Things To Do
Jardin Principal
The central square of town, the Jardin Principal is the “heart” of San Miguel de Allende that bustles with activity at all hours. The streets surrounding the Jardin are filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and historic buildings – including the home of Ignacio Allende, who was one of the principal leaders of Mexico’s War of Independence in the early 19th Century.
MERCADO ARTESANIAS IGNACIO RAMÍREZ
Open daily from 10am to 6pm. The Mercado Artesanias, a short walk down Homobono is the perfect place to see an array of handmade work of local artisans as well as to get fresh fruit and fresh and cooked vegetables. Artwork in brass, wool, quarry and mesquite wood carving, papeer mache, glass, obrajería, goldsmithing and ceramics abound. Prices are reasonable, and vendors distribute grilled sweetcorn to passers-by. The energy is pure San Miguel de Allende.
Fabrica Aurora
Open daily from 10am to 6pm. Sundays from 10am to 5pm. What was once a textile Factory, is now called the ‘La Aurora’ Cultural Arts and Design Center. The factory’s halls are filled with Modern Art galleries, designer furniture and interior design stores, along with antiques, jewelry, embroidery, and many active artist's studios – some of which offer classes in painting, drawing and other media. The expansive property also has a lovely cafe and three restaurants – including Grandpa&sons, which serves perhaps the best burgers in town.
Charco del Igenio
Charco del Ingenio is a peaceful botanical garden and nature preserve just outside of town, with walking trails, native plants, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a wonderful escape if you want a quiet morning or afternoon to slow down, stretch your legs, and see a different side of San Miguel. We especially recommend it for nature lovers or anyone looking for a calm break from the bustle of Centro.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride just outside San Miguel de Allende. Flights take off early in the morning and offer sweeping views of the city and surrounding countryside, followed by a celebratory toast after landing. It’s an early start, but one of the most magical ways to see the area and well worth it if you have the time.
Wine Tasting
Viñedo Dos Búhos - An organic winery about 15 minutes from the center Cuna de Tierra - One of the region's most established vineyards Viñedo San Miguel - Known for its cabernet sauvignon and merlot Viñedo San Lucas - Features tastings with vineyard views Rancho Toyan - A boutique winery with unique architecture Santísima Trinidad - A family-owned vineyard with beautiful grounds Viñedo La Santísima Trinidad - Known for its wine tours and tastings Tres Raíces - A newer vineyard with modern facilities and restaurant Most of these vineyards offer tours and tastings, and some have restaurants on-site. They're typically located within a 30-minute drive from San Miguel de Allende in the Guanajuato wine region.
Walk the Streets
Some notable streets in San Miguel: - Calle Aldama - Picturesque cobblestone street with colorful buildings and great photo opportunities - Calle Zacateros - Lined with shops, cafes, and art galleries - Calle Hernández Macías - Known for its restaurants and boutiques - Calle Recreo - Beautiful residential street with impressive architecture - Calle Sollano - Historic street with high-end shops and galleries - Calle Relox - Features the famous Angela Peralta Theater and leads to the main plaza - Calle Quebrada - Charming narrow street with distinctive architecture - Calle San Francisco - Leads to the Public Library and Cultural Center with a lovely café - Calle Jesús - Connects to the artisan market and has many local shops - Calle Correo - Home to the famous Parroquia church and connects to El Jardín
Where to Eat
- La Unica - Located in el centro, with a great view and a contemporary Mexican menu. - Hecho en México - Traditional Mexican home cooking in a vibrant atmosphere. - Tio Lucas- One of the most traditional restaurants in San Miguel, decked out with Mexican Art. - Mi Bistro 300 - Great spot for breakfast and lunch. - Tostévere - Eclectic spot with colonial charm and gourmet tostadas. - Casa Nostra - Romantic, candle-lit restaurant with delicious Italian food. - The Bistro Restaurant - Steakhouse with beautiful ambiance.
Where to Drink
- Bekeb - Contemporary rooftop cocktail bar with artisanal drinks and a chic atmosphere above Live Aqua. - Tunki by Handshake - An award-winning rooftop bar at the Belmond Sierra Nevada Hotel, with one of the best views in town. - Cantina El manantial - A classic Mexican cantina with authentic seafood and drinks. - The Room Mezcaleria - Mezcal-focused cocktail and tasting room with options for a guided mezcal tasting experience.