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| Aguascalientes Travel Guide |
Version Español |
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| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
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| AGUASCALIENTES TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN AGUASCALIENTES |
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Aguascalientes is a small state that will soon have a million inhabitants, including immigrants from the United States, Canada and Japan. These immigrants have helped develop the industry of this beautiful state.
Over time, Aguascalientes has had to reinvent itself and adapt to changes in the world, unlike many other states in Mexico. They have given up many traditional activities and transformed others. The state now features now a solid industrial profile.
Despite the development in industry, the state is known worldwide because of the famous Feria Nacional de San Marcos (National Fair of San Marcos), its traditional vineyards, the many historic buildings and the gorgeous haciendas.
After the fall of Tenochtitlan in 1521, many of the Spanish conquerors decided to move forward towards the northern territories in search of riches. In those scorched lands they found silver and soon these mines became the heart of this area. Due to the extraction of silver, roads needed to be opened between New Spain and this new part of the conquered territory, which was then known as the New Galicia. Apart from their riches, Spaniards also found the native population, who would later terrorize travelers who traveled these roads, known as the "Route of Silver".
As a solution to the constant attacks from the Chichimecas (natives of the area) and also as an answer to the war that started, as a consequence of these attacks, the Spanish conquerors decided to build villas along the "Route of Silver", for use as safe places for travelers to rest. In 1575 a villa was built close to the natural springs and was called "Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion de las Aguascalientes".
Nowadays, in the surrounding areas, beautiful haciendas can still be found. These haciendas used to be eye-catching thanks to the richness of their fields, where corn, wheat, beans, chili and barley, among other products, were grown. Some of them had everything their inhabitants could need for their daily lives, including a shoemaker, a quilt maker and a carpenter. Many of these haciendas also had a little school. In the 17th century the owners of the haciendas started to construct dams and aqueducts, to supply the fields with water and further develop their lands.
Some of these haciendas are still intact, while others are in ruins, keeping only vestiges of the marvelous and rich architecture they used to have. Many haciendas, that are still unharmed, can be appreciated by the beauty of their facades, their large halls and the thick walls that protect them.
When you stroll through the haciendas of Aguascalientes it is almost impossible to keep your imagination from taking a journey into the past, since every hacienda evokes the greatness and splendor that it once had.
Aguascalientes has a very good infrastructure for all types of exhibitions and conventions. The city's hotel capacity has grown significantly in recent years and now provides high quality services and facilities. Aguascalientes has extensive and well-planned transit routes, and is in close proximity to other important states in Mexico. The city of Guadalajara is four hours to the north, and Zacatecas is a similar time away to the south. Aguascalientes is an ideal place to hold events of any kind and size.
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- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
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Francia Aguascalientes 
Address: Av Francisco I. Madero 113-A, Col Centro, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Mision Aguascalientes
Address: Blvr José MarÃa Chávez #2100, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Aranzazu Plaza Kristal
Address: Av López Mateos 1001 Ote, Plaza Kristal, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Elizabeth Central 
Address: Av. De La Convencion No. 107 Sur, Fracc. Las Americas. Aguascalientes
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Hotel Elizabeth Ciudad Deportiva
Address: Av Adolfo López Mateos No. 1504 ote., Fracc. Volcanes. Aguascalientes
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Hotel Fiesta Americana Aguascalientes 
Address: Calle Laureles 401, Col Las Flores, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Fiesta Inn Aguascalientes
Address: Calle Mahatma Gandhi 302 Sur, Col Villasunción, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Gran Alameda Hotel and Casino
Address: Alameda #821, Héroes. Aguascalientes
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Hotel Aguascalientes
Address: Av. Independencia #1703 Colonia Trojes de Cristal, Aguascalientes
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Hotel Italia Aguascalientes
Address: Av. Adolfo Lopez Mateos 704 Poniente, centro. Aguascalientes
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| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN AGUASCALIENTES / PLACES TO VISIT IN AGUASCALIENTES |
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Jardin and Templo of San Marcos
The construction, of San Marcos Garden, was finished in 1842 and has a neoclassic balustrade (a banister of small columns) of pink stone. The garden has access from all four sides and is finished off with beautiful vases full of flowers. Nowadays, this place is a symbol of the city.
The temple of San Marcos stands proudly on the west side of the garden. Construction for this temple was started before 1655 and was left unfinished for 100 years, when it was finally finished in 1765. Its facade is an example of a type of Spanish Baroque called Churrigueresco. The Main Altar is a piece of neoclassic design, with the Virgen del Carmen in the center and a sculpture of St. Mark behind.
La Feria Nacional de San Marcos (San Marcos' National Fair)
San Marcos' National Fair has become the most distinctive element when identifying the state of Aguascalientes, both nationally and internationally attracting over 7 million visitors. Held from April to May, it is the oldest and most famous fair in the country. It includes popular festivals and cockfights, which take place in the largest "Palenque" (cockfighting ring) in Latin America. The Fair also features an elegant casino, the only place in Mexico where gambling is allowed. When the cockfights are over, many national and international singers perform in this arena.
At the San Marcos' National Fair you will also find bullfights, a Ferris wheel, theater shows, the election of the Queen of the fair, the famous contest of traditional costume and interesting farming, cattle and industrial exhibitions. The National Young Artist Award, the National Poetry Award and many other cultural programs go hand in hand with the endless fun provided, to locals and visitors, by the fair.
Palacio de Gobierno (City Hall)
This beautiful building, located on the southern side of the main plaza, was constructed in 1665. Even though it has been used as a city council building, it was originally intended to be used as the residence of the Rincon family, noble people who were the holders of the Cienega de Mata heritage. This building has great historic value, it features a beautiful facade of red volcanic stone and it has more than a hundred arches, which surround both patios. In the back, murals made by Oswaldo Barra tell stories about local and national history.
San Marcos Bullfighting Plaza
In Aguascalientes, bullfighting tradition is carried through the generations as can be demonstrated in this old bullring built in 1896. It is currently used as a bullfighting academy, where children and teenagers learn the skills and movements necessary to face off these huge animals. The Plaza has become an integral part of the Feria de San Marcos, where they held several bullfights throughout the weeks. It is conveniently located next to the Garden and Temple of San Marcos.
The Cathedral
The Cathedral of Aguascalientes is dedicated to Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion (Our Lady of Ascension) and it is located in the same place as a chapel, which was originally founded in 1575. On its facade, Salomonic Baroque style decoration can be found.
El Caracol
This park is an interesting combination of paleontological mine field, the most important hydraulics system of the colonial period, an eco-park as well as a site of cultural heritage which includes legends and traditions. It is a one of a kind area that covers about 27 acres and is a tourist attraction that enriches the cultural, scientific and ecological heritage of Aguascalientes.
You can complement your visit with an interesting boat ride on El Cedazo Dam or on a train ride around the park. Visit El Caracol because it is definitely going to be a completely unique experience.
San Marcos Convention Center
This beautiful building was built completely out of pink limestone. It's normally used as a State Convention Center but during the National Fair of San Marcos, it's used as a casino for the duration of the event, one of the main attractions of San Marcos.
Encino Temple
This temple was built between 1773 and 1796 and the Black Christ is venerated here. This image first appeared in the area when lightning struck a tree. The commemoration of Black Christ is on November 13th. It is believed that bullfighters are the most devoted worshippers of this beautiful figure. A collection of paintings by the artist Andres Lopez, painted between 1798 and 1801, are displayed on the walls of this temple. The Encino Temple is located in one of the oldest neighborhoods of the city, known as Triana.
House of Culture
The House of Culture is located in a 17th century building that was first used as a family home and then turned into a convent. Among its valuable exhibitions, you will find six bronze plaques with motifs of ancient Aztec gods and kings. The patios, of this building, are used for book fairs and theater plays. If you enjoy art in any form, this is a place worth visiting.
Regional Museum of History
The Regional Museum of History will allow you to take an exciting journey through the evolution of Aguascalientes, from ancient times to the present day. In its 9 exhibition halls you will find regional paleontology exhibitions, diverse ceramic, archaeological and colonial pieces and some pieces dating back to the Revolutionary Convention of 1914. Inaugurated in 1988, by the state government and the INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History), it is a must see place during your visit to this beautiful city.
Legends, Myths and Tunnels
The city and its surrounding areas are full of legends dating back since over 200 years ago. Oral tradition is strongly cultivated and has preserved ancient stories of ghosts, apparitions and miracles from this warm land. Besides from that, beneath the city of Aguascalientes there are a lot of tunnels that served as hiding places for the early Spanish settlers who feared the attacks of the Indians and were later used by thieves, robbers and other smugglers. Stories abound of great treasures hidden in tunnels and caves waiting for the lucky enough to encounter them.
Plaza de Toros Monumental
Over time, the Plaza de Toros de San Marcos was not enough to house the growing number of visitors traveling from all corners of Mexico to witness the bullfighting events, so then the Plaza de Toros Monumental was created. This is one of the largest and most beautiful in Latin America. It holds up to 16,000 people and even has an elevator for the elderly and people with disabilities. Inside there is a private chapel where the "Black Christ of Encino," resides. He's the believed to be the patron figure of toreros and they entrusted themselves to the Black Christ just before the bullfight. The Plaza de Toros Monumental is located next to the Expoplaza, on Avenida Lopez Mateos.
Hunting Ranches
The hunting tourism has gained great popularity in Aguascalientes since some years ago. Northwest of the city lies the beautiful Sierra Fria, home to a great diversity of plants and wildlife. In this area there are several regulated ranch where you can experience the thrill of the hunt. You will find small species such as rabbits, quails, wild boars, foxes, turkeys and even deer. This adventure will test your five senses and skills with either modern weapons or bows.
Cristo Roto
This huge statue dominates the landscape of the Presa Calles. You can see a small island located in the middle of the lake right from the dock of the town of San Jose Garcia. El Cristo Roto attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year and because of that, the infrastructure of the town is growing in order to cope with the high demand for this tourist destination. El Cristo Roto is a must during your vacation in Aguascalientes!
Museo Nacional de la Muerte
La Catrina, La Huesuda, La Flaca. Death has many names in Mexican culture. Since pre-hispanic times, the people of Mexico had a special concept and a unique relationship with death and because of that, in 2007 founded the "National Museum of Death". Here you will find images, performances and tributes to death from different times (pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern). Every year during the "Festival de las Calaveras" (Skull Festival) in October and November, the museum holds many cultural and recreational activities for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Adventures
North of Aguascalientes you will find a wide range of outdoor activities in the Adventure Park Boca Tunnel. Among them you can enjoy zip lines, hanging bridges and mountain biking. Have lots of fun touring the Potrerillos Dam from above and slide down from the zip line. Let the adrenaline flow into your body and experience this amazing place!
Plaza de las Tres Centurias (Plaza of the Three Centuries)
This place is situated in what is now called "Barrio de la Estacion". The hot springs that gave its name to Aguascalientes were found in this area (literally "Hot-Waters"). The Plaza is a large park which houses buildings of the former railway station of Aguascalientes. Today is regarded as a railroad museum of national importance and is the ideal place to take the kids to have fun. It has a show of dancing fountains every hour and a mini-train ride through the facilities. |
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| RESTAURANTS IN AGUASCALIENTES / PLACES TO EAT IN AGUASCALIENTES |
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The Guava
This delicious fruit is an important part in the agricultural production in Aguascalientes, especially in the area of Calvillo, which offers delicious dishes and sauces made with this ingredient. Furthermore, the leaves of guava are used for various medicinal purposes such as alleviating rheumatism, swelling of the skin and prevent hair loss or indigestion, among many others.
Traditional Sweets
You will find two important sweets in Aguascalientes, the first and most traditiona is the guava candies, and you can visit one of several stores who specialize in the sale and production of guava sweets. You also have the opportunity to try the "jamoncillos" made from "dulce de leche" (caramelized condensed milk) with many different presentations. You can find all these delicacies at different points in the historic center of Aguascalientes.
San Marcos Chicken
During the three weeks of the Feria de San Marcos, you can enjoy one of most representative meals of this event: "Pollo San Marcos". This dish consist on a golden fried chicken prepared with chopped tomatos sauce, accompanied by serrano chiles. Truly a great Mexican delectable dish!
Pacholas
The pacholas are ground beef steaks seasoned with various spices and chiles. Its origin dates back to the colony and is consumed in various parts of Mexico. The meat is minced on the metate (an instrument from traditional Mexican cuisine), and each portion is flatten and then fried. Each "steak" is served with rice, beans, salad or nopales.
Carnitas Aguascalientes
For people who have a craving for meat, there is no better choice than a carnitas plate (delicious shredded pork meat). The version of "carnitas" in Aguascalientes is made with lean pork and prepared with orange juice. This gives the meat a unique texture and flavor that are characteristic of this region. The shredded meat is served with tortillas, guacamole, hot sauce and lemons.
Las Mercedes
Las Mercedes is an excellent restaurant-bar, where you will find an extensive menu of traditional dishes, a great atmosphere to enjoy with your family and friends and excellent service. Located only one block away from the bus station, this restaurant awaits you to offer exquisite meals and an entertaining atmosphere, created by the great music selection and the big screens.
Mitla
Mitla is the oldest restaurant in the city, offering great service and the best Mexican dishes, since 1938. In this fabulous place you can enjoy fine cuisine, fantastic service and a casual atmosphere. Mitla restaurant is located in the historic center, just one block away from the Plaza de las Armas.
Catrina Restaurant
Located in the historic center, just one block away from the City Hall, you will find a delightful restaurant, where you can enjoy the best national cuisine and of course the typical food of Aguascalientes. They'll serve you four courses, so it is recommended to come a little hungry to be able to taste all these delicious dishes. Catrina Restaurant offers fabulous service and a great atmosphere.
Cenaduria San Antonio
Cenaduria San Antonio is a diner that offers delicious snacks from Aguascalientes. Come and enjoy the great variety of "flautas", the best enchiladas, the famous "tamales" (stuffed with pork or cheese), and many other typical dishes. This restaurant is located only 2 minutes away from downtown and it is an excellent choice to dine with your family or friends.
Meson del Taco since 1942
On the west side of the city, you will find a restaurant, which is a great tradition for the people of Aguascalientes. At the Meson del Taco, enjoy a wide variety of typical Mexican dishes and snacks, but you can also enjoy an excellent selection of Spanish specialties. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and first-class service.
La Saturnina
This restaurant is located in the historic center of the city of Aguascalientes. It has a beautiful colonial patio where you will feel transported to old Mexican restaurants with traditional flavors and touches of homemade food. The dishes will make your mouth water, and you'll need to leave room for a small dessert or one of its delicious juices.
La Estacion
La Estacion (The Station) is a typical Mexican restaurant not to be missed! It has an excellent atmosphere and delicious tamales. The best tamales are the ones made of butter with ranchero cheese and green sauce. In front of the restaurant you will find the old Aguascalientes train station, so you can take a pleasant stroll after lunch or dinner.
Las Costillas De Sancho
Las Costillas de Sancho is a franchise that opened in the city ten years ago. Its popularity was such that within a few months they had to expand the facilities to meet the demand for its delicious marinated pork ribs. Here you can enjoy pleasant moments eating and chatting while listening to live music. One restaurant is located in the Mall Villasuncion and the other in the corner of Universidad Avenue and Sierra de Pinos Street. |
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| NIGHTLIFE IN AGUASCALIENTES / BARS & CLUBS |
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Republica Bar
This is a fun place and has an unsurpassable atmosphere with many different kinds of music. Start your night at Republica Bar, before hitting the top clubs of the city, or stay here until the wee hours of the morning.
What is a Merendero?
In Aguascalientes is very common in the evening to hang out with friends at a merendero. These establishments are really popular because they serve lots of snacks as long as you keep drinking. Take a beer and enjoy the delicious "cueritos" of pork in vinegar, crispy tortilla chips, guacamole dips and much more. On weekends, the merendero is the perfect choice as a starting point for a very eventful night. Among the most important ones are the Merendero de San Marcos and the Merendero de San Pancho.
Merendero San Pancho
Following the motto "Because eating and drinking are first" Merendero San Pancho has become a tradition with the people of Aguascalientes, who really enjoy a drink and a fine meal. With excellent service, a fun atmosphere and big screens, this is the ideal place to dine or have a snack while enjoying great music. Many rock bands play here.
Merendero San Marcos
An excellent wine and liquor selection, a great menu and a fantastic atmosphere are waiting for you at this restaurant. Merendero San Marcos has great service and a very "Mexican" atmosphere.
Andador Arturo J. Pani (Arturo J. Pani Pedestrian Street)
This street is next to the Garden and the Temple of San Marcos. At night, cafes, bars and snack bars open their doors and draw their own tables to serve those looking for a cold beer. If you visit the street during the season of the Feria de San Marcos, you will be surprised by the great amount of people who come to celebrate here because the street is the initial part of the premises for the fair during the months of April and May.
A Triangle of Fun
The Colosio, Independencia and the Universidad Avenue form a triangle on the map of Aguascalientes, and in these streets are located a large number of bars and discos that offer you nights full of emotion and music. You can start your tour at the Plaza Altaria's Barezzito, which is just at the beginning of the Colosio Avenue and Zacatecas Boulevard. In addition, you will find several restaurants in this area if you wish to dine before heading to the fun.
Casino and Gambling
If what you want is to try your luck, Aguascalientes offers betting facilities and casinos for entertainment. The Plaza Altaria features a PlayCity which has many electronic machines, bingo area and a sports betting area. For more serious players, there is no other place like the Casino at the Feria de San Marcos, where people bet amounts above the hundreds of thousands of pesos. Here you'll find poker, baccarat, black jack and many other games. This is truly a one of a kind experience! |
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| SHOPPING IN AGUASCALIENTES / WHERE TO BUY IN AGUASCALIENTES |
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El Parian Mall
A symbol of pride in Aguascalientes, El Parian, was built in 1829, reconstructed in 1952 and last remodeled in 1985. This place still keeps its exterior arches but it has an excellent modern touch. This mall has five levels, where you can find the best shops, internet cafes, importers, drugstores, furniture stores, cafes, ice-cream parlors, stationary stores, travel agencies and many other services.
Expo Plaza Mall
This mall was built as a part of an improvement project around the area of the fairground. It features a great variety of stores, such as stationary stores, handicraft stores, boutiques, shoe stores, cafes, videogame stores, a food court, a movie theater and a multiple-use hall for any kind of event.
Galerias Mall
This mall is located in the north of the city. It features a movie theater with 10 screens. Among its stores you will find a food court, the best boutiques, shoe stores, gift shops, an optician's shop, toy stores, a florist's shop, perfume stores, a sports store, department stores and a supermarket.
Nieto Street
This is one of the most traditional streets of Aguascalientes. It is located in the historic center of the city and it is visited daily by shoppers who come from many different parts of the country, looking for the most representative articles of the state. Embroidery, knit fabrics and more are found along this street.
"Vestir" Mall
This mall was built in 1977 with money from the textile and dressmaking industries. Nowadays it features a wide variety of stands where you can find embroidery, knit fabrics, linens and clothing for the whole family. "Vestir" Mall (clothing mall) also features cafes, silver stores and gift shops.
Juarez and Union Streets
Also in the historic center of the city, you will find these two streets where a wide variety of stands with clothing for the whole family are located. While strolling along these two streets, your imagination will take you on a journey into the past and tell you stories about the traditions of Aguascalientes. Here you will also find the traditional Teran Market and Juarez Market.
Centro Comercial Altaria
Altaria Mall is a huge complex of shops, restaurants, cinemas and department stores. It is relatively young as it opened in 2007, but the great variety of premises have become a very popular place for shopping in Aguascalientes. Whether you are looking for a good book or the latest fashion accessories, Altaria is the place for you.
Other malls
Among other shopping centers worth mentioning are the San Marcos Mall northwest of the city on Convencion Avenue, Villa Asunción south on Jose Maria Chavez Avenue, and Plaza Patria right in the heart of Aguascalientes. Wherever you are, you'll find shopping centers at close proximity with ATMs, so you never run out of cash to buy souvenirs from Aguascalientes. |
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