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If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Uruapan.
Uruapan is a hidden gem in Mexico’s Michoacán state, where culture, history, and natural beauty fuse into an irresistible blend of experiences.
Whether you want to lose yourself in the enchanting forests, sink your teeth into mouthwatering cuisine, or soak up the vibrancy of the local scene, Uruapan guarantees to leave you spellbound.
So, get ready to embrace the abundance of delights that this charming city offers, for a journey that will linger in your heart forever.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Uruapan:
1. Parque Nacional Barranca del Cupatitzio
Parque Nacional Barranca del Cupatitzio is a national park located in Uruapan, Mexico.
What to see or do: The park features stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and a variety of native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, take a dip in the crystal clear stream, and admire the beautiful landscape.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss seeing the park’s main attraction, the Cupatitzio River, which runs through the park and forms a series of cascading waterfalls.
Be sure to also check out the park’s botanical gardens, which showcase a diverse range of plant life.
Insider travel tips: – Bring comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen as you’ll likely spend a lot of time walking around and exploring the park.
2. Jardín Botánico “Francisco Xavier Clavijero”
Jardín Botánico “Francisco Xavier Clavijero” is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico. It is spread over an area of 213 hectares, making it one of the largest botanical gardens in the country.
What to see or do: The garden boasts a vast collection of plant species, including some rare and endangered ones.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and explore its different ecosystems, including temperate forests, tropical rainforests, and wetlands.
The garden also has several walking trails that are suitable for visitors of all ages.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the garden is the butterfly sanctuary, where visitors can witness the beauty of hundreds of different butterfly species.
The garden also has a museum that provides information on the history and culture of the region and a greenhouse that showcases different tropical plant species.
Insider travel tips:
3. Museo Regional de la Fauna Silvestre de Michoacán
The Museo Regional de la Fauna Silvestre de Michoacán is a museum dedicated to showcasing the diverse wildlife of Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits to learn about the region’s animal species and their habitats, with displays ranging from birds and mammals to reptiles and fish.
The museum also offers interactive activities for children and adults, such as guided tours and workshops.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of taxidermied animals, which includes rare and endangered species of the region.
Be sure to also check out the botanical garden surrounding the museum, which features local flora and fauna.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the city of Uruapan, Michoacán, which is known for its beautiful natural attractions such as the Parícutin volcano and the Eduardo Ruiz National Park.
4. Plaza Morelos
Plaza Morelos is a public square located in the heart of Uruapan, a city in the state of Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: The plaza is a great place to hangout and take a break from exploring the city.
It features a beautiful fountain at its center and is surrounded by trees and benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the nearby San Francisco Church, a stunning 16th-century Baroque-style church that is also located in the square.
Insider travel tips: Visit the plaza during the weekdays, when there are fewer crowds and it’s easier to find a spot to sit.
Also, if you’re in the area during the month of February, you can catch the annual Tianguis de Artesanías, a huge arts and crafts fair that takes place in and around the plaza.
5. Catedral de Uruapan
A beautiful cathedral located in the heart of Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture and intricate details of this historic cathedral. Attend a mass or prayer service.
Take a moment to reflect and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The impressive stained glass windows and the statue of Our Lady of Health, the patron saint of Uruapan.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the mid-afternoon when the sun shines through the windows, creating a breathtaking display of colors. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for the religious site.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the cathedral’s history and significance.
6. Mercado de Antojitos de Uruapan
Mercado de Antojitos de Uruapan is a vibrant food market located in the town of Uruapan in Mexico’s Michoacán state.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the market and sample an array of traditional Mexican street food such as tacos, tamales, and churros. The market also offers fresh produce and local spices for purchase.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss trying the local specialty dish known as “charales,” which are fried small fish typically served with salsa and lime.
Insider travel tips: Visit the market in the morning when it’s less busy and the food is freshly made.
7. Museo de los Cuatro Pueblos Indígenas de Michoacán
The Museo de los Cuatro Pueblos Indígenas de Michoacán is a museum located in Uruapan that showcases the cultures and traditions of the indigenous people of Michoacán.
What to see or do: Visitors can see exhibits and artifacts that demonstrate the customs and daily life of the Purépecha, Nahua, Mazahua, and Otomí peoples.
The museum also hosts cultural events and workshops throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the impressive traditional clothing, tools, and crafts of the four indigenous groups, including intricate ceramics, colorful textiles, and hand-carved wooden objects.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting the museum in conjunction with a trip to the nearby Parque Nacional Barranca del Cupatitzio.
8. Museo de la Huatapera
A museum dedicated to the indigenous culture and crafts of the Purhépecha people in Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can see traditional pottery, textiles, gorgeous dresses, tools, musical instruments, and more. There are also exhibits on the history of the area’s indigenous people, such as their struggles under Spanish colonial rule.
Don’t miss: The special effects room, which includes a thunder and lightning simulator, showcasing the Purhépecha belief in the importance of nature and the universe.
Insider travel tips: Check out the on-site gift shop to take home crafts and mementos made by local artisans. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
For a chance to experience live traditional music and dance, visit during one of the many festivals that take place in Uruapan throughout the year.
9. Casa de la Cultura de Uruapan
A cultural center located in the heart of Uruapan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the region, attend a theater or dance performance, participate in a workshop or class, browse the artisanal market, or relax in the beautiful courtyard.
Don’t miss: The stunning murals by local artist, Gerardo Murillo (Dr. Atl), depicting the history of Uruapan.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule ahead of time for upcoming events or performances, and bring cash to purchase artisanal products from vendors in the courtyard.
10. Parque La Pinera
Parque La Pinera is a beautiful ecological park located in Uruapan, Mexico. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, streams, lakes, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
What to see or do: Visitors to Parque La Pinera can go hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and swimming in the park’s 12-acre lake. Admire the lush vegetation, including tall pines and eucalyptus trees, and take in the fresh air.
Guided tours are available, and the park hosts events and activities throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive waterfall Cascada de San Francisco.
It’s located at the end of a steep hiking trail, but the breathtaking view of the waterfall cascading down is well worth it.
Bring a good camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, and don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Be ready to taste some of the best traditional dishes of the region, including the famous Uruapan tortillas.
Plan your visit to coincide with one of the park’s annual events, such as the Festival of Mole and Tamales, for a truly memorable experience.
11. Santuario Diocesano de la Virgen de la Salud Uruapan
Santuario Diocesano de la Virgen de la Salud Uruapan is a Catholic church located in Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and artwork of the church, attend Mass, and participate in other religious activities.
Don’t miss: The statue of the Virgin of Health, which is believed to have miraculous healing powers.
Insider travel tips:
12. La Huatapera
La Huatapera is an artisanal market in the city of Uruapan, located in the state of Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: This market is a great place to see and buy local crafts, such as hand-woven textiles, pottery, and wood carvings.
Visitors can also find a variety of traditional foods and drinks, including ice cream made from local fruits, such as avocado and coconut.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous “Corunda,” a traditional Michoacán food similar to a tamale, which is served with fresh cream, cheese, and salsa.
Insider travel tips: – The market is open every day, but it is best to visit during the morning when it is less crowded.
13. Plaza de San Francisco
A historic plaza located in the heart of Uruapan, Michoacán, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a stroll and admire the beautiful colonial architecture surrounding the plaza. Visit the San Francisco church and the nearby Michoacán Crafts Museum.
Relax on a bench or grab a snack from one of the food vendors in the area.
Don’t miss: The stunning fountain in the center of the plaza, which features intricate carvings of indigenous animals and plants.
Insider travel tips: Visit during one of the many festivals and cultural events held in the plaza throughout the year. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the plaza.
14. Grutas de San Miguel Arcángel
The Grutas de San Miguel Arcángel is a cave system located in the city of Uruapan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the underground world of the Grutas de San Miguel Arcángel, which features stalagmites, stalactites, and other unique rock formations.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the cave system is a large chamber known as the Cathedral, which features impressive acoustics.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uneven terrain and low ceilings in certain areas of the cave.
15. Mercado de Artesanías y Dulces de Uruapan
Mercado de Artesanías y Dulces de Uruapan is a market in the city of Uruapan, Mexico featuring local crafts and traditional sweets.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse and purchase a wide variety of handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, woodcarvings, and handwoven baskets. The market also offers a tempting array of traditional Mexican sweets, such as candied fruit and sugar-coated peanuts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try the local specialty, “ate,” a delicious fruit paste made from guava, quince, or other fruits.
You’ll also find a wide variety of spicy sauces and salsas to take home as souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared to bargain with the vendors, who may initially quote higher prices to visitors. Take your time to explore each stall and find the best deals.
Some stalls may also offer samples of their candies, so don’t be afraid to ask to try before you buy.