Aguascalientes, Mexico: Travel Guide
Aguascalientes is a clean, prosperous city in central Mexico best known for the Feria Nacional de San Marcos, a colonial center and the art of José Guadalupe Posada.
Why visit Aguascalientes?
Aguascalientes is a clean, prosperous city in central Mexico best known for the Feria Nacional de San Marcos — one of the country's biggest and oldest fairs — plus a handsome colonial center, the art of native son José Guadalupe Posada (creator of the famous calavera skeletons), and nearby hot springs.
How to get to Aguascalientes from the US
Aguascalientes International Airport (AGU) has some direct US flights (such as Dallas) and easy connections through Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. The city is a short hop from the Bajío and about 510 km from Mexico City by road.
Best time to visit
Spring and fall are pleasant. The big draw is the San Marcos Fair (roughly mid-April to early May), when the city fills up — book well ahead — and the Festival de las Calaveras around Day of the Dead.
Top things to do in Aguascalientes
Explore the Historic Center around the Plaza de la Patria and the Government Palace murals, visit the José Guadalupe Posada Museum, soak at the Ojocaliente thermal baths, and — if your timing works — experience the San Marcos Fair's bullfights, concerts and charreadas.
Where to stay
Stay in or near the Centro Histórico to walk to the plaza, museums and restaurants; the city also has the usual reliable business and chain hotels.
Is Aguascalientes safe for tourists?
Aguascalientes carries a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, the same level as most of Mexico's main tourist destinations. Aguascalientes is generally considered one of the calmer cities in central Mexico. Use normal travel precautions and check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before your trip.
The Bajío Region: Nearby Destinations
Aguascalientes is part of Mexico's cultural Bajío corridor. Combine your visit with Guanajuato, one of Mexico's most colorful cities, San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage city, and San Luis Potosí, gateway to the Huasteca Potosina. Check our Mexico vacation packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Aguascalientes?
In central Mexico, about 510 km from Mexico City, near the Bajío region.
How do I get to Aguascalientes from the US?
Aguascalientes International Airport (AGU) has some direct US flights (e.g., Dallas) and connections through Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.
What is the San Marcos Fair?
The Feria Nacional de San Marcos is one of Mexico's biggest and oldest fairs, held roughly mid-April to early May, with bullfights, concerts and charreadas.
What is there to do in Aguascalientes?
Explore the historic center and Government Palace murals, visit the José Guadalupe Posada Museum, and soak at the Ojocaliente thermal baths.
Is Aguascalientes safe for tourists?
Aguascalientes carries a Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ advisory and is generally one of the calmer cities in central Mexico. Use normal precautions and check the current US advisory.