Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is a small town, once outside of Guadalajara, and today an integral part of the urban fabric. The larger municipality of San Pedro Tlaquepaque is one of the most famous places to visit anywhere in Jalisco and some visitors consider a visit here to be essential to any trip to Guadalajara. Still others will visit here instead of Guadalajara. However you do it, the Centro Histórico of Tlaquepaque is considered the real Pueblo Mágico. It's a place for strolling, browsing the artisan goods and learning something new.  

Tlaquepaque is also a concentrated area of historic architecture, cobbled streets, galleries, cultural centers, and park land. People come to visit the Andador Independencia, El Refugio Cultural Jardín Hidalgo, and the Regional Ceramics Museum. The name Tlaquepaque, although it is interpreted in multiple ways, is always in reference to this as an ancient place of clay and wherepeople work the clay.  There are also a whole slew of temples, churches, and related religious buildings. These set a tone of old world solemnity even while the streets are usually alive with the vibrant hum of commerce and celebration. 

Local cuisine centers on birria, carne en jugo, tortas ahogadas, and all of it accompanied by mariachi music. The giant El Parián covered garden and patio is a favorite for out-of-towners, but the surrounding streets nearly offer varying levels of similar celebratory foods.

Nearly all visitors are going to come in one way or another from the city of Guadalajara, and Tlaquepaque is integrated into the Guadalajara Light Rail transit system. Tlaquepaque Centro is a major station on Line 3. The line runs down the east side of the little town and a walk from the light rail station westward to the very center takes about 25 minutes. 

Whether you're on vacation, or just looking for a quick escape, Tlaquepaque has long been a memorable getaway.