Tijuana is often known for its questionable reputation. However, there is more to the city than what meets the eye. Tijuana is a bustling metropolis with a rich culture and history. Visitors can find plenty to see and do in this vibrant city. The most crossed border in the world refers to the US-Mexico border. Throughout the majority of the 20th century, people have been coming to this border for a variety of reasons.
In its heyday, Tijuana was a hotbed of criminal activity. All sorts of illegal dealings took place in the city, from drug trafficking to human smuggling. With its close proximity to the US, Tijuana became a prime smuggling route between the two countries.
Nowadays, Tijuana is a much safer city with significantly lower crime rates. Thanks to a recent resurgence, government investment, and cultural renaissance, the city is turning things a full 180 degrees. This border town is quickly becoming an iconic destination for travelers from all over the world.
Tijuana is attracting more and more galleries, contemporary restaurants, and artsy cafés, which are giving the city a new lease on life. More and more people are flocking to the city to enjoy its burgeoning dining and urban art scene, making it a more vibrant place to live. This new wave of creative businesses is attracting locals and tourists alike, giving Tijuana a fresh reputation as a vibrant, cutting-edge destination. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal or a unique shopping experience, Tijuana’s got something to offer everyone.
Even though things have gotten better in Tijuana, travelers should still use some caution. Tourists are rarely the targets of any illegal activity, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings.
There’s so much to do in Tijuana! From exploring its rich culture to indulging in its delicious food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Ready to discover all it has to offer? Here are the top things to do in Tijuana.
1. Tijuana Cultural Center
The Tijuana Cultural Center is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The sandy-colored, spherical desert monument is a must-see for any visitor to Tijuana. The Center opened in the 1980s and has since become one of the top attractions in the city.
Tijuana Cultural Center is a unique institution that offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of Baja California through its exhibitions, films, and live performances.
The Cultural Center is a hub for artists and artisans from all over the world, with a special focus on the native peoples of the region. The Cineteca Tijuana is a movie theater that shows films and also hosts directors, screenwriters, and actors.
2. Avenida Revolucion
Avenida Revolucion is an iconic street that has come to symbolize the rebirth of Tijuana. Once known for its shady underworld activity, the street has been transformed into a vibrant hub of culture and nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as live music. La Revu is a colorful and vibrant part of the city, full of life and history. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shops to explore. The area is also home to many street murals and outdoor performances, making it a truly unique and special place.
This is also the place to go if you’re looking for one-of-a-kind, handmade items. The shops along this street carry goods produced by local artisans. The colors of Mexico come alive in its traditional handicrafts. From vibrant stained glass to intricate leatherwork, visitors can find beautiful handmade treasures everywhere they look. And don’t forget the iconic Talavera pottery and wooden Oaxacan carvings
There’s always something to see, smell, or taste on Tijuana’s main street. This is also the heart of Tijuana’s culinary revolution, with many traditional and experimental dishes from local and international chefs.
3. El Trompo
At El Trompo, families can enjoy cultural shows and exhibitions, as well as interactive games that teach about science. It’s a great place to learn and have fun at the same time!
The general admission price to the museum is around $5. You can often find a calendar of upcoming events on their website.
Kids and families can experiment with using science in everyday life in this hands-on learning space. The museum is four stories tall and has four interactive rooms, each with a collection of 108 pieces. It also has a Multipurpose Room and an auditorium that can accommodate up to 4,000 people.
The museum showcases sculptures, robotics, and other technology exhibits, as well as hosts workshops and movie screenings. The youth science center offers computer programming classes and the space can be rented out for concerts, conferences, and book presentations.
4. Pasaje Rodriguez
In the midst of the busyness of La Revue, hidden among the many hotels, restaurants, and shops is a haven for artists. Pasaje Rodriguez is a back alleyway lined with art, good food, and great vibes. This is a place where you can come to relax and enjoy yourself, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Pasaje Rodriguez is a sign of Tijuana’s evolution and the city’s revitalization. The project started in 2009 when the passage was opened for a few days to display local art. After the festival, artists, designers, and photographers wanted the space to remain open.
Today, visitors can find a walkway of brilliant murals. The small hole-in-the-wall restaurants are art galleries in themselves, with much more to offer than just food. The best time to explore a city’s nightlife is usually the first Friday of every month when there are exhibitions and parties going on. The atmosphere is usually more lively and interesting in the evening.
5. El Popo Market
Tijuana is a city full of life, and its markets reflect that. Mercado El Popo is one of the best in town, and it’s a great place to see a slice of local Tijuana life. The downtown market is overflowing with products, from fresh cheeses and candy to sacks of dried chilies, soaps, candles, cinnamon, oils, herbs, fruit, and incense.
If you’re looking to try the local cuisine or pick up some unique souvenirs, Popo is the perfect place to go. You’ll also see locals coming in from the countryside to sell their products.
6. Playas de Tijuana
If you’re looking to explore beyond the downtown area, Playas de Tijuana is a great option. This western borough offers a different perspective of the entire municipality and is definitely worth a visit. The bridges that stretch from Azteca Park to the U.S. border are a stunning spot for a walk and enjoying the scenery. The boardwalk is a stark reminder of the political issue between Mexico and the United States, as the border wall runs into the Pacific Ocean.
In Tijuana, seafood is king. In Playas, there is an abundance of it, from fish tacos to ceviche and beyond. Playas de Tijuana is a neighborhood that is often bypassed by travelers going to downtown Tijuana. However, this area has a laid-back vibe that shows a different side of northern Baja.
7. Ensenada
If you’re only in Tijuana, you’re missing out on the best of what Baja California has to offer. Just a short drive away is Ensenada, a city full of culture and sophistication. Don’t miss out on everything this amazing region has to offer – explore beyond Tijuana today!
Ensenada, located on the Baja peninsula, has been a popular tourist destination for many years. It is known for its beaches and its role as the former capital of the Baja territory. The people of Ensenada are a colorful mix of California road trippers, cruisers, locals, and Mexican tourists. They add to the vibrancy of this charming town. The city sees approximately four million visitors annually.
The charming waterfront in Ensenada is studded with great restaurants and fun shops. Don’t miss out on the delicious fish tacos – this is one of the best places in town to try them! The science museum and aquarium are also well worth a visit. For a bit of fun, head to the musical fountain on the waterfront – kids will love it!
If you’re a lover of all things wild, then a trip to Guadalupe Island is a must. Home to some of the world’s most majestic white sharks, the island provides an up-close and personal look at these amazing creatures.
8. Casa de la Cultura
In Tijuana, culture is alive and well at Casa de la Cultura. This historic building is a testament to the rich history and traditions of Mexico.
The building that was once designed as an elementary school is now a place of learning, having been named a cultural heritage site in 2014.
The Casa de la Cultura in Puebla is a space where people can come to experience and learn about the culture. It has a theater, library, gallery, and cafe, and offers workshops on topics like dance, hip-hop, language, and green cuisine.
The Casa de la Cultura is a popular cultural center that attracts an average of 25,000 visitors per year. In 2018, it became one of the first centers in the city to receive support from the National Institute of Fine Arts in Mexico.
9. Plaza Santa Cecilia
A walk through Plaza Santa Cecilia is like a journey back in time. The Plaza is one of the oldest parts of the city and is where Tijuana was born. Walking through the Plaza, you can imagine what life was like in historic Tijuana.
The hustle and bustle of modern-day Tijuana can make it hard to believe that this city was once a small, sleepy town. But trust that you are standing in the birthplace of one of Mexico’s most iconic border towns. With the sounds of mariachi in the air and flags fluttering overhead, it’s not difficult to imagine how things were decades ago.
The plaza was once a place of criminal activity, but it has since become a colorful and lively spot, full of art and music.
10. Zona Rio
If you’re looking for a vibrant commercial hub with plenty of shops, restaurants, and things to do, head to Zona Rio. A great first stop is the Plaza Rio Shopping Mall where you can find the Food Garden – a bustling dining destination with food stalls from young chefs in Tijuana and the surrounding area.
The food scene in Tijuana is constantly evolving, so you’ll always have something new to try. Whether it’s traditional Mexican fare or something a little more adventurous, you’re sure to find something that’s going to satisfy your taste buds. And if you’re looking for an authentic Tijuana experience, be sure to check out the Mercado Hidalgo. You’ll find a variety of local goods and produce, as well as get a taste of the local culture. It sells a wide range of items, from tortilla presses and coffee to candy and pinatas.