Things To Do
in San Francisco de los Romo

San Francisco de los Romo is a small, agriculturally rooted municipality in the state of Aguascalientes, Mexico, nestled on the western edge of the Bajío plateau. It blends a quiet rural atmosphere with a warm, traditional Mexican town vibe, where markets, chapels, and friendly residents mark daily life. The surrounding countryside features fields of cotton, maize, and grazing land linked by winding, scenic roads ideal for relaxed exploration.

Visitors can enjoy authentic regional flavors, easy access to the city of Aguascalientes, and hospitable local hospitality that characterizes this part of central Mexico.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican pastries and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful San Francisco de los Romo Parish, a stunning example of local craftsmanship.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at a nearby restaurant, where you can try dishes like birria or enchiladas. Afterward, explore the local market, where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the local culture.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a walk through the town square, where you might catch a glimpse of local families enjoying the evening breeze. Stop by a local ice cream shop for a refreshing treat, choosing from a variety of unique flavors. End your day by attending a cultural event or performance if available, experiencing the vibrant local music scene.

day 2
Adventure at the Aquatic Park
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Aquatic Park, where you can enjoy a swim or relax by the water. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you bask in the sun. The peaceful atmosphere in the morning makes it a perfect time for some light exercise or yoga on the beach.

afternoon
:

After your morning at the park, grab a picnic lunch and find a shady spot to enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing or rent a small boat to explore the waters further.

evening
:

As evening falls, watch the sunset over the water, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Head back to town and enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, relishing delicious seafood dishes. Finish your day with a quiet stroll along the shore, reflecting on the adventures you had.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
🚍Public transit (local bus) fare$0.50-1
Coffee/tea at a cafe$1-3
🍺Beer at a bar$2-4
🎟️Movie ticket$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Aguascalientes city with easy day trips
  • Warm, welcoming local culture and hospitality
  • Affordable food, markets, and accommodations
  • Pleasant rural landscapes and accessible countryside activities
  • Limited large-scale nightlife or themed entertainment
  • Fewer well-known tourist sights compared to bigger cities
  • Heat in peak summer months; plan for early-morning activities
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in San Francisco de los Romo

Visit one of these nice places.

Main Plaza and Parish Church

Colonial-era façades, the church tower, and lively morning markets provide classic Mexican streetscape photography with golden hour opportunities.

Market Stallfronts at Dawn

Colorful stalls, farmers with baskets, and steam rising from hot foods create vibrant, documentary-style images.

Countryside Outskirts at Sunset

Rolling fields and dirt roads dot the landscape; capture silhouettes of distant hills as the sun sinks.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Francisco de los Romo

The cuisine in this region emphasizes simple, hearty Mexican fare with fresh produce, grilled meats, corn-based dishes, and regional cheeses. Expect flavorful salsas, tortillas made daily, and small, family-run eateries that emphasize hospitality and home-style cooking.

San Francisco de los Romo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Birria de res

Slow-braised beef in a rich chile sauce, often served with onions, cilantro, and warm tortillas at mercados and cantinas.

Must-Try!

Asado de res

Hearty beef with smoky spices, typically enjoyed with rice, beans, or tender tortillas.

Tamales de rajas

Corn dough filled with poblano peppers and cheese, steamed in corn husks; a common breakfast or snack.

Torta oaxaqueña

Savory sandwiches with local meats, fresh veggies, and zesty salsas—perfect for a quick lunch on the go.

Atole y atole de arroz

Warm, traditional beverages and porridge-like drinks accompanying breakfast or dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal San Francisco

A daily market where vendors sell produce, cheeses, freshly baked goods, and traditional snacks; a good place to sample local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Francisco de los Romo has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Expect warm to hot daytime temperatures in summer and cooler nights in winter. The rainy season typically runs in the summer-to-autumn transition, with most rain occurring in the late summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Begin with a friendly hola or buenos días; a handshake or light affectionate greeting is common in casual settings.

Religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches and remove hats; ask before taking photos inside sacred spaces.

Photography

Ask locals before taking close-up portraits; be respectful of private spaces and markets during busy hours.

Pace of life

Expect a relaxed pace; taking time to chat with locals is valued and appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in many towns, stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist areas. Travel during daylight hours when possible, keep valuables secure, and use reputable taxis or rideshare services. Hydrate in hot weather and check local advisories for weather or road conditions.

Tipping in San Francisco de los Romo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is customary if service is not included. For bars and taxis, rounding up or a small extra is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many shops and restaurants also take cards. ATMs are available in town and in Aguascalientes city; carry some pesos for markets and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant temperatures with budding vegetation; great for outdoor strolling and photography in the late afternoon.

Summer

Hot days with possible afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and explore early in the day.

Autumn

Mild days and cooler evenings; ideal for walking tours and markets without the peak heat.

Winter

Cool mornings and nights; light layers are recommended, and evenings are comfortable for plaza activities.

Nightlife Guide

San Francisco de los Romo at Night

The nightlife is typically low-key and centered around town plazas, family-friendly cantinas, and casual bars. Weekends may feature live music or traditional performances in public spaces, with a focus on conversation, outdoor seating, and local flavors rather than a nightclub scene.

Hiking in San Francisco de los Romo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sierra Fría Foothills Loop

Moderate loop trail along the foothills with views of the valley, shaded sections, and opportunities to spot local birds and plants.

Cerro de la Cruz Summit Trail

Short to moderate ascent offering panoramic town and countryside views; best during sunrise or late afternoon.

Airports

How to reach San Francisco de los Romo by plane.

Lic. Jesús Terán Peredo International Airport (AGU)

Located in Aguascalientes city; the main regional airport with domestic and some international connections; about 40-60 minutes by car from San Francisco de los Romo.

Del Bajío International Airport (BJX)

Also known as Guanajuato International Airport; located near Silao/León; serves multiple domestic and international routes and is a common alternative for longer trips, roughly 2-3 hours by car depending on traffic.

San Luis Potosí International Airport (SLP)

A regional hub with several domestic connections; an option for longer itineraries, typically reachable by road in a few hours depending on routing.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is quite walkable, with compact streets, plazas, and markets. Sidewalks are common in the core, but some edges can be uneven or hilly, so wear comfortable shoes if exploring the outskirts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Mestizo with strong rural roots; families have deep ties to agriculture and local traditions.

Elderly population

A steady presence in town centers and churches, contributing to a slower, community-focused pace.

Young adults and students

Growing presence around markets and educational centers, contributing to a small but active nightlife and cultural scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The most popular sport in town and region, with local leagues, school teams, and community matches visible in plazas and fields.

Bull riding and rodeo events

Cultural events during festivals and fairs often feature traditional rodeo activities and exhibitions.

Baseball and softball

Amateur leagues and school programs are common during the spring and summer seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is usually light-to-moderate, with occasional congestion near markets and during festival days. Public transit exists but is limited compared to larger cities; most visitors rely on taxis or car rentals. For longer trips to Aguascalientes or other cities, highway conditions are generally good, but plan for peak travel times on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Francisco de los Romo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many markets and restaurants offer cheese-based, bean, and vegetable dishes. Look for veggie quesadillas, gorditas, legumes, and fresh salads; ask for no meat broth in soups and clarify that you don’t want lard or animal-based stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in town and nearby clinics, with more comprehensive services available in Aguascalientes city. For serious or specialized care, plan to visit a larger hospital in the regional city (Aguascalientes) or major medical centers in the area.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide