Aguascalientes is a state and city in central Mexico, known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The name means “hot waters” in Spanish, referring to the thermal springs that abound in the area. Aguascalientes is also famous for its annual San Marcos Fair, one of the largest and oldest fairs in Latin America, which attracts millions of visitors every year.
If you are planning to visit Aguascalientes in 2023, here are some of the best places to see and things to do:
- Parque Tres Centurias: This park is a tribute to the three centuries of railway history in Aguascalientes. It features a museum, a train station, a locomotive workshop, a cultural center, and a dancing fountain show. You can also take a ride on a steam train or a trolley bus around the park1.
- Jardín de San Marcos: This garden is the heart of the San Marcos Fair, which takes place every April and May. It is a beautiful place to stroll, admire the sculptures and fountains, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby San Marcos Church, one of the oldest and most elegant in the city1.
- Centro Comercial Altaria: This shopping mall is one of the largest and most modern in Aguascalientes. It offers a variety of stores, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment options for all tastes and budgets. You can find everything from local crafts and souvenirs to international brands and products1.
- Templo de San Antonio: This church is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture, built in the late 19th century. It has a stunning facade with three towers, stained glass windows, and sculptures. The interior is equally impressive, with paintings, altars, and a pipe organ. The church is also home to the Museum of Sacred Art, which displays religious artifacts and artworks1.
- Plaza Patria y Exedra: This plaza is one of the most emblematic and historic places in Aguascalientes. It features a monument to the Mexican Independence, a fountain with a bronze eagle, and an exedra (a semicircular bench) where important events have taken place. The plaza is surrounded by colonial buildings, such as the Government Palace, the Municipal Palace, and the Cathedral1.
- Catedral Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: This cathedral is the main religious building in Aguascalientes. It was built in the 18th century in a Baroque style, with a dome, two towers, and a clock. The interior is decorated with paintings, sculptures, and gold leaf. The cathedral also houses the relics of Saint Teresa of Ávila, the patron saint of Aguascalientes1.
- Vinícola Santa Elena: This winery is located in the town of Calvillo, about 50 km from Aguascalientes city. It produces high-quality wines from different grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. You can take a tour of the vineyards and the cellar, taste the wines and buy some bottles to take home1.
- Boca de Túnel: This dam is part of an ecological park that offers adventure activities for nature lovers. You can zip-line over the canyon, kayak on the lake, hike on the trails, or camp on the shore. The park also has a restaurant, a museum, and a souvenir shop1.
- National Museum of Death: This museum is unique in its kind, as it explores the concept and representation of death in Mexican culture. It exhibits more than 2,000 pieces of art, from pre-Hispanic times to contemporary works. You can see paintings, sculptures, prints, masks, skulls, and more1.
- Museo Posada: This museum is dedicated to José Guadalupe Posada, one of the most influential Mexican artists of all time. He is best known for his satirical illustrations of skeletons and skulls, especially La Catrina, an icon of the Day of the Dead celebration. The museum displays his original prints, as well as his tools and personal belongings1.
Source: Aguascalientes Secretaría de Turismo