Things to do in Guadalajara

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Palacio de Gobierno showing an administrative buidling, a square or plaza and a city
Metropolitan Cathedral showing night scenes, religious aspects and heritage architecture
Degollado Theater featuring interior views, theater scenes and art
Downtown Guadalajara
Guadalajara featuring street scenes and a city

Guadalajara Attractions

Known as the Silicon Valley of Mexico, Guadalajara is a sprawling metropolis of over 4 million people. As one of the best tourist cities in Mexico, there are a variety of Guadalajara activities available for the entire family.

Start your Guadalajara vacation with a visit to the Guachimontones Pyramids. Only a short drive from the center of town, the Guachimontones Pyramids are often included on many Guadalajara excursions and are widely known as one of the top tourist destinations in Mexico. This 2,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site mesmerizes every traveler stopping by for a visit.

After your visit to the Guachimontones Pyramids, head back to the City of Roses and make a stop at the Catedral. The Catedral is still in pristine condition and is visited by thousands of local citizens and tourists on a daily basis. It is one of the oldest religious sites in Guadalajara and is a perfect example of early Spanish colonial architecture. The Catedral should be on your list of things to do in Guadalajara.

While there are many spots in Guadalajara popular among locals and tourists alike, the Teatro Degollado is a must see among the city's top places. While this ancient play house was once used to stage performances, it is now used for concerts and special events all year long. This is one of the many attractions in Guadalajara not to miss.

Because Guadalajara is a city with so much to see and do, tourists may want to have a map with them at all times. Don't miss out on the many Guadalajara tours and book your vacation through Expedia.com today!


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What to do in Guadalajara

Free Things to Do in Guadalajara

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Guadalajara. The following won't even cost a penny.

Museo Regional de Ceramica de Tlaquepaque - Wander the halls and explore the impressive exhibits at this popular museum.

Universidad Guadalajara Lamar - This modern-style landmark is an unique backdrop for a selfie or two.

Palacio de Gobierno - Get educated on some of the unique history of the area through this attraction.

Plaza de Armas - Discover why locals and travelers alike enjoy the vibe of this place.

Cascada de las Tres Caidas - Spend some time near the water to rest and recharge.

Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres - Dig out your guidebook and find out why this place is worth a spot on your travel itinerary.

Templo Santa Maria de Gracia - Take a few moments for some meditation or prayer at this respected sacred site.

Bosque Los Colomos - Take your camera and let the natural surrounds capture your imagination.

Morelos Park - Grab your rug, throw together a quick snack and find a shady area to appreciate Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Guadalajara with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you wander in Guadalajara. Here are a few family friendly experiences to enjoy together that'll make your vacation unforgettable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Guadalajara? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Guadalajara

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Guadalajara

Downtown Guadalajara

Downtown Guadalajara

4/5(1,327 area reviews)

Guadalajara’s historic center is a vibrant area where stories of the city’s past come to life at grand colonial landmarks, excellent museums and elegant squares.

Downtown Guadalajara
Degollado Theater featuring theater scenes, heritage architecture and interior views

Guadalajara Centro

4.5/5(66 area reviews)

Double spires of the neo-Gothic cathedral rise above the central plaza beside a glorious rotunda and a majestic theater in this preserved historic district. 

Guadalajara Centro
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Zona Expo

4/5(307 area reviews)

Travelers come to Zona Expo for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Plaza del Sol and Galleries Theater while you're in town.

Zona Expo
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Colonia Americana

While you're in Colonia Americana, take in top sights like Avienda Chapultepec or Templo Expiatorio del Santisimo Sacramento, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Juarez Station or Mexicaltzingo Station.

Colonia Americana
Escamoles are the edible larvae and pupae of ants that are harvested from the roots of the Agave

Providencia

4.5/5(209 area reviews)

Providencia is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Punto Sao Paulo Shopping Center and Guadalajara Country Club while in the area.

Providencia
La Minerva showing a hotel, a statue or sculpture and a pond

Zona Minerva

Travelers come to Zona Minerva for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Applicant Service Center and Avienda Chapultepec while you're in town.

Zona Minerva

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Guadalajara

Frequently asked questions

Is Guadalajara worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Guadalajara is visit Zoologico Guadalajara. Tick this leading attraction off your itinerary, then discover more of the area's culture and festivals.
How do I spend a day in Guadalajara?
Start your adventures with a visit to Zoologico Guadalajara and Acuario Michin. Then, check out other parts of Guadalajara for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Guadalajara?
Zoologico Guadalajara is one of the top tourist attractions in Guadalajara and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Guadalajara?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city attractions, such as Zoologico Guadalajara, Guadalajara Cathedral and Degollado Theater. The average stay in Guadalajara is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your vacation, El Salto isn't far away.
Is Guadalajara a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Guadalajara. Several top attractions, including Guadalajara Cathedral and Degollado Theater, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Guadalajara's best neighborhoods, Downtown Guadalajara is 0.2 miles away from downtown, while Guadalajara Centro is 0.2 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Guadalajara with kids?
Deciding what to do in Guadalajara with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're traveling with teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Guadalajara for adults?
Telmex Auditorium and Rincon del Diablo are just a few of the things to do in Guadalajara. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Guadalajara?
In Guadalajara, Guadalajara Cathedral is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a top way to discover the best free things to do in Guadalajara.