Wintertime is the Right Time to Take on Aguascalientes, Mexico

Wintertime is a great time to travel because it gives you the option to choose someplace snowy with traditional wintertime activities like skiing or sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire. Or, you can head someplace tropical where the sun warms your skin and you don’t have to bundle up to head outdoors. If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys that second option, opt for the Central Mexican state of Aguascalientes, where it is springtime all the time.

Located northeast of Guadalajara, Aguascalientes is one of the smallest states in Mexico, but it packs some of the biggest fun you can have during the season. Beautiful weather, amazing food and an atmosphere rich in culture, history, art and heritage makes it one of the most fascinating places in the country, whether visiting the state seat of Aguascalientes or some of the smaller towns and villages in the surrounding area.

The city of Aguascalientes is a hotbed of attractions, from traditional neighborhoods you can explore to the beautiful colonial architecture and historical buildings of the downtown area. Visit the impressive Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Asunción. Dating back to 1704, the building is not only a standout for its beautiful architecture, but also one of the most iconic structures in the city. Located in Plaza de la Patria, the cathedral is open daily and free to visit.

While you are downtown, be sure to see Government Palace, home to five of the most significant murals in the entire state of Aguascalientes. They are the work of Oswaldo Barra Cunningham, a Chilean painter, and depict the history of the state in brilliant detail. Like the Basilica, Government Palace is also open daily, although hours are slightly shorter on the weekends. Admission is free.

Literally translated to “hot waters,” Aguascalientes is known for its many hot springs, letting you relax and enjoy the great weather while taking advantage of the soothing and healing waters of the earth. Ojocaliente Thermal Baths, located in downtown Aguascalientes, are considered to be a local cultural treasure. The baths are open daily and are said to aid with circulation, sore muscles, rheumatism and stress relief.

In addition to offering great wintertime weather, the climate of Aguascalientes is also ideal for growing grapes, cultivated there since the area was first settled, making it one of the best wine-tasting destinations in Mexico. With more than 300 wineries producing different varietals, there are plenty to choose from, but to enjoy the beauty of the countryside along with the flavors of the land, head to Fraggue, a boutique winery offering wine tastings, beer tastings, vineyard tours and picnics along the property’s lake.