Things to do in  Guanajuato

Visit this museum to see Diego Rivera's early childhood home, which has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and work. Alongside original artworks and the personal effects of Rivera—one of Mexico’s most influential muralists and artists—you may also see temporary exhibits from other artists.

The largest city in the state of the same name, Querétaro is a charming and often overlooked colonial city that’s easy to access from the Mexican capital. Ideal for visitors looking to escape the crowds, once there you can explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; admire the 18th-century Querétaro Aqueduct; and browse for arts and crafts.

Experience the 17th-century house and gardens at Museo Exhacienda San Gabriel de Barrera, a colonial home located just outside Guanajuato center. There, you can walk through 17 lush, European-style themed gardens, as well as view period furniture in the restored hacienda.

Fábrica La Aurora whirred out endless bolts of bright cloth for nearly 90 years. Today, this former textile mill is a complex of galleries, artist studios, and antique shops, where you’ll find artists from San Miguel de Allende and beyond who work in paint, sculpture, and textiles. There are also galleries with specialities that range from fine art to handicrafts, plus on-site restaurants and cafés.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been called Mexico’s Sistine Chapel, and the 18th-century temple complex is a masterpiece. Whitewashed outer walls give way to a riot of color, from murals adorning the nave and chapels to statuary, paintings, and gleaming altars. The Jesuit religious site is among the finest examples of baroque art and architecture in the New World.

This pink-tinted confection of towers, domes, and Gothic windows is among San Miguel de Allende’s most beloved landmarks and sits at the heart of the city’s UNESCO-listed historic center. It gives off a rosy glow on sunny afternoons, then lights up dramatically after dark. Whether you come for the architecture or drop by a well-attended Sunday mass, this is a don’t-miss site.