Things to do in San Miguel de Allende
Start your day by exploring the historic center of San Miguel de Allende, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is home to some of the most stunning colonial architecture in all of Mexico, with colorful buildings and picturesque cobblestone streets. One of the most iconic buildings in the town is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a neo-Gothic church with two towering spires that can be seen from almost anywhere in the town.
01. Handicraft Market SMA
San Miguel de Allende is a city that is renowned for its arts and crafts, and one of the best places to experience this is at the handicraft market. The market is located just a short walk from the main square and is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from textiles and pottery to silver jewelry and hand-carved wooden sculptures.
One of the best things about the handicraft market is the wide range of goods on offer. Visitors can find everything from brightly colored woven textiles and traditional embroidered blouses to delicate silver earrings and intricate pottery. Many of the items on sale are handmade by local artisans, who often use traditional techniques passed down through generations to create their wares.
Another great thing about the handicraft market is the lively and vibrant atmosphere. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and many are happy to chat with visitors about their products and the techniques used to create them. The market is also a great place to people-watch, with locals and tourists mingling together and enjoying the sights and sounds of this unique cultural experience.
02. Allende Institute - School Of Art
The Allende Institute is a language school located in the heart of San Miguel de Allende. Founded in 1988, the institute has been teaching Spanish as a second language to students from around the world for over 30 years.
One of the key features of the Allende Institute is its commitment to personalized and immersive language learning. The school offers a variety of programs, including private and group lessons, intensive courses, and even language immersion programs that allow students to live with local families and fully immerse themselves in the language and culture.
The instructors at the Allende Institute are highly experienced and trained in teaching Spanish as a second language. They use a communicative approach to teaching, emphasizing real-world communication and interaction over rote memorization and grammar drills. This approach helps students to develop their speaking and listening skills quickly and effectively, and allows them to practice using the language in authentic contexts.
03. La Gruta Hot Springs
La Gruta is one of the most popular natural hot springs in San Miguel de Allende, and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves relaxation and pampering. Located just a short drive outside of the city, La Gruta is a spa built around a natural cave, with hot springs that are naturally heated by the earth's geothermal activity.
The spa itself is an oasis of calm and tranquility, surrounded by lush gardens and natural beauty. The natural cave that forms the centerpiece of the spa is a stunning sight, with waterfalls cascading down the sides and steam rising from the hot springs. The cave is naturally lit by openings in the roof, creating a peaceful and ethereal atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
04. Aurora Factory
The Aurora Factory is a unique and innovative cultural center located in San Miguel de Allende. Housed in a historic textile factory that dates back to the early 20th century, the Aurora Factory has been transformed into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and creativity.
One of the main draws of the Aurora Factory is its focus on contemporary art and design. The center hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing the work of local and international artists and designers. Visitors can expect to see everything from avant-garde installations and sculptures to cutting-edge fashion and graphic design.
Another important aspect of the Aurora Factory is its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The center is home to a number of socially and environmentally conscious initiatives, including a sustainable fashion workshop that uses recycled materials and natural dyes, and a program that provides training and employment opportunities to local women.
05. Charco del Ingenio
El Charco del Ingenio is a stunning botanical garden and nature preserve located in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato. The park covers over 170 acres and offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, and offers a wide variety of plant and animal life.
One of the main attractions in El Charco del Ingenio is the Cactus Garden, which features over 200 species of cactus and succulent plants. The garden offers visitors the chance to learn about the unique plant life in the region, and offers a great photo opportunity.
The park also features several walking trails, each with its own unique flora and fauna. Visitors can stroll through the various gardens, including the Butterfly Garden and the Hummingbird Garden, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
From the stunning architecture to the vibrant arts scene, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city.
I hope that I've been able to inspire you to plan a visit to San Miguel de Allende soon. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural experience, or just a relaxing vacation, this city has something to offer everyone.