17 Best Places To Visit In Guadalajara Mexico

Don’t miss these incredible places to visit in Guadalajara that will make the city unforgettable!

Guadalajara is the largest city in Jalisco and a hub of business, arts, and culture.

With over 5.3 million people in its metropolitan area, it has been a center of innovation and creativity.

Today, it continues to attract tech companies, food businesses, and tourists from around the world.

One thing to keep in mind—Guadalajara sits at about 5,100 feet (1,550 meters) above sea level.

If you’re not used to higher altitudes, take time to adjust.

On my first visit, I didn’t, and I ended up with headaches and elevated blood pressure.

The next time, I arrived early, stayed hydrated, and gave myself a full afternoon and evening to rest.

It made all the difference!

Another perk of visiting Guadalajara is its pleasant climate. Most of the year is dry and mild, except for the rainy season from July to mid-September.

The city is also known for its incredible street art and murals.

In this guide, I’ll show you some of the best places to visit in Guadalajara, where you can experience the city’s culture, history, and artistic charm.

Let’s dive in!

1. Plaza de La Liberacion/Centro Historico de Guadalajara

The best place to start your day is to visit the heart of the Historic Center of Guadalajara, Plaza de la Liberacion.

This is a big plaza that is used for many local activities.

Unlike many traditional plazas in Latin America, this plaza is anchored by the Cathedral on one side but a theater instead of the Municipality on the opposite side.

Take a walk around the plaza and enjoy the trees, and the locals snacking, playing, or resting on the benches.

Don’t forget to take your photograph with the Guadalajara sign.

2. Catedral Basilica de Guadalajara

The Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady is primarily built in the Spanish Renaissance style, but its iconic neo-Gothic spires set it apart.

Inside, three features make this church especially interesting:

• The Altar – Unlike many Mexican and Latin American churches, where altars are adorned with gold, Guadalajara’s is made of marble and silver.
• The Mummified Body of Santa Inocencia – According to legend, this young girl from the 1700s was killed by her father for converting to Catholicism.
• The Rear Dome – Its stunning stained glass, imported from France, depicts various biblical scenes

3. Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres

If you exit the Cathedral through the main doors at the back, you’ll see the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres across the street to the right.

One of the best places to visit in Guadalajara, this monument is made up of seventeen Doric columns.

It honors the region’s most celebrated writers and revolutionaries and visiting it feels like a quick history lesson on Guadalajara.

Around the monument, you’ll find statues of notable figures from Jalisco, and inside its 98 niches rest the ashes of some of these famous sons and daughters.

4. Museo Regional de Guadalajara

Across the street from the Rotonda (#3 above) is the Guadalajara Regional Museum.

It showcases the history, culture, and natural heritage of Jalisco.

• Mexican Independence & Revolution Rooms – Highlights of Jalisco’s role in key moments of Mexico’s history.
• Mammoth Skeleton – A massive mammoth fossil at the entrance, offering a glimpse into Jalisco’s prehistoric past.
• Pre-Hispanic Artifacts – A rich collection of indigenous artifacts from ancient civilizations.
• Colonial-Era Exhibits – Learn about Guadalajara’s transformation during Spanish rule through religious art, furniture, and historical documents.
• José Clemente Orozco’s Artwork – The museum features several pieces by the famous muralist.

5. Plaza de Armas

To the opposite side of the cathedral exit is Plaza de Armas.

A place of activity on the weekends for many local families, this is a great place to get a feel for the local scene.

6. Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco

The Palacio de Gobierno de Jalisco is one of Guadalajara’s most historic buildings and a must-see during your visit to Guadalajara.

It played a key role in Mexico’s political history and is known for its stunning artwork.

Inside, you’ll find some of the best murals by José Clemente Orozco. His most famous piece here depicts Miguel Hidalgo, the leader of Mexico’s independence movement, holding a torch.

This palace is also where Benito Juárez once stood to defend Mexico’s sovereignty during the French invasion.

Another important event that took place here was the abolition of slavery in Mexico, declared by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810.

7. Teatro Degollado

The Teatro Degollado is a neoclassical theater famous for its stunning architecture and diverse performances.

It is home to the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra.

Its interior, inspired by Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, is filled with beautiful artwork.

For information on tickets and historical facts visit the Jalisco Philarmonic website.

8. Plaza fundadores

Just behind Teatro Degollado, you’ll find Plaza Fundadores.

This urban square honors Guadalajara’s founders and sits on what was once the city’s original town square.

It is believed that Guadalajara was founded here in 1542.

The plaza features several interesting statues, but its most important piece is the Friso de los Fundadores, a striking monument located behind the theater.

9. Plaza Tapatio y las Fuentes Danzantes

Beyond Plaza Fundadores is Paseo el Hospicio and Plaza Tapatio.

This area has some delightful fountains, more sculptures, and many vendors, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Guadalajara.

Historically, the Fuentes Danzantes have offered choreographed displays combining water, lights, and music.

Nevertheless, their operational status can change due to maintenance or seasonal schedules.

10.  San Juan De Dios Market

If you think Plaza Fundadores and Paseo Hospicio have plenty of vendors, wait until you visit San Juan de Dios Market!

Located next to Paseo Hospicio, this is the largest indoor market in Latin America.

Packed with food stalls, shops, and local vendors, it’s the perfect place to experience Guadalajara’s true vibe

11. Escultura la Sala de los Magos

La sala de los magos is a sculpture by Alejandro Colunga, installed in 1993 outside Hospicio Cabanas.

I love sculpture and found these pieces, together with the newer Los Magos Universales, to be uncommon and fun.

Explore them and let me know what you think.

12. Hospicio Cabanas

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, Hospicio Cabanas was one of the oldest and largest orphanage and hospital complexes in the Americas and one of the best places to see during your visit to Guadalajara.

This is an enormous building in the neoclassical style and worth the visit if only to see the architecture.

Now turned into a museum, the real attraction of Hospicio Cabanas are the frescoes of muralist painter José Clemente Orozco in the main hall.

Considered his magnum opus, or greatest murals they are a marvel to behold.

One of the most impressive things for me was the appearance of some of the figures to be sitting on the borders near the roof.

In addition to the architecture and Orozco’s murals, the museum also has temporary exhibits, check here for the latest information.

It has a lovely cafe where you can grab some coffee and a delicious snack, read a book or just enjoy the indoor patios of the Hospicio.

13. MUSA Museum of Arts University of Guadalajara

Outside of the Historical Center, you’ll find this charming museum right in the heart of the University of Guadalajara.

If you haven’t seen enough Orozco murals yet, or if you missed some of the others, you’ll find another one here.

Even better, the main street in front of the museum closes to traffic on Sunday from 8 AM to 2 PM.

Families come out to walk, run, and cycle together, creating a lively, festive atmosphere.

With plenty of places to grab a snack or a meal along the avenue, it’s a great way to experience the city.

This was one of my favorite things to do while visiting Guadalajara.

14. Visit The Expiatorio Park and Church

Not far from MUSA and Avenida Juárez, you’ll find a beautiful park with a stunning neo-Gothic stone church—the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento.

Better known as Templo Expiatorio, this architectural gem is a must-see in Guadalajara.

Built using traditional Middle Ages techniques, the church features massive stained glass windows, impressive bronze sculptures, and a musical clock with a carillon of 25 bells.

At 9 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM, the bells chime, and doors open to reveal a procession of the 12 apostles on an exterior ledge, making it a unique and memorable sight.

15. Take a Street Art Tour

One of the things that surprised me about Guadalajara is that it is famous for street art.

Which made sense once I learned about the history of murals with David Siqueiros, Diego Rivera and Orozco all having lived and worked in the city.

These are just two examples of the prolific street art I saw across all parts of Guadalajara.

You may or may not encounter them as the beauty of street art is that it is always evolving and new street art takes the place of existing pieces.

I took a street art tour during my visit and it was fantastic.

You can look up Tour Street Art GDL if you’re interested.

16. Take the Hop-on hop-off bus

This isn’t a specific place to visit, but on my first trip to Guadalajara, I only had a few days and wasn’t sure if I’d return.

To make the most of my time, I took a Hop-On Hop-Off bus.

When time is short and you don’t have a car, these tours can be a great option.

You can hop off to explore interesting spots and enjoy the rest from the comfort of the bus.

In fact, some of the sites are best viewed from the bus, like Glorieta La Minerva which is almost impossible to see on foot.

17. Centro Comercial Andares

Guadalajara is not an old, historical center. It also has many modern and up-to-date areas.

For shopping and great food, head to Andares Shopping Center.

You’ll find international brands like H&M and Sephora, along with unique local shops.

Anchored by Liverpool, this mall offers plenty to see and do.

Even better, you can grab a bite at the food court or dine at one of its many restaurants—there’s something for every budget!

I hope this list of 17 Best Places to Visit in Guadalajara inspires you to visit this amazing city and helps you plan your visit!

Have fun!