When you think of Mexico, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Would it be its beautiful white sand beaches, the fabulous weather, or traditional food and drink! We have substantiated all of these reasons through a variety of travel publications and personal references. However, did you know that Mexico has other must-see sites and attractions? The landmarks pointed out below aren’t on everyone’s vacation agenda, but again, they should be.
Some places in Mexico are not famous as popular vacation destinations for one reason or another. Then there are the places that see more than their share of tourism. People who see the destination as a fun spot to spend a week don’t look beyond the typical travel club brochures and pamphlets. Below are some of Mexico’s out-of-the-way spots and must-see sites. You might recognize a few of them by name only.
Bacalar’s Lake of Seven Colors
The town of Bacalar, Mexico, is located just Northwest of Chetumal, Mexico. The town itself lies on the southwest shore of Lake Bacalar or Laguna de Bacalar. This long and very narrow freshwater lake is just over a mile at its widest point and 26 miles long. If you’re traveling north on Federal Highway 307, you can see parts of this slivering lake when looking east. This somewhat shallower lake with its limestone bottom is reputable for its clarity and various blue-toned water shades.
Like most water bodies in the Yucatan, they are fed by underground aqua ducts – subterranean rivers. Many of these underground waterways find their way to the surface. These freshwater pools are cenotes, which are throughout the countryside. They are excellent for swimming, snorkeling, or even diving through submerged passageways.
Rocky Point
Besides parasailing, whipping around on a banana boat, and enjoying other water activities, exploring the El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve. It is located in the Mexican state of Sonora and just outside Puerto Penasco, also known as Rocky Point. This protected reserve of the Altar Desert is a part of the great Sonoran Desert. It is hard to believe that one of the hottest and driest landmasses on earth borders the Sea of Cortez.
This volcanic landscape spreads out over 1,000 square miles. It is home to three majestic peaks named Pinacate, Carnegie, and Medio. This desert tundra supports 540 varieties of plants, various mammals like the Sonora Pronghorn & Bighorn Sheep, 200 species of birds, 40 different reptiles, the Gila Monster (venomous lizard), and desert tortoise. There are various tours available. It is, without a doubt, worth looking into.
Puerto Vallarta
The Malecon Board Walk in Puerto Vallarta is known for its posturing location when watching the sun drop below Mexico’s Pacific blue horizon. This 12-block – mile and a half long walkway was rebuilt after hurricane Kenna blew through Puerto Vallarta. On the north end of the Malecon is the Hotel Rosita, built in 1948. Rumor has it that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor stayed at this seaside retreat while filming The Night of The Iguana.
The pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with a variety of hotels and romantic eateries that face directly west. During the day hours, people are stretch out of the beach, enjoying some fun in the sun, local entertainment, and vendors providing great eats! When the late afternoon rolls around, the restaurants fill up with people wanting to see the sun dip below the horizon. It is truly an amazing sight!
San Miguel de Allende
This thriving city is located in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. This historic town played a big part in defeating a powerful Spaniard Army during Mexico’s road to independence. There are also plenty of centuries-old buildings to explore. One of these 17th-century structures is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. This historic church is notorious for its pink colored – Belgian styled towers that point straight.
Other inner-city attractions include the Historical Museum and El Jardin Plaza. The streets are lined with homegrown restaurants, local art galleries, and boutique shops. If wanting to travel just minutes out of town, there is the Escondido place where you can enjoy several geothermal pools surrounded by lush vegetation. Another short trip from downtown is the Canada de la Virgen. Here is where you can explore four archaeological sites that include the Otomi Pyramids.
Merida
Undoubtedly, this iconic city is full of so much history that it would take writing a book to cover it all. From its Mayan cultural beginnings to being a vital part of Mexico’s fight for freedom, there is no lack of things to see and do. With all its downtown attractions, Paseo de Montejo Avenida offers a full day’s worth of sightseeing. This tree-lined – Parisian styled street host centuries of old mansions and monuments, history revealing museums, and native monuments.
This unique thoroughfare has a variety of restaurants, curbside cafes, bars, and shopping venues. Evidently, there is something for everyone. Hence, if you have the opportunity to spend a Saturday night on the Paseo Montejo, you can experience Noche Mexicana. The street fills up with performers playing regional music, vendors serving traditional snacks, and selling handmade arts and crafts.
La Paz
This exciting destination is famed for its beachfront Malecon, ocean-view restaurants, and beautiful parks. The downtown area has got plenty of historic buildings and landmarks. For instance, in the center of the town is the Nuestra Senora de La Paz Cathedral. This amazing cathedral serves as the seat of the Diocese for La Paz. The beautiful Velasco Gardens surround this 18th-century iconic structure.
La Paz is also known for its beautiful beaches. One of those sandy landmarks is Balandra Beach. This half-moon shaped bay with its white sand and clear aqua blue water is considered one of Mexico’s best beaches. The surf is typically mild and, along with its gradual sloping seafloor, makes for a great family getaway. Additionally, the desert climate keeps the humidity lower than its tropical counterparts.
These and many other destinations are just a few of Mexico’s favorite must-see sites. So, why not take a little time to look at accommodations in and around the towns and communities mentioned above? These destinations are just a few hours away from almost any airport in the United States and Canada. Spend a long weekend or a full week’s stay; either way, you will enjoy every minute spent.