Things To Do
in Juárez
Juárez sits on the Rio Bravo across from El Paso, blending Mexican border culture with a developing arts and culinary scene. The historic center offers colonial architecture, plazas, and lively markets, while nearby deserts reveal dramatic sunsets and rugged landscapes. The city is a practical base for day trips to the US border and natural areas, with easy access to cross-border shopping and dining.
Visitors should be mindful of safety and border-crossing procedures, and take the time to savor bold flavors and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de la Mexicanidad, where you can admire the iconic monument dedicated to the Mexican Revolution. Stroll through the historic streets, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that capture the spirit of Juárez. Stop by a local café for a traditional Mexican breakfast, savoring chilaquiles or huevos rancheros with fresh coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the Juárez Cathedral, an architectural gem that reflects the city's rich history. After exploring the church, visit the nearby Museum of the Revolution on the Border, where you can learn about Juárez's pivotal role in Mexico's revolutionary history. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk along the Rio Grande, enjoying the views of El Paso across the river.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the local culture by dining at a traditional Mexican restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes like carne asada or pozole. After dinner, experience Juárez's nightlife by visiting a local cantina, where you can enjoy live music and perhaps even some dancing. Take in the vibrant atmosphere and mingle with locals, creating lasting memories of your first day.
Begin your morning by visiting the Mercado Cuauhtémoc, a bustling market filled with local vendors selling handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional foods. Engage with the local artisans and sample some authentic street tacos for breakfast, a must-try in Juárez. The lively atmosphere and colorful stalls provide a perfect introduction to the city's culture.
After exploring the market, take a short walk to the nearby Museo de Arte de Ciudad Juárez, where you can appreciate contemporary Mexican art. Spend your afternoon wandering through the exhibitions and enjoying the creative expressions of local artists. Don’t forget to check the museum's schedule for any workshops or events that might be happening during your visit.
In the evening, take a scenic stroll through the Parque Chamizal, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful landscaping and art installations. Consider having dinner at a nearby restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, allowing you to experience the flavors of the border region. As the night falls, find a spot to enjoy the view of the illuminated city skyline across the river.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $4-8 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (one ride) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $4-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant border-city culture and cuisine
- Easy access to desert landscapes and day trips
- Safety concerns in some areas; stay in tourist zones
- Cross-border travel can have delays at times
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Juárez
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial-style façades and a lively central plaza ideal for daytime and sunset photography.
Impressive religious architecture with a busy plaza and evening lighting.
Desert sunset and river views along the US border area near El Paso, great for wide landscapes.
Vibrant street murals in redeveloped arts lanes reflecting local culture.
Food in Juárez
Juárez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled beef tacos with cilantro, onion, and salsa.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat served with consommé for dipping and tortillas.
Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, lightly fried.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling central market with fresh produce, meats, spices, and snack stalls.
Historic market offering produce, tortillerías and quick bites from local stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with 'Hola' and a handshake or brief hug in familiar circles.
Ask before taking photos of people; some may decline, especially in residential areas.
Casual but neat attire for most venues; avoid overly flashy displays in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Juárez
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is typical; in casual street food, rounding up is common. Hotel staff and taxi drivers appreciate small tips.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards and mobile payments in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming desert plants; sunscreen and water essential.
Very hot days; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures; great time for outdoor walks and city photography.
Mild to cool days; nights can be chilly; layer clothing and enjoy milder daylight hours.
Juárez at Night
Hiking in Juárez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes offering desert scenery and city views.
Notable rock formations and bouldering near the border region.
Extensive hiking opportunities with scenic desert landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Juárez by plane.
The main airport serving Ciudad Juárez with domestic and some international flights; convenient for regional travel.
Cross-border option just across the border in the United States; requires either border crossing or a drive around via a border bridge.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mexican residents with a strong border-city culture.
A sizable portion commute to El Paso for work or shopping.
A significant number of residents are under 35, contributing to a vibrant urban scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Mexico with local league matches and street games.
A notable sport heritage with occasional events and gyms in the city.
Interest in baseball with local teams and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Juárez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist at many taquerías; look for bean and cheese options, and request dishes without meat broths.