8 Things To Check Out In Zacatecas, Mexico

Many cities in this northwestern region of Mexico were founded because of one thing: mining. Durango was thought to be a prospective silver mine, but Zacatecas ended up being the winning ticket. Founded in 1546, Zacatecas is known for one of the world's richest silver veins. Today, Zacatecas has become a very popular place for tourists, and for good reason. Mine museums and bars are only a small portion of why people flock here. The historical buildings and old time feel will make Zacatecas, Mexico a place you definitely remember.

Along with many other areas of this region, be sure to pack clothes for cold nights. With an altitude of 8,000 feet, Zacatecas stays warm during the day, but gets a bit chilly when the sun goes down . Here are 8 Things To Check Out In Zacatecas, Mexico

Hostal Casa de las Margaritas

As always, finding somewhere to rest is a great place to start. Hostal Casa de las Margaritas is a very relaxed hostel with an amazing terrace view. Lay your stuff down in a safe place for the time you are in Zacatecas, and enjoy the peaceful overview while winding down at the end of each day. The staff here is incredible, and the rooms are quite accommodating.

Zacatecas Cathedral

Two prior cathedrals were demolished to make way for this monstrosity back in the 1600s. I mean, for a city known as "the aristocrats of silver", you know they had to go big or go home. Even just walking by this cathedral and noticing the engraved entrances can have you wondering how long this building took to make (imagine being the person to engrave those??).

The Eden Mine

Take a train down 2,000 feet from the city, and a tour of the beautifully designed mine museum awaits you. This very old mine produces both silver and gold, among many other materials. The guides know a whole lot about the history and tools, so it is worth paying a visit with them. If you are around Zacatecas on Thursday through Saturday, be sure to hit our next spot while you are down there.

Mina Club

Open Thursday through Saturday, if you want to experience any bar it should be this one. Partying in a mine sounds like fun, and when you get down there the vibe just explodes. Every once in a while, it is great to party the night away, and Zacatecas has the perfect spot.

Underground Mine Club Zacatecas

Quince Letras Bar

Since we are on the topic of bars, let's talk about this much more relaxed one as well. Quince Letras (Fifteen Letters) is a great place to sit back and enjoy a drink while trying to see all the crazy portraits they have on the wall. A much more laid back bar than Mina Club, you can choose which style you like the most.

Bufa Hill

My favorite experience in Zacatecas was hiking up to Bufa Hill, and seeing a trial bike rider practicing on the mountainside. We got to talking, and he offered me to ride his machine! Be sure to check that story here. Bufa Hill is a spot where many gather to enjoy the sights of Zacatecas City from above. With plenty of statues, and even a church at the top, weekends here can get pretty packed. Two popular activities are zip-lining and taking the cable car (teleférico) to the other side of the city. If you are looking to save time while you are traveling through here, the teleférico drops you off just outside the mine.

Zacatecas Cable Car (Teleférico)

The Cable Car is a great way to see the city from above. You can take it directly from the mine, and see below and above Zacatecas all within one day. Definitely worth the view, and the feeling of being suspended above such a great city. If you are looking to save time while you are traveling, the teleférico's two stops are La Bufa and the mine.

La Quemada

Mexico is known for its many archaeological sites, La Quemada being of great significance to the Aztecs. With large pyramids scattered over this vast area, you can spend a good half-day here exploring and still not get enough. It is always fascinating trying to imagine what life was like back when these structures were built. Also, how the heck did they build these things with such precision they are still standing today?

Final Thoughts

Zacatecas was founded during the search for precious metals deep within the earth. Its history and overall feel is a great reflection of the lives of its people over the course of generations in search for such things. With the ability to see both below the city and far above, Zacatecas has plenty enough to offer on your journey through Mexico. Be sure to make this a stop, you will not forget this one very easily.

'Til next time,

Pete - A Traveling Teacher