12 Fun Things to Do in Tijuana, Mexico
Tijuana is one of the largest and most visited cities on the Pacific Coast of Mexico and it is well known for its vibrant nightlife, antique culture, and tequila. This place is considered to be a significant hub for artists, but it also could be a great destination for everyone. Artists are drawn by this place: they come here to showcase their masterpieces and to learn more about art. Here are things you should do in Tijuana to make your stay unforgettable.
Top-rated Attractions and Things to Do in Tijuana
1. Visit Tijuana Cultural Center
Tijuana's cultural center symbolizes the importance of culture to the city's life. It is in the Zona Rio district of Tijuana, and opens from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 10:00 pm. The cultural center is one of the best Tijuana places to visit. It is prominent for its architectural design, art forms display and themes that depict the early cultural values of the people of Mexico. These unique designs attract over a million tourists every year.
Tijuana cultural center has an abundance of cultural exhibits, video rooms, a cafe, a bookshop, an arena designated for children, and a scenic theater for concerts and plays. In addition, festivals such as dance and traditional folk displays take place in its theaters.
Botanical garden - is one more amongst other eye-catching features of this center. The garden is rich with different rare tropical plants as well as large outdoor sculptures hidden between trees. In this regard, Tijuana's unique botanical garden combines the beauty of nature with its history.
The cultural center of Tijuana has so many attractions that you could spend an entire day exploring them all.
2. Take Your Kids on a Fascinating Educational Tour in El Trompo Museo
El Trompo is a beautiful science museum, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tijuana for children. It is an interactive museum with fun and engaging activities for children of all ages. It opens at 9:00 am on Mondays to Fridays and at 10:00 am on weekends.
El Trompo teaches children about science, technology, and diversity on the earth with the aid of robotics, virtual reality, and music. After the exhibit, children are given art or science projects to help create a lasting memory of what they have learned. The exhibit staff in El Trompo is friendly and develops bonds quickly with kids, which aids their learning process in the Museum.
After a long day at the Museum, children can wrap up the day by having healthy and nutritious meals at any of the surrounding restaurants.
El Trompo Museo is an excellent place for families with children to learn and have fun.
3. Have a Taste of Tacos at El Popo Market
There are many places to visit in Tijuana, Mexico, and, surprisingly, markets - are the most visited sites. . Examples of commonly toured markets include Mercado Hidalgo and El Popo. However, the El Popo market stands out among others because of its beautiful and unique view. Even though this market can't boast its size, it can definitely compete with others by offering amusing souvenirs, handicraft items and local products.
Walking around this market and purchasing these products is quite an adventure to experience.
Tourists can buy beautiful and colorful Mexican crafts, souvenirs, herbs, jewelry, and fresh fruits from this market. However, one of the must have things to do in El Popo Market is Taco testing in the land of Taco itself. This traditional Mexican food comprises corn on wheat tortilla with fillings. Since Taco is a Mexican dish, the quality of Tacos made in Mexico differs from those made in other countries. Several local shops sell tasty Mexican tacos in the El Popo market. Have a taste of these dishes when you go to Tijuana, Mexico.
4. Take a Walk Around Avenida Revolucion
The Avenida Revolucion in Downtown Tijuana carries profound historical meaning as it was the first road to get paved in Tijuana. This happened in the beginning t of the twentieth century.
Avenida Revolucion street is always lively and eventful. As you walk there, you can hear live music playing everywhere. A wide range of little modern restaurants is located on this street, selling all kinds of dishes from local to intercontinental ones.
There are many small stores, art galleries, and artisan craft shops to explore in Avenida. In these shops, buying jewelry, clothes, pottery, and Mexican hammocks are some leisurely activities.
Avenida Revolucion gets even better at nighttime with its vibrant nightlife: wild and full of fun. Before leaving this region, have a party in some dance clubs, or just have a couple of cocktails in local bars. bars and dance clubs that come alive after the day's activities.
5. Discover the World of Vibrant Street Art at Pasaje Rodriguez
One of the fun things to do in Tijuana is to visit the Pasaje Rodriguez passage and take a walk down its lane. This gives you the experience of Tijuana's cultural scene outside its formal institutions.
The Pasaje Rodriguez passage, about 550 feet long, is in Downtown Tijuana. This location was once a tourist trap. However, in the summer of 2014, an independent cultural project brought together a group of artists who projectedbeliefs and culture of its people through arts, transformed the alley into a lively and beautiful walkway.
There are many murals to see while walking down this alley. Pasaje Rodriguez is also filled with restaurants, bookshops, local stalls, and boutiques, where tourists can eat delicious meals or buy local crafts. To make your experience even more memorable, visit this alley on the first Friday of the month when exhibitions are organized, and buy beautiful art pieces at affordable prices.
6. Experience a Fun-filled Day in Ensenada
Ensenada is a small town in Baja, California. If you are thinking of what to do in Tijuana day trip, pay a visit to this town. You will have more than enough activities to keep you busy.
The dancing fountain is one of the most popular things to see in Tijuana. This show occurs at Parque de la Bandera, Ensenada, every evening at 8 pm. At this show, bright and colorful lights turn on to reveal a choreographed water display while music plays in the background.
To better understand the town of Ensenada, visit its Museo de Historia. This Museum tells the story of the people of Ensenada in relatable ways using artifacts such as beads, pottery, and historic photographs. Entry into the Museum costs 30 pesos for people above 18 years.
For over a century, surfing has been the official sport of the Baja Peninsula. This is one of the popular activities to do in Tijuana. Its beautiful beaches provide an arena for watersports. Tourists can have fun surfing on Ensenada's beaches or choose to do other exciting activities like snorkeling, skydiving, and fishing. Hotels in Ensenada are cheap and never crowded during weekdays, but the rate of open hotels may get expensive on weekends.
7. Go to Playas De Tijuana for a Unique Beach Experience
Playas De Tijuana, the westernmost part of Tijuana, is renowned for its unique beaches. One of the most captivating aspects of this area is the beach that forms the border between Baja California in Mexico and California in the United States. This intriguing feature draws numerous visitors each year, making it one of the best places in Tijuana.
Although swimming might not always be ideal due to the consistently cold water, the smooth sands provide a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll. As you walk along the beach, you can admire the imposing wall that separates Mexico from the United States, a striking visual that adds to the beach's appeal.
For families traveling with kids, the beach and nearby eateries provide a memorable experience. Incorporating this into your itinerary ensures a well-rounded and engaging visit, showcasing some of the best things to see in Tijuana.
8. Go for a Shopping Experience at Plaza Santa Cecilia
Exploring Tijuana offers visitors a vibrant array of activities, with shopping being a standout experience. One of the best places to shop in Tijuana is Plaza Santa Cecilia, renowned for its lively ambiance and rich history. This bustling market is among the oldest squares in the city, filled with various shops, street vendors, and stores offering eye-catching and affordable items.
As you wander through Plaza Santa Cecilia, you'll be greeted by a sea of colorful flags overhead, adding a festive touch to the market. The air is filled with lively music, creating an energetic atmosphere that enhances the shopping experience. This market is not just about purchasing items; it's about immersing yourself in the culture and vibrancy of Tijuana.
Plaza Santa Cecilia is a must-visit for anyone on a day trip to Tijuana. It's one of the best places to visit in Tijuana, especially if you're looking to experience the local culture. Whether you're exploring Tijuana for a day or seeking things to see in Tijuana, this market offers a unique blend of color, music, and energy that is truly unforgettable. Visiting Tijuana with kids? Plaza Santa Cecilia's lively environment ensures a memorable experience for all ages.
9. Learn about Culture in Casa De La Cultura
Casa De La Cultura, translating to the house of culture in English, is a historical gem in Tijuana. This cultural house stands as a testament to Mexico's rich heritage, attracting over 25,000 visitors annually who come to study or participate in various activities. Housed in a magnificent old building, Casa De La Cultura offers a theater, the Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez library, a gallery, a café, and numerous rooms dedicated to workshops and art exhibitions.
The workshops are a hub for creative expression, offering classes in dance, plastic arts, manga, and hip hop. To nurture young talent, the house of culture collaborates with the National Institute of Fine Arts in Mexico, running programs for children aged 6 to 9 to explore and learn about the arts.
While it may not be a typical tourist spot, Casa De La Cultura offers a unique glimpse into the cultural fabric of Tijuana. It's a must-see for anyone on a day trip to Tijuana, providing a perfect blend of history and creativity. Whether you're planning a trip to Tijuana or looking for things to see in Tijuana, this cultural house is among the best places to visit in Tijuana, Mexico. It promises an enriching experience that makes every moment spent there worthwhile.
10. Eat Caesar Salad
Caesar salad, a healthy dish native to Tijuana, is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Created by Italian immigrant Caesar Cardini, this iconic salad boasts a delightful combination of fresh romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, crisp croutons, and a unique dressing that sets it apart from typical salads. Unlike common misconceptions, the salad is not named after the Roman leader Julius Caesar but is a tribute to its creator's culinary genius.
Exploring Tijuana and indulging in a Caesar salad is a top activity on any Tijuana day trip. This dish is not only delicious but also offers health benefits that make it an excellent choice for those focused on weight loss and nutrition. The fresh ingredients provide a nutritious and satisfying meal, making it a standout among other salads.
While enjoying a day trip to Tijuana, experiencing this famous salad in one of the city's many restaurants adds a unique touch to the adventure. Whether you're exploring Tijuana landmarks or looking for the best places to visit in Tijuana, savoring a Caesar salad should be on your itinerary. This culinary delight is a testament to Tijuana's rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, ensuring your trip to Tijuana is both memorable and flavorful.
11. Visit Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, the Shopping Hub of Tijuana
Zona Rio is one of the prime neighborhoods to live in Tijuana, celebrated for its vibrant shopping, nightlife, and dining scenes. The streets are adorned with numerous retail stores and restaurants, offering a delightful mix of local and international flavors. A must-visit is the Plaza Rio shopping mall, the largest in the area, where you can find affordable souvenirs, artworks, and crafts, making it a perfect stop for any day trip to Tijuana.
For those exploring what to do in Tijuana for a day, the neighborhood's culinary landscape is a highlight. Zona Rio boasts some of the best places to visit in Tijuana, with an array of top-notch local and intercontinental restaurants. The area also houses many of Tijuana's best hotels, ensuring that visitors have a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets.
Families on a trip to Tijuana should not miss Morelos Park, an excellent spot for a day out with kids. The park features a zoo with diverse animals, an artificial lake teeming with fish and ducks, and two playgrounds. The choo-choo train ride is particularly popular, providing endless entertainment for children.
Zona Rio truly captures the essence of Tijuana's vibrant culture, making it an essential part of any Tijuana itinerary. Whether you're on a tijuana day trip or planning a longer stay, this neighborhood offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from shopping and dining to family-friendly attractions.
12. Learn about Mexican history at Museo De Las Californias
Tourists searching for where to go in Tijuana and to learn more about history should take a couple of hours to go through Museo de las Californias. Museo de las Californias is the primary attraction site in the cultural center as it houses different artifacts and pieces that represent the national history of Mexico.
The Museum is divided into eight sections. Each section has unique artifacts, telling the story of a particular period in the people's history. In addition, the Museum provides guides that help the tourists to learn more about the history as they go through each section.
Like Tijuana cultural center, Museo de las Californias opens daily from Tuesdays to Sundays. Adults are required to pay an admission fee of $40, while children pay $20. However, admission to the Museum is free every Sunday. Therefore, this Museum is one of the cheap vacation spots you can visit in Mexico, especially if you are visiting on Sundays.
Conclusion
Tijuana, often overshadowed by its northern neighbor, has plenty to offer. From incredible street food to lively nightlife, Tijuana caters to all tastes. For an authentic Mexican dining experience, the city's sidewalk taquerias serve up some of the best tacos in the country. Those eager to explore Tijuana's vibrant art scene should visit the historic downtown district, home to numerous galleries and mural-covered buildings—a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll.
A Tijuana trip isn't complete without experiencing a show at one of the city's world-famous bullrings. The city is filled with top-rated attractions and beautiful places, making it a must-visit for millions of tourists. For those looking to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is during the low-season travel periods, from September to December or April to June.
A day trip to Tijuana offers a rich array of activities and sights. From exploring Tijuana landmarks to enjoying Tijuana sightseeing, there's always something to see and do. Whether you're spending one day in Tijuana or planning a longer stay, the city's charm and vibrancy will leave a lasting impression.
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