The Arrival
Landing in Guadalajara was easy—just a three-hour flight from Los Angeles, and suddenly it felt like winter didn’t exist. Midday temps were in the 70s, immigration was smooth, and everyone we met was genuinely kind and helpful. It felt welcoming right away.
After settling into Midtown, we grabbed a quick taquería snack—tacos with horchata and a super refreshing lime drink that hit the spot. A stop at Fresko turned into a mini food adventure: the most fragrant guava I’ve ever smelled and way more Takis flavors than I knew existed. The city was still glowing with holiday lights, and even MINISO surprised us with the cutest chef plushies. First day in, and Guadalajara already felt warm—in every
Exploring the Historic District
Historic downtown Guadalajara feels grounded in the best way. Palacio de Gobierno was my favorite stop—huge, quiet, and beautifully balanced, with open courtyards that make you slow down. Seeing José Clemente Orozco’s Hidalgo en llamas in person was more powerful in a way that photos don’t capture. Nearby, the Guadalajara Cathedral and the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres tie history and art together. Surrounding Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres are statues honoring important people who have significantly impacted national culture and ideas, such as Irene Robledo García, who is a writer, poet, and one of the first women in higher education in Jalisco. Being the holiday season, the Christmas lights still up added a soft twinkle to the whole area, making it feel even more special to walk through.
A Taste of the Local Cuisine
Everything about this meal felt made with love. From a comforting bowl of sopa azteca to dinner at Hueso restaurant, each dish felt thoughtful and intentional—risotto de hongos, calamar, and costilla braseada, all simple, warm, and full of care.
Art and Everyday Life
At Hospicio Cabañas, standing under El Hombre de Fuego felt intense but calm at the same time, like the fire was about change, not destruction. Later, seeing Fernando Sampedro use everyday images like Campbell’s soup and the Mona Lisa made art feel less distant and more like a conversation. Ending the day at Bosque Los Colomos, watching girls in their quinceañera dresses take photos in the Japanese Garden, was a quiet moment that stayed with me.
A Day Full of Celebration
The day moved between nature and culture, starting with close-up moments with giraffes, meerkats, capybaras, and the aquarium, then shifting to the festive streets of Tlaquepaque, a UNESCO-recognized heritage area. Walking through the stalls, I saw beautifully made Mexican leather goods, woven purses, and handmade bracelets, all surrounded by music and energy. It felt lively and joyful—a day full of color!
A Day at the Lakes
Time near the ranches and lakes felt easy and unhurried. Sombreros, leather cowboy boots, and quiet moments around Ajijic and Lake Chapala showed a softer, more relaxed side of Jalisco that made the trip slow down in the best way.
Reflections
Guadalajara felt calm and full of contrast. Between the amazing art, animals, busy markets, and quiet moments by the water, the trip never felt rushed. I left feeling more grounded and appreciative of the small, everyday details.