Aguascalientes, Mexico

🎉 Aguascalientes – The Hidden Heart of Mexico

Nestled in Mexico’s central highlands, Aguascalientes blends colonial elegance, thriving art scenes, thermal spas, and legendary festivals. Often overshadowed by larger cities, it’s a clean, welcoming, and culturally rich destination, especially famous for hosting Latin America’s largest fair.


📍 Top Attractions in Aguascalientes

🏛️ Centro Histórico

Stroll through Baroque-style churches, colorful colonial facades, and leafy plazas like Plaza de la Patria, anchored by the stunning Catedral Basilica.

🎨 Museo José Guadalupe Posada

Dedicated to the famed Mexican illustrator, creator of La Catrina. A must-visit for lovers of Day of the Dead culture and Mexican art.

🧖 Termas de Aguascalientes

The city's name means hot waters—visit its thermal baths and spas like Ojocaliente for mineral-rich relaxation.

🏞️ Jardín de San Marcos

This historic garden becomes the centerpiece of the Feria Nacional de San Marcos, the city’s world-renowned fair.

🚂 Tres Centurias Railway Complex

A beautiful industrial heritage site turned into a public park and cultural venue.


🎭 Feria Nacional de San Marcos

Held every spring (April–May), this is Mexico’s biggest cultural fair, featuring:

  • Bullfighting

  • Horse shows

  • Concerts and parades

  • Gastronomy expos

  • Artisans and carnival rides
    It draws millions of visitors and is the best time to experience Aguascalientes at its liveliest.


🍽️ What to Eat in Aguascalientes

Local flavors are hearty, spicy, and deeply traditional.

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Birria – Spiced meat stew, often goat or beef

  • Tacos de lechón – Crispy roast pig tacos

  • Enchiladas Sanmarqueñas – Aguascalientes-style enchiladas with potatoes and cheese

  • Guayaba-based desserts – The region is a top guava producer

Local Drinks:

  • Aguas frescas de guayaba

  • Mezcal from nearby Zacatecas

  • Pulque – A traditional fermented agave drink


🏨 Where to Stay in Aguascalientes

  • Hotel Francia Aguascalientes – Historic boutique hotel in the city center

  • Quinta Real Aguascalientes – Colonial-style luxury with gardens

  • One Aguascalientes San Marcos – Affordable and close to festival grounds

  • Aguascalientes Marriott Hotel – Business-class with spa and pool


🛍️ Local Markets & Crafts

  • Mercado Terán – Traditional Mexican market with food, crafts, and local life

  • Guava products – Jams, candies, and liqueurs

  • Handmade pottery and leather goods


🗺️ Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: April–May (during the San Marcos Fair), or October–November for cooler weather

  • Airport: Aguascalientes International Airport (AGU) – 30 minutes from downtown

  • Getting Around: Taxis, ride-share, and local buses

  • Safety: Very safe by Mexican standards—walkable and friendly

  • Language: Spanish (basic English in hotels and tourist spots)


🌟 Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)

Category Rating ⭐
Cultural Attractions ★★★★☆ (8.5/10)
Local Food & Markets ★★★★☆ (8/10)
Festivals & Events ★★★★★ (9.5/10)
Affordability ★★★★★ (9/10)
Accessibility ★★★★☆ (8/10)