13 Things To Do In Guadalajara

Discover Guadalajara’s vibrant legacy at the majestic Cathedral and be mesmerized by Orozco’s revolutionary murals in the Palacio De Gobierno. You can’t miss taking a day trip to Tequila town, where José Cuervo’s historic factory and artisanal distilleries await. Experience traditional cantaritos in El Arenal, join a tequila cocktail workshop, and wander through the historic downtown’s colonial architecture. From UNESCO-recognized agave fields to cultural landmarks, Guadalajara’s authentic Mexican experiences will captivate your senses.

Key Points

• Visit Guadalajara Cathedral during evening illumination shows to experience stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture and Gothic spires.
• Explore José Clemente Orozco’s revolutionary murals at Palacio De Gobierno, featuring dramatic frescos and historical artwork.
• Take a day trip to Tequila town to tour historic distilleries, including José Cuervo’s La Rojeña factory.
• Experience traditional cantaritos drinks in El Arenal, served in clay vessels with theatrical preparation and cultural significance.
• Attend the Day of the Dead Festival at Calaverandia theme park, featuring skeleton parades and immersive cultural attractions.

Visit the Majestic Guadalajara Cathedral

Standing as a monument to over 450 years of history, the Guadalajara Cathedral commands attention in the heart of the city’s historic center.

You’ll marvel at its Spanish Renaissance exterior topped with distinctive neo-Gothic spires, built from yellow quarry stone and volcanic rock.

Step inside to discover three grand naves supported by Doric columns and Gothic ribbed vaults.

Don’t miss the French stained-glass windows, the silver-and-marble main altar, and the historic pipe organ.

The cathedral has endured several challenges over the centuries, including major earthquakes in 1818 that caused significant structural damage.

For the best photos, visit during the evening illumination shows Thursday through Sunday.

The cathedral’s free admission makes it a perfect stop on your cultural walking tour, which can include nearby attractions like the Instituto Cultural Cabañas.

A visit to this majestic cathedral costs nothing and pairs perfectly with exploring other cultural landmarks in historic Guadalajara.

Be sure to find a spot on the benches outside to take in the cathedral’s full architectural splendor.

Take a Day Trip to the Town of Tequila

After exploring Guadalajara’s architectural wonders, you’ll want to venture just 60 kilometers northwest to the charming town of Tequila, birthplace of Mexico’s most famous spirit.

You can easily reach the town by hourly buses from Guadalajara’s Old Bus Central, which take about two hours and offer the most budget-friendly option.

Once there, explore the vibrant Plaza Principal with its mariachi performances and the National Tequila Museum to learn about the spirit’s evolution. The town’s name comes from the Nahuatl word Tecuilan, meaning “place of tributes.”

Beyond the well-known José Cuervo, discover smaller distilleries like Fortaleza and Casa Herradura for authentic tequila-making experiences.

Don’t miss hiking the Cascada Los Azules trail through agave fields or catching the mesmerizing Voladores de Papantla dancers in the main plaza.

If you visit in November, you’ll experience the lively National Tequila Fair with its parades and tastings.

Explore José Cuervo’s Historic Factory

While exploring the town of Tequila, you won’t want to miss La Rojeña, Latin America’s oldest active distillery and the historic home of José Cuervo.

This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases over 250 years of tequila-making tradition, from the volcanic soil agave fields to the ancient masonry ovens. During your visit, you’ll discover how the brand commands 35% of global sales in the tequila market.

Take a guided tour to experience authentic tequila production and learn about Mexican culture:

• Watch master jimadors demonstrate traditional agave harvesting techniques
• See how agave piñas are slow-cooked for 36-40 hours in brick ovens
• Visit the Museo de la Familia Cuervo to explore historical artifacts
• Observe the natural fermentation and double-distillation process
• Sample premium tequilas, including the exclusive Reserva de la Familia

Don’t miss the seasonal events featuring mariachi performances and agave-harvesting demonstrations, offering a complete cultural experience.

Experience Traditional Cantaritos in El Arenal

You’ll discover the authentic charm of El Arenal’s cantaritos served in traditional clay vessels, which local artisans have crafted for generations to enhance the drink’s distinctive flavor.

At spots like Cantaritos La Tequilera, you can watch the theatrical preparation of these citrus-and-tequila concoctions in communal-sized clay jugs that serve entire groups.

For a hands-on experience, join a local workshop where you can paint your own cantarito cup while learning about this cherished Jalisco tradition that began in the region’s agave fields.

While several places share the name, this El Arenal in Jalisco is renowned for its traditional drink preparation and artisanal craftsmanship.

Authentic Clay Cup Tradition

The traditional cantarito drink tells a fascinating century-old story of Mexican ingenuity, originating during the Revolution as a reward for troops using locally-sourced ingredients.

When you visit Guadalajara, you’ll find the authentic experience centers around the handmade clay cups that naturally insulate your beverage, connecting you to pre-Hispanic ceramic traditions. Keep drinks cold and refreshing in Mexico’s warm climate.

What makes cantaritos culturally significant:

• Served in lead-free clay vessels inspired by ancient Lotería card game designs
• Rooted in indigenous pulque fermentation practices
• Part of UNESCO’s recognized agave landscape heritage
• Originally shared communally in rural Jalisco settings
• Crafted using centuries-old Aztec pottery techniques

Head to Cantaritos El Güero, marked by its iconic 10-foot clay cup sculpture, for the most authentic experience just 30 minutes from downtown Guadalajara.

Making Your Own Cantarito

Three standout venues in El Arenal offer hands-on cantarito-making experiences that won’t break your travel budget. At Cantaritos La Tequilera, you’ll craft your drink amid live music, while Rosa Lía Distillery combines informal mixology lessons with tequila tastings in their atmospheric cellars.

Like our early morning journey from Ixtlan, many visitors begin their cantarito adventure at dawn to make the most of the experience. For a complete experience, join a guided tour from Guadalajara that stops at UNESCO-listed agave fields before your cantarito workshop. You’ll learn to blend fresh citrus juices with blanco tequila and grapefruit soda in traditional clay cups, garnishing with Tajín or chamoy.

Watch as experts demonstrate theatrical pouring techniques, then try your hand at creating this iconic drink. These tours often include pairings with local dishes like birria, making it a full immersion into Jalisco’s rich culinary heritage.

Marvel at Orozco Murals in Palacio De Gobierno

You’ll find yourself captivated by Jose Clemente Orozco’s striking murals inside the Palacio de Gobierno, where his masterpiece “Lucha Social” depicts Miguel Hidalgo wielding a torch against oppression.

The palace’s historical significance comes alive through dramatic frescos that contrast idealized heroes with grotesque oppressors, using bold red tones to symbolize revolutionary sacrifice.

These powerful works, free to view Monday through Friday, offer an unforgettable glimpse into Mexico’s revolutionary spirit and Orozco’s fierce critique of political ideologies. The lateral walls feature haunting imagery of pre-WWII European forces, reflecting the darker themes that distinguish Orozco’s work from his contemporaries.

Powerful Political Art History

While Mexico’s revolutionary spirit lives on in many forms, nowhere is it more powerfully displayed than in José Clemente Orozco’s monumental murals at Palacio de Gobierno.

Created between 1934-1937, these masterpieces critique post-revolutionary Mexico while depicting historical struggles for independence and social justice. As one of Los Tres Grandes muralists, Orozco’s work here exemplifies the influential Mexican muralist movement.

The murals’ deeper meanings reveal themselves through powerful symbolism:

• Miguel Hidalgo brandishes a fiery torch against oppression in the dramatic Lucha Social
• Shadowy masses represent the eternal fight against slavery and authoritarianism
• Vibrant reds symbolize the blood and sacrifice of revolution
• Dynamic diagonal compositions create a sense of urgent movement
• Integration with the building’s architecture makes you feel part of the struggle

Best of all, you can experience these UNESCO-recognized treasures completely free of charge, with Spanish-language guides available to enhance your understanding.

Inside Chapel Dome Frescos

Stepping into the Palacio de Gobierno’s central dome reveals Orozco’s most ambitious frescos, where three distinct murals merge into a powerful narrative about Mexico’s struggle for independence.

You’ll find the most striking work above the main staircase, where Miguel Hidalgo wields a flaming torch against a deep red backdrop.

As you move through the building, the Chamber of Deputies showcases Hidalgo signing the slavery abolition decree against blood-red tones. The mural’s details illustrate Orozco’s mastery despite having lost his left hand at age 21.

Don’t miss the lateral walls’ controversial “Dark Forces” allegory, depicting European extremists as clown-like figures.

The murals change dramatically based on your viewing angle, so take time to observe from different floors.

Free public access during government hours makes this UNESCO World Heritage site an essential stop for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Revolutionary Mexican Cultural Symbols

Since Mexico’s post-revolutionary era, Orozco’s monumental murals in the Palacio de Gobierno have stood as powerful symbols to the nation’s struggle for independence.

As you explore this free-to-visit landmark, you’ll witness striking scenes spanning 400 square meters, where torch-bearing revolutionaries and historic leaders emerge from dramatic blood-red hues and dynamic compositions. Standing beneath these towering works, you can use an 8-foot square mirror placed on the floor to comfortably view the intricate details above.

Key symbols to look for:

• Miguel Hidalgo’s torch representing enlightenment and rebellion
• The robotic horse critiquing industrial oppression
• Blood-red “Libertad” signature symbolizing the cost of freedom
• Indigenous figures resisting Spanish conquistadors
• Neoclassical architecture integrating with revolutionary art

Don’t miss the central staircase’s masterpiece “The People and Its Leaders,” where Orozco brilliantly captures Mexico’s fight against fascism and communism through bold imagery and forced perspective.

Join the Day of the Dead Festival at Calaverandia

A vibrant celebration of Mexico’s most iconic holiday awaits at Calaverandia, the world’s only Day of the Dead-themed park in Guadalajara.

From November 2-20, 2024, you’ll explore immersive zones like “El Más Allá” and “El Más Acá,” featuring over 20 attractions including an interactive cemetery and the stunning Tecnolite Underworld light show.

Book your tickets through Ticketmaster Mexico, with general admission at $25-30 USD or VIP passes at $50 USD.

Don’t miss the nightly parades with skeleton dancers, professional Catrina face-painting stations, and traditional treats like pan de muerto. Located in Ávila Camacho Park, the venue offers convenient access from central Guadalajara.

Navigate the 1.6 km park with a cashless wristband system, and visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

For the best cultural experience, pair your visit with Tlaquepaque’s Catrina Parade on November 2.

Sample Local Tequila and Agave Beer

You’ll discover the ancient art of tequila-making amid the stunning blue agave fields that stretch across Jalisco’s landscape.

Traditional distilleries welcome visitors with hands-on workshops where you can learn about harvesting, roasting, and fermenting the agave hearts.

The experience includes guided tastings of various tequila styles, from crisp blancos to complex añejos, all while supporting local producers who’ve perfected their craft over generations. Your excursion concludes with a memorable visit to the Magical Town of Tequila, where you can explore local culture and enjoy a relaxing lunch.

Agave Fields and Tastings

While Mexico’s tequila heritage spans centuries, Guadalajara’s surrounding agave fields offer the perfect gateway into this iconic spirit’s world.

You’ll discover UNESCO-recognized landscapes where master jimadors demonstrate traditional harvesting techniques amid endless rows of blue agave. Local experts guide you through proper tasting methods, from appreciating color to detecting subtle aromas.

• Join small-group tours starting at $75 for intimate tastings at craft distilleries
• Learn professional tasting techniques using proper glassware and sensory evaluation
• Explore photo-worthy agave fields during golden hour for stunning landscapes
• Sample regional agave beers alongside traditional tequila varieties
• Combine tastings with local market visits for authentic Mexican food pairings

Consider booking morning tours to avoid crowds and get the best light for photography while experiencing cooler temperatures in the fields. For those planning special occasions, the distilleries offer wedding proposal arrangements to create unforgettable moments among the agave fields.

Traditional Distillery Workshop Tours

Discovering Guadalajara’s traditional distilleries offers an intimate glimpse into Mexico’s tequila-making heritage, from small-batch producers to iconic brands.

You’ll find tours ranging from budget-friendly visits at La Perseverancia for just 170 pesos to VIP experiences at Cava de Oro, complete with hacienda dinners and premium tastings.

Don’t miss Casa Herradura’s guided tours featuring ballet folklórico performances, or hop aboard the José Cuervo Express for weekend train excursions with mariachi entertainment.

For hands-on experience, La Cofradía’s workshops let you learn about tequila-making fundamentals, and you can even stay in their unique barrel-shaped rooms. Most tours begin with a welcome shot of tequila from your English-speaking guide before diving into the distillery experience.

Watch traditional tahona stone-crushing at Tequila Selecto de Amatitán, or explore small-batch production at La Fortaleza, where they maintain additive-free processes that honor centuries-old techniques.

Stroll Through Plaza De Armas

The heart of historic Guadalajara beats in Plaza de Armas, a charming 19th-century square surrounded by stunning colonial architecture.

You’ll find a magnificent French wrought-iron bandstand, gifted by President Porfirio Díaz in 1910, with pillars adorned with musical instrument statues.

The plaza offers free entertainment and culture:

• Watch live music performances on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings
• Admire José Clemente Orozco’s revolutionary murals at the Government Palace
• Listen to traditional mariachi bands under shaded trees
• Explore nearby artisan courtyards with stone carvers at work
• Browse street vendors selling local snacks and crafts

As evening falls, illuminated colonial buildings create a romantic atmosphere perfect for moonlit strolls. Teatro Degollado stands majestically among the surrounding architecture, adding to the plaza’s historic charm.

The plaza’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Guadalajara’s historic center.

Discover Agave Fields and Production Methods

Just outside Guadalajara’s historic center lies one of Mexico’s most treasured landscapes – the vast blue agave fields that produce the country’s iconic tequila.

Stretching beyond Guadalajara’s colonial streets, endless blue agave fields paint the landscape, birthing Mexico’s legendary spirit.

You’ll find UNESCO-recognized fields spanning over 34,000 hectares across Tequila, Arenal, and Amatitán, where skilled jimadores demonstrate traditional harvesting techniques using their coa tools.

Book a day tour from Guadalajara to witness the complete production process, from steaming the agave piñas in stone ovens to the double distillation in copper stills.

You can choose between group tours or the scenic Jose Cuervo Express train journey. Don’t miss the tasting sessions featuring different aged varieties, from Blanco to Añejo.

For the best experience, visit during November through April, but remember to book 1-2 weeks ahead during these peak months.

Attend a Tequila Cocktail Workshop

Master the art of Mexican mixology through hands-on tequila cocktail workshops in Guadalajara, where expert-led sessions range from 2-hour masterclasses to immersive full-day experiences.

Local mixologists and certified tequila masters guide you through crafting iconic drinks like Palomas, Margaritas, and Cantaritos while sharing insights into Mexico’s rich beverage heritage.

• Learn traditional techniques using clay vessels and fresh, local ingredients
• Create three signature cocktails with take-home recipe guides
• Sample various tequila types, from blanco to añejo
• Discover UNESCO-recognized agave cultivation traditions
• Pair your creations with regional dishes like al pastor tacos

Book in advance to secure your spot, as these workshops are in high demand.

Transportation from Guadalajara hotels is often included for off-site sessions, with flexible 24-48 hour cancellation policies.

Tour Artisanal Distilleries

Discover authentic tequila-making at Guadalajara’s family-owned artisanal distilleries, where centuries-old traditions meet modern sustainability practices.

You’ll find historic establishments like La Alteña (est. 1937) and Cascahuín (est. 1904) still using brick ovens and copper pot stills for their small-batch productions.

Join GDL Tours for affordable $45 excursions to agave fields, or splurge on private distillery experiences starting at $275.

You’ll witness traditional methods like stone tahona grinding at Los Abuelos and open-air fermentation in wooden casks at Fortaleza.

Many distilleries now embrace eco-friendly initiatives – La Alteña preserves agave plants for bat conservation, while Cascahuín partners with universities for sustainable cultivation.

Don’t miss exploring Tequila town’s UNESCO Heritage landscapes and sampling local cantaritos cocktails afterward.

Walk Through Historic Downtown Architecture

Three centuries of architectural grandeur unfold across Guadalajara’s historic downtown, where Spanish colonial, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles blend seamlessly in its UNESCO-recognized landmarks.

You’ll discover stunning masterpieces at every turn, from the twin neo-gothic towers of the Cathedral to Hospicio Cabañas’ mesmerizing Orozco frescoes.

Follow this self-guided walking route to experience the city’s architectural highlights:

• Start at Plaza de Armas to admire the Baroque Palacio de Gobierno’s murals
• Visit the Cathedral’s French stained-glass windows and sacred art museum
• Stroll Plaza Tapatía’s nine-block pedestrian corridor
• Explore Hospicio Cabañas’ neoclassical courtyards and chapel
• End at Teatro Degollado to marvel at its gold-leaf interior and Corinthian columns

This free walking tour connects you with centuries of Mexican history and artistic excellence.

Visit the Scenic El Arenal Region

Beyond downtown’s architectural splendor lies El Arenal, a mesmerizing region where rolling agave fields meet volcanic landscapes.

You’ll discover UNESCO-protected agave plantations stretching across volcanic terrain, best viewed from the Puerta del Agave lookout point near Tequila Volcano.

Enjoy the region’s rich tequila heritage at Cascahuin or Don Valente distilleries, where you can sample various tequilas paired with local snacks.

Sample the finest tequilas paired with regional bites at historic Cascahuin and Don Valente distilleries in Mexico’s famed agave heartland.

Don’t miss the chance to explore working haciendas like El Pedregal, where you can swing over agave fields and learn about traditional cultivation methods.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Culebra Trail offers scenic hiking, while Lake Chapala provides excellent kayaking opportunities.

End your day sipping authentic cantaritos at El Güero or stargazing from Parque Mirador Independencia’s canyon-edge amphitheater.

The Wrap Up

Like the agave plant that takes years to mature before yielding its precious nectar, you’ll find Guadalajara’s treasures reveal themselves layer by layer. From the $5 street tacos in the historic center to the $20 distillery tours, this city won’t break your bank. You’re not just visiting Mexico’s tequila heartland – you’re steeping yourself in centuries of tradition, art, and culture that’ll linger long after your trip ends.