About the city of Aguascalientes in the state of Aguascalientes, Mexico

The city of Aguascalientes (link to Aguascalients government website) is known for it’s brave bull fighters, pleasant climate, fine wines and charming  character. Aguascalientes is Mexico’s second smallest state yet it still  enjoys a high commercial status. The name Aguascalientes means hot water in Spanish and was given because there is an abundance of hot springs in the area. 

There are five traditional neighborhoods within the city of  Aguascalientes and these are La Estacion, La Salud, El Encino, Guadalupe and San Marcos. Each of these little neighborhoods are a delight to explore and will show you many different sides of Mexico and all of which will leave you feeling charmed and wanting to explore more. The city enjoys a thriving economy due in part to it’s central location with good access to the country’s markets.   

A brief history about Aguascalientes

The road to statehood was long for Aguascalientes and involved frequent jurisdictional disagreements with the neighboring states of Jalisco and Zacatecas. In 1804 Aguascalientes became a sub-delegation of Zacatecas and kept that status until the end of the Mexican war of Independence in 1921. After the war was finished, Aguascalientes enjoyed a three year period  where they were an independent territory. In 1924 it once gain incorporated into Zacatecas. Eleven years later Zacatecas revolted against the central government and after Santa Anna defeated the rebels he punished the state by having Aguascalientes declared an independent territory. Aguascalientes played an important role in the Mexican revolution.  

Aguascalientes tourism industry

When you visit Aguascalientes for the first time there are many different things that you will want to make sure you do. One of these things is to visit the city’s mineral springs. These mineral springs are very large which make them spectacular. Another place to visit is by taking a tour of the surrounding and high quality vineyards and winerys in the area, taking in the areas scenery while tasting very delicious table wines. If you travel during the months of April and May you can also attend the city’s annual fair the "Feria de San Marcos." This fair dates back to 1604 and is a very notable fair in all of Mexico.
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Despite the rapid growth of the city you will find that there is still history with charm around each corner. There has been recent restorations around the city to revitalize the city’s many colonial-era structures so that residents and visitors can enjoy the stunning historic center. The Plaza de La Patria which is located in the  heart of the old city center is also a popular destination. The Plaza de la Patria was extensively remodeled in 1985 and is this square is dominated by tall iconic columns dating back to 1808. On the south side of the Plaza you will find the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), a former mansion which stands out by its stunning dark red volcanic stone facade. To the west of town you will find the Cathedral Basillica. This cathedral was completed in 1738 and is known for its fanned vaults, gilded neoclassical alter and priceless paintings by colonial artist Miguel Cabrera. Another popular venue is the Teatro Morelos built in 1885 and a showpiece for its victorian architectural style.

Deciding where to stay in Aguascalientes

When deciding on where you are going to stay when you visit Aguascalientes there several great options. If you are looking for a upscale hotel in the center of the city one suggestion is to look at Fiesta Americana and Firesta Inn Aguascalientes. If you are looking for something smaller that has more of a historic feel the Quinta Real Aguascalientes can suit this need. Regardless of what type of hotel you are looking for there are several options for everyone that will enhance your experience in this charming city.  

Basic travel information when traveling to Aguascalientes

Suggested Airport: Aguascalientes International Airport
Address: Carretera Panamericana Km. 22, Ejido Buenavista de Peñuelas, 20340 Aguascalientes, Ags., Mexico
Local phone number: +52 449 918 2806

Is a passport or travel visa required? This will depend on your nationality and country of origin. We recommend that you check with your travel agent or Mexican Consulate in your area to know what documents you need to travel to Aguascalientes.
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