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There are great many things to do in Mexico, and so are in San Juan del Rio.
San Juan del Rio is a gem waiting to be discovered, a vibrant city with plenty of activities and sights that will leave you enchanted like a bird spellbound by a serpent’s song.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in San Juan del Rio:
1. Los Fundadores Park
Los Fundadores Park is a public park located in the heart of San Juan del Rio, in the state of Queretaro in Mexico.
What to see or do: The park includes a large central plaza surrounded by gardens, fountains, and sculptures. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the park, and admire the vibrant colors of the flowers.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the iconic sculpture of the founders of San Juan del Rio, which stands tall in the center of the park.
It is a popular spot for taking photos.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the day to fully appreciate its beauty and architecture.
The park is also a great place to have a family picnic or to relax in the shade on a hot day.
2. Tequisquiapan River
Tequisquiapan River is a scenic river that flows through the charming town of San Juan del Rio in Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide through the calm waters.
Have a picnic with family or friends in one of the several parks located near the river.
Don’t miss: Witness the mesmerizing sunrise or sunset over the river while enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Catch a glimpse of the diverse wildlife that inhabits the river, including various species of birds and fish.
Insider travel tips: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun can be intense. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the area.
3. Las Ranas Water Park
Las Ranas is a water park located in San Juan del Rio, Queretaro, Mexico. It is an ideal place for a family outing.
What to see or do: The park has different attractions, including wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and play areas for children. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or barbecue area, lounge chairs, and shaded palapas.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions is the Tornado, a giant water slide that spins riders around in a giant funnel.
The Kamikaze slide offers a thrilling freefall, while the boogie slide provides a more gentle ride.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
4. Templo de la Cruz Church
Templo de la Cruz is a historic church located in San Juan del Rio, a city in the state of Queretaro, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture of the church, which features a unique blend of Baroque and Moorish styles. The interior boasts stunning artwork and religious artifacts, including a painted wooden altarpiece.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the Holy Cross, a small wooden cross that is believed to have miraculous healing powers.
It is kept in a glass case inside the church and is the object of great veneration by devotees.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to dress modestly when visiting the church.
5. San Juan del Rio Historic Center
San Juan del Rio Historic Center is a beautiful and charming colonial town located in the state of Queretaro, Mexico.
What to see or do: – Visit the San Juan Bautista Church, a stunning example of Mexican baroque architecture.
Don’t miss: The colorful buildings and lovely squares in San Juan del Rio make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the state of Queretaro.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk through the historic center.
6. San Juan del Rio Municipal Market
San Juan del Rio Municipal Market is a vibrant marketplace located in the heart of the city in Queretaro, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the market stalls that are full of colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and other local products.
Don’t miss: Be sure to sample delicious street food such as tacos, gorditas, and tamales. Sip on freshly squeezed juices, try local cheeses, and indulge in mouth-watering sweets like churros and pan dulce.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning when the market is bustling with activity.
7. Pena de Bernal
Iconic monolithic rock formation in Mexico.
What to see or do: Hike to the top of the rock for stunning views of the surrounding countryside, or take a guided tour to learn about the geological history and cultural significance of Pena de Bernal.
Don’t miss: The Pueblo Magico of Bernal, a charming town nearby that is known for its traditional handicrafts and delicious food.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and bring plenty of water, as it can get quite hot and dry.
If you’re interested in the local history, visit the Museo de la Mascara in San Luis Potosi to see examples of traditional masks used in local festivals and ceremonies.
8. Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint
Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint is a popular tourist spot in San Juan del Rio, Mexico, that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
What to see or do: From the viewpoint, visitors can take in the panoramic views of San Juan del Rio, with its red-tiled roofs, expansive green areas, and historic buildings.
The spot is particularly popular at sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and pink. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking shots.
Don’t miss: While at Cerro de la Cruz, make sure to take a stroll along the walking paths and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
There’s a large cross at the top of the hill, which marks the spot where the viewpoint is located. Don’t forget to bring along some snacks and water, as there are no shops or restaurants on site.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to visit the viewpoint during the weekdays when there are fewer crowds.
9. Hacienda La Llave
Hacienda La Llave is a historic 16th-century hacienda located in San Juan del Rio, Queretaro.
What to see or do: Explore the colonial architecture and beautiful gardens of the hacienda. Visit the museum to learn about the history of the property and the region.
Take a guided tour to see the underground tunnels that were once used to transport goods.
Don’t miss: The beautiful chapel on the property, which features original frescoes and altarpieces.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to try the local cheese and wine while visiting the hacienda. Look out for special events and festivals that are held on the property throughout the year.
10. Pueblo Magico of Tequisquiapan
A charming Pueblo Magico located in the state of Queretaro, Mexico.
What to see or do: Stroll through the colorful streets and admire the colonial architecture of this picturesque town. Visit the Tequisquiapan Market, where you can find a variety of traditional crafts, pottery, and delicious local treats.
Explore the town’s hot springs and spas, where you can relax and unwind in natural pools and indulge in spa treatments.
Take a hot air balloon ride over the valley and admire the breathtaking views.
Don’t miss: The Wedding Gardens, a beautiful park featuring cascading fountains, rose gardens, and a small lake. The La Pila Park, a lovely public space with shaded paths, benches, and a playground for children.
The Parish of Santa Maria de la Asuncion, a stunning church with an intricate facade and interior decor. The cheese and wine festival held annually in May.
Insider travel tips: Try the local cheese, which is delicious and unique to the region. Take a guided tour of the vineyards in the surrounding areas and indulge in some wine tasting.
Visit during the week if possible to avoid crowds and get a more authentic experience. Be sure to try the delicious traditional Mexican pastries sold at the local bakeries.
11. Ezequiel Montes Wine Route
Ezequiel Montes Wine Route is a picturesque wine region located near San Juan del Rio in Mexico, known for its excellent wines, vineyards, and wineries.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a scenic wine-tasting tour and explore the region’s scenic beauty by visiting the different wineries and vineyards.
There are many excellent wine-tasting opportunities along the route, and visitors can enjoy delicious food pairings, live music, and beautiful views while trying out various local wines.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Ezequiel Montes Wine Route is a visit to La Redonda Vineyard, which is one of the most popular wineries in the region.
Another must-see is Finca Sala Vivé, which is the largest producer of sparkling wine in Mexico and an excellent place to take a wine-tasting tour.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to visit during the annual wine festival in August when the entire region comes alive with music, wine, and festive atmosphere.
12. Escamoles Museum
The Escamoles Museum (Museo de los Escamoles) is a small museum located in San Juan del Rio, Mexico, dedicated to the study and promotion of the traditional practice of harvesting ant eggs, known as escamoles.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits that showcase the different types of ants that produce escamoles, their nesting habits, and the tools and techniques used to collect these tiny delicacies.
Visitors can also learn about the nutritional and economic qualities of escamoles and their role in the local cuisine.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a guided tour of the museum to learn about the cultural and culinary significance of escamoles to the region.
You can also purchase escamoles and other ant-based products at the gift shop.
Insider travel tips: If you’re feeling adventurous, try some escamoles at a local restaurant – they are often sautéed and served with tortillas. However, be aware that they can be a bit of an acquired taste!
Additionally, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free.
13. Hacienda Tres Padres
A boutique hotel and coffee plantation in San Juan del Rio, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the coffee plantation to learn about the process of growing and roasting coffee beans. Relax by the outdoor pool or in the on-site spa.
Explore the beautiful gardens and orchards. Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as the Teotihuacan pyramids or the hot springs of La Gruta.
Don’t miss: A coffee tasting session to sample the delicious and unique flavors produced by the plantation.
Insider travel tips: Book a room with a balcony to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Take advantage of the hotel’s shuttle service to explore the nearby town of San Juan del Rio.
Be sure to try the delicious local cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant.
14. El Cerrito Archaeological Zone
El Cerrito Archaeological Zone is a pre-Hispanic complex located in San Juan del Rio, Mexico. It was built by the Otomi people around 800 CE.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of pyramids, palaces, and temples that once existed in this ancient city. There are also several on-site museums that showcase pottery and artifacts from the Otomi civilization.
Don’t miss: The Great Pyramid, which stands at over 131 feet tall, is the main attraction of the site. It was used for religious ceremonies and is considered one of the largest pyramids in Mexico.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be quite strong.
It’s also recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
15. San Gil Golf Club
San Gil Golf Club is a private 18-hole golf course located in San Juan del Rio, Mexico.
What to see or do: The golf club offers a beautiful setting amidst the rolling hills and natural beauty of the region. Golfers can play a round of golf while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the signature hole at the golf course, Hole 9, a challenging par 3 that requires precision and accuracy.
Insider travel tips: If you’re not a member of San Gil Golf Club, you can still play a round of golf by contacting the club and arranging a tee time.
The club also offers golf lessons for those looking to improve their skills. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the weather can be hot and sunny.