Things To Do
in Los Reyes de Juárez

Los Reyes de Juárez is a small highland town in Hidalgo, Mexico, set in a gentle valley and ringed by rolling hills. Its plaza and church anchor a pace of life that blends tradition with friendly, everyday exchanges. Visitors wander narrow streets, browse markets, and share meals with locals at family-run eateries.

The town serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby countryside and cultural sites while offering authentic, welcoming Mexican hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. After breakfast, stroll through the historic streets of Los Reyes de Juárez, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the town's story. Visit the Plaza Principal and take a moment to appreciate the stunning church, Parroquia de San Juan Bautista, with its intricate design and beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, perhaps trying some fresh seafood or local tacos. Afterward, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Museo de Los Reyes, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the area through informative exhibits. Spend some time shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artisans in the nearby markets.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at an outdoor restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy the warm evening breeze and a view of the bustling plaza. Try some traditional dishes paired with local drinks such as mezcal or horchata. End your day with a stroll through the lively streets, soaking in the ambiance as locals gather to socialize and enjoy the night.

day 2
Nature Escape: El Parque Nacional
morning
:

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to El Parque Nacional, a beautiful natural reserve just outside of Los Reyes de Juárez. Take in the fresh air and stunning landscapes as you hike along the trails, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Look out for local wildlife, such as various bird species and small mammals, while enjoying the serenity of the park.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the picturesque scenery, perhaps near a tranquil stream or under the shade of a tree. Continue your adventure by trying out some light rock climbing or bouldering, suitable for all experience levels, with the guidance of a local expert. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and tranquility before making your way back to town.

evening
:

Return to Los Reyes de Juárez in the evening and unwind at a local taqueria, where you can indulge in mouthwatering tacos al pastor or carne asada. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you share stories about your day with fellow travelers or locals. Cap off the night with a visit to a local bar or cafe for a taste of the nightlife, perhaps enjoying live music or a cultural performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch for two$12-25
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-40
🚌Local transport per ride$0.5-2
Coffee at cafe$1-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Central location for exploring the Hidalgo region
  • Friendly locals and authentic cultural experiences
  • Limited nightlife and tourist services
  • Smaller infrastructure compared with bigger cities
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ayúdame, por favor" - Help me, please
  • "¡Salud!" - Cheers/Bless you!

Places to Visit in Los Reyes de Juárez

Visit one of these nice places.

Main Plaza and Municipal Cathedral

A classic colonial plaza with the church’s imposing facade, colorful markets, and evening alamedas; best at golden hour.

Historic Calle Hidalgo Arch and Facades

Cobbled streets, traditional houses, and ornate ironwork; early morning or late afternoon lighting enhances textures.

Mercado Municipal Interior

Busy, colorful stalls offering produce and street food; candid portraits and texture shots shine here.

Rooftop Viewpoint Overlooking Hills

Rooftops and a valley horizon provide a quiet vantage point for landscape sunsets over the town.

Culinary Guide

Food in Los Reyes de Juárez

The local cuisine is hearty and corn-based, with influence from indigenous and mestizo traditions. Expect tortilas, stews, fresh salsas, aguas frescas, and simple but flavorful meat dishes cooked in clay or on open grills.

Los Reyes de Juárez Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barbacoa de Hidalgo

Slow-roasted, tender meat (often goat or lamb) served with tortillas and fresh salsas; a must-try at markets or taquerías.

Must-Try!

Mixiotes

Meat seasoned with chilies and spices, wrapped in maguey leaves and cooked slowly; look for vendors near markets or family eateries.

Pastes

A Hidalgo specialty similar to a filled pastry, fried or baked; common in bakeries and street stalls.

Caldo de Pollo or Caldo de Res

Traditional clear broth soups with chicken or beef and vegetables; comforting and widely available.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal Los Reyes

Core market with fresh produce, prepared foods, tamales, and aguas frescas; great for a quick, authentic bite.

Mercado Central Hidalgo

Traditional stalls offering snacks, tortillas, salsas, and regional beverages; ideal for wandering and people-watching.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a temperate climate with warm days and cooler nights. Summers can be hot with a pronounced rainy season in late spring and early summer; winters are mild. The air is typically crisp in the mornings, becoming warmer as the day progresses.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet others with a friendly ‘Buenos días/tarde/noche’ and a handshake or abrazo in informal settings; address elders with ‘Señor/Señora’.

Public behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites and ask before taking photos of people, especially in private spaces.

Conversation

Polite, indirect communication; avoid sensitive topics like politics or crime in casual conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise common-sense safety: keep valuables secure in crowded markets, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and rely on well-lit, populated areas. Use reputable transportation, agree on fares before starting rides, and stay aware of weather-related travel conditions. In case of emergency, local authorities and healthcare facilities are accessible in larger towns nearby.

Tipping in Los Reyes de Juárez

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, waiter tips of 10-15% are appreciated if not included. For taxis and bellhops, a small tip is common. Street vendors usually do not expect tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; many shops accept cards in larger establishments. Keep small bills for tips and street vendors; ATMs are common in towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days with potential afternoon storms; stay hydrated and seek shade; early mornings are best for outdoor activities.

Rainy Season

June–October brings frequent showers and lush green landscapes; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.

Winter

Mild days with cooler nights; evenings can be chilly; great for strolls after sunset.

Nightlife Guide

Los Reyes de Juárez at Night

The nightlife in Los Reyes de Juárez is relaxed and family-friendly. Evenings in the plaza frequently feature street musicians, informal gatherings, and small cantinas or taquerías where locals share conversation and stories. Late-night options are modest, with most venues closing early, making it a great place for a peaceful, authentic night out with locals.

Hiking in Los Reyes de Juárez

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Foothill Nature Trail A

A gentle loop through the surrounding hills with viewpoints over the town and farmland.

Ridge Trail B

A moderate hike offering a panoramic overlook of the valley and distant settlements.

Waterfall Path C

A short hike to a seasonal waterfall, best after rainfall and with proper footwear.

Airports

How to reach Los Reyes de Juárez by plane.

Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

Major international gateway about a few hours by road; best for international arrivals and connections.

Querétaro International Airport (QRO)

Regional airport serving central Mexico with domestic and some international flights; convenient if traveling from the north or west.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable; most attractions, markets, and eateries are within a short stroll. Side streets can be steep or uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes. Public spaces like plazas are great for easy wandering and people-watching.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families and agricultural workers

A mix of families who work in agriculture, crafts, and small businesses; multi-generational households common.

Young adults

Students and young professionals who contribute to local commerce and cultural events.

Indigenous and mestizo communities

A blend of regional cultures with traditional practices that influence crafts, food, and celebrations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport, with local teams and informal games throughout the year.

Baseball

Occasional local league play and community events, especially in regional towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are generally calm, with local buses and taxis readily available. Expect light to moderate traffic in peak hours around markets or events. Public transportation is functional but not as extensive as in larger cities; walking or cycling can be enjoyable for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Reyes de Juárez.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can find beans, corn, nopales, and simple vegetable dishes; ask for rice, veggie soups, and salads; avoid lard-based toppings and check broth ingredients in soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the town is basic but adequate for routine needs; clinics and pharmacies are available locally, with larger hospitals in nearby cities. For more complex care, plan visits to regional health centers or hospitals in larger towns.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide