Aguascalientes: Tourism, Culture and the San Marcos Fair

Spanish settlers discovered thermal baths in the area, which is why the city is named Aguascalientes. Every year, more tourists visit the city.

Aguascalientes is the capital of the eponymous state and is famous for its festivities, culture, folklore, historic buildings, and thermal baths.

How to Get to Aguascalientes

The city is located in the central region of the country, 510 km from Mexico City and 246 km from Puebla. Outside the city is the Aguascalientes International Airport (Jesús Terán Peredo), which handles both domestic and some international flights from the U.S.

Several bus companies operate regular services from different Mexican cities.

Tourist Information about Aguascalientes

For many, the city of Aguascalientes is the best-preserved site for the culture and traditions of interior Mexico. This is particularly evident during festivities like the San Marcos National Fair and the Festival of the Skulls. The bullring in Aguascalientes is also a major venue, attracting renowned Mexican and international bullfighters.

Historic Center of Aguascalientes

The Historic Center of Aguascalientes preserves several 18th-century buildings. To explore the city center, it is recommended to walk around the Plaza de Armas and visit:

The Government Palace: A historic building with murals created by Osvaldo Barra, a disciple of Diego Rivera.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption: With a Baroque facade and neoclassical towers, its interior is decorated with the image of the Virgin of the Assumption brought from Spain.

Morelos Theater: A historic site and museum. The Aguascalientes Revolutionary Convention of 1914 took place here.

Municipal Palace: A neoclassical building with columns and red mosaic flooring.

Legislative Palace: Another neoclassical building that once housed the Paris Hotel for many years.

Other places to visit in the Historic Center: House of Culture and Aguascalientes Cultural Institute, Church of San Antonio, the Regional History Museum, Bullring, and the San Marcos neighborhood.

Places to Visit in Aguascalientes

Three Centuries Railway Complex

The Three Centuries Railway Complex is a tribute to the railway and its history in the region. It is located in restored railway buildings, now functioning as museums, entertainment venues, and representations of railway activity. It also has souvenir shops and restaurants.

Ojocaliente Thermal Springs

The Ojocaliente Thermal Springs complex is located within the city, offering different bathing options. The water flows at about 40°C, which is recommended for treating various ailments. The springs are open every day of the year.

Dead Hill (Cerro del Muerto)

Dead Hill offers viewpoints providing a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the Aguascalientes Valley. It is recommended to visit during sunset. The Cerro Muerto belongs to the Sierra del Laurel system and stands at 2,600 meters above sea level. Nighttime processions are held during the Festival of Skulls.

Festivities in Aguascalientes

- San Marcos National Fair: April 25, San Marcos Day.

- Festival of the Skulls: From October to November.

- Pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Assumption: August 15.