8 Things to Do in Chihuahua Mexico
Top Urban and Natural Attractions in Chihuahua
In this post, Caravan explores 8 unique things to do in Chihuahua Mexico.
A visit to northern Mexico wouldn’t be complete without a trip through the iconic Copper Canyon by train. But there’s more than just natural beauty to explore in Chihuahua, Mexico.
Chihuahua City is a modern metropolis with colonial roots and the capital of the Chihuahua State in northern Mexico.
Visit Chihuahua Mexico on our Caravan Copper Canyon Mexico Tour!
Colonial Influence
The arrival of the Spanish in the mid-16th century led to a long string of rebellions and conflicts between the colonialists and indigenous populations. This turbulent past is still visible in the blended architectural and cultural styles prevalent throughout modern Mexican cities.
Let’s look at the top 8 things to do in Chihuahua Mexico including the colonial city and state:
- Plaza de Armas
- The Federal Palace
- Museo de la Revolucion
- Quinta Gameros
- Valley of the Monks
- Samalayuca Sand Dunes
- Coyame Caves
- Cumbres de Majalca National Park
Things to Do in Chihuahua City
1. Plaza de Armas
Start things off in the heart of the Chihuahua city by paying a visit to Plaza de Armas, the main plaza or square.
Here you can marvel at the impressive 18th-century baroque-style cathedral that overlooks the Plaza. This stunning cathedral was built between 1725 and 1826 and still contains the original organ installed in 1796.
The cathedral’s ornate exterior and dual bell towers cut a spectacular figure over the busy Plaza. Plaza de Armas is home to several contemporary statues by Mexican artists plus a gazebo where you can find some shade.
Facing the cathedral is a tall bronze statue of the city’s founder, Don Antonio de Deza y Ulloa, who seems to stare in awe at the beautiful church.
2. The Federal Palace
Not far from the Plaza de Armas, you’ll find the Federal Palace of Chihuahua or Casa Chihuahua Centro de Patrimonio Cultural, as it is also known.
Built in the late 1800s, it operated as a federal office. Then, in 2004, Chihuahua city converted it into a city museum.
What makes the Federal Palace special is the basement. There, you will find the jail cell of none other than Padre Miguel Hidalgo, the father of Mexican Independence.
Hidalgo was a Roman Catholic priest before becoming a revolutionary leader in the battle for Mexican independence. Hidalgo is heralded as the father of the insurgency against Spain, and people from all over Mexico consider his cell to be a national shrine.
3. Museo de la Revolución Mexicana
This museum sits in the middle of a residential suburb and commemorates the history of the Mexican revolution. The building itself was once the home of General Francisco Pancho Villa, a general in the Mexican revolution.
The residence was formally taken over by the state in 1982 and designated a museum by President Jose Lopez Portillo.
Walk through Villa’s old rooms and see depictions of Mexico’s history, with examples of tools, machinery, weapons, and technologies of the day.
4. Quinta Gameros
For a taste of some art and culture, don’t miss a stop at the Quinta Gameros mansion. This museum and art gallery is a historic national monument and displays some of the finest architecture and furnishings of the art nouveau style in Mexico.
Lovers of aesthetics will rejoice with a tour of this beautiful building that’s truly a feast for the eyes.
The mansion features beautiful artwork and furniture and is surrounded by a lushly manicured garden that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Attractions & Things to Do in Chihuahua State
5. Valley of the Monks
One highlight of a visit to Chihuahua state is a tour of Copper Canyon!
The region known as Copper Canyon is a series of massive canyons in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. Within these canyons, you’ll find the Valle de Los Monjes or Valley of the Monks.
Visit this impressive sight of towering natural sculptures that stand up to 197 ft tall! These were formed by a combination of strong winds, sun, rain, and abrupt geological shifts. Look close enough at these formations, and you’ll understand why the Valley of the Monks got its name.
6. Samalayuca Dune Fields
If you’re feeling adventurous, then you can take a wild ride through the Samalayuca sand dunes. It’s easy to forget that the state of Chihuahua is a vast desert, but once you visit you’ll find countless outdoor activities at your fingertips.
See why adventure spots are all the rage and try your hand at sandboarding, motocross, or ATV riding through the desert. The Dunas de Samalayuca is an absolute must for all adrenaline junkies. Just make sure you only visit during the recommended times of the day. It is a desert, after all.
7. The Coyame Caves
Ever fancied yourself a budding geologist or spelunker? Well, even if rocks aren’t your specialty, it’s hard not to appreciate this enormous subterranean system beyond the town of Coyame.
Take a guided tour and admire the dramatic cavern of stalagmites and stalactites. Learn how the cave was formed, swoon at the glittering interior, and try to resist the temptation to bring one of the many crystals you see home with you.
8. Cumbres de Majalca National Park
Cumbres de Majalca National Park is another one of those things to do in Chihuahua, especially if you are a nature lover. The park is truly a testament to the geological diversity of the Chihuahua region.
Witness towering rock formations shaped by years of wind and water and stroll through the serene oak and pine forests.
This is a great place to hike and mountain bike, and if you really feel like taking it to the next level, you can set up a tent at the Canyon of the Fairies camping ground – but we won’t judge you for choosing to go back to your hotel instead.
The Chihuahua region has so much to experience.
From urban delights, and cultural attractions, to dramatic canyons and stunning nature. Experience the breadth that Chihuahua Mexico has to offer and opt for a guided tour by Caravan Tours on your next trip!
Visit Chihuahua Mexico with Caravan Tours!
There is plenty to see and a wonderful mix of things to do in Chihuahua Mexico.
Our Caravan Copper Canyon train tour also includes visits to Creel and the town of El Fuerte!
Check out our Caravan Mexico Ancient Civilizations tour where you’ll get to explore places like Mexico City, Teotihuacan, Uxmal, and the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.
Caravan Tours celebrated our 70th anniversary in 2022 offering fully guided tours since 1952 throughout North and Central America.
Both Copper Canyon and Mexico Ancient tours have a history of selling out early so book early to secure your preferred tour dates.
We also offer fully guided tours in Canada and across the United States.
Check out our Caravan tour itinerary to discover all the wonderful things to do in Chihuahua Mexico.
- Call us toll-free at1-800-Caravan (227-2826)
- Book a Mexico All-Inclusive Tour Now
- Request a Free Caravan Tours Brochure
Chihuahua Mexico FAQs
What Time Is It in Chihuahua Mexico?
Chihuahua Mexico is Standard Mountain Time, which is the same as Mexico City, Oklahoma, Dallas, and Winnipeg Canada.
Where is Chihuahua Mexico?
Chihuahua City is the capital of Chihuahua state, which is in the northwestern part of Mexico bordering New Mexico and Texas.
Is Chihuahua a state in Mexico?
Yes Chihuahua is a state in northwest Mexico and the state capital is Chihuahua City.
How far is Chihuahua Mexico from El Paso Texas?
Chihuahua is approximately 238 miles (383 km) from El Paso Texas.
How far is Chihuahua Mexico from Mexico City?
Chihuahua is approximately 903 miles (1,454 km) from Mexico City.
How far is Chihuahua Mexico from El Fuerte?
By car, Chihuahua City is 533 miles (858 km) from El Fuerte Mexico.
How far is Chihuahua Mexico from Creel?
Chihuahua is 160 miles (258 km) from Creel Mexico.
