INLAND TO GUADALAJARA AND LAKE CHAPALA

Puerto Vallarta residents often go to Guadalajara (pop. 3 million, elev. 5,214 ft./1,589 m), the capital of Jalisco, for the same reason Californians frequently go to Los Angeles: to shop and choose from big selections at correspondingly small prices.

  But that’s only part of the fascination. Although Guadalajarans like to think of themselves as different (calling themselves, uniquely, “Tapatíos”), their city is renowned as the “most Mexican” of cities. Crowds flock to Guadalajara to bask in its mild, springlike sunshine, savor its music, and admire its grand monuments.

A Walk Around Old Guadalajara: See the Guadalajara Cathedral, the Regional Museum, the Degollado Theater, and bronze Frieze of the Founders of Guadalajara. (read more)

Plaza Tapatía: Around the broad Plaza Tapatía, you’ll find the Hospicio Cabañas and its José Clemente Orozco Museum and murals, the Centro Joyero jewelry center, and the grand Libertad Market. (read more)

Basilica of the Virgin of Zapopan: Go to Zapopan, northwest of downtown to visit the Virgin of Zapopan in her basilica. Afterward, stop by the adjacent Museum of the Virgin and the Huichol museum/crafts shop. (read more)

Tequila Express: Ride the train to the town of Amatitan, an hour west of Guadalajara, for a tour of the tequila liquor distillery in the historic ex-Hacienda San José. Included along the way are a gala Mexican buffet and folkloric show, with dances, mariachis, and a roping exhibition. (read more)

Tlaquepaque Shopping Tour: Start on Independencia, first visiting the Regional Museum of Ceramics and Popular art. Next, admire the selections of the many shops and galleries here and on parallel shopping street Juárez. Stay overnight in a comfortable bed-and-breakfasts, such as the Quinta Don José. (read more)

Mezcala Island Excursion: Hire a boat at the Chapala pier for an excursion to historic Mezcala Island via Isla Alacranes. Plan for lunch at one of the Isla Alacranes restaurants. (read more)

Neill James Library and Garden: Stroll the town plaza, browse crafts shops and boutiques, soak in the Neill James Library and Garden, and enjoy sunset from the Ajijic Pier. Have dinner at a good restaurant, such as the Hotel la Nueva Posada. (read more)