There is an area of Mexico that many travelers have never head of, yet that is flourishing with attractions, hotels, and restaurants.
So et’s get to know the state of Aguascalientes. Mexico. which is 300 miles northwest of Mexico City in the heart of central Mexico.
A region steeped in history and tradition, Aguascalientes is full of with cultural and natural beauty. Aguascalientes, and its capital with the same name is one of the fastest developing regions in Mexico, especially over the past 10 years. International companies have opened satellite headquarters across the city, bringing a cosmopolitan energy and vitality to its streets, all the while preserving its 500-year-old history.
Today, Aguascalientes is a fusion of its past and present, from the fabulous colonial architecture and rich museums to its hot spring baths outside the city, a deep wine and culinary culture, and a flair for festivals and celebrations. Though not on the traditional tourist route in Mexico, Aguascalientes is the perfect microcosm of what makes Mexico such a magnet for international travelers.
History Of The Region
Aguascalientes, like most cities in Mexico, is an amalgamation of centuries of different people and traditions. Prior to the Spanish conquest, it was occupied by various nomadic and warring tribes. It later became part of the Ruta de Plata, or Silver Route, which passed through the region coming from the mines of Zacatecas ultimately bound for Spain. This led to settlements of farmers and merchants that sprung up across the region and, eventually, the settlement of the region.
Key Attractions In Aguascalientes, Mexico
The capitol city of Aguascalientes is a historic city with colonial heritage. The 500-year-old city has been beautifully preserved, capturing a regal architectural aesthetic. The Centro Historico’s Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption is one of the best pieces of colonial architecture in Mexico, while the Templo de San Antonio de Padua is widely considered one of the world’s great master pieces of architecture.
The Jardin de San Marcos is both a beautiful public park and garden, as well as the setting for one of Aguascalientes’ most important festivals, La Feria de San Marcos. This three-week festival dates back nearly 200 years and brings several million visitors to Aguascalientes each year. One of the most popular fairs in Mexico, people come from around the country to experience its explosion of exhibitions, concerts, rodeos, art, theater, and dance.
The capital city celebrates Mexican art and artists through its many museums. Some of the top museums in Aguascalientes are the Museo Regional de Historia, the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, and the Museo de Aguascalientes. One of the most unique museums in Aguascalientes is the Museo Jose Guadalupe Posada, dedicated to the artist who is credited with inventing the Dia de Los Muertos icon, La Calavera Catrina.
The Plaza Principal is a visual feast, with impressive architectural monuments, like the Palacio de Gobierno, La Exedra monument, Teatro Morelos, and Patio de las Jacarandas.
Discover the romance of Calle del Codo, known for its colonial charm and romantic restaurants; or the shopping at Calle Nieto, which sells artisanal goods and typical products from around the region. Calle Venustiano Carranza, this gorgeous street has been listed as a World Heritage Site, located along the historic Camino Real. Full of life, this main thoroughfare is known for its restaurants, cafes, and bars.
The Surrounding Region – Wineries & Wine Tasting
Apart from the capital, Aguascalientes is rich in attractions. It has one of the oldest wine routes in the country, with 21 different points of interest along its Wine Route. Oenophiles can sip and savor across its 16 vineyards and wineries, where you can find everything from a wine tasting to a guided tour. Notable varieties in Aguascalientes include Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Nebbiolo, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Tempranillo, among others.
Travelers can explore the smaller, romantic Pueblos Magicos outside the capital area, as well. Aguascalientes has four Pueblos Mágicos: Realde Asientos, San José de Gracia, Calvillo and Pabellón de Hidalgo.
The Climate Of Aguascalientes, Mexico
Aguascalientes has year-round sunny weather with an average annual temperature of 63 degrees. The hottest months are May and June. Rain is infrequent in Aguascalientes, though May through November does experience some rainfall.
The Airport – Getting To Aguascalientes, Mexico
The main airport in Aguascalientes is Lic. Jesus Teran Peredo. It offers an average of 110 weekly flights. Direct flights from the United States to Aguascalientes come from Los Angeles and Chicago via Volaris; Houston via United Airlines; and Dallas and Fort Worth via American Airlines. Visitors can also connect through Mexico City, Monterrey,or Tijuana on domestic carriers Aeromexico, Volaris and Aeromar.
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