Top Picks
Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Discover a diverse array of native plants in this beautifully curated botanical garden that is one of the oldest in North America. Just a short walk away from the hotel and located adjacent to the beautiful Santo Domingo cathedral. Available to visit by tour only, advance tickets recommended.
Santo Domingo
The Templo de Santo Domingo is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a cultural icon of Oaxaca. Adorned with intricate carvings and gold details, the church is a masterpiece inside and out. Don’t miss the adjoining Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, which showcases artifacts from Monte Albán and Oaxaca’s vibrant cultural history.
Mercado Benito Juárez
Oaxaca’s markets are a feast for the senses and a cornerstone of local life. Visit Mercado Benito Juárez for handmade crafts and traditional Oaxacan goods or the Mercado 20 de Noviembre next door for an unforgettable food experience. Savor local specialties like mole, tlayudas, and freshly made tortillas while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. These markets are perfect for picking up souvenirs and enjoying authentic Oaxacan flavors.
Museo Textil de Oaxaca
The Museo Textil de Oaxaca is a treasure trove of vibrant colors and intricate craftsmanship, celebrating the region’s rich textile heritage. Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, the museum features a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary textiles from Oaxaca and beyond. Exhibits showcase techniques like weaving, embroidery, and dyeing, highlighting the cultural significance and artistry behind each piece.
Monte Albán
Monte Albán is a remarkable archaeological site and one of the most important ancient Zapotec cities in Mesoamerica. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley. Explore its grand plazas, ceremonial platforms, and intricate carvings that reveal the rich history of the Zapotec civilization. This is located outside the historic center and can be visited independently via taxi or by tour if you would like an end-to-end guided experience and shuttle.
Mezcal Tasting
Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, an agave-based spirit that is known for its smoky flavor and depth of minerality. Try one of the many varieties of mezcal (cuish, madrecuishe, jabali, and tepeztate to name a few) at a downtown tasting room. Or, if you have the day to do a tour, take a trip to the "palenques" and you can experience the unique distillation process in person. Downtown tasting rooms to try: Yuyank, Cuish, La Mezcaloteca, Mezcaleria in Situ.