Top Guanajuato Mexico Destinations

In the middle of the Mexican highlands, lies Guanajuato - known as one of the most beautiful and the most pristine city in Mexico.  Guanajuato residents affectionately call their city the "place of the frogs."  The Mexicans in Guanajuato consider the frog a creature of wisdom and the city's official pet.

Guanajuato began as a Spanish colonial settlement spurred by silver and other valuable minerals found in these mountains.  Today, a few of the mines of this highland city are still in full operation.  Historically, Guanajuato is the largest producer of silver in Mexico, and one of the leading producers of gold and copper.  The majestic surroundings of Guanajuato, featuring hillside houses, patches of mining towns, and a deep network of tunnels make this place a unique source of pride for Mexicans.

Historical Destinations In Guanajuato Mexico

Guanajuato is heralded by UNESCO as one of the world's leading heritage sites.  A strict building code was implemented to preserve the colonial history of these structures.  From afar, Guanajuato looks like a regular Mexican town, but the fact that it is built on top of the hills gives this place a different charm as compared to other great Mexico destinations.

The best historical destination in Guanajuato is the city itself - interesting Spanish inspired buildings, ancient churches, alley statues, and cobblestone roads.  El Pipila on San Miguel hill is the tallest statue in Guanajuato, built in honor of Mexico’s independence from Spain.  You can reach the statue in a cable car located behind the Teatro Juarez.  The view from El Pipila is especially beautiful at night with the series of lights that surround the statue.  Teatro Juarez is in the Jardin La Union in the city Centro (center).  Teatro Juarez' architecture takes its inspiration from Greek, Roman, and Moorish, suggesting the deep Latin influence which was transferred to the new world.  The Jardin La Union is a tourist center where foreigners and locals meet in restaurants and bars around the garden. 

Every Mexican city always has a landmark church, and Guanajuato is no different.  The Basilica of Our Lady of Guanajuato is the foremost place of worship for miners and residents of the city.  Built before the start of the 18th century, the Basilica houses a 1000-year old statue donated by King Charles I of Spain.  This statue survived the Arab invasion in Spain, marking a great milestone in the history of the church and the city.

Museum Destinations In Guanajuato Mexico

Many tourists to Guanajuato think they are visiting old Spain in Mexico, yet there is a strong semblance of Mexican history in its many museums.  One of these museums is the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum).  The museum was built when the residents had to exhume bodies to clear space in a crowded local graveyard.  When they exhumed the bodies, they turned into mummies instead of skulls.  The superstitious side of Mexican residents found this really strange.  Museo de las Momias is a must-see destination if you are in Guanajuato.

The Casa Diego Rivera is the birthplace of the renowned socialist cubist and muralist, Diego Rivera.  In his house, you will find a lot of his socialist-inspired works.  His famous works include En El Arsenal, Detroit Industry, and Man of the Crossroads.

The collection of Guanajuato museums includes the Don Quixote Museum, Casa de Las Leyendas, and the Museum of Minerology.

Market And Restaurant Destinations In Guanajuato Mexico

Guanajuato also has its fair share of nightlife and commendable restaurants.  The Truco Siete near the Jardin La Union is the primary restaurant for American pleasure food such as hamburgers and milkshakes.  You can also have their agua frescas, tortilla soup, enchiladas, and cinnamon strawberries.  Next to Teatro Juarez is the Cafe, which features the best guacamole in town.  If you need a drink, then you are in for a nice treat in places like the Capitolio, Capitolio Light, La Javana, and Bar Ocho.  The Capitolio is very popular with foreign and local tourists, as well as university students.  Party time does not end until 4:30 in the morning, and they have great music to keep the party going.  There are other less advertised drinking spots that also offer the same energy for young tourists. 

Guanajuato is a classic university town.  There are a significant number of foreign exchange students in the dormitories of the University of Guanajuato.  If you want a different flavor of Mexican culture and higher learning, Guanajuato may be your choice of Mexico destinations.  Guanajuato also has a tourist trolley complete with a Spanish-speaking guide, so you can learn a great deal about the city and its people.  From the mines, churches, museums, and amazing views, Guanajuato is the perfect destination for a quiet Mexican vacation.