One of the tourist centers of Latin America is considered Guadalajara in Mexico, the attractions of which date back to both the colonial era and the modern period. Travelers visit the capital of the state of Jalisco to explore its architecture, study cultural and historical monuments, and taste the local cuisine.
Popular attractions in Guadalajara, Mexico
Guadalajara attracts visitors with a variety of temples and palaces, gardens and parks, museums and modern attractions. The city’s ancient quarters were the birthplace of the world-famous mariachi music that has become a hallmark of Mexican culture. The city is considered the center of the birth of the folk game charriada (analog of rodeo) and the birthplace of tequila.
Main Cathedral
The main symbol of Guadalajara, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is located in the historic center of the state capital. It was built on the site of a burnt-out Catholic church, laid out by Spanish colonists at the same time as the founding of the city in 1541.
The exterior of today’s cathedral is in the Renaissance and Neo-Gothic styles. Inside the temple are equipped with 3 chapels, 9 altars, installed organ and statues of saints, the building is decorated with French stained glass windows.
The cathedral holds the relics of Saint Innocent, who as a girl was killed by her own father for converting to the Catholic faith.
The child was later canonized as a saint.
Cabañas Hospital
The Hospital Ospicio-Cabañas was built in the early 19th century as a shelter for sick and homeless citizens. The rectangular complex, measuring 164 by 145 meters, is divided into 23 courtyards.
In the 1930s, the interior of the complex was frescoed by Jose Clemente Orozco, one of the innovators of monumental painting of the 20th century. The subjects are centered on the confrontation between the cultures of the Mexican Indians and the Spanish conquerors.
Church of Atonement
The Neo-Gothic Church of Atonement is considered one of the most beautiful temple structures in Mexico. Although construction began as early as 1897, the first parishioners could not visit the structure until 1931.
The temple is distinguished by its distinctive Gothic towers, colorful stained-glass windows, and chapel frescoes. The latter also belong to the brush of Jose Orozco. The temple clock is equipped with a special mechanism with figures of 12 apostles – during the battle, they replace each other.
Government Palace
The government or municipal palace of Guadalajara acquired its present form in 1774. The main decorations of the baroque building are the frescos of Jose Orozco, who depicted scenes from Mexico’s War of Independence.
The palace now houses the offices of the municipal services.
Teatro Degollado
The building of the Teatro Degollado, designed in the neoclassical style, stands out for its 9 columns that support a portico with the image of Apollo and the 9 Muses. Inside, the ceiling of the hall is painted with scenes from Dante Alighieri’s The Divine Comedy. The theater holds just over 1,000 spectators.
Rotunda of Glory
Not far from the Cathedral of Guadalajara is a monument created in 1952 and dedicated to famous personalities of the state, the Rotunda of Glory. The inscription on the upper stone ring of the structure reads: “For the illustrious men of Jalisco.
In the center of the rotunda are the urns with the ashes of people who made the region famous.
Agua Azul Park
The largest park of Guadalajara Agua Azul was laid out at the end of the 18th century. Today, residents and visitors can admire more than 1,500 trees of different species, visit the pavilion “House of Butterflies,” the Gardens of Arts, orchids, the street musicians and numerous cafes.
Guadalajara Regional Museum
The Regional Museum of Guadalajara is located in an 18th-century colonial-style building. Among its expositions are paintings of masters of the XVII-XX centuries, archaeological, ethnographic and historical collections. A well-preserved mammoth skeleton is considered the pride of the exhibition.
Palacio del Gobierno
The Palacio del Gobierno is one of the most important places in the history not only of the city, but of all of Mexico. It was here that the decree abolishing slavery in the country was signed, as evidenced by the frescos inside the building by José Orozco.
Tequila Factory
The Casa Herradura tequila factory is located on the outskirts of Guadalajara in the town of Amatitan. The distance between settlements is 40 km. It can be overcome by a special train, which is so called – “Tequila Express”. Tourists will be given a tour of the factory, where the national drink is still made by hand. In addition, guests can enjoy a tequila tasting and a performance by Mexican Charro cowboys.
Other attractions in and around Guadalajara worth seeing
Guadalajara’s attractions are not limited to the most popular places listed in most guidebooks:
- Church of St. Augustine. It is considered the oldest temple building in the city, built in the 16th century in the Baroque style. Like many city buildings, the church has been rebuilt many times, but the existing sacristy has remained original. To the left of the church is a building that formerly housed the Augustinian monks. It now houses a music school.
- Libertad Market. Many sources cite it as the largest trading place in Latin America. 3 thousand sales outlets occupy an area of 40 thousand square meters, fitting on 3 levels. The place is equipped with a 2-level parking lot. On the first floor they sell food, souvenirs and sweets. The second floor is occupied by restaurants, cafes and hotels. On the last level are stores of modern technology, clothing and household goods.
- Liberation Square. The Plaza de la Liberación is located between the Teatro Degollado and the Cathedral. The place is decorated with two fountains in the form of bowls. A bronze monument to Don Miguel Hidalgo, “Father of the Nation,” is erected on the square. There is also a small market for souvenirs, clothing and art.
- Plaza de Armas. A town square built on the site of a garbage dump. Now there are pedestrian paths and benches. The square is decorated with small granite fountains and four bronze female figures symbolizing the different seasons.
- Museum of Wax Figures. Located on Liberation Square. Like most such exhibits, the collection includes figures of politicians, actors, singers and athletes.
Interesting attractions for families with children in Guadalajara
Mexico’s second largest city is a popular destination for couples with children. Little tourists can get acquainted with the wildlife of the region, have fun on the exciting attractions, swim in the pools.
Guadalajara Zoo
The City Zoo covers an area of 50 hectares and also manages the Barranca de Quintitan National Park, located in a canyon behind Guadalajara. Its distinctive features are considered environmental orientation and educational tourism. The zoo breeds and returns rare animals and tropical birds to the wild.
Mundo Marino Dolphinarium
At the local dolphinarium Mundo Marino adults and children can enjoy fascinating shows with marine mammals, watch them being fed and even swim together. Seals and colorful parrots also take part in the performances.
Selva Magica Amusement Park
Selva Magica amusement park is interesting for the youngest tourists and teenagers alike. There are inflatable rides, merry-go-rounds and roller coasters. You can eat at one of the many cafes on the territory of Selva Magica.
Tobolandia Water Park
The Tobolandia water park features outdoor rides. For the youngest visitors are built shallow pools with fountains. Older children and adults will love the water slides.
Tips for tourists before a trip to Guadalajara
Before the trip, tourists should read a number of tips of experienced travelers:
- The days in Guadalajara are often hot, but at night the thermometers drop to +13 ° C, so you should stock up on warm clothing.
- As a souvenir from Mexico, most tourists take tequila. Do not be surprised by the too low price of alcoholic beverage – local producers do not sacrifice quality for the sake of profit.
- Travelers who have been to Guadalajara more than once recommend shopping on the outskirts of the city. In the local stores, stalls and markets prices are much lower than in places where tourists are concentrated.
- Going for a walk around the city, it is better to take a copy of your identity document. In some places (especially in the evening or at night) without it is impossible to get in.
What time of year is better to go
Although the tourist season in Guadalajara is year-round, travelers who plan to spend a lot of time outdoors should refrain from traveling to Mexico in July. This is the rainy season here at this time of year.
Tourists adjusting to the schedule of cultural events often come to the city at the end of August, when the International Marjaci Music Festival takes place. In early November, locals celebrate the world-famous Day of the Dead.
The main tourist streets of Guadalajara are located in the historic center of the city. In the northern part of the village, the neighborhood near the Basilica of Our Lady of Sapopan is of interest to travelers.
Most of the hotels, restaurants and expensive boutiques are concentrated in the west of Guadalajara.
