Guadalajara, Mexico’s Most Underrated City

My connection to Mexico likely started in utero as the beaches of Riviera Maya have always been a favorite of my parents. But apart from visits to American-heavy destinations like Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, I’d barely spent any time there. It was time to see the “real” Mexico.

I was asked by Aeromexico to visit Guadalajara to promote a new twice-daily route directly from Atlanta. The four-hour flight includes wine, beer, and, of course, tequila, so you can get the party started right away. My friend Tessa and I joined a pair of writers from Salt Lake City to learn about the state of Jalisco and its capital city.

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I knew little about Mexico’s second-largest city, but it turns out that it’s where some of the country’s most well-known exports are from: tequila, mariachi, and cowboys. Sitting at 5,000 feet above sea level, the sprawling city us surrounded by mountains.

It’s full of history, including ancient cathedrals with relics from various saints. The city has gone through struggles like many parts of the country, but they tend to be isolated incidents away from tourist zones. I loved my time in Guadalajara and can’t wait to return with more time to explore.

The Food

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I’ve had more Mexican food in my years on Earth than probably any other type of cuisine. It’s my own version of comfort food, even now that I don’t eat dairy. But just like there is more than one type of “American food,” Mexican food is diverse and depends on where you are.

Guadalajara is home to unique flavors not found anywhere else. For example, the type of bread used in the tortas here, similar to a baguette, can only be made at this elevation. It’s why they aren’t made in Mexico City but rather brought in.

You can eat these delicious hangover sandwiches at Tortas Toño, which come with your choice of filling, usually some type of pork, with a spicy sauce, onions, cabbage, lime juice, and your choice of salsa. We also found delicious tacos at Los Sarapes, with fillings like al pastor, steak, shrimp, and even “cabeza,” brains. Top with one of a dozen types of salsa and enjoy with a fresh fruit juice.

We also had the opportunity to experience modern cuisine in Guadalajara, which is really exciting. There are dozens of trendy eateries and we even dined at one where Lenny Kravitz was one night! I Latina has colorful decor and delicious cocktails. I loved their tacos, especially the one that came wrapped in jicama.

The design at Restaurante Casa Luna in the Tlaquepaque was incredible, as were their drinks and dishes like ceviche and avocado salad. We also had the chance to dine at Restaurante Alcalde, known as the top restaurant in Mexico. Every dish that came out was a work of art and is influenced by traditional fare with a modern twist.

The Arts

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The first thing I noticed about Guadalajara, even arriving at midnight, was the street art. There’s so much to snap in nearly every corner of the city! I found my favorite in Tlaquepaque, a colorful neighborhood with stores selling handicrafts. Don’t miss the umbrella installation! Visitors can also shop at Mercado Libertad – San Juan de Dios, the largest enclosed market in Mexico

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Back in the city, see the Clemente Orozco murals at the Government Palace, which depict Mexican leaders as well as predicted the rise of Nazis in Europe. The most impressive, and haunting, ones are at Hospicio Cabañas, a former orphanage turned museum, which also had an exhibit on Guadalajara native (known as a tapatio) Guillermo del Toro, known for his films Pan’s Labyrinth, Crimson Peak, and, most recently, The Shape of Water.

The Day Trips

Guadalajara also happens to be well located for day trips around the region, with the most popular being Tequila, around 45 minutes away by car. You can also take Jose Cuervo’s Tequila Train, which runs only on Saturdays, that includes bottomless tequila on the ride there. Buses and Uber are also options. It’s an easy day trip to visit the dozens of distilleries, but you can also stay the night. I’ll be writing extensively about the town in a future post.

Most people don’t know that the state of Jalisco is also home to Interpretive Center Guachimontones, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where an early group of people built their civilization. What makes it unique is that it was only “discovered” in the 1970s and opened to visitors in the 1990s.

They made circular pyramids in concentric patterns reminiscent of the solar system, which leads researchers to hypothesize that their knowledge was greater than originally believed.

The Stylish Accommodations

I stayed at the AC Hotel by Marriott Guadalajara, Mexico, which has stylish, modern rooms (WITH ESPRESSO MACHINES), daily breakfast, and a gorgeous rooftop pool. Rooms start at around $85 USD, depending on the room type.

But this is just one of the many design hotels now found around the city. Square Small Luxury Hotel is a higher-end option but has its own pool overlooking the city and chic decor. Budget travelers can stay at National Hostel, which has a contemporary design, nightly events, and free WiFi. Rent an apartment with Airbnb if you’re traveling in a group.

If You Go

If arriving by air, the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport is located around 45 minutes from the city center and is easily accessible by taxi. Because of the size of the city, walking is often not the easiest way to get around, but they have ridesharing apps like Uber as well as standard taxis.

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My trip was coordinated by Aeromexico and Visit Guadalajara. In addition to their direct route from Atlanta to Guadalajara, the airline also flies nonstop to Monterrey, Merida, Leon, and Queretaro daily.