Six Reasons to Spend a Day in Guadalajara Mexico

French novelist Gustave Flaubert once said, “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” I had to agree with him while visiting Guadalajara…sprawling in every direction, it is larger than life.

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Guadalajara sign

Guadalajara, Mexico’s third largest city, is rich with history. Colorful and vibrant, teeming with an abundance of energy, it pulsates with life. The home of Mariachi music, it marches to its own drumbeat. I see why people fall in love with this effervescent city.

Recently while visiting the village of Ajijic, I had the good fortune to spend time in this high-spirited city. I am smitten and can’t wait to return. While there are many reasons to visit Guadalajara, I’m sharing my top six picks within easy walking distance.

1. The Hospicio Cabanas – Architecture and Art

Man of Fire

Named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, this former House of Charity and Mercy is a world renowned art museum. Originally designed to provide shelter and care for the poor, sick, and orphaned, its focus changed several times over the years. It was officially converted to a museum in 1980.

Courtyard in Hospicio Cabanas

The architecture alone is worthy of a visit…23 courtyards with long, arched, shady passageways. The impressive rotunda with its Man on Fire fresco and the main chapel, house the largest collection of frescoes painted by Jose Clemente Orozco. The breadth of work is staggering…57 frescoes completed in two years.

Guided tours of Hospicio Cabanas run every 30 minutes- $5 US. Wear comfy shoes, the museum is enormous. Calle Cabanas 8, Plaza Tapatia.

2. Bronze Sculptures- Guaranteed to Bring a Smile

Bronze Seats by Alejandro Colunga

Designed by local artist Alejandro Colunga, these interactive sculptures are delightfully whimsical. Colunga wanted to create a fun environment encouraging everyone to touch, sit, and feel. He succeeded. I laughed as people approached and gingerly sat on a chair or a bench which might have human feet, a head, or other body parts as components of the sculpture. Otherworldly and well loved, with worn patina from attention received over the years. Be ready to be amazed. Located on the Plaza in front of The Hospicio Cabanas.

3. San Juan de Dios Market – Walk, Eat, Shop, Repeat

San Juan de Dios Market Guadalajara

I am a market girl and this market just dazzled me. At 40000m (almost 25 miles) with three levels and 3800 stalls, it’s the largest indoor market in Latin America. There has been a market on this site since 1880…this building has been operating since 1958. It is easy to get lost navigating the narrow, twisting, turning aisles…and that is not a bad thing.

There is a method to the madness. You’ll find food products and local crafts on the first level, small restaurants and food stalls on the second, with everything else on the third. If you fancy a bright blue, hand tooled, leather saddle, you’ve come to the right place.

Any type of shoe, clothing, electronics…head to the third level where haggling is encouraged! The wafting aroma of food from the second floor interrupts serious shopping, so fortify yourself before browsing. You can’t go wrong. Calz Javier Mina No 52.

4. Pedestrian Area – Meeting place in the Midst of the Historic Center

Street Vendor in Guadalajara

No need to worry about traffic when walking the broad avenues created for pedestrians. There are blocks of parks and squares designated for foot traffic. Beautifully maintained, they house fountains, enormous statues, and sculptures. Manicured trees shade benches where parents rest while children play. Known as a meeting place for friends and families, it has a happy vibe. This is the ideal location for watching the crowds stroll by.

Of course, there are street vendors selling treats and trinkets. This is the perfect time to take a break and indulge in a tasty Mexican treat…or two. Easy to find, the area begins in front of The Hospicio Cabanas.

5. Guadalajara Cathedral – the Jewel in the City

Cathedral Towers Guadalajara

Also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the majestic church we see today sits on the site of the original church built in 1541 and destroyed by fire. Started in 1561, finished in 1618, the Cathedral has had its share of problems. The towers have toppled twice and the dome destroyed by an earthquake. Due to rebuilding, the Cathedral blends several architectural styles which gives it character.

Earthquakes over the years have created visible structural damage. One of the towers has a slight tilt. Hopefully this much loved Cathedral will continue to watch over the city for many years. Av. Alcalde- Head toward the towers while strolling the pedestrian area.

6. Take a Ride in a Calandria – a Trip Back in Time

Calandria Ride Guadalajara

Whether a sizzling sunny day, or a chilly star filled evening, a horse drawn carriage ride through the city provides an entertaining way to view the sites. Sharing a carriage with someone special…a romantic treat. Not just for couples though, friends and families enjoy the Calandria as well.

Carriages are both open and enclosed, the weather dictates your preference. Your guide provides commentary on key points of interest during the journey. The average length of a Calandria ride is an hour and a half. The price can vary but $20 US per person seems to be the going rate. Agree on the price before stepping in to the carriage. You’ll find Calandria by the Guadalajara Cathedral. Just listen for the hypnotic clip clop of the horse’s hooves.

Guadalajara – It gets in to Your Soul

Children's Fountain Guadalajara

My brief time in Guadalajara left me wanting more. You’ll find warm, friendly people and a joyous vibe that one must experience…at least once. I am looking forward to spending a lot more time in this magical city. One day gives you a taste of the magic that is Guadalajara.

If you choose to extend your stay Guadalajara has accommodations to fit every budget. You’ll find what best suits your needs on TripAdvisor, a MilesGeek affiliate.

Barb Harmon
Barb Harmon

Barb Harmon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. Her love affair with travel began as a child on family vacations throughout the United States and Canada. It blossomed when she became an exchange student in The Netherlands in high school. Several years later she moved to Luzern, Switzerland which allowed her to travel extensively throughout Europe...a dream come true. Moving back to the United States she took a position in the Cosmetic industry which involved a great deal of travel. As empty nesters, she and her husband travel as often as possible looking for the next adventure. They have a dream of moving back to Europe (or elsewhere) part time and plan on making that dream a reality. She is a member of The International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.

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