a sit-down meal with traditional dishes, Tepic has it all. Enjoy the vibrant and diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and preferences.

Visit Plaza Forum Tepic

Plaza Forum Tepic offers a diverse range of shopping opportunities for visitors. You can find stores specializing in children's clothing, with a variety of fashionable and comfortable options for the little ones.

There are shops dedicated to toys, providing a wide selection of fun and educational toys for kids of all ages. If you're looking for souvenirs to remember your visit, you'll find unique options in the souvenir stores at the plaza. 

Moreover, Plaza Forum Tepic is home to a selection of dining options suitable for families, where you can enjoy delicious meals together after a day of shopping and exploring.

Try Local Cuisine at Mercado Juan Escutia

Mercado Juan Escutia is a fantastic destination to explore traditional Mexican cuisine. Visitors can savor authentic local flavors through a variety of dishes such as savory tacos, flavorful tamales, spicy pozole, and refreshing aguas frescas.

 This market offers a unique family-friendly dining experience where both adults and kids can enjoy a delicious meal together. 

For the little ones, there are kid-friendly menu options available, including quesadillas, burritos, and tasty churros. With its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, Mercado Juan Escutia is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culinary traditions.

And if you want to eat at a local restaurant offering great, local food in a nice environment, Emiliano Restaurant is a fantastic option.

Where to Stay in Tepic

We'll be the first ones admitting that Tepic does not have a lot of tourism, and therefor does not have many hotels to choose from. But there are a few.

Should you want to stay in a traditional hotel, by far the two best options are Hotel Fray Select and Hotel Fray Junipero Serra.

However if you're traveling with kids you'll probably want some more space for your little one(s) to run around. Or simply leave stuff.

As such, we decided to stay at Apartamentos Mololoa, which are full apartments including 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and everything you might need.

It was definitely a good choice!

Summary

If planning a family trip to Tepic, Nayarit, you'll get a small but  diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to families with kids. From exploring cultural sites like the Nayarit State Museum to enjoying nature at La Loma Park, there is something for everyone.

Families can also visit the charming Plaza Principal or experience the fun and educational exhibits at Amado Nervo House Museum. With its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly attractions, a day in Tepic is enough time to explore a less visited destination for a memorable and enriching family vacation.

The Suites, with their spacious layouts and panoramic views, offer a heightened sense of opulence. Guests can unwind in luxurious surroundings, appreciating the attention to detail that defines the quintessential Oaxacan hospitality experienced in each room.

For those visiting Oaxaca with kids, it's important to note that the beds are full size double beds, not queen or king size.

The ambiance within the rooms is carefully curated to reflect the cultural richness of Oaxaca. From the choice of textiles to the handcrafted furniture, every element tells a story, creating an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and cultural immersion.

Quinta Real Hotel invites guests to not just stay in a room but to embark on a sensory journey through the artistic and historical tapestry that defines the Oaxacan aesthetic.

Common Areas: Old-World Elegance Meets Modern Comfort

The common areas of Quinta Real Hotel are a perfect fusion of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort. The lobby, adorned with historical artifacts and colonial-inspired decor, serves as a welcoming gateway to the hotel's rich history. Guests can- and should- take a leisurely stroll through the corridors, marveling at the architectural splendors of the meticulously restored 16th-century convent.

The courtyard, with its lush greenery and tranquil fountain, is a serene escape within the bustling city. It's a space where guests can unwind with a book, enjoy a cup of local coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of the surroundings. The swimming pool area, surrounded by palm trees and adorned with comfortable loungers, provides a refreshing oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Quinta Real Hotel's commitment to preserving the historical integrity of the building while offering modern amenities creates a unique and immersive stay for every guest.

History of the Hotel: A Journey Through Time

Quinta Real Hotel is not merely a place to rest; it's a living museum that tells the story of Oaxaca's rich history. The hotel is housed within a meticulously restored 16th-century convent, a structure that has witnessed centuries of cultural evolution (learn 40+ fun and interesting facts of Mexico!). Original architectural elements, such as the intricate archways and stone columns, have been preserved to transport guests to a bygone era.

 The convent later became a movie theater, and eventually was bought to become what is Oaxaca's best high end hotel within the city center.

Exploring the history of the hotel is like taking a step back in time, with every nook and cranny revealing a piece of Oaxaca's cultural tapestry. The hotel's commitment to historical preservation is evident in the way it seamlessly integrates the past with the present, creating an immersive environment that educates and enchants visitors.

Guests can partake in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, gaining insights into the hotel's transformation and its significance in Oaxacan history.

Dining: Culinary Delights at Quinta Real

Food enthusiasts will find themselves in gastronomic heaven at Quinta Real Hotel. The on-site restaurant showcases the best of Oaxacan cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes.

The culinary team, led by experienced chefs, crafts a menu that celebrates the diverse flavors of the region. From the iconic mole poblano to the rich and complex taste of mezcal, every dish and drink tells a story of Oaxaca's culinary heritage.

We did have a delicious dinner the first night that we arrived, but it's the breakfast that really blew our socks off. As you can see in the pictures they have everything you might want and more, scattered as well along different rooms.

For what it's worth I don't really like to eat non sweet food in the mornings, but the tamales I had hear were the best I've had anywhere. Really.

The dining experience at Quinta Real extends beyond exquisite flavors. The restaurant's ambiance is carefully designed to complement the culinary journey, with warm lighting, elegant decor, and attentive service creating a memorable atmosphere. Guests can choose to dine al fresco in the courtyard for a romantic evening under the stars or enjoy a more intimate setting indoors.

Whether it's a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, Quinta Real Hotel elevates the dining experience to a cultural celebration of Oaxacan cuisine.

The hotel's commitment to holistic wellness is reflected in every aspect of the spa experience, from the carefully selected ingredients used in treatments to the tranquil surroundings that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Events and Meetings: A Venue for Every Occasion

Quinta Real Hotel goes beyond being a mere accommodation; it's also a premier venue for events and meetings. The hotel offers state-of-the-art facilities, expert event planning services, and an exquisite backdrop for weddings, conferences, and social gatherings. The meeting rooms, equipped with modern technology, provide a sophisticated setting for business events, while the lush courtyard and elegant banquet halls offer versatile options for celebrations.

The hotel's event planning team works closely with organizers to ensure every detail is meticulously executed. From intimate family celebrations to large corporate conferences, Quinta Real Hotel caters to a diverse range of events. The seamless blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities creates an ambiance that enhances the significance of every occasion, making it a memorable experience for both hosts and guests.

Local Experiences: Exploring Oaxaca Beyond the Hotel

Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel not only provides a luxurious retreat but also serves as a gateway to the vibrant city of Oaxaca. The hotel's concierge can curate personalized experiences, from guided tours of historical sites to culinary adventures exploring the local markets. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Oaxaca, discovering the art, traditions, and flavors that define this captivating region.

Beyond the hotel's walls, Oaxaca offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be explored. Guests can embark on a mezcal tasting tour, visit local artisan markets, or attend traditional festivals.

The hotel's concierge team, with their in-depth knowledge of the region, assists guests in creating a bespoke itinerary that reflects their interests and preferences. 

Quinta Real Hotel not only provides a luxurious stay but also opens doors to the authentic and enriching experiences that Oaxaca has to offer.

Mexico History Facts

You’ve Got the Name Wrong

What’s the country directly to the south of the USA called? If you answered “Mexico”, then you’re not quite right, mi amigo. Mexico’s official name is the Estados Unidos Mexicanos, which is typically rendered in English as the “United Mexican States”.

Though rarely used in practice nowadays, this has been the official name of Mexico since 1824, when the first constitution was adopted after the collapse of the First Mexican Empire. Speaking of which …

The Olmecs Did it First

Mexico’s first known civilization was the Olmec. Best known for their art, the Olmecs thrived in southern Mexico from around 1200BC. Their culture is believed to have highly influenced successive civilizations.

Some things the Olmecs are believed to have independently invented include the legendary Mesoamerican ballgame, the practice of bloodletting and the concept of zero.

The Toltecs Did it Best

Long after the Olmecs, the Toltecs emerged in the 10th Century. While Europe was locked in the chaos of the Viking Age, the Toltecs were busy building an empire that supposedly exerted influence over most of central and southern Mexico.

The Toltecs were revered by future civilizations as a golden age of Mesoamerican culture. 

One of the more interesting facts of Mexico and its prehistory is that the later Aztecs viewed the Toltecs as not only an inspiration, but also as legendary figures that straddle the line between history and myth.

Because most of what we know about the Toltecs came from fawning Aztec sources, it’s hard for historians to separate fact from myth. There’s some speculation many of the supposed exploits of the Toltecs were more products of the Aztec imagination than anything else.

Either way, the concept of the Toltec Empire played an important role in defining the last few centuries of pre-Hispanic Mexican history.

The Name “Mexico” Comes From the Aztecs

Mexico’s most famous pre-Hispanic civilization, the Aztec Empire, was an alliance of three city states that emerged in the 14th Century. A military powerhouse, the empire spent two hundred years subjugating neighboring peoples. Rather than directly control conquered peoples, the Aztecs preferred to install puppet rulers.

The Aztecs kept these puppet rulers in line by controlling their access to luxury goods, not to mention flaunting their overwhelming military power whenever necessary.

While the Aztec Empire was comprised of many peoples, the dominant ethnic group was the Tenochca. Also known as the Mexica, these people claimed to be partly the descendants of the legendary Toltecs.

The Aztec Empire Was a Carefully Managed Economy

The Aztecs didn’t just control regional elites, they also created a complex, well planned economy. Trade routes were centralized, and the prices of common goods ranging from corn to seashells were fixed to specific quantities of cacao beans.

Mexican Independence Facts

Mexico Was Previously Called New Spain

When Spain conquered what is today Mexico in 1521, they established a sprawling colonial territory. At its height, this political entity, the Viceroyalty of New Spain, encompassed everything from California to Central America.

The Cry of Dolores is typically considered the start of the Mexican War of Independence

On September 16, 1810, the dissident priest Miguel Hidalgo rang the bells of a church and called on the congregation to rebel against Spanish rule. His speech became known as “El Grito de Dolores”, or “The Cry of Dolores”. Today, the Cry is typically recognized as the start of the 11-year-long war for independence.

The Independence War Came at a Very, Very Bad Time for Spain

Mexico’s independence movement was heavily inspired by the liberal, enlightenment ideals of the French Revolution. By the time of the Cry of Dolores though, Napoleon had become emperor of France, and was busy carving his way through Europe.

One country that fared particularly badly during the Napoleonic Wars was Spain, which was devastated by invading French forces.

While the Spanish were fighting for their lives to push Napoleon back, their largest colony in the Americas declared independence.

Mexico Was the Only Spanish Colonial Nation to Have its Own Monarch

Here’s some intriguing Mexico information: Mexico always has to be a little bit different from everyone else, which might be why it made a rather unusual choice when it came to deciding what form of government to adopt after declaring independence from the Spanish Empire.

The Emperor of Mexico Designed the Mexican Flag

Rather than become a republic like other post-colonial states in the Western Hemisphere, Mexico’s first independent government was actually a monarchy. From May 1822 to March 1823, Mexico was ruled by Emperor Agustin I.

Though his reign was short-lived, the emperor left his mark on modern day Mexico, and is credited with designing the first version of the country’s modern flag.

Which Came First – the Mexican or Italian Flag?

One of the first things about Mexico you’ll notice is its flag – and how it’s basically identical to that of Italy. So who copied who? Turns out, Mexico first raised its green-white-red tricolor in 1822 – while the modern, unified nation of Italy didn’t do so until nearly 40 years later.

It’s worth bearing in mind though, that some smaller Italian states (like the short-lived Transpadane and Cisalpine republics) did so earlier.

Also, it’s generally agreed the flags were developed independently.

Mexico economy facts

Mexico City accounts for a huge amount of economic activity.Around 15 percent of Mexico’s GDP is produced in Mexico City, making the capital one of the world’s most productive urban areas.

Mexicans Work Waaay More Than You Do

If you think Mexicans are lazy, then here’s a reality check: the country has the world’s longest work hours, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The OECD data suggests the average Mexican clocks a whopping 2,255 hours on the job a year.

That’s the equivalent of working a 43 hour workweek all year round. Comparatively, Americans work around 1,783 hours a year, while Germans work 1,363 hours.

Mexicans Study, Too.

The National Autonomous University of Mexico is the oldest university in North America, and receives students from around the world who travel here to pursue extended education.

Mexico Geography Facts

Mexico is Bigger Than You Think

One of many cool facts about Mexico that often goes unnoticed is how big it is. Mexico is the world’s 14th largest country by landmass, and is divided into 31 states (plus the Federal District).

Mexico is High

Most Mexicans live on what’s called the “Altiplano” – a vast, largely semi-arid plateau that encompasses many of the central and northern states. While the altiplano has an average height of 1,825 meters above sea level, some regions are much higher.

Orizaba Will Take Your Breath Away – Literally

Mexico’s highest point is Orizaba, a dormant volcano on the border of Veracruz and Puebla. Also known as Citlaltepetl, this peak is 5,636 meters (18,491 ft) high, making it the third highest summit in North America. I actually climbed it in 2016 and did a world record! - Read about my Orizaba climbing adventure

Yucatan Means What?

So here’s one of the more fun facts about Mexico: Yucatan – the southern peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Mexico, has a rather odd meaning behind its name. One of the most interesting facts of Mexico is that the world “Yucatan” supposedly means “I don’t understand what you’re saying”.

According to legend, this was the response Spanish conquistadores kept receiving when they asked indigenous people what the region was called.

Fun facts about Mexico City

What’s in a Name?

The capital of Mexico in Spanish is called “ Ciudad de Mexico”, or “CDMX” for short. However, it’s common to also hear people refer to the city as DF, short for “Distrito Federal”.

Mexico City Was Originally Tenochtitlan

Modern Mexico City grew atop the ruins of the former Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Even today, one of many cool facts about Mexico City is that you can visit the ruins of Tenochtitlan, and is definitely one of those places of interest in Mexico.

Is it a Lake or a City?

Tenochtitlan was built on an island in Lake Texcoco. Over generations, the Aztecs expanded their island with floating gardens called chinampas, thus reducing the lake’s surface area. Today, almost all of Lake Texcoco is gone, buried under the sprawl of Mexico City.

How Big is Mexico City?

Officially, Mexico City’s population is just over 8 million. However, the official city limits represent just part of what is often refereed to as Greater Mexico City. This much larger area of satellite cities, outlying suburbs and an enormous ring of slums is one of the world’s largest contiguous metropolitan areas.

Greater Mexico City has a population of 21.3 million. It is easily the largest North American city, way bigger than New York.

If Mexico City Was a Country …

Sometimes Mexico City feels like a country within a country. This endless city has a culture all of its own, and you would need a lifetime to explore it. It’s so big, that if Mexico City was its own country, it would be the fifth largest economy in Latin America. In fact, its economy would be roughly the same size as that of Peru.

Mexican Food Facts

Mexican Food is Officially a World treasure

Of all the facts about Mexico culture, its the cultural significance of food that really matters.  In 2010, UNESCO officially placed Mexican food on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

This list recognizes cultural practices and expression of critical significance to humanity’s heritage. The only other culinary tradition to be featured on the list is that of France. After all, what is Mexico known for more than its food? 

Chocolate is Mexican

Here’s one of the more delicious Mexico facts for kids, and kids at heart: chocolate is totally Mexican. The earliest known cultivation of the cacao plant took place around 1750 BC in southern Mexico.

Originally, the cacao bean was probably used in the production of an alcoholic beverage, though over time it became valued in-and-of-itself as a luxury commodity.

The Aztecs absolutely loved cacao, and used it to create the earliest version of the hot chocolate. This frothy, bitter drink was likely referred to by Aztecs as “chocolatl”.

The Diverse World of Corn

Corn has been cultivated in Mexico longer than anywhere else in the world, and this humble crop has been responsible for feeding nations from the Olmecs to modern Mexico. Nowadays, 59 varieties of corn are endemic to Mexico.

Mexican independence day facts

Mexican Independence Day isn’t 5 de Mayo

Here’s one of the more interesting facts about Mexican culture that people often get wrong. 5 de Mayo is might be the day most Americans most associate with Mexico, but it’s not Independence Day.

5 de Mayo marks the day Mexican defenders defeated an invading French army at Puebla in 1862.

While important, this event is less significant to most Mexicans than Independence Day, which falls on September 16. Independence Day commemorates the afore-mentioned Cry of Dolores, which took place on September 16, 1810.

Technically, Independence Day Is a Two Day Event

Although the Cry of Dolores took place on September 16, 1810, it’s become tradition for the president of Mexico to recite the famous speech on the eve of September 15th.

This evening event serves as a moment of reflection and patriotism for Mexicans, while the following day is usually more of a celebration.

The Mexican War of Independence Wasn’t Supposed to Start on September 16

Remember how I said the Cry of Dolores is typically regarded as the start of the Mexican War of Independence? While that’s true, there’s a little more to the story than that. Hidalgo had originally planned to kick off his rebellion in October, 1810.

If things had gone according to plan, Mexico would today celebrate its independence on October 2.

Unfortunately for Hidalgo, his planned rebellion got off to a bad start. Throughout late 1810, Spanish authorities cracked down on Mexicans suspected of conspiring to overthrow colonial rule. As his fellow conspirators were being arrested all around him, Hidalgo had no choice but to speed up his timetable and start the rebellion earlier than planned.

While the decision may have saved the independence movement, it also meant Hidalgo’s forces entered the war on the back foot.

Hidalgo Never Saw an Independent Mexico

Hidalgo is today remembered as the father of an independent Mexico, though he himself never saw the fruition of his life’s work. Barely a year into the Mexican War of Independence, Hidalgo was captured by royalist forces after a series of crushing defeats.

On the 30th of July, 1811, Hidalgo was shot by a firing squad, and according to legend his body was later decapitated. His last words to his executioners were, "Though I may die, I shall be remembered forever; you all will soon be forgotten."

He's one of those important people in Mexico who no longer live.

Fun Facts about Mexico for Kids

• The Mexican border shared with the US is the 2nd largest border in the world after the Canadian / US border.
• Mexico is also prone to earthquakes and sits in one of the most dangerous earthquake zones named “The Ring of Fire”.
• One of the smallest dogs in the world the “Chihuahua” is named after a Mexican State.
• The color TV system was invented by a Mexican named Guillermo Gonzalez Camarena in 1942.
• Have you heard about the Raramuri or Tarahumara indigenous people? They are considered to be the best long distance runners in the world (as a group) and can run for over 300 km across mountains and rugged terrains. I actually ran with the Tarahumaras using huaraches, the sandals they use!

So there you go! A fantastic list of Mexico's interesting facts that will make you want to travel to Mexico with kids even more!

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What to Expect When Visiting Los Cabos

You may be wondering where is Cabo San Lucas. Los Cabos is the name of a municipality that encompasses much of the extreme southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Sur peninsula.

Once a backwater of fishing villages and surf hamlets, the Mexican government first began to develop the region as a tourism hub in the late 20th Century.

Today, Los Cabos is easily one of northern Mexico’s most popular international tourist destinations. Its close proximity to the US and competitive accommodation prices means Los Cabos has garnered a bit of a reputation as a party hotspot.

Indeed, it can be; if you’re looking for a wild weekend of drinks and beaches, then a Los Cabos vacation passes with flying colors.

However, there’s more to this beautiful corner of Mexico than just binge drinking and wasted gringo college students, as you will have access to amazing Cabo adventures and excursions.

Los Cabos boasts some amazing wildlife and adventure tourism opportunities, not to mention plenty of family-friendly resorts that are perfect for a decadent vacation.

Is Cabo safe? Generally speaking, yes. Just take the typical precautions you'd take anywhere and you will be fine.

Further reading: interesting facts of Mexico

Guide of Cabo San Lucas Beaches

When you visit Cabo, you must visit its stunning beaches. Not only is there a plethora of top-quality hotels scattered along the beach, but there are also a variety of activities, from snorkeling to surfing.

The beaches of Cabo are some of Mexico’s most sought-after beaches, and you will not leave disappointed.

However, do note that  Cabo San Lucas swimming safety is not the best as many of the beaches- if not most- have strong riptides and a dangerous shorebreak, making all these Cabo beaches unswimmable.

So, what are the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas?

El Arco

The symbol of Cabo San Lucas, El Arco is, as its name suggests, an impressive rock arch formation just off the coast. Head down to the Playa del Amor, then walk towards the nearby Playa del Divorcio.

Just between these two beaches, you should see El Arco rising out of the water just off the coast. It’s a nice spot at sunset, though if you want a closer look day tours are available.

These tours take visitors right up to the rock formations via water taxi, where you can get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife. Sea lions are commonly seen lazing on the rocks, and the kids will love it.

Bear in mind, however, that the waters around El Arco and the stretch of shoreline between the Amor and Divorcio beaches are not suitable for safe swimming. In case you're doubting this statement just watch this video.

Playa del Amor

Playa del Amor ( Lovers Beach Cabo ) draws visitors by the dozens with its stunning views and smooth sands. During peak season, you’d better arrive early and stake your claim, as the shoreline fills up fast.

Some travelers have also reported issues with irritating flies, so be sure to pack insect repellent.

The beach is perfectly suitable for children, though be warned: despite it being one of the best beaches in Los Cabos only swim on the Bahia de Cabo San Lucas.

As previously mentioned, the stretch of San Lucas beaches in the direction of El Arco isn’t safe for swimming due to rough waters.

Playa Medano

Easily the most popular beach in town, Playa Medano – or Medano Beach Cabo – fills up even faster than the nearby Playa del Amor. It’s certainly one of the most unmissable of Cabo San Lucas attractions, with its great vibe and plethora of beach-side activities.

Along with the ubiquitous cocktail bars that line the beach, there’s also volleyball, jet ski and kayaking facilities. It’s also possible to catch water taxis from here to El Arco.

Unlike Playa del Amor, Medano is completely safe and one of the best Cabo beaches to swim in, and tourists consistently report the waters to be surprisingly clean given the number of visitors.

The only one issue is that some travelers have complained of the occasional sticky vendor trying to sell souvenirs.

Playa Santa Maria

This expansive, horseshoe shaped beach, is a breathtaking spot to spread a beach towel and lather on sunscreen.

The best time for swimming and snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach Cabo is in the morning because boat cruises with large groups of divers and snorkelers usually populate the area in the afternoon.

You should also explore the bay, which overlooks a protected marine sanctuary teeming with colorful sea creatures and plants. If you plan to lounge in the sun, ensure you bring plenty of sunscreen as there are few shaded areas. You can also rent an umbrella, along with snorkeling gear, at the beach’s entrance.

Also plan to bring any food you may need because there are few vendors and restaurants along this Cabo beach.

Playa Chileno

Chileno Beach Cabo is another wonderful destination for swimming and snorkeling. Chileno Beach is the most popular beach along the coastal corridor because it is surrounded by Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

It is also one of the cleanest beaches in Cabo. In fact, this Los Cabos beach has a Blue Flag certification.

You can be sure to lounge under the shade-giving palapas and take a dip into the pacific ocean’s warm, blue water.

Playa Solmar

Solmar Beach in Cabo San Lucas has expansive stretches of white sand beach. This is also not a swimmable beach as the currents and waves are very strong. The beach, however, is perfect for sunset watching, long walks along the smooth sand, and lovers of whale watching.

Playa Palmilla

If you are looking for calm water and a family friendly beach, Palmilla Beach is the one from you. Here you will be surrounded by luxurious ocean front homes and the world-renowned Jack Nicklaus Ocean Nine golf course.

On weekends, I recommended you arrive early if you plan on snagging a palapa or bring your own umbrella for shade. There are also activities like kayaking, volleyball, and fishing.

When to Visit

Deciding when to visit depends somewhat on your priorities.

If you’re in town for whale watching, then mid-December to March is your safest bet.

Otherwise, May to June is usually considered the ideal time to plan your trip as Los Cabos’ weather can create some amazing bargains. These months fit nicely between the vacation peak season and the worst of summer, when the region usually gets pummeled by storms.

During these months, some all-inclusive resorts in Cabo offer steep discounts, so the savvy traveler can pick up some serious bargains.

Likewise, most tour operators become far more flexible during this period, and prices are always up for negotiation. Even if you do visit during the stormy season, there will still be many things to do in Cabo.

October and November aren’t too bad, though you’ll be well-advised to book ahead, as this period can still be quite busy. 

Sports fishers should aim to arrive anytime just after the summer storms, or in early fall.

If you can, try to steer well clear of college vacation time, when spring breakers descend on Los Cabos in full force. Unless you’re a spring breaker yourself, this time of year is arguably the worst time to visit. So stick to off-season trips to Cabo when you can.

For what it's worth we decided to visit Los Cabos the second week of September and were there for 4 days. Plenty of sunshine, our hotel wasn't crowded at all, and generally speaking prices were better than during the winter months. We did get a pm shower one day though.

Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo

Your first decision to make when planning a Los Cabos trip is where to stay. The Los Cabos municipality encompasses two main towns: San Lucas and San Jose. Between the two towns, a corridor of resorts runs along the coast.

Unless you’re staying in one of these resorts, odds are you’ll end up in either San Lucas or San Jose. Generally speaking, San Lucas is more geared towards party animals, while San Jose is more laid back.

Regardless of where you stay, however, make sure you visit Los Cabos' many points of interest.

Cabo San Lucas Activities for Families

The better known of the Cabos, San Lucas is a party town at heart. There is no shortage of things to do in San Lucas, and the area is extremely popular among spring breakers.

San Lucas is all about letting loose and having a few too many drinks. Having said that, the town isn’t completely off limits to families. Despite what you may hear, there are in fact plenty of great things to do in Cabos San Lucas with family members of all ages.

Downtown San Lucas area has a number of great beaches, and is an excellent base for adventure tourism in the surrounding area.

Iglesia de San Lucas

The Iglesia de San Lucas is one of Cabo San Lucas’ few historic sites. This 18th Century church has remained largely unchanged since it received a face-lift in the 1800s. Today, it’s the centerpiece of Cabo San Lucas’ main square, which is likewise a pleasant spot for a meal or margarita. Bilingual mass is held on Sunday.

So what other attractions does Cabo San Lucas offer aside from its glamorous beaches? From a vibrant nightlife to a wealth of water activities, you are sure to find something for every member of your party.

El Centro Nightlife

In downtown Cabo San Lucas, the party never ends – and that’s not an exaggeration. During peak season, Cabo San Lucas is a permanent party town, and El Centro is on fire 24 hours a day. Florescent shots of mystery booze flow freely from dusk to dawn, and back to dusk again.

Cabo San Lucas isn’t particularly child friendly once the sun goes down. If you’re visiting Los Cabos with kids you’ll want to get a babysitter for your night on the town. It can be worth the hassle though; nightlife here is, without doubt, one of the most fun things to do in Cabo.

Trying to pick out a few highlights here is no easy task.

Every bar and club packed into El Centro is an adventure in itself, with most offering solid entertainment.

The Cabo Wabo Cantina is arguably the most well known venue in town, and tends to offer some of the best live music in town. Meanwhile, down the street, Happy Ending Bar is a favorite among spring breakers for its dirt cheap drinks and generous servings of local fare. The nearby Giggling Marlin is another popular dive, while El Squid Roe is the place to be for out-of-control dancing. If you’d rather something more luxurious though, try the more relaxed Bar Esquina.

Whale Watching

If you’re looking for something to do around Los Cabos with kids, then it’s hard to beat a whale watching tour.

From December to April, whales frequent the waters just off the peninsula, and tours are extremely popular. Be sure to book ahead to avoid missing out. If you can, try to get a tour in January, February or early March, when whale calves are occasionally sighted. 

Whale watching is definitely one of the top things to do in Cabos, so do try to get a tour if you arrive in season.

Things to Do in San Jose del Cabo

The quieter of the Cabo siblings, San Jose is a little more refined than the more boisterous San Lucas. Instead of bars and booze, you’ll find more art galleries and hipster seafood restaurants. For families, there’s definitely more things to do in San Jose del Cabo that are child-friendly.

San Jose del Cabo Art Walk

During peak season from November to June, the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk presents some of the best local art each Thursday night. Galleries throughout the art district remain open late as throngs of visitors crawl from gallery to gallery. It’s a great opportunity to see some local talent, and is family friendly.

Frank Arnold Gallery

There’s a lot of great art in San Jose, but the Frank Arnold Gallery is perhaps among the most worthwhile. This house-turned-gallery is loaded with wonderful works by local painter Frank Arnold. His enthusiasm and passion makes visits particularly memorable. The best time to visit is during the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk.

Ivan Guaderrama Art Gallery

In terms of things to do in San Jose del Cabo with kids, this place should be top of the list. This small gallery is full to the brim, and takes a surprisingly long time to get through. It’s also one of the few interactive art galleries in town, and kids will love the hands-on approach.

Zippers/Costa Azul

San Lucas might have the loudest beaches on the peninsula, but that doesn’t mean San Jose doesn’t have its fare share of idyllic shoreline.

Officially known as Costa Azul but referred to by locals simply as the Zippers, San Jose’s best stretch of beach is the perfect spot for a surf. Zippers attracts surfing enthusiasts from all over the world, especially during the annual Los Cabos Open of Surf.

If you didn’t bring your board, then don’t despair: just across from the beach, the Costa Azul Surf Shop offers rentals. There’s likewise no shortage of tour operators offering surf classes throughout San Jose.

Baja Brewing Company

A decade ago, craft beer was virtually unknown in Mexico, but Baja Brewing changed that. Since 2007, this artisan brewing company has been pushing out some of Mexico’s best craft beers.

Along with offering tastings, they also serve great food in their outdoor beer garden. 

Don’t miss the pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven.

Wirikuta Garden

The Wirikuta Garden is a 12 acre botanic park loaded with over 1500 varieties of desert plants from all over the world. It’s also home to a collection of sculptures by local artists.

The owner, Juanito, is full of interesting factoids about his botanic collection, and is particularly passionate about cacti.

Come early to beat the sun, and don’t forget to bring along plenty of water.

Iglesia de San Jose del Cabo

San Jose’s main church dates back to the early 1800s, but was heavily damaged during the Mexican Revolution a century later. The current building is the result of a major restoration in the 1940s. It’s one of the more popular historic sites in downtown San Jose. Mass is held in Spanish on Sundays.

Plaza Mijares

This artsy little square is surrounded on all sides by art galleries and souvenir shops. In fact, it’s probably the best place in town to stock up on souvenirs, not to mention a pleasant option for an afternoon stroll.

Around Los Cabos

The countryside around Los Cabos is bursting at the seams with adventure tourism options. With excellent weather and a well-established tourism infrastructure, it’s easy to get around and enjoy all that the peninsula has to offer.

Horse riding is a popular option for day trips into the countryside, while the whole region is renowned for its surf and golfing.

Golf

Probably the last thing your kids want to do on vacation, it’s nonetheless worthwhile to try to set aside half a day to take a peek at Cabos’ famed golf courses.

The region is renowned for boasting some of the world’s best greens, not to mention perfect weather all year round.

Club Campestre San Jose is one of the best known names in town, while Palmilla Golf Club is popular among both pros and tourists alike. Most clubs offer beginner classes.

San Jose Estuary

Just outside San Jose, these wetlands make for some of the region’s best eco-tourism.

The San Jose Estuary is a 2,000 acre freshwater lagoon that draws a wide variety of wildlife, including migratory birds. It’s a bird watcher’s paradise, and a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy nature. 

Tours of the estuary are available from San Jose, though the estuary can be visited for free if you have private transport.

Horseback Riding in Los Cabos

With great weather and striking coastal views, Los Cabos is best explored on horseback. Los Cabos Horses offers tours with equestrian professionals who are both well-trained and very friendly.

English is available. It makes for a great day trip, and one of the best Cabo San Lucas activities for families. Our son Teo loves horses for some reason, and this was his first horse riding experience ever.

I wasn't sure he would last the hour long trip , but he enjoyed every single minute of it with a grin.

Sports Fishing

Sports fishing has to be one of the best top things to do in Cabo. In particular, this is the place to be if you’ve ever wanted to catch a marlin bigger than you are. There’s plenty of charter operators in both San Lucas and San Jose.

Todos Santos

Barely an hour from Cabos San Lucas, a trip to Todos Santos is easily one of the best things to do around Los Cabos – and nobody really knows about it!

That’s right; despite the persistent popularity of Los Cabos, somehow this tiny surf town has managed to keep things surprisingly mellow. There’s a few museums around town, along with a smattering of art galleries and good restaurants around the center of town.

However, the real reason to come here is to escape the crowds and enjoy the picturesque beaches.

Expect to have the place to yourself in low season.

Accommodation in Los Cabos

As a major tourist destination, there’s never any shortage of stunning Cabo San Lucas resorts. From sand-strewn budget hostels to luxury beach side resorts, there is a great variety of Cabo San Lucas hotels for pretty much any budget, as there are in San Jose del Cabo.

Much of the beachline between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is dotted with resorts. If you're looking for full indulgence, there are plenty of luxury all-inclusive resorts in Cabo, but if you're looking for something mellower, consider San Jose del Cabo or even head off to La Paz, where there are other attractions you shouldn't miss anyhow.

So, what's the best hotel in Cabo San Lucas? This is of course a matter of personal preference, and there is no single one.

In the end chose to stay in San Jose, which is generally cheaper than San Lucas overall. Our pick was Posada Real Los Cabos, a budget friendly beachfront resort with incredible food and a laid back Mexico themed atmosphere. 

Posada Real Los Cabos was our Cabo all inclusive hotel during the trip. As you can see from the pictures it is definitely different, with an atypical desert look-a-like courtyard and the beachfront swimming pools.

The beach in front is not one of the swimmable beaches in Cabo, but it is great for walking, horse riding, playing and many other activities.  

While the food at the pool snack bar was not very good, the meals served at the main restaurant were all delicious, definitely one of the highlights of the hotel. 

Great staff and budget friendly prices make it a fantastic option, and while there are plenty of Cabo resorts you can stay at not many offer as much value for money.

Los Cabos Mexico Map

Plan Your Los Cabos Trip

Accommodation in Los Cabos

Booking.com has over 500 hotels in Los Cabos including apartments and resorts. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee. Check prices.

Ground Transfer in Los Cabos

Find the best option for your airport-hotel transfer with Bookaway.

Flights to Los Cabos

Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees). Download the Skyscanner App. It’s an all in one flights, hotel and car hire search engine app and makes it easier for you to find the best travel deals!

Rental Cars in Los Cabos

RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo. Check prices for Los Cabos airport.

RV Rentals Los Cabos:

Outdoorsy is the largest RV rental marketplace on the planet. They offer ease, flexibility and some unique and cool campervans for your Los Cabos road trip. Find your RV rentals for Los Cabos here. 

Tours in Los Cabos

Get Your Guide offers small group tours and activities in Los Cabos including tickets to the popular Oahu attractions.

Conclusion

Los Cabos might be famous for it's wild nightlife and crazy parties, and while this may be true there are many family friendly activities to enjoy during the day.

Perhaps its biggest drawback is that the beach in front of most of the hotels is not open for swimming, but they all have pools to compensate. 

Throw in good food and many outdoor activities and you've got a great family friendly vacation to enjoy with your kids in Los Cabos, Mexico.

Understanding La Paz

La Paz is the capital of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, which encompasses the southern portion of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico. Historically, the city was little more than a small town until the population explosion of the early 2000s. 

On the back of a booming tourism industry, the new century turned La Paz into one of northern Mexico’s most prosperous cities, with living standards comparable to that north of the border.

Indeed, La Paz has a long, complicated history with the United States. In fact, in the mid-19^th Century, the city was the capital of the short-lived American-founded Republic of Sonora.

Seeking to emulate the Texas Revolution, American mercenary William Walker proclaimed the republic in 1853, after seizing a sizable but sparsely inhabited chunk of the peninsula from Mexico.

Walker’s invasion was never approved by the US government, though he managed to fend of legal challenges in his homeland and even sell bonds for his self-proclaimed republic.

The Republic of Sonora collapsed a year later amid internal chaos and a fierce counteroffensive by Mexican authorities.

Today, La Paz continues to entertain its fare share of adventurers from the north, but in the form of eco-tourists and whale watchers instead of grizzled mercenaries or wild party seekers from Cabo San Lucas.

The city is famed for its gray whale and whale shark tours, not to mention a good mix of heritage sites and some of the best beaches in northern Mexico. As a major commercial port, La Paz can have a bit of a city feel to it, and is busier than most of the otherwise relaxed Baja California Peninsula.

Luckily, there’s a good variety of surf towns and historic villages within a stone’s throw of the city, not to mention pristine island hideaways and all-inclusive resorts.

Read more fun and interesting facts of Mexico

La Paz (Mexico) Map

When to Visit La Paz, Mexico

Peak season is December through to around March, with New Year being a particularly popular time to visit.

During peak season, expect prices to surge and all but the most remote beaches to be crowded. Whale watching season runs from January to March, when the temperatures tend to be mild.

The summer months can be unpleasant, with hot days and occasionally brutal storms. It is at this time of the year that La Paz (Mexico) weather is toughest, but because of this prices tend to bottom out around August, when discounts try to woo in travelers despite the lousy weather.

 By September, expect plenty of rain and gray skies (which is, nonetheless, the time of the year when we visited. We were lucky and had decent weather during our five days).

November, on the other hand, makes for a good shoulder just before peak season hits. This is a good month for scoring reasonable prices before vacation season kicks in, while avoiding the worst of La Paz’ weather.

So if you’re after a serious bargain, aim for August, but otherwise November is usually the best time to visit La Paz.

Things to Do in La Paz Mexico

While La Paz is quieter and not as popular as Los Cabos, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to do in the area. In fact, now that we've been there too, I'd venture to say that this area is friendlier for families visiting Baja California on a family vacation. Why?

Perhaps the calmer ocean makes everything easier. There's no shortage of beautiful beaches where kids can play in knee deep water, and there's also plenty of fantastic Mexican food to indulge into.

Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz

La Paz isn’t Mexico’s best destination for cultural or historic tourism, though the city’s main cathedral is worth a bit of a peek and perhaps the most popular of La Paz attractions.

The Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz was constructed in 1861 by Dominicans, and is today often used as the site for both religious and the occasional classical music event.

The cathedral dominates the Jardin Velasco, and is unmissable if you’re strolling through central La Paz.

Museo de la Ballena

If you don’t have time for a whale watching tour during your time in La Paz, then make sure you visit this enlightening museum. The La Paz Whale Museum is both a wealth of information on all things whale related, though it has a particular focus on the gray whales that frequent the local seas.

To add to the atmosphere, the museum features a soundtrack of whale noises that follows you through the five exhibition areas. On top of this, the good mix of images, videos and displays makes the museum colorful and interactive enough to keep kids occupied.

Moreover, the museum itself manages a foundation dedicated to the study and preservation of whales, so you know your money is going to a good place.

The Malecon

The Malecon is La Paz’ main waterfront area, stretching over 5 kilometers along the city’s coastline. There isn’t anything in particular to see here, except perhaps those incredible sunsets.

Head down to the waterfront in the late afternoon, and join locals as the sun’s rays start to bronze.

On weekends, the entire walk becomes inundated with artists peddling their work and vendors offering ice cream and snacks. The whole walk is lined with restaurants and cafes, so it’s likewise a good place to get a meal overlooking the water.

While most people visit the Malecon in the afternoon for sunset, the area is actually quite nice in the mornings. The afternoon atmosphere is definitely nice, and nothing beats a full Mexican breakfast as the morning sea breeze comes in to clear away the summer heat.

Bear in mind the waterfront began to undergo a series of renovations last year. The Malecon is still very much open to the public, but don’t be surprised if your walk is interrupted by a stretch of wet concrete.

Museo Regional de Antropologia e Historia

This sprawling but logically organized museum serves as a good orientation to La Paz and its surroundings. The various exhibitions here follow the history of the peninsula from prehispanic times through to the revolutionary period of the early 20^th Century. Much of the museum is in Spanish, though some English is available.

Ibarra’s Pottery Workshop

This pottery workshop has been churning out some of Mexico’s most prized ceramics since 1958. For Mexican tourists, a visit to Ibarra’s is pretty much mandatory during a trip to La Paz.

Known throughout the country for their high quality products, Ibarra’s also makes for a good hour of entertainment with their workshop tours. Watch the potters as they carefully craft ceramics – then stock up on a few of your own.

Teatro de la Ciudad

As previously mentioned, La Paz isn’t really known as a cultural destination, but that doesn’t mean the city is devoid of a lively performing arts scene. On the contrary, the City Theater puts on regular theatrical and musical shows, with most top performers from across Mexico passing though here at some point.

So if you’re feeling a bit starved of culture, then consider checking out one of the weekend performances at the City Theater.

Dove of Peace

Anyone coming in or out of La Paz will undoubtedly run into this gigantic monument. The symbol of the city, the Dove of Peace can be viewed as either a pair of doves or a whale’s tail. There’s a short walk around the monument, but not much else here. Your best bet is to take a quick selfie stop here on your way in or out of town.

Activities in and Around La Paz

Explore Isla Espiritu Santo

This tiny island in the Sea of Cortez is home to a thriving population of sea lions, not to mention a colorful variety of other wildlife such as sea birds. The volcanic scenery makes for a stark contrast with the rest of the peninsula, and there are numerous trails for hikers.

Getting to the island is easy: just jump on a boat from the Malecon, and be prepared to return sometime in the afternoon. Tours are easily organized from the waterfront, not to mention adventure tourism options. It is one of the top La Paz (Mexico) tourist attractions.

Indeed,  Espiritu Santo island is something of a hub for scuba and snorkeling trips. It’s also possible to swim with sea lions here.

Espiritu Santo is a protected UNESCO site, and locals are pretty keen to keep it that way. Don’t litter or disturb wildlife, and keep on the trails.

Hit up the Beaches

The city of La Paz itself doesn’t have much in the way of surf or swim beaches attractive for family travel. While pretty, the waters off the Malecon are generally snubbed by locals. La Paz is an important commercial port, which unfortunately means the waters immediately off the city’s shoreline can be polluted and unfit for swimming.

Having said that, there’s no shortage of shoreline outside town that’s perfect for surf, snorkeling, swimming or just lazing on the sand. The most well-known of these La Paz Mexico beaches is Playa Balandra, which can be reached by bus from the station at the corner of Independencia. It’s about 30 kilometers out of town, and buses run from around 8 am to 5:30 pm.

Take note that the bus probably won’t take you all the way to the beach. Instead, you’ll probably end up being dropped off at the final stop near Playa Pichilingue. From there, you’ll need to flag down a cab for the last 10 minutes or so.

During peak season, Balandra can get extremely crowded, so arrive early if you can.

The Best Beaches in La Paz, Mexico

If you’d rather avoid the crowds, then consider heading out to one of the lesser-known beaches outside La Paz. Just up the road from Balandra you’ll find Playa Tecolote, a quieter stretch of beach with good views of Isla Espiritu Santo. There’s a few good lobster restaurants in the area, too.

Closer to town, the same bus that runs out to Balandra and Tecolote also passes by the quiet beaches of Caimancito, Coromuel, Tesoro and the afore-mentioned Pichilingue.

All are good bets for anyone looking for a lazy beach day. Most are reasonably chilled even during peak season, with the exception of Tecolote, which can get even busier than Balandra beach(this was the case when we were there and ended up in a smaller and quieter beach).

Still, if you’ve got your heart set on  Balandra or Tecolote, just try to visit mid-week during low season. You’ll be surprised by how empty these stunning beaches can be once the tourism season ends.

Lastly, if you’re not keen on taking a trip out of town, then luckily La Paz does have a few stretches of shoreline that are suitable for swimming. Right on the edge of town, La Concha Beach Resort maintains its own private beach.

Nonguests can hire equipment and make use of the resort bar and restaurant.

Kayaking

Those azure waters off the coast of Baja just scream for a kayak adventure. Kayaking is extremely popular across the region, and for good reason. The generally calm waters around La Paz make gliding across the sea in a kayak an absolute breeze and is an ideal activity in La Paz and Baja California's Sea of Cortez to do with kids of all ages.

Most beaches mentioned here have plenty of kayak hire options. Usually, it’s a simple matter of paying a few bucks, leaving behind a deposit and hitting the water for a few hours.

Likewise, virtually all established tour operators in town offer guided kayak trips, sometimes combined with camping or wildlife trips.

Swimming with Sea Lions

While exploring La Paz's  surroundings, you’ll no doubt eventually run into some of the region’s friendliest denizens, the sea lions.

Throughout most of the year, there’s no shortage of these adorable, playful creatures, and sooner or later you’re going to want to acquaint yourself. To get up close and personal with these critters, consider a day trip of swimming with sea lions, one of the most fun La Paz activities you can do.

The most popular place to swim with sea lions is Isla Espiritu Santo, where a thriving colony of the animals live. This colony is pretty accustomed to human visitors, and don’t be surprised if they swim right up to your face.

Most tour operators around La Paz can arrange a sea lion swim throughout the year. Cortez Club is a reputable option that’s generally well regarded among locals and visitors alike, and it's the one we went with.

 We met at the dock and made our way to another well known spot where you can now only spot sea lions but giant manta rays as well: Los Islotes.

As soon as we got there we got the chance to see some manta rays while were were getting our snorkeling gear on, however once we jumped into the water we didn't see them again (the group members who were diving did).

What we did see were the sea lions, who didn't mind us at all and even came to check us out every now and then. All three jumped into the ocean, and at two years old Teo has already swum with sea lions!

Whale Watching

La Paz is one of the most popular places in Mexico for whale watching, though your window is fairly short. For three months from January to March, gray whales migrating from Alaska spend time frolicking in the waters off La Paz.

If you do arrive at the right time of year, your chances of seeing a few whales are extremely good. Reviews for tour operators are generally good across the board, and few tourists complain of being let down during whale watching trips.

There is, of course, always some degree of luck involved, but at least La Paz has a reputation for reliable oceanic mammals.

The whale shark season usually starts in early to mid October, and can last until the following March. Ideally, the mid point of the season is the best time, particularly around December.

However, the long season means a whale shark tour can make for a good consolation prize if you happen to miss the gray whales – and what a prize it is. If you’ve ever wanted to swim with a fish the size of a school bus, then this is your chance.

Quad biking

For all ye landlubbers out there, Baja is more than just about the ocean. Inland lies vast swathes of sparely inhabited, open flatlands. It’s some of northern Mexico’s most beautiful, pristine countryside – and it’s just begging to be shredded by quads.

Off-road quad biking is extremely popular around here. As with other popular activities, most tour agencies around town can arrange quad trips, it’s just a matter of finding a place with a bunch of bikes parked outside. Typically, day trips take small groups just outside of town for a few hours.

Expect transport costs to be included, along with possibly a packed lunch. Multi-day tours are also possible.

Conclusion

Things to do in La Paz (Mexico)   range from the wild and crazy to mellow and  easy. We found it to be a very quaint and easy town, with almost of all of its attractions being nature related, something we appreciated.

Plan ahead, consider possible hurricanes if visiting during low season (prices are half or less than during high season) and plan on spending at least three or four days with your family to see the best of the area.

Places to visit in La Paz (Mexico) are varied in nature, making it a great destination if you want to mix outdoor and indoor activities.

Accommodation in La Paz

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Flights to La Paz

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Rental Cars in La Paz

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RV Rentals La Paz:

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Tours in La Paz

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Getting to know San Miguel de Allende

Once a quiet backwater, in the mid 20^th Century San Miguel de Allende began to draw a trickle of vagabond artists from across North America. Finding a pleasant climate and peaceful community, these interlopers settled down in the town, living on a shoe-string and giving the town a rather international flavor.

Today, somewhere between 20,000 to 25,000 foreigners live in this town, making up a sizable chunk of the municipality’s 140,000 inhabitants. Over half are from the United States, and San Miguel de Allende nowadays has a bit of a reputation as a retirement village for Americans. Having said that, San Miguel de Allende’s unique demographics are an asset not a liability, and you’ll find locals of all origins more than welcoming. The end result is a pleasant town that cherishes its unique culture, and has gone to great pains to preserve its idyllic colonial center. This also happens to be one of the best places in Mexico for international cuisine.

San Miguel de Allende has perfect warm weather year round, with of course the odd cold days in winter and very hot summer afternoons. The streets are OK for your stroller (many had narrow sidewalks, some streets have cobble stones) and if you forget anything important you'll probably find it here. In any case these are items you may want to arrive with:

Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende with Kids

Most of San Miguel de Allende’s main attractions are located in the colonial center, and are reachable by foot from one another. Taxis to or from anywhere in town shouldn’t cost you more than MX$50. Weather in San Miguel de Allende is good all year round, making the town great for exploring on foot.

While there aren't many activities for kids, most of those that will spark interest to adults are also child friendly and make up for a great family visit.

El Jardin

This central garden effectively serves as San Miguel de Allende’s main plaza, but is significantly leafier than the average Mexican zocalo. During the week, this is a mellow spot for a coffee or lunch, and a perfect location for a bit of people watching. On weekends and during school vacations, el jardin explodes with activity, as day trippers from across central Mexico pour in to explore the colonial center. Whatever time you arrive, expect to end up here at some point, as it’s a good spot to get your bearings.

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

This imposing Catholic church is immediately recognizable for its unique architecture. According to local lore, the church’s distinct neo-Gothic facade was designed in 1880 by local architect Zeferino Gutierrez, who drew inspiration from a faded postcard from Belgium. The church can be found on the southern flank of el jardin, and is impossible to miss.

Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano

Located a few blocks uphill from the main plaza, the Museum of Popular Toys should be a first port of call for anyone visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids in tow. This cute little museum has some wonderful exhibits of classic Mexican handcrafted toys. The museum is interactive at every step, meaning the kids will constantly have something to keep their hands and minds occupied. If you can, try to make time to join in one of their regular workshops with local artisans. These are fairly regular events during peak season, though you’ll have to inquire on-site for details.

Parque Benito Juarez

Named after Mexico’s influential 19^th Century liberal president Benito Juarez, this park is a great place to take the kids to burn some energy. There’s a good playground at the heart of the park, which gives way to a network of jogging trails further afield. If you come mid-week, you can expect peace and quiet, but not so on weekends. Sundays in particular tend to be quite lively, with local artists lining up to peddle their works to the hordes of tourists who come here for picnics.

Museo de la Mascara

The San Miguel Mask Museum shows another face of Mexico – literally. This private collection of over 500 ceremonial masks highlights Mexico’s cultural diversity, and is a must-see for anyone passing through San Miguel de Allende. Curators Bill and Heidi are extremely knowledgeable, and are a wealth of information on the masks themselves. Best of all, the proceeds from the museum go towards funding a local day care center.

El Charco del Ingenio

El Charco del Ingenio is a botanic garden just outside the colonial center. Spread over 170 acres, these gardens include native scrubland, wetlands and a few short hiking trails. The big deal here, however, is the cactus garden. They have dozens of cacti of every shape and size, and by the time you leave you’re guaranteed to have a newfound appreciation for these prickly plants. The gardens tend to be quiet during the week, but fill up fast on weekends. Try to arrive early to beat the crowds and the afternoon sun, and don’t forget to pack plenty of water.

Instituto Allende

Mexico’s oldest art school, the Instituto Allende offers art classes in both English and Spanish. These classes are available for even short stay visitors, with some courses being doable over a week or two. Anyone with a twinkle of artistry and a bit of time in San Miguel de Allende should consider hitting this place up.

Biblioteca de San Miguel de Allende

This historic library is a favorite haunt for university students and the afore-mentioned expats alike. They have a wide range of both Spanish and English language books, and a pretty good on-site cafe. This is by no means a mandatory site, but serves as a quiet haven of tranquility for when the crowds around El Jardin get a bit too much. Retreat here in the afternoon, and enjoy this oasis of peace and quiet.

Festivals

San Miguel de Allende is beloved by Mexicans for its colorful tradition of festivals, which draw visitors from all over the country. During festival season, expect accommodation to be booked out, so make travel arrangements well in advance.

Fiestas de San Miguel de Allende

The last week of September is known by locals simply as las fiestas. The festivities are centered around the Feast Day of St. Michael, which falls on September 29. However, the entire week is one massive party, celebrating local culture and tradition. Each day of las fiestas is packed with parties, cultural events, indigenous dances and religious rituals. It’s a melange of culture and celebration that’s hard not to love, and well worth your time if you can time your visit well. The week of celebrations culminates in the procession of St. Michael, where the image of the saint moves through town to the main church.

Where to Eat in San Miguel de Allende with Kids

San Miguel de Allende has no shortage of restaurants, and is arguably one of the best spots in Mexico for anyone hanging out for some international cuisine. Most of the restaurants are huddled around El Jardin and surrounding streets. The main drags of Avenida San franscisco and Correo are both splitting at the seams with good eats, along with small coffee shops and a smattering of bars.

Half a block south west of El Jardin, keep an eye out for the highly rated Restaurante la Azotea which serves up a good selection of Mexican fare, and boasts one of the more generous happy hours in town. During the evenings, their margaritas are second to none. Also, don’t miss out on their tasty jicama shrimp tacos...and great views!

Where to Stay in San Miguel de Allende

As with eating, accommodation is easily found around El Jardin and surrounding streets. As one of central/north Mexico’s biggest tourist destinations, San Miguel de Allende sure has a lot of options. Throw a stone, and odds are it’ll land in front of a hotel, retreat or boutique posada. While some budget options do exist, San Miguel is more geared towards mid and upper range accommodation, particularly health spas and the like.

If you’re looking for something with a little distance from the hustle and bustle, I definitely recommend delightful Hotel La Puertecita. This retreat just outside the colonial center is located in a historic building overflowing with verdant gardens and a fantastic pool kids will love. Their biggest claim to fame is their excellent health spa and alternative therapy services. They offer massages, hot stone chakra treatments, facials and more. On top of this, their rooms are some of the most peaceful in town, and immaculately furnished with carved timber furniture (you may want to read my full review) and some perks if you're traveling with toddlers (they do have cribs available which will come in handy if you don't have one of your own or travel bed rails). While getting to it is not easy without wheels, the quiet nights will more than make up for the 50 MXN ride.

I had heard about San Miguel de Allende for years, about it's cobbled streets, fine weather, good restaurants, and how all these factors had made it a favorite city among expats, mostly from USA and Canada (though there are many from Europe as well). I was eager to visit it, and draw my own conclusions.

I have to agree with most of the reasons that attract long term residents, as well as short term visitors. There's no lack of restaurants, great hotels, and a peaceful and safe vibe...everyone seems to get along. Families visiting San Miguel de Allende with kids will find it a place where they can walk around safely and enjoy high quality family fun. 

This said, while the city does have some points of interest and activities for families with young kids, you'll probably run out of things to do after two or three nights so I'd limit a visit to a couple of days or three to really enjoy the town.

The geyser (or volcano, if you prefer) is apparently cursed. According to local lore, Cuexcomate was used by indigenous people to dump the bodies of suicide victims.

Today though, the interior of the geyser is more like a cave than a crypt. The kids in particular will enjoy this one.

Fabrica La Constancia

Ex Fabrica La Constancia is a former fabric mill that has become a museum- four of them actually.

The Paseo de los Gigantes will walk you through a maze of world famous landmarks that adults and kids will love to recognize.

There's a fantastic interactive children's museum, a museum about music from Viena and a traditional mexican puppet museum (Museo del Titere)as well. 

There are also a few night tours available which offer you the chance to see Puebla once the sun is down.  They all start at the zocalo, and last roughly around 2 hours.

Where to Eat in Cholula

​​​​Food in Atlxico de las Flores

Like many citizens living north of the Rio Grande, I’ve enthusiastically counted down the days till cinco de mayo.

Party shirt. Check.

Jose Cuervo tequila & the following day requested off of work. Check.

And last but certainly not least, waking up the next morning embarrassed by the silly bar games you partook in. [ugh hum] Check.

Ciudad Juarez in Chihuahua is just a short walk from El Paso (for real: you can just walk across the border, like I did), and besides authentic Mexican food there are plenty of cultural and natural attractions. Locals are genuinely friendly too. 

All this to say that there are many things to do in Ciudad Juarez, most of them family friendly, and can be done in a day or two.

Where is Ciudad Juarez?

Ciudad Juarez- formerly known as El Paso del Norte (The Pass of the North)- is the most populous city in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It lies on the Rio Grande, right at the border between Mexico and United States, opposite the city of El Paso in Texas.

Together with the surrounding area, El Paso and Ciudad Juarez comprise the second largest bi-national metropolitan area on the Mexico-U.S. border with a combined population of over 2.7 million people.

Ciudad Juarez Crime

In past years violence in Ciudad Juarez was extremely high and something to worry about when planning a travel to Mexico, but not anymore. Most of the criminal activity was directly related to illegal drug trafficking, and was mainly occurring within factions of various drug cartels.

Considering humidity, temperatures feel very pleasant and the best time to come for outdoor activities is between April and June.

The busiest months for tourism are January, May and June.

What to Do in Ciudad Juarez?

Besides being a border crossing town, it’s an important cultural and business center, full of tourist attractions to keep you busy for at least an entire day. 

If you want to keep things simple this guided walking tour of Juarez will take you to the best attractions in the city, but you can also explore Juarez on your own. 

You can find everything from archaeological sites, parks and white sand dunes, to historical monuments and buildings. Read along and learn what there is to do.

The Cathedral of Ciudad Juarez & Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission

Established in 1659, our Lady of Guadalupe Mission is considered “The Queen of the Missions” for being the first of the Northern Passage.

Nowadays, is still preserved and open on special occasions. Visitors often come here to admire its beautiful adobe walls, wood beams and palm tree trunks.

In the 40’s the growth of the congregation was such that the small mission was not sufficient so a large cathedral was built next to it. With its neoclassical style, twin bell towers and high ceilings, the Cathedral is a must-see attraction when visiting Juarez.

Casa de Adobe Museum

Located in the outskirts of the city, accessible by a dirt road and sitting a few feet away from the Rio Grande lies the Casa de Adobe.

It was from this small two-room adobe house where Francisco Madero and Pancho Villa planned the battle of Juarez during the Mexican Revolution.

Unfortunately, the original structure was destroyed on a fire, but a new house was set to educate people about the Revolution’s importance and its impact on the country.

The house holds some artifacts and is decorated with pieces from the time.

The Museum of the Revolution in the Border

This museum, also known as the former Customs Building, has been the site of several historic events. It dates back to the 19^th century and was inaugurated on September 1889 as the border checkpoint between Mexico and U.S.

After years of abandonment it was remodeled and finally opened in 2011.

It features nine thematic axes related to how Juarez lived the Mexican Revolution. Here you can discover who the players were and learn their history. The museum takes you through a chronological journey of the Revolution and includes photos and artifacts from the period.

Which are the Best Outdoor Activities in Ciudad Juarez?

Ciudad Juarez is a city, sure, but many of it's attractions are outdoors. Definitely those that are most fun if you're visiting with kids, but adults won't be left behind.

Samalayuca Dune Fields

This is a place where you can completely forget about the past violence in Ciudad Juarez. Hundreds of visitors come from the surroundings to appreciate the beauty of this desert landscape.

Located just 29 miles from the city’s downtown, it is a great destination for extreme sports enthusiasts. But if that doesn’t appeal to you, simply enjoy the scenery on a guided walk tour.

Mercado Ciudad Juarez

To get a true feeling of Mexican culture you need to visit the market area in Juarez. Located around the Cathedral and Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission is the best place to get a glimpse of everyday life.

Goods may range from typical Mexican souvenirs and themed trinkets to high quality artisan-made glassware, pottery and jewelry. Merchants are friendly and most of them speak English.

There are also street musicians, zoot-suited dancers and plentiful food vendors selling everything imaginable.

Central Park Hermanos Escobar

Established in 1967, this park is considered one of the most beautiful in the city. The park is well-maintained and encompasses a lot of grassy and shaded areas. There’s even a man made lake where you can take a boat ride or spot some ducks.

Food in Ciudad Juarez

Without a doubt one of the best things to do in Ciudad Juarez is to eat authentic Mexican food at a fraction of the price of what it would cost across the border you left behind.

Did you know that it si generally accepted that burritos were invented in Ciudad Juarez? And of all the places in town where you can eat them insiders say that the best- which also stick to the original recipe- are those found at a car wash: Burritos Crisostomo.

You might find this odd, but in Mexico many of the best taco and burritos places actually function as a car wash during the day, and serve delicious food once the sun sets. Burritas Crisostomo is open all day though.

Here comes another surprise: you've probably had your fair share of Margaritas. Did you know the Margarita was invented in Ciudad Juarez too? 

There are several bars in Mexico that claim to be the birthplace of the Margarita, but only Kentucky Bar has the official certification by the Guiness Book of world records.

You'll also see photos of the man behind it, and if for a few minutes you can imagine how famous stars like John Wayne, Steve McQueen, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Jack Dempsey felt when they were here.

But if you’re looking for a more refined meal visit Hacienda Flor Nogal. From fish tacos to steaks and lambs every dish is amazing and something that any foodie would enjoy. Save room for the dessert and order a few different things to share.

What are Some Fun Things to Do in Ciudad Juarez With Kids?

The dunes in Samalayuca will definitely be a big hit among kids, Casa de Adobe should be fun too, but there are also some fine museums you should definitely check out.

Trepachanga Eco-Adventure Park

This is the only extreme sports park in town and one of the best things to do in Juarez with kids. You’ll find all kind of activities to suit everyone’s desires.

The main attraction here is the thrilling 1,100 meters (!) zip line, but there are also several tracks for all type of vehicles, hanging bridges, paintball and archery fields, rock climbing routes and a botanical garden (if this is what you like I recommend you next visit Copper Canyon, also in Chihuahua).

You won’t get bored here, seriously. Fun is guaranteed for the entire family.

La Rodadora

It is one of the largest museums in Latin America and the perfect place to bring your kids to learn in a recreational way about the local culture and environment.

Yet Juarez has its fair share of local and international hotels. If you’re a first time visitor you might prefer to stay in a touristy area, but if you’re a solo traveler, a local neighborhood could be more interesting. 

Some areas have everything you need within walking distance, but the hotels may be more expensive.

How Do I Go from El Paso to Ciudad Juarez?

Driving into Juarez can be quite time consuming so the fastest way is to start from Downtown El Paso and then walk to the border checkpoint.

It takes about 15 minutes and the entrance fee is just $.50.