What to Do in Guadalajara: 10 Must-Sees & Hidden Gems

The fine city of Guadalajara is one of Mexico’s cultural capitals, known for mariachi, tequila, wonderful food, and much more. Located in western Mexico, Guadalajara’s vast architectural and cultural legacy has earned it the nickname of the Pearl of the West. In fact, it has even appeared in Time magazine as one of the best destinations in the world for tourism. ‘Why?’ you may ask. Well, today we’re going to make our case for why you should visit this city, running through its most interesting sights, and also what to do in Guadalajara.

1. Pay a Visit to the Guadalajara Cathedral

First up on our list is the Guadalajara Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady. One of the most important and oldest monuments in Guadalajara, the construction of the cathedral began in the 1560s, during the colonial period, and was concluded 50 years later. Since then, this magnificent structure has undergone various makeovers, most notably due to an earthquake in 1818, which destroyed the church’s original towers. Learn more about the cathedral as part of this free tour of Guadalajara, or on this private tour.

2. See the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres

Just a stone’s throw from the Cathedral is the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres. This commemorative monument was built in 1951 and is composed of 17 columns arranged in a circular shape around a cauldron, standing in commemoration of citizens of Jalisco who have made important contributions to the state.

One such figure is Irene Robledo García, an Educator and Human Rights Advocate from the early 20th century. She was one of the first women in Jalisco to earn a university degree, and she fought for inclusive education, women’s rights, and secular public schooling.

In the construction we can find the inscription ‘Jalisco to its enlightened children’. This message is another example of the symbolic value and homage that this eternal resting place represents.

3. Visit the Government Palace of the State of Jalisco

The Government Palace was originally built in the 17th century but was destroyed by an earthquake and later rebuilt during the reign of King Charles IV of Spain. The golden-hued palace is known across Mexico for its dramatic interior mural by Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco, created in tribute to and depicting Miguel Hidalgo, a key leader in Mexico’s War of Independence at the beginning of the 19th century. This mural was painted in 1937 and measures a stunning 1,400 square feet (400 square meters).

The palace also houses a museum, making it a must-see for those interested in history and art. Notably, it was here that the abolition of slavery in New Spain was officially declared—one of the most important events in the building’s long history.

4. See a Show at the Degollado Theater

The Degollado Theater, built in the mid-19th century, is one of Guadalajara’s most iconic cultural venues. This stunning classical theater’s grand facade features towering Greek Corinthian columns and a striking marble relief depicting Apollo surrounded by the muses—symbols of the arts and creativity. Inside, the theater features stunning golden walls and wonderful artwork, and is host to various performances including opera, theater, and dance!

At night, they light up the Degollado Theater (and other buildings in the historic center), where you can admire the building’s beauty by joining a night tour of Guadalajara or even a nighttime cycling tour. To attend a performance, check the theater’s official website for current programming, which varies by season.

5. Explore the San Juan de Dios Market

We’ve gotten to entry number 5, and we haven’t spoken about Guadalajara’s food yet? The best way to delve into the city’s food scene is to head to San Juan de Dios Market (also known as Libertad Market)—one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America. This current structure opened in 1958, though the area has long been a hub of commerce.

Here you can stroll through stalls selling fruits, vegetables, spices, and local crafts. The market also features a food court that is frequented by tourists and locals alike, so it must be good! A great way to check out Libertad Market is as part of this Guadalajara guided market tour, which also includes a visit to Tonolá Market and a jewelry center.

6. Taste Guadalajara’s Local Cuisine at a Cantina

Staying on the topic of cuisine…Guadalajara is only an hour away the lovely town of Tequila, home of the drink of the same name! In Guadalajara, it’s very popular to combine the drink with exquisite local tacos, tortas ahogadas (a regional specialty of pork sandwiches drowned in spicy tomato sauce), or birria, a flavorful stew often made with goat or beef. While there’s lots of great tequila in Guadlajara, why not visit the town where its made? Check out this day trip to Tequila from Guadalajara.

If you’re more into sweet treats, be sure to try out the jericallas, a dessert created in the 19th century for children in shelters. Made with milk, cinnamon, sugar, and eggs, and with a burnt top, this delicious treat is a bit like a cross between flan and crème brûlée.

To savor these flavors like a local, head to one of Guadalajara’s classic cantinas—old-school bars where locals gather to sip tequila or mezcal and enjoy traditional dishes, and where you’ll often be surrounded by live mariachi music, colorful décor, and menus full of regional favorites. Visit some of these cantinas for yourself on this traditional cantinas of Guadalajara tour!

7. Listen to Traditional Music at the Mariachi Plaza

Looking for more ideas of what to do in Guadalajara? Visit the Mariachi Plaza (Plaza de los Mariachis), the musical heart of the city. Numerous mariachi bands perform live here and in the nearby bars, offering a lively and authentic evening experience.

Recognized by UNESCO in 2011 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, mariachi music is a key part of Mexican identity. For an unforgettable night, consider booking a dinner with a mariachi show, which includes transportation aboard a music-themed party bus!

8. Wander the Hospicio Cabañas Museum

Located near Mariachi Plaza and the San Juan de Dios Market, the Hospicio Cabañas (or Cabañas Museum) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This neoclassical building, which dates back to the early 19th century, once served as one of the largest orphanage and hospital complexes in Latin America, offering care to orphans, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Today, the Hospicio Cabañas operates as a fine museum, featuring many works by José Clemente Orozco, a key figure in Mexican muralism, most notably the Hombre de Fuego (Man of Fire). You can also explore the grounds’ peaceful courtyards, chapels, and exhibit halls. Tickets are affordable and readily available at the entrance, though for a deeper exploration of the museum, check out this Guadalajara mural tour, which also includes a walking tour past some of the other most famous murals in the city.

9. Explore Some of Guadalajara’s Museums

Following on from our previous entry, Guadalajara is a treasure trove of brilliant museums of all kinds, and the best way to see them is on this tour of Guadalajara’s museums, during which you’ll visit the following museums and more:

A standout is the Museum of Paleontology, which showcases a wide array of fossils from the Pleistocene era—many sourced from Lake Chapala and Zacoalco. A highlight is a stunning remains of an entire wooly mammoth discovered in Jalisco.

The Wax Museum is another great stop on the tour, especially for families. It features over 150 lifelike figures ranging from Harry Potter to Snow White to E.T. Also, stop at the Government Palace Museum, the Cabañas Museum, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Other notable museums not included in the tour are the Regional Museum of Guadalajara, with archaeological treasures and colonial paintings; the Museum of Journalism and Graphic Arts; and the Museum of the History of Medicine.

10. See a Traditional Mexican Cowboy Show

Looking for something unique? Consider attending a traditional Mexican cowboy show—a vibrant, family-friendly experience that showcases the skills and traditions of the country’s charros (cowboys). As part of this activity, you’ll gain an insight into charrería horseman culture in a specialized arena, learning all about the tradition. You’ll also get to see the professional charro show and even, if you want, ride one of the horses yourself!

Extra – Take a Day Trip to Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is a beautiful town designated as a Pueblo Mágico (magic town) about 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) from the city center. The municipality is known for its artisan traditions, especially blown glass and pottery, which you can discover firsthand at the Regional Ceramics Museum or in its various workshops. Additionally, Tlaquepaque is famous for having the largest open-air cantina in the world, called El Parián, where you’ll be treated to live mariachi music—something else Tlaquepaque is known for.

Ready to explore? Check out how you can explore this charming town with Civitatis:

• Free tour of Tlaquepaque
• Tlaquepaque tourist tram
• Tlaquepaque tour
• Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque tour

There you have it for our up-to-date list of what to do in Guadalajara! This magical city has a huge number of fantastic things to check out and experience. If you’re still looking for more ways to fill your itinerary, check out more tours & experiences in Guadalajara with Civitatis!