Daniela & Jeremy
Tourism/Turismo
Playa Miramar
Playa Miramar is considered to be one of the most beautiful of the Gulf of Mexico. Its shores cover about 10 km (6 mi), with extensive golden sandy areas where people can find palapas with lounge chairs, ample parking, restaurants, hotels, public restrooms, motorcycle and bike rentals. The sea in this area is very calm with gentle waves, a strikingly beautiful blue color, and shallow waters.
Las Escolleras
The Malecon is a spectacle for lovers! On the shores of Playa Miramar in the city of Madero, you can see a huge stretch of boardwalk measuring 1,340 meters (1,465 yds) long. The place is popularly known as “Las Escolleras” or "The Piers," although in reality they are talking about the city’s waterfront. The construction took place in the times of Porfirio Diaz, to confine the joining of the Rio Panuco with the Gulf of Mexico. In fact when you walk around, you can see the different colors reflected in the water from one side to the other. The walk is well worth it when the end is reached. Here the shrimp boats can be seen more closely who are working on the high seas, and sometimes visitors are rewarded with the sighting of Toninas (a dolphin-like animal) that play by groups in the area. Las escolleras is also home to many local racoons, who will approach you if you have any food!
Laguna del Carpintero
In front of the Parque Metropolitano, one can appreciate the beautiful natural landscape that is composed of a small lake which is fed by the waters of the Rio Panuco by way of the Canal de la Cortadura. The Laguna del Carpintero, or Woodpecker Lagoon, a very important ecosystem for the city of Tampico. Despite the presence of human beings, many crocodiles still live in the environment, locals have named them "Juancho". Thankfully, these animals do not harm people, but of course it is recommended not to swim in the pond so as not to bother them. However, other activities can be enjoyed, such as boat rides to admire the surroundings. And, a walkway has been placed on the outskirts of the pond where people gather together, especially in the evenings, for sports and family outings.
Altama City Center
Shopping Center with an amazing variety of stores, restaurants, cinemas and fast food, there are also options for entertainment and play grounds. Is definitely a great choice to hang out with family and friends and spend your day.
Plaza de la Libertad
The true heart of the city can be seen at the Plaza de la Libertad. It is the most important point in the center, by the historical value of the buildings that surround it. Among these buildings are the Casa de Castilla, La Campana building, and the building of the Treasury, among others. In the center of the square, a unique kiosk with European blacksmithing can be seen, and if you pay enough attention you will notice that in general, the buildings all around are highlighted with precisely the same blacksmithing details with which the old houses are also decorated. There is an outstanding monument to the settlers of Tampico, erected in 1923, that stands between the Treasury building and the old Hotel Seville to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the city. On this street you will find access to the food market and the Old Customs building.
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas of Tampico, also known as Plaza de la Constitution, is the spot most representative of the historic downtown. Surrounding the square, one can see the Cathedral or Temple of the Immaculate Conception, the city hall and the DIF building (Department of Integral Family Development), all of which boast abstentious architecture and beautiful neo-classical facades. In the center of the square there is a extravagant kiosk built in 1945 made with pink stone. Around the square are two snack bars that are a long tradition in the city. Their specialty is the natural juices made with fruits from the region, no doubt a delight to the palate for the commonly hot days of Tampico.
Tortas de la barda
Many people will say that if you visit Tampico and don’t eat a Torta de la Barda, our famous local sandwich, it’s like you didn’t visit at all. Our food is a very important part of our culture, and Tortas de la Barda is on the top of that list. This torta has been sold in small stands settled along the brick fence of the Tampico Marine Terminal and next to the Train Station since the early 1930’s (“barda” means “fence” or “barrier”, that is “Tortas de la Barda” got its name). This started when Mr. José Ma. Bracamontes and his wife Silvestre Martinez, who owned a taco stand, decide to also sell this torta to the marine terminal and train station workers. The tortas are filled with shredded beef, pork rinds in green salsa, refried beans, pork cheese head, thinly sliced ham, cheese, tomatoes, onions, avocado slices, and Mexican chorizo.