Travel to Mexico

Ex Convento del Carmen

The ex-Convento del Carmen is one of the most -amazing to the eyes- places in Guadalajara, even though after almost being destroyed, only part of the main buildings and the chapel remains. It has been remodelled, however, and is definitely worth a visit. Today, the former Convento serves as a cultural center. Some of its halls display art exhibitions while others stage plays, recitals and chamber music concerts. Dance performances are held in the main courtyard.

Parque Metropolitano

Inside its amazingly impressive and large green areas you can temporarily isolate yourself from the noises of the city. It has sports fields, an area with exercise machines, picnic spots and a bike track. Small vehicles can be rented to go around the park. A nice place to walk, breath fresh air and rest.

Instituto de la Artesanía Jalisciense

The Institute is placed at Parque Agua Azul, one of Guadalajara's most traditional sites. The goal of the Institute is to protect, preserve, exhibit and promote the state's handicraft traditions as a kind of co-operative retailer for the state's artisans. On sale is everything from ceramics, blown glass and textiles, wrought iron to papier mache, silver pieces, traditional indigenous Huichol art and other crafts all from throughout the municipalities of Jalisco including Tlaquepaque, Sayula, Colotlán, Ciudad Guzmán, Tonalá and Talpa.

Centro de Ciencia y Tecnología

The city planetarium,was designed to introduce science to the general population, was opened in 1982. Discover the components of an airplane, enter the cockpit of a Boeing 707 or a F-105 fighter bomber. On the softer side, the human body is explored with full-scale, anatomic models. Astronomy enthusiasts can observe the stars every Friday from 8pm and take a workshop to construct a working telescope

Palacio de Gobierno

The executive branch of the government is hosted in one of the city's most gorgeous buildings. It was built in 1650 it and has a military-style facade with balconies and eleven windows lined in two rows, crowned by a clock with a bullet hole from a shot fired by Francisco "Pancho" Villa. Every September 15th the Governor's grito (shout) of independence from the main balcony commemorates Padre Miguel Hidalgo's 1810 abolishment of slavery which helped set off the War of Independence.

Tequila Sauza

Learn the painstaking process involved in making Tequila in Jalisco, the birthplace of Mexico's national drink (and favorite too). Enjoy a shot of tequila, on the house, to accompany the tour while see the murals that illustrate the process.

Instituto Cultural Cabañas

This neoclassical building, was builted at the end of the XVIII century and opened in 1810. Until 1980 it was the Casa de la Misericordia for orphans. The main hall, now the Capilla Clementina, was decorated in 1938 by the famous muralist Jose Clemente Orozco. His stirring masterpiece, "El Hombre de Fuego" (Man of Fire) can be found in the vault.

Teatro Degollado

Guadalajara's most prestigious theatre, the building features a neo-classical portico atop Corinthian columns and a marble relief of Apollo and the Nine Muses. Inside, the walls are filled with murals. A wide range of dramatic arts are staged here and it is the host for the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi . Every Sunday at 10am, the Ballet Folklórico de la Universidad de Guadalajara dances here are they are worth seen.

Expiatory Temple

This "Expiatory Temple" is one of the most beautiful and imposing buildings in the city. Builted in early 1897, it was not until 1931 that it was opened to the public. The imposing Italian neo-gothic façade is made of stone and, just as in the Middle Ages, no cement or iron was used in its construction. A visit here can be included while touring the nearby Biblioteca Iberoamericana or the Universidad de Guadalajara.

Selva Mágica

Selva Mágica is an amusement park near the Guadalajara Zoo. It has more than 30 rides and many other games and tests of skill. It is also offers a performance area where several shows are held daily. The main attraction here is the Ferris wheel, Latin America's biggest. A Pasaporte Mágico, or day pass, is available at the entrance that includes admission to most rides and shows. It takes a whole day to make the most of its many attractions so take that in consideration and have lots of fun!