Mexicali

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mexicali's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes in downtown Mexicali, savoring traditional dishes like chilaquiles or machaca. After breakfast, stroll through the streets of the Historic Center, marveling at the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the city's story. Stop by the Plaza de los Tres Poderes, where you can take in the beautiful surroundings and appreciate the local culture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Museo Sol del Niño, which offers an interactive experience for both children and adults to learn about science and technology. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a popular taco stand, where you can indulge in authentic tacos de carne asada. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the nearby Mercado Municipal, a bustling market filled with local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Plaza Cívica, where you can enjoy live music and local performances. Dine at a traditional Mexican restaurant, experiencing the local flavors with dishes like birria or enchiladas. Finish your evening with a stroll through the park, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Mexicali at night.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Museums
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of cultural exploration. Visit the Museo de la Ciudad, where you can learn about Mexicali's rich history and heritage through exhibits and artifacts. Engage with local historians or guides to gain deeper insights into the city's past.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby cafe, make your way to the Centro Estatal de las Artes, an arts center showcasing contemporary art, galleries, and workshops. Take part in a creative workshop or simply enjoy the art exhibits on display. Spend some time relaxing in the gardens, appreciating the blend of art and nature.

evening
:

For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant, renowned for its fresh ceviche and shrimp dishes. After your meal, head to a local bar or cantina for live music, where you can dance the night away to traditional Mexican rhythms. Experience the warmth of Mexicali's nightlife and mingle with friendly locals.

day 3
Nature Day at the Colorado River
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the scenic views of the Colorado River. Afterward, embark on a kayaking adventure, paddling along the river while taking in the stunning landscapes and wildlife. Keep your camera ready for potential sightings of local birds and other fauna.

afternoon
:

After kayaking, enjoy a picnic lunch next to the river, surrounded by nature and tranquility. Spend your afternoon hiking along the river trails, exploring the flora and fauna unique to this region. Consider bringing a fishing pole, as the Colorado River is known for its great fishing opportunities.

evening
:

As evening approaches, relax at a riverside campfire, sharing stories and enjoying the serene atmosphere. Head back to the city for dinner at a popular grill, where you can savor delicious barbecued meats. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, reflecting on your nature-filled experiences.

day 4
Adventure at the Desert
morning
:

Start your day with a quick breakfast before heading out to the nearby desert for some adventure. Join a guided ATV tour, racing through the sandy dunes and enjoying the thrill of the ride. Marvel at the unique desert landscape and the stunning views from the higher elevations.

afternoon
:

After your exhilarating ride, stop for lunch at a local eatery that serves traditional Sonoran cuisine, including hearty burritos and tacos. Spend the afternoon hiking in the nearby Sierra de Juárez mountains, where you can explore trails and discover hidden vistas. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits this region.

evening
:

As the sun sets over the desert, gather around a campfire for an outdoor barbecue experience. Enjoy a traditional meal while listening to local stories and legends about the desert. After dinner, stargaze under the clear night sky, taking in the breathtaking constellations visible in the darkness.

day 5
Culinary Delights of Mexicali
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to a local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and traditional pastries. Attend a cooking class that focuses on the regional cuisine, learning to prepare dishes like tamales or mole. Engage with local chefs and discover the secrets behind authentic Mexican flavors.

afternoon
:

After your culinary class, enjoy the fruits of your labor by savoring the meal you prepared for lunch. Visit a local distillery to learn about the production of tequila and mezcal, and enjoy a tasting session to appreciate the different varieties. Take some time to relax at a nearby café, sipping on a traditional Mexican coffee.

evening
:

As the day winds down, visit a local dessert shop for a sweet treat, trying unique flavors of ice cream or traditional flan. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night, with street vendors and lively music filling the air. Reflect on the culinary journey you've experienced throughout the day.

day 6
Local Markets and Shopping
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a small local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, head to the Mercado de Mexicali, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Engage with the vendors, who are eager to share their stories and the significance of their products.

afternoon
:

For lunch, sample some street food from the market, such as tortas or quesadillas, experiencing the local flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the various shops in the city center, searching for unique souvenirs and gifts to take home. Don't miss the opportunity to visit artisan shops where you can find hand-crafted items and local art.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine, blending traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques. After your meal, take a stroll through the vibrant streets as local artists showcase their work. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar, enjoying a nightcap and the lively atmosphere of Mexicali nightlife.

day 7
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a healthy breakfast at a wellness-focused café, featuring smoothies and fresh juices. Afterward, treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa, indulging in massages and rejuvenating treatments. Spend the morning unwinding and letting the stress melt away as you enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a light meal at the spa's café, featuring healthy and delicious options. After your spa treatments, take a leisurely walk in a nearby park, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. Spend the remainder of the afternoon reading a book or journaling in a serene environment.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a calming dinner at a health-conscious restaurant, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a yoga or meditation class to end your day on a peaceful note. Reflect on your day of self-care and relaxation, feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

day 8
Fiesta and Local Celebrations
morning
:

Start your day with a festive breakfast at a local restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere. Join in on the preparations for a local fiesta, helping to decorate and set up for the day's events. Engage with the community, learning about the traditions and significance of the celebration.

afternoon
:

After a morning of excitement, enjoy a traditional lunch featuring regional dishes that are served during the fiesta. Participate in cultural activities such as folk dancing or traditional games, immersing yourself in the local culture. Spend time visiting booths that display crafts and local products, supporting local artisans.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy a lively dinner featuring music and dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Mexicali. Join in on the dancing, celebrating with locals and visitors alike in a joyful atmosphere. Conclude your evening by watching fireworks light up the night sky, marking the end of a memorable fiesta.

day 9
Exploring the Surrounding Valleys
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before embarking on an excursion to the neighboring Valle de Mexicali. Take a scenic drive through the valley, appreciating the stunning landscapes and agricultural fields. Stop at a local farm to learn about the region's produce and enjoy fresh fruit sampling.

afternoon
:

After exploring the farms, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the valley. Spend the afternoon hiking or biking along designated trails, taking in the natural beauty and fresh air. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, as the area is home to various species.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Mexicali for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing local ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the city, enjoying the evening vibe and perhaps stopping at a local dessert shop for a sweet treat. Reflect on the day's adventures, feeling enriched by the beauty of the surrounding areas.

Discover Mexicali

Read more in our Mexicali 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexicali Travel Guide