Things To Do
in Chihuahua
Chihuahua, the state capital, sits in a semi-arid high desert with a rich colonial heritage and a modern urban pulse. The city serves as a gateway to the Sierra Tarahumara and the nearby canyon country while preserving grand plazas, mansions, and museums. Its warm hospitality meets a robust culinary scene, where traditional northern dishes sit alongside contemporary cafes.
From historic sites to desert vistas, Chihuahua offers a compact, approachable base for exploring northern Mexico.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by savoring a traditional breakfast at a local café in the heart of Chihuahua. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around the Plaza de Armas, admiring the stunning colonial architecture. Don't forget to visit the Cathedral of Chihuahua, a magnificent example of baroque design that dates back to the 18th century.
In the afternoon, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the nearby markets, where you can sample delicious tacos and burritos. After lunch, explore the Museo Casa Chihuahua, a cultural center that tells the story of the city through interactive exhibits. Spend some time shopping for unique handicrafts and souvenirs at the artisan shops scattered throughout the historic district.
As the sun sets, head to the iconic Palacio de Gobierno to admire its impressive murals and history. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can try local specialties such as machaca or discada. End your day with a leisurely walk through the Plaza de Armas, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catching a live music performance.
Rise early for a scenic train ride on the famous Chepe Express, which takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Copper Canyon. The journey offers stunning views of dramatic cliffs and lush forests, making it a perfect opportunity for photography. Arrive in the small town of Creel, where you can grab a hearty breakfast at a local eatery.
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the surrounding area, visiting the awe-inspiring Valle de los Monjes and the stunning waterfalls at Basaseachic. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the canyon. You may also get to meet local Tarahumara people and learn about their unique culture and lifestyle.
Return to Creel in the evening and enjoy a warm, rustic dinner featuring local dishes like caldo de res. As night falls, take a moment to enjoy stargazing in this remote area, away from the city lights. Wind down by sharing stories around a campfire, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚕One-way public transportation | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with rich architecture
- Gateway to northern Mexico’s desert landscapes and canyons
- Warm hospitality and affordable cuisine
- Strong markets for fresh produce and regional cheeses
- Hot summers and dry weather can be intense
- Some areas require car travel to reach attractions outside the city
- Spanish is widely used; English may be limited in smaller spots
- Certain neighborhoods may be safer during daylight hours than at night
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chihuahua
Visit one of these nice places.
Neo-Gothic cathedral with tall spires and a dramatic exterior; best photographed at dawn or twilight with soft light on stone.
An iconic mansion-turned-museum with ornate interiors and sweeping exterior views—great for architectural shots.
Glass-wrapped cultural complex in the historic center; reflections and clean lines offer striking compositions.
Vibrant public squares framed by historic buildings—excellent for candid street photography and evening portraits.
Food in Chihuahua
Chihuahua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded dried beef scrambled with eggs, a staple breakfast served with tortillas, beans, and salsa.
Must-Try!
A smoky mixed-meat skillet cooked on a disk with peppers and onions, often shared among friends.
Creamy, mild regional cheese used melted in fondues or enjoyed with bread and chiles.
A rich meat stew popular in the north, enjoyed with tortillas and lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling central market for fresh produce, dried chiles, salsas, and ready-to-eat bites.
Grab quick tacos al pastor, carne asada, and other street bites; look for salsa bars with fresh peppers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; addressing people as señor/señora shows respect. A warm, friendly tone goes a long way.
Be mindful around churches and religious sites; dress modestly when visiting sacred spaces and avoid loud behavior in quiet zones.
Northern Mexican communication tends to be straightforward; maintain politeness and avoid overly personal questions in initial meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Chihuahua
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service isn’t included. For taxis, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated. In some casual spots, cash tips are preferred.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and stores. Many street vendors and smaller eateries prefer cash, especially coins and small bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming boulevards; great for outdoor exploring and photography.
Hot and dry with strong sun; carry water, wear sunscreen, and seek shade in the early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days and cooler evenings; a comfortable time for long walks and city exploration.
Mild to cool with occasional chilly mornings; comfortable for museum visits and evening strolls in light layers.
Chihuahua at Night
Hiking in Chihuahua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to one of Mexico’s tallest waterfalls; a rewarding day hike with scenic canyon views (requires a longer drive).
Gentle to moderate hikes that showcase desert flora and panoramic city views within a few hours’ drive.
Iconic canyon scenery and high-altitude trails; best as an overnight excursion or multi-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Chihuahua by plane.
Located near Chihuahua City, this airport handles domestic flights and some international connections; taxis or rideshares are a practical option to reach the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo with strong regional identities; a growing university and professional population contribute to a younger, dynamic scene.
Tarahumara and other groups live more in surrounding regions; their cultures influence regional crafts and markets.
A steady stream of domestic and international visitors, with a modest expatriate presence in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport across the region; local clubs and outdoor pickup games are common.
Regional events and informal games are part of the northern lifestyle; calendars vary by season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chihuahua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer bean-based dishes, cheese plates, and vegetable sides. Ask for dishes without lard and request meat-free versions; in markets you’ll find fresh produce and cheeses suitable for vegetarians.