Top-rated places to visit in Jalisco, Mexico

4.5 Malecón Boardwalk (17.4k reviews)
- Beautiful views and attractions but pretty touristy in parts
Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Piers & Boardwalks

This pedestrian-only boardwalk spans 12 blocks and is peppered with oceanfront eateries, tequila bars, and vendors selling street food—sip on a margarita as you take in the stunning ocean views. Also, check out the vendors selling regional handicrafts and traditional sweets. Travelers come from all over for the art exhibitions and buzzing nightlife. During your stroll along the ocean, you'll come across impressive bronze sculptures and street performers like the acrobatic spectacle of Voladores de Papantla. Hit the boardwalk early for a spectacular sunrise and snap a photo with the vibrant block-lettered sign of Puerto Vallarta as a holiday keepsake. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Rhythms of the Night by Vallarta Adventures (10.0k reviews)
- One of the best parts of our trip!
Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Theatre & Performances

Rhythms of the Night offers a 5-hour extravaganza, which starts with a sunset boat ride—complete with an open bar and canapés—across the bay. Sail to Caletas Beach, a secluded cove illuminated by candlelight and tiki torches, with bongo drums playing in the background. You’ll then be treated to a mesmerizing show of acrobatics, dance, storytelling, fire dancing, and more. Written and directed by the co-creator of Cirque Du Soleil, the show is inspired by Aztec legend, with a story that changes every year. If you’d like, you can even splash out on V.I.P. tickets for front-row seating at the show. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (5.326 reviews)
- Lovely church
Churches & Cathedrals

Beautiful cathedral featuring its trademark crown of angels. See more..
4.5 Zona Romántica (3.960 reviews)
- Excellent place. Excellent winter weather. Must see
Historic Walking Areas

Despite its name, Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone isn't just for couples. This vibrant area is lined with cool shops, street vendors, art galleries, restaurants, and queer-friendly bars, making it a popular spot for families, LGBTQIA travelers, and everyone in between. Stroll along the district’s cobblestone streets, shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs, or sit at an outdoor restaurant for drinks and to people-watch. Uncover all the best food stops in the Romantic Zone on a food tour of Puerto Vallarta. Los Muertos Beach is also a great stop, especially at sunset. You can also visit Cuale Island in the middle of the Romantic Zone, where you’ll find a flea market and a cultural center. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Vallarta Botanical Gardens (2.889 reviews) from $20.54
- Most beautiful Gardens
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Visit the internationally acclaimed Vallarta Botanical Garden. Lush tropical forests surround cultivated gardens and conservatories featuring orchids, rhododendrons, bromeliads, magnolias and many more botanical delights. Mexican plants of worldwide culinary importance such as vanilla and chocolate are grown and interpreted in unforgettably beautiful fashion. While anyone can experience the Garden at their own leisure, touring with an Official Garden Guide is the best way to get the most out of your time here. See and Experience: - Cultivated Gardens - Plant Conservatories - Hiking Trails - Forest Preserve - Award-winning Restaurant - Garden Gift Shop & Plant Nursery Awards: - USA TODAY's Reader's Choice #4 Botanical Garden in North America (2018) - TripAdvisor #1 Gardens in Mexico (2018) Top Recommended Tour: BOTANICAL DELIGHTS Tour & Culinary Adventure: https://tourspvr.com/ Please visit our website for hours, rates, photos & more info: www.vbgardens.org See more..
4.5 Instituto Cultural Cabanas (2.541 reviews)
- Not to be missed !!!
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Once an orphanage, this building now serves as a gallery of the famous murals of Jose Clemente Orozco. See more..
5.0 Acuario Michin Guadalajara (2.470 reviews)
- Great Place for an all day family visit
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums

Acuario Michin Guadalajara es una institución educativa, científica, cultural y recreativa que tiene como finalidad proteger y conservar la biodiversidad acuática, promoviendo su conocimiento a través de actividades educativas, exhibiciones permanentes y temporales. See more..
4.5 Centro Histórico (2.310 reviews)
- The Street Art is Amazing!
Historic Walking Areas

While cobblestone streets along the Malecon add colonial charm, this area also features street vendors and craftsmen. See more..
5.0 Act2PV (2.285 reviews)
- The Red Room Cabaret at Act2PV has the most amazing lights, sound, and entertainment!!! It is also an intimate space. ❤️
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

Act2PV is the largest entertainment venue in the Banderas Bay, bringing you the BEST OF THE BEST entertainment for the 2022/2023 Season! With multiple shows every evening in three different theaters (including the beautiful Main Stage, the intimate Red Room Cabaret, and the brand-new OUTDOOR Starlight Cabaret), there is something for everyone! Act2PV features 5-star theatrical productions, musicals, stage plays, musical cabaret and concerts, as well as internationally-renowned musicians and top-quality drag shows! With its amazing sound and lighting systems, Act2PV is on par with any theater in North America! Come early and enjoy a drink in the fully-stocked Encore Lounge bar! See more..
4.5 Guadalajara Cathedral (1.895 reviews)
- Beautiful
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

I went with my friends and we had an amazing time. Without a doubt it is something that makes you feel out of the ordinary. I highly recommend the place. It makes you believe in yourself. It reminds you why you are here. If you're reading this. I invite you to come to the place. You will not regret it. you can ride a bike You can go for coffee in the mornings while watching the sun rise. You can take all the photos you want you can buy souvenirs It is a wonderful place. The food in the place is a little expensive but it is really worth it. It is too exquisite. See more..
4.5 Marina Vallarta (1.876 reviews)
- Active area filled with boats, restaurants, pharmacies, massages and tour agencies.
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Marina Vallarta operated by Bay View Grand, is considered a prime location marina located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta Jalisco. Marina Vallarta offers all our guests excellent customer service, 354 slips up to 160´, pump out services, power, water, oil disposal, dry dock, Internet Wi-Fi which is the best in the region, fuel station in the entrance channel, hotels, restaurants, bars, and much more, all these just 3 minutes away from the International airport and 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta downtown. See more..
4.5 Muelle de Playa Los Muertos (1.727 reviews)
- Another point of interest along the Malecón
Piers & Boardwalks

Thursday 3rd February and we visited this Pier which is located at Playa los Muertos along the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta The main feature of the Peir is the large metal structure, known as the Sail, which is towards the end of the Pier. It is constructed with metal and wire mesh, which curl around the main mast giving the appearance of a sail. A footbridge, pier, with embedded designs, leads out to the sail and the small jetty at the end. The walkway circles the sail so visitors can walk around it. From the jetty there were a number of fishermen fishing. Small boats bobbed on the sea as they wanted to transport tourists to Las Animas, Quimixto, Mismaloya and Yelapa. It was fascinating to stand here and watch the numerous pelicans diving for fish, others chose to sit and dry off in the sunshine. There were views along the two sides of Playa los Muertos which the pier cuts across out into the sea. See more..
4.5 Zoológico Guadalajara (1.661 reviews)
- Awesome!!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Zoos

This large zoo contains over 2,000 animals and is located in a beautiful ravine. See more..
4.5 Teatro Degollado (1.473 reviews)
- Guadalajara philharmonic at Teatro Degollado
Architectural Buildings • Theaters

Opened in 1886, this large neo-Classical building is home to the city's opera and orchestra. See more..
5.0 Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento (1.371 reviews)
- Sunday Night at the Parque Expiatory
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

Yes - the cathedral is amazing. The doors are open and you can wander in and see this amazing "temple". And the Parque (better described as a plaza or square) in front of the temple is fabulous. Not sure how many nights a week, but definitely on Sunday nights the square and the surrounding streets are full of street vendors, street food, music, dancing and families enjoying the festivities. There is a restaurant overlooking the square (Tertulia) that has wonderful food and a great view of the cathedral and all the activities in the square. We enjoyed it very much. See more..
4.5 Playa de los Muertos (1.198 reviews)
- Pleasent beach with easy access to the Romantic zone.
Beaches

"Deadmen's Beach," named for legendary pirate raids on the nearby village, is one of the most-frequented beaches in Puerto Vallarta. See more..
4.0 Zoologico de Vallarta (1.123 reviews)
- Fun day out!❤️
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Zoos

We took the hop on hop off tourist bus. We got off at the end of the line at mismaloya. The driver showed us the time table for when they would come back around to get us. You can also take the city bus for 10 pesos(same area for bus stop) & then you walk .4 mi. It may look a little “rough” for some ppl, but it is a perfectly safe walk. When you get off the bus, there is a guy that sells tickets that is actually a bit cheaper than the website $. We bought the bag of animal food for 50p there. Midway there is a cafe to sell you more, plus people food & drink & caps, souvenirs. This zoo is interactive where you can be up close& feed them! Ducks walking freely around including a baby chick! Spent 2 hours & would have spent more except the nats were starting to bite us. Bathrooms were clean but no toilet seats or toilet paper. See more..
4.5 Lake Chapala (1.107 reviews)
- Great trip to the lake
Bodies of Water

This volcanic crater lake is Mexico’s largest lake and is loved for its wealth of outdoor activities, especially its public balnearios (thermal pools). Go kayaking, have a picinic, or even take a boat ride to Mezcala or Alacranes, one of the islands within the lake. In the evening, head to Chapala’s Malecón to catch the breathtaking sunset. The nearby Ajijic is also a good spot for foodies who want to sample delicious Mexican-Asian fusion, Spanish cuisine, or even pizza. If you’re on a tour of Guadalajara, Lake Chapala is typically included in the itinerary and makes for a great day trip destination. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Los Arcos de Mismaloya (964 reviews)
- In the heart
Geologic Formations

Los Arcos hotel is not the most glamorous or up to date but once you’ve settled in, it becomes like home. There is a certain well worn charm in the decor and bathrooms It is in the heart of the romantic zone, an area filled with shops, restaurants and old colonial buildings mixed with new and modern condos. The hotel has a very special beach that while somewhat crowded, never feels cramped. The staff is attentive and anticipate your needs and wants. While the hotel offers inclusive packages, we’ve opted out and enjoy being to find and dine among the many great nearby restaurants. This is a great place for a family to stay inexpensively or for a couple to find a romantic get away. There is always a wonderful mix of straight and gay couples who vacation here, it’s just that friendly . We’ve stayed here for the past 10 years and it always draws us back for another visit. See more..
4.5 Destilería La Rojeña (876 reviews)
- A must do!! Beautiful!!
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Distilleries

La Rojena(R) is the distillery of Jose Cuervo(R). We invite you to tour the oldest distillery in Latin America, where you will be able to see the tequila production process first-hand, and enjoy our Hacienda, where you can become a tequila expert with a professional tasting, enjoy a delicious margarita, or buy our products at the best prices. See more..
4.5 El Centro (842 reviews)
- Really prefer this area as great selection of restaurants and street food at reasonable prices
Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

The half-mile long boardwalk that borders the shoreline. See more..
4.5 Tlaquepaque and Tonala Artisans Tour (837 reviews)
- Continent Kids visit Tlaqapque
Art Galleries

Tlaqapque was a beautiful destination to seek out artisan gifts and souvenirs. We went midday, and the streets were not busy. By evening, family’s were bustling through the historic streets eating sweet treats and Mexican street food. The markets are reasonably priced, and the goods are quality-rated! We picked up a few souvenirs and a leather hat for Father’s Day! We recommend going to Tlaqapque around 4 in the afternoon to explore the shops, street food, people, and artisans. #continentkids See more..
4.5 Playa Las Animas (754 reviews)
- Beautiful hike, late start
Beaches

If you are looking for isolation, try this beach to the south of Puerto Vallarta, only accessible by boat. See more..
4.5 Zona Arqueológica Teuchitlán o Guachimontones (742 reviews)
- Quick trip fron Guadalajara
Ancient Ruins

I loved this place! We decided to go from Guadalajara, it was like 45 minutes drive. There's a parking lot where you pay $30 pesos per person. Children younger than 12 don't pay. Restrooms are clean and to get to the guachimontones you have to walk like 400 meters uphill. We went in October and the weather was beautiful, just perfect. All green, lots of dragonflies and butterflies around, which I loved. Coming back from the guachimontones we went into the little museum. It's small but cute and informative. There's a mini souvenir store also. We only had the morning for this quick trip, we were kind of in a hurry and spent a little less than two hours, but you definitely can stay more and enjoy the scenery or take the guided tour. We also didn't have time to go around the town. See more..
4.5 Malecón de Ajijic (727 reviews)
- Views, Art, Sunshine
Points of Interest & Landmarks

An enchanting walkway along Lake Chapala meeting great people, many walking very well socialized dogs. Causal dining outdoors was a relaxing with excellent & very reasonably priced food. Local artist and groundskeepers have created amazing works to enjoy. We saw some graffiti and the next time we came it was covered with fresh paintings! Keep up the tremendous effort people of Ajijic! It makes a difference!! See more..
4.5 The Palm Cabaret and Bar (607 reviews)
- CMarshall Faison brings Luther Vandross
Spent 1-2 hours Cabarets

Now in our 20th Season! Located on Olas Altas, Vallarta's most popular strip on the southside of town, The Palm Cabaret and Bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a great show and superb drinks and service. Vallarta's longest running and most eclectic cabaret! Everyone is welcome! Newly Remodeled with beautiful lighting and sound. See more..
4.5 Bay of Banderas (605 reviews)
- Beautiful Bay and beautiful views.
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Bodies of Water

The Pacific Ocean's largest and deepest inlet. See more..
4.0 Edenva Parque Ecoturistico (587 reviews)
- Fun zip line day trip
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

EDENVA is an eco-tourism natural park in the Eden of Puerto Vallarta. Waterfalls, natural pools, canopy, hiking and the most beautiful landscapes that the jungle of Puerto Vallarta can offer! See more..
4.0 Yelapa Waterfalls (559 reviews)
- Yelapa Adventure {A MUST}
Waterfalls

Beautiful Yelapa on your terms. Hop on a bus in Puerto Vallarta that drives directly to Boca de Tomatlan (20 pesos each, each way). Once there, walk down in to town down to the water taxis ($100 pesos each, each way - 30 min. wavy ride, I felt like a child). Upon arrival head straight for the town, bypass the beach (you can enjoy it later). Walk up the steps and voilà walk the narrow cobblestone streets to the falls. There is another adventure, 1.5 hour walk to a greater waterfall (my next trip). Enjoy the walk, have a bite, coffee, simply relax, then hit the beach. ***Do find out what time the water taxis depart and which ones you can take if you bought a return ticket. ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT !! See more..
4.5 Bosque Los Colomos (543 reviews)
- Great place to go birding in the morning
Wednesday: 6:30 AM - 7:30 PM Parks • Gardens

Great urban forest for hiking and birdwatching! Saw many species including a Russet Crowned Mot-Mot. There were many vermillion flycatchers, and a flock of parrots. Its also great to just wander and explore. See more..
4.5 Andares Centro Comercial (533 reviews)
- Take a stroll
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Shopping Malls

Andares it's a meeting place, where friends and families come together to enjoy the best shopping, dinning and entertainment experience in Guadalajara. #AmoAndares See more..
4.5 Olas Altas (526 reviews)
- A WALK TO REMEMBER
Neighborhoods

Neighborhood near the pier offering many seafood dining experiences. See more..
4.5 Isla Cuale (508 reviews)
- Cuale River...A nice way to spend an afternoon...
Spent < 1 hour Islands

Island on the River Cuale overlooked by Gringo Gulch. See more..
4.5 Estadio Omnilife (498 reviews)
- Tour
Arenas & Stadiums

I was not able to experience an actual soccer game here due to the dates of my trip, however, i was able to do the stadium tour. Tour is only about $8-$12 and it is worth it. It is about 1 hour long and you get to see locker room and multiple views of the stadium. See more..
4.5 Caballito (477 reviews)
- Puerto Vallarta tourist sign divided by the statue of boy on a seahorse.
Monuments & Statues

One of Puerto Vallarta's many statues, it depicts a boy riding a giant sea horse while waving to passers-by. See more..
4.5 Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco (453 reviews)
- Paintings and murals on ceilings and walls
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historic Sites • Art Museums • Government Buildings

This 18th-century government building, which served as the headquarters of the Juarez administration in 1858, contains a number of the famous murals by Jose Clemente Orozco. See more..
4.5 Basilica de Zapopan (443 reviews)
- Basílica and Zapopan community
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites • Monuments & Statues

This beautifully ornate church, built in 1690, is one of the city's oldest structures. See more..
4.5 Expo Guadalajara (442 reviews)
- Furniture Expo in Guadalajara, Mexico
Convention Centers

A massive expo center which holds many of latin America's annual events and conventions. See more..
5.0 Chicabal (429 reviews)
- Andrea and Uli were great servers!
Spent More than 3 hours Beach & Pool Clubs

Front of the Pacific Ocean and below the cosmopolitan buildings of "Peninsula" you will find one of the most instagrammable spots in Vallarta. In the club you will find yacht service, urban gastronomy, luxurious cabanas, irreverent party concepts n' the newest music that will explode your senses. See more..
4.5 Malecón de Chapala (422 reviews)
- It's one of the prettiest malecon's I've ever seen
Historic Walking Areas

I've been coming to Lake Chapala for years and I've watched the transformation of this malecon. The city of Chapala is always improving it. The first thing I do when I get to Chapala is take a walk on this beautiful boardwalk. It has everything you'd expect: flowers, walkways out into the lake, lots of benches, restaurants, a children's playground, statues, incredible tile work.... See more..
4.0 Glorieta La Minerva (384 reviews)
- Prominent City Landmark
Monuments & Statues

This Roman goddess statue is the gathering place after the Mexican soccer nationals. See more..
4.5 Plaza de Armas (372 reviews)
- Beautiful
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Home of Iglesia de Guadalupe, Puerto Vallarta's most distinctive landmark. See more..
5.0 Galleria Dante (367 reviews)
- A must see
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

Art gallery where the newest in classical and contemporary sculptures of many talented artists can be viewed. Great Place to SHOP for great art collection. See more..
4.5 Independencia Avenue (362 reviews)
- Must see for shoppers
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Mall shopping has a place in my life for needs and artisan shopping fills my soul with the joy of craftsmanship and beauty you can't find in a shopping mall. The layout of shops in Tlaquepaque along Calle Independence is so beautiful and inviting. Hand crafted clothing, shoes and bags, jewelry, art galleries, furniture and decorating items, as well as local coffee, sweets and tequila and many different restaurants for your snacking breaks. The town square is a lovely place to have a cold drink and people watch if shopping is not your thing. Having been to both Tlaquepaque and Tonalá, I would recommend doing both pueblos, since the shopping experiences are quite different, but equally enjoyable. So happy to have made the trip and will definitely return. See more..
4.5 Punta De Mita (361 reviews)
- Great location in Punta de Mita
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Beaches

This property was literally right on the beach. The view from the ground floor patio was the best for sunrises and whale watching and there were plenty of them. The surf school set up their tent right out front and was neat to watch all the novice and skilled surfers. Not only was it close to the beach but was also well situated to walking to town and the Saturday markets. Norma’s tacos and Theresa’s tacos were close by and were delicious. The lobster in paradise and Minas restaurants were both very good. Casa de Pintar was just down the street and had great food. Taking the bus to La Cruz was easy and only 20 pesos. Our condo was very spacious with 2 large bedrooms and each had there own washroom and shower. Having laundry was a bonus . Walking to buy groceries was easy once you became familiar with the surroundings. Looking forward to going back See more..
4.5 Plaza de la Liberación (285 reviews)
- Take a walking tour, it's much more interesting
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This always busy downtown plaza lies at the heart of the city's historic district. See more..
4.5 Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara (269 reviews)
- Good place to work out
Parks

Ride a bike, walk, run and if you get early catch one of the many classes in different spots of the park. Good place for a get together with the family and share pizzas or make a barbecue. No alcohol is allowed. See more..
4.5 Mirador de La Cruz (260 reviews)
- Amazing vistas of Vallarta and the Bay
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts

This lookout offers great panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta and the whole Bay of Banderas, including parts of the city east of the mountains. It's not as difficult a hike up the lookout as you might think. Most people who are comfortable walking uphill can do this. Bring your camera or smart phone for pics! Great times to go are for sunrise and sunset. At sunrise, in particular, you may find yourself with the whole lookout all to yourself. Interesting tip: The "Down Vallarta" international mountain bike race which takes place each spring starts from the mirador de la cruz. See more..
4.5 Playa Las Gemelas (251 reviews)
- Wonderful local beach
Beaches

I found this beach on trip advisor and wanted to go here on our cruise stop. The taxis are very pushy to go to playa mismaloya and originally that is where they took us until I insisted to go here. This beach was absolutely gorgeous, way more beach area than Mismaloya and definitely less crowded. I read in reviews there are no places here for food or drink but there was a vendor set up for both and the the food was delicious and cheap. Only downside I could see was no restrooms. Again, beautiful beach and would definitely recommend over Mismaloya. See more..
4.5 Vallarta ArtWalk (247 reviews)
- Enjoyable walk through art district
Wednesday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

We decided to give the art walk a try, as the evening was cool and we are both interested in local art. Our visits to the galleries felt very intimate, as we often met artists and gallery owners that loved the work they were showing. Not only was the art interesting (and sometimes provocative), but we also received an education on many of the artists and artistic movements. Proprietors served free glasses of wine. We opted to visit a coffee shop, which itself was beautifully landscaped with art. The evening turned out much better than we anticipated. I would recommend this if you are interested in local art/artists. See more..