With its rich culture and varied destinations, Mexico
appeals to a wide range of travelers. From sun-soaked beaches to sophisticated
cities and charming historic towns, the vacation possibilities are endless
— and new hotel developments, attractions, tours and infrastructure
improvements are providing even more reasons for travelers to put Mexico on
their wish list for 2026.
Here’s a roundup of some of the best options for Mexico
vacations this year.
Best Destinations in
Mexico
Mexican
Caribbean: The state of Quintana Roo, which is marketed as the Mexican
Caribbean in a nod to its prime location on Mexico’s eastern coast, is home to
a variety of enticing vacation destinations, including Cancun,
the Riviera
Maya, Tulum
and Cozumel.
Sparkling beaches, ancient archeological sites and exciting outdoor activities
are among the draws here, and the region is even better connected now, thanks
to the recently completed Tren
Maya, the rail service that links key destinations, and the Tulum
International Airport, which provides more convenient flight options for
visiting the southern part of the Riviera Maya, complementing Cancún’s role as
the primary air gateway. New hotels in the Mexican Caribbean include Alila
Mayakoba, a rebranding of the former Andaz Mayakoba Resort, the 605-room Majestic
Mirage Costa Mujeres, near Cancun and SOTA, a beautiful new wellness retreat
in the jungle near Puerto Morelos.
Puerto
Vallarta: This Pacific coast hotspot offers an appealing combination of
lovely beaches, natural beauty and the charms of a vibrant, sophisticated small
city. In addition to enjoying beach time, visitors here can also browse art
galleries, dine at award-winning restaurants and enjoy water- and land-based
excitement. New accommodation options include the Garza Blanca Sanctuary, a new
tower at Garza Blanca Puerto Vallarta. The construction of a brand-new terminal
to complement the existing facility at Puerto Vallarta International Airport
should, in the coming months, improve the arrival and departure experience.
Los
Cabos: This twin-town destination lures travelers with a blend of
upscale hotels, elevated culinary experiences, dramatic natural beauty and
engaging activities that range from boating and water sports to golf and whale
watching. Sitting at the picturesque meeting point of desert and sea on Baja
California Sur’s southern tip, Los Cabos continues to witness development
in the hospitality scene, with new properties including the Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo Del Sol, Amanvari and SoHo House Los Cabos.
Mexico
City: The nation’s capital wows with its world-class cultural
facilities (the National Museum of Anthropology is among the best of its kind),
a sophisticated dining and retail scene, and its rich history, traditions, and outstanding
architectural sites that document the region’s pre-colonial and colonial
history. Whether visitors are looking to learn about the society that
flourished here before the arrival of the Spanish colonists, immerse themselves
in the work of Frida Kahlo and other great artists, or simply enjoy big-city
pleasures at award-winning restaurants and designer shops, they’ll find lots to
do in Mexico City. As a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026, even more eyes
will be cast on this metropolis. New hotels include the Park Hyatt Mexico City,
Hyde Mexico City and Pendry Mexico City.
Nayarit: In earlier years, most of this state’s tourism industry was centered around the
region called the Riviera Nayarit. But today, the focus has expanded to include
the entire state, thanks to new government efforts and the launch of
international flights to Tepic, the state capital. Luxury resorts, cultural
sites, jungle adventures, and water-based activities like boating and surfing are
among the reasons vacationers flock to Nayarit. New hotels include. New hotels include
the recently opened Siari,
a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and the forthcoming Montage Punta Mita, Pendry Punta Mita and VidantaWorld Nuevo Nayarit.
San
Miguel de Allende: This postcard-worthy, magical town in Mexico’s
central highlands enchants with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture,
vibrant arts scene, fine dining and stylish accommodations. Activities here
include visits to art galleries, unique shops, markets, and nearby wineries and
farms; walking and foodie tours help introduce travelers to more of what makes
this town so magical. New hotels include Clevia, San
Miguel de Allende, Autograph Collection, which opened in 2025, and
Pueblo Bonito
Vantage San Miguel de Allende, which opens in 2026.
Hotel Zone and marina in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Carlos Flores)
Best Attractions in
Mexico
Chichen
Itza: Dating to the Late Classic (c. 600-900 CE) through the early
Postclassic (c. 900-1200 CE) period, Chichen Itza is one of the most
recognized archeological sites in Mexico. The Pyramid of Kukulcán, the Temple
of the Warriors, and the Great Ball Court continue to amaze visitors with their
architectural and historical significance, and the Gran Museo de Chichén Itzá
(Great Museum of Chichén Itzá) helps visitors better understand the society
that built the historic structures. The Tren Maya has helped to make this
iconic Mayan site even more accessible, providing yet another transportation
option.
Copper Canyon: The
Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre), which runs through the state of Chihuahua,
is nearly seven times the size of the Grand Canyon and every bit as
breathtaking. The most interesting way to arrive is aboard the Chepe Express railway, which runs 220 miles and
stops at multiple towns. Visitors can enjoy the scenery while riding aerial
tramways and learn more about local culture — especially the Tarahumara
(Rarámuri) people, who’ve inhabited the region for centuries. Lodging options
include cliffside hotels at Divisadero and charming small properties in Creel.
Mexico City’s Centro
Historico: The nation’s capital is home to a stunning, UNESCO-recognized
historic center, graced with remnants of the powerful civilization that
flourished here (the Templo Mayor, a Mexica temple in the heart of the city, is
a must-see), as well as colonial architecture like the enormous Metropolitan
Cathedral that reveal additional clues about the city’s history. The Zocalo,
one of the world’s biggest public squares, is the vast centerpiece, flanked by
the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace and the Templo Mayor, where
visitors can explore pre-colonial ruins. It’s a fascinating neighborhood to
explore on guided walking tours, and museums include the fabulous Museo
Nacional de Arte (National Museum of Art) and the recently opened Museo Vivo
del Muralismo (Living Museum of Muralism), which exhibits masterworks by
Mexico’s legendary muralists.
Cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula: The Mayans
considered these natural sites to be portals to the underworld and life-giving
sources. Today, the natural sinkholes that dot Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula offer
naturally beautiful settings for exploration and relaxation. The cavern systems
provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and diving; guided visits are
the best way to ensure the best experience. It’s easy to arrange visits to
multiple locations in the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, on Mexico’s Caribbean
coast. Xcaret, for example, offers a Xenotes Tour that visits four types of
cenotes.
Palenque: Tucked
into the verdant jungles of Chiapas, Palenque is among Mexico’s most
interesting Mayan archeological sites, with temples, tombs and palace
structures that date to around 600 to 800 CE. This region is also a rewarding
place to spot interesting wildlife — including parrots, toucans and both howler
and spider monkeys. The Tren Maya’s Palenque station, which opened in 2024,
offers a relatively new option for visiting the region.
Puebla’s Centro
Historico: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a veritable open-air
architecture and history museum, with blocks of beautiful colonial architecture
— including Baroque churches, lovely public squares and stately residences
that stand as a testament to the city’s 16th-century roots. Top attractions
include the massive cathedral and the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, recognized by
UNESCO as the first and oldest public library in the Americas. Puebla will
serve as host city for the 2027 edition of Tianguis Turístico, Mexico’s annual tourism conference, further
underscoring the city’s importance and continued investment in tourism.
Aerial view of Chichen Itza. (Photo Credit: a_medvedkov/Adobe)
Must-See 2026 Events
in Mexico
Dia
de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): Running
from late October into early November, Día de los Muertos is a treasured tradition to remember and
honor loved ones who have passed away. Beautiful, hand-crafted altars
(ofrendas) — which are visible in public plazas, businesses and private
homes — pay tribute to ancestors with marigolds, candles, photographs and other
items. In some cases, travelers can also visit cemeteries where families
gather. The most important days are November 1 and 2, but altars and
decorations usually start appearing several days or weeks before. Companies,
including Intrepid
Travel and G
Adventures, offer guided tour packages that provide expert insight about
this fascinating and touching event.
Guelaguetza Festival: This massive gathering in
Oaxaca is a rewarding way to experience the beauty of indigenous culture.
Slated for late July 2026, the event incorporates traditional dance, music and
costumes. Expect lots of opportunities to sample local food and purchase
handmade crafts, too. Tour operators with packages that include attendance at
the Guelaguetza Festival include
Mexico Kan Tours and El Interior.
Mexican Independence Day: This important date is celebrated nationwide on September 16, although
festivities actually begin the night before with the Grito de Dolores, which commemorates Father Miguel Hidalgo’s
1810 call for independence from Spain. In Mexico City, the Grito takes place on the Zocalo (the city’s
largest square), with cheering crowds and fireworks. The following day, a
military parade proceeds along the grand Paseo de la Reforma boulevard.
Smaller-scale celebrations take place in many other popular tourist cities,
including San Miguel de Allende, Morelia and Oaxaca.
Carnaval: This pre-Lenten celebration is especially large in two
coastal cities, and each has its own distinct flavor. In Mazatlán, the 2026 edition of Carnaval runs from
February 12-17, with multiple parades, live music, and lots of costumes and
parties. Carnaval in
Veracruz runs February 10-18, with festive parades and music with
Afro-Caribbean influence.
Feria Nacional de San Marcos (San Marcos National Fair): Many foreign travelers may not be aware of
this event, but it ranks as Mexico’s largest annual fair, attracting thousands
to Aguascalientes each year. Taking place from mid-April through early May, it
features multiple cultural and culinary events, as well as live performances by
big-name musical artists (this year’s performers haven’t been announced yet,
but previous fairs have featured Enrique Iglesias, Sting, Pitbull and Maroon 5,
to name a few).
Women celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. (Photo Credit: Brady/Adobe)
Best Places for Families in Mexico
The
Riviera Maya: With its soft-sand beaches and expansive, all-inclusive
resort hotels (many of which offer free children’s programs), the Riviera Maya
— which includes destinations like Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos — is an
ideal region for multigenerational vacations. Families can also take advantage
of the proximity to family-friendly attractions like Xcaret,
as well as a variety of cenotes and Mayan archeological sites that provide fun
learning opportunities. Among the region’s hotels with kids’ clubs are the St.
Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya and the Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
Los
Cabos: The upscale hotels in Los Cabos provide an indulgent backdrop
for family-friendly getaways, while the array of outdoor activities — which
range from snorkeling and yachting to ATV and mountain bike excursions — ensure
that kids and adults alike will find lots of excitement. Resorts, including the
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos and the Viceroy Los Cabos, offer children’s clubs.
Puerto
Vallarta: A stroll along the city’s beautiful Malecón boardwalk, dotted
with fanciful contemporary sculpture, is a fun way to introduce kids to the
charms of this oceanfront resort destination. Families can explore the region’s
natural beauty at attractions like the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, home to swimming rivers and nature
trails, and the Los Veranos Canopy Tour,
offering exciting zipline adventures.
Cancun: Mexico’s biggest tourism destination is number one for a reason — and that’s
especially apparent when it comes to the numerous family-friendly hotels that
line the Cancun Hotel Zone. Short airport transfer times are also a big selling
point for families looking for convenience and a stress-free getaway, and
kid-friendly properties like the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun and Hilton
Cancun Mar Caribe offer children’s clubs and easy access to nearby attractions
and activities.
Mexico
City: There’s no need to limit family vacations to the beach when
planning a Mexico trip. Big-city sophistication pairs perfectly with
family-minded fun in Mexico City, where the recently opened Casa de las Mil
Muñecas (House of 1,000 Dolls), the Papalote Museo del Niño (Papalote
Children’s Museum) and the Museo del Juguete Antiguo Mexico (Museum of Antique
Toys) are just a few examples of how this metropolis engages children with
unique attractions.
The Arch at Land’s End in Los Cabos, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Guntherize)
Best Places for Couples in Mexico
San
Miguel de Allende: This charming, sophisticated town’s colonial-era
architecture and cobblestone streets provide a picturesque backdrop for its enticing
array of boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants and upscale shops. The town’s
small size and elegant offerings make it ideal for romance-seeking couples, with
options like sunset drinks and dinner on a beautiful rooftop (the Rosewood San
Miguel de Allende is perfect for that) and wine tastings at venues such as the San Miguel Vineyard.
Costalegre: Stretching
along a 200-mile stretch of Pacific coastline between Puerto Vallarta and
Manzanillo, Costalegre (the “Happy
Coast”) is an up-and-coming destination for luxury travel and
romantic getaways, with an array of secluded beaches and dramatic scenery that
ranges from lush jungle to soaring cliffs. Beautifully designed properties like
Las Alamandas and the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo are perfect for couples, offering
blissful privacy and ample space to enjoy an indulgent time together.
Holbox: The relaxed,
car-free ambiance and white-sand beaches of this unspoiled Mexican Caribbean
island make it an especially good choice for couples seeking a peaceful,
romantic getaway. Biking, sunset boat rides and sunrise kayaking are just a few
of the activities that couples can enjoy in this decidedly uncrowded
environment.
Isla Mujeres: A
quick ferry ride from Cancun transports couples to a very different world: the
laidback island of Isla Mujeres, which combines small-town charm with beautiful
scenery. The upscale, adults-only Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is an
excellent hotel option, offering spa treatments and a private ferry transfer
from the mainland.
Valle de Guadalupe: One of Mexico’s most celebrated wine regions, it offers intimate settings for
couples to sip unique local varietals. Luxurious spas, outstanding cuisine and upscale
hotels like the sumptuous Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe help to cement
this destination’s role as a hotspot for romance travel.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. (Photo Credit: simonmayer/Adobe)
Best Places for Group
Travel in Mexico
Cancun: With its wide array of large, well-designed hotels and easy access to myriad
activities and attractions (ranging from Mayan archeological sites to bustling
nightlife), Cancun is well positioned to serve the needs of groups, whether
it’s multigenerational getaways, family reunions or friend vacations. Among the
newer group-friendly hotel options are the 400-room Hyatt Vivid Grand Island
and AVA Resort Cancun, both of which offer all-inclusive amenities and plenty
of on-site activities.
Los
Cabos: Los Cabos entices groups with its blend of upscale resort
culture and extensive outdoor activities, among the group-friendly activities: private
yacht charters with companies like Cabo Platinum, exciting ATV desert tours and
whale watching with Cabo Adventures and culinary classes at Tamarindos, a
farm-to-table restaurant that offers a variety of group-friendly programs.
Puerto
Vallarta: This charming city’s easily walkable downtown makes it
especially pleasant for groups looking to explore diverse dining, art
galleries, shopping and nightlife. Companies like Vallarta Adventures also make
it easy for groups to participate in activities ranging from beach and
snorkeling excursions to private boat charters, whale watching, and scuba
lessons.
Mexico
City: As the nation’s capital and largest metropolis, Mexico
City offers activities to suit nearly every type of group. History buffs
and art lovers will appreciate the city’s vast array of museums (including the
new Living Museum of Muralism), while foodies won’t want to miss trying out
some of Mexico’s most celebrated restaurants. Suppliers, including Kensington
Tours, offer private, multi-day tours of Mexico City that can work well for
groups, while hotels, including the trendy Mondrian Mexico City Condesa, also
craft customized, private city tours and experiences.
Oaxaca: The city
of Oaxaca is a hub for lovers of history, culture, and great food, making it a worthwhile
choice for groups seeking a culturally rich experience. Cooking classes, mezcal
sampling, market tours and excursions to the Monte Alban archeological site are
just a few options for enjoyable group activities. Companies, including Tia
Stephanie Tours and Oaxaca by Locals, offer a variety of customizable group
activities and tours.
Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico. (photo via Quintana Roo Tourism Board).
Best Places for Solo Travel in Mexico
Mexico
City: With seemingly endless
cultural attractions, culinary venues, shopping, and nightlife, Mexico City is
a destination where solo travelers will find plenty of interesting diversions.
Affordable rideshare app services, extensive public transit, and highly
walkable neighborhoods make wandering the city a pleasure, and local group
tours can offer opportunities to socialize for those looking to meet other
travelers. Neighborhoods including Condesa, Roma Norte, and Coyoacán are
perfect for solo travelers, thanks to their laid-back vibe and walkability.
Sayulita: This
wonderfully bohemian beach town in the state of Nayarit is a hotspot for
solo travelers for several reasons: the relaxed vibe and cafes, the surf
schools and easy-to-join activities all make it easy for travelers to meet
other people if they like. Examples include yoga studios like The Rose Room,
located at the Don Bonito Hotel, and Alchemize House, a “social wellness” hub
designed to foster interaction. The town’s reputation as one of the nation’s
safest coastal towns also makes it a popular choice for solo female travelers.
San Cristóbal de las Casas: This designated Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), set in a picturesque region
of the Chiapas highlands, is graced with colorful colonial architecture and a
pleasantly cool climate. Strolling the postcard-perfect streets is a delight,
and Spanish-language classes, walking tours, artisan workshops and excursions
to the nearby Sumidero Canyon provide additional opportunities for social interaction.
Mérida: The
capital of Yucatán state offers a safe environment and
opportunities to learn about and interact with Mayan culture. Solo travelers
can attend cultural events year-round and take excursions to nearby cenotes and
archeological sites, including Chichén Itzá. G Adventures offers a Solo-ish in
Mexico itinerary with monthly departures in 2026, featuring a nine-day
program that leads guests through Playa
del Carmen, Tulum,
Mérida, and the Yucatán interior. The itinerary is designed to foster
conversation and connection among solo travelers.
Oaxaca: This
city’s busy calendar of festivals, workshops, and activities, like mezcal
tours, makes it easy for solo travelers to tap into the region’s allure and socialize
with other travelers and locals alike. Cooking classes, guided market visits,
and tours of the Monte Alban archaeological site are among the top activities
for solo travelers here.
The Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo Credit: AdobeStock/Richie Chan)
Best Places for Foodie Travel in Mexico
Puebla: One
of Mexico’s traditional culinary hubs, the city of Puebla offers mouthwatering
opportunities to sample legendary dishes like mole poblano, cemitas and
chalupas, to name a few. The region’s Spanish and Indigenous heritage are
especially apparent in these delicious culinary creations, and travelers can immerse
themselves through food tours and cooking classes. Banyan Tree Puebla,
for example, is among the hotels that
offer culinary experiences — including chef-led cooking classes, mezcal and
tequila tastings and a “market to table culinary adventure” that features a
guided visit to a nearby market.
Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California: Food and wine enthusiasts will find lots to
love in this region of northwestern Mexico. Ensenada’s fish tacos are
legendary, while nearby Valle de Guadalupe is one of the nation’s most
celebrated wine regions, with more than 150 wineries. Top choices for exploring
include El Cielo, a boutique hotel and winery that’s been praised for its
ecologically responsible winemaking practices, and Nossa Imports, a U.S.-based
wine importer that organizes group and individual tours. In 2025, Chef Diego
Hernandez opened Diego, a restaurant inside the Museo de La Vid y El Vino, a wine museum.
Guadalajara:
This fascinating metropolis is home
to many of Mexico’s most celebrated traditions — and cuisine is one of them. Local
favorites include tortas ahogadas (drowned sandwiches) and carne en su jugo
(beef in juice). Visitors can join food tours and cooking classes with local
operators like Casa Humo, or reserve a table at trendy eateries including Hueso
and Xokol. The Neighborhood of the Nine Corners is the authentic hub for
sampling traditional birria, a slow-cooked meat stew.
Querétaro Wine and Cheese Route: It may not be as well-known as Valle de
Guadalupe, but the wine and cheese route in the state of Querétaro is gaining
attention for its interesting variety of vineyards and artisanal cheese farms,
all of which are conveniently close to the magical towns of Tequisquiapan
and Peña de Bernal. Wineries that offer tours and tastings include Sala Vive
and Puerta del Lobo. Wine enthusiasts can also stay overnight at Hacienda
Atongo, a seven-hectare vineyard with a restaurant and a 14-room hotel.
Sunset over Guadalajara, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/simonmayer)
Best Places for Adventure Travel in Mexico
Sumidero Canyon National Park: Lined with limestone cliffs that soar as tall
as 3,300 feet, Sumidero Canyon provides a dramatic backdrop for boat tours,
hiking and mountain biking. Wildlife is abundant — including crocodiles,
monkeys and birds — and local guides can provide expert insight into the
region’s vast natural beauty. San Cristóbal de Las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez
are the most common departure points.
Sierra Gorda, Querétaro: The Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve is home to deep canyons and
a rugged landscape that’s ideal for adventurous nature lovers. Visitors can join
multi-sport expeditions that can include hiking, mountain tubing, canyoning and
rappelling. Sierra Gorda Ecotours offers preservation-minded excursions
and eight cabins for overnight stays.
Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosí: The beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and
limestone formations of Huasteca Potosina are a paradisiacal setting for nature
lovers, and adventurous types are especially attracted to the region.
Operators, including Huaxteca and Vibe Adventures, offer robust tour
itineraries with activities such as boat tours, hiking, rafting, and
rappelling.
Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre): This group of canyons, which is much larger
than the Grand Canyon, offers many breathtaking adventure experiences. The Chepe Express rail line provides the most unique way to
reach this spectacularly beautiful region, with hiking trails that lead
adventurers deep into the canyons. Mountain biking, rappelling and zipline
courses are also noteworthy activities at Parque
Barrancas, an adventure park
with a variety of exciting experiences. Copper Canyon Adventures offers guided,
multi-day itineraries tailored for adventurous travelers, while Road Scholar
offers multiple departures throughout 2026.
Jalcomulco, Veracruz: For fans of whitewater rafting, it’s hard to beat the thrills that await
in this region of Veracruz state. The challenging rapids of the Rio Antigua
provide class II-IV excitement — all against a backdrop of verdant tropical
scenery and soaring canyon walls. Travelers can time their visit to suit their
conditions; October brings the biggest whitewater waves, but rafting is doable
year-round, and tour packages can also include rappelling, ziplining, and
temazcal experiences. Adventurec is among the local operators that offer
customizable packages and accommodations.
PHOTO: Cenote Ik Kil, Yucatan. (Photo via Mexico Tourism Board)
Best Places for Sports Enthusiasts in Mexico
Mexico
City: The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which takes place in June and July 2026, will
make headlines around the globe — and Mexico’s three host cities will be
the focus for much of the excitement. The opening match, in fact, will take
place at the recently upgraded Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Beyond the World
Cup, Mexico’s capital attracts sports lovers with events like the Formula 1
Mexico City Grand Prix, which takes place October 30-November 1, 2026 at the
Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez, and the MLG World Tour Mexico City Series, which
brings baseball excitement to the city on April 25 and 26, 2026 with two games
between the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres. Arena Mexico, meanwhile,
hosts year-round sporting events in the form of Lucha Libre wrestling.
Monterrey: Soccer-obsessed
travelers may also want to put Monterrey on their itinerary; in addition to hosting
multiple matches during the FIFA World Cup at Estadio Monterrey, the city is a prime
destination for watching Liga MX action throughout the year. Professional
baseball and basketball seasons also boost the sports scene.
Guadalajara: This
historic city will also witness lots of FIFA World Cup excitement in 2026, with
the iconic Estadio Akron serving as the host venue. The city is also home to
two Liga MX clubs, Chivas and Atlas, as well as sporting
excitement in the form of major boxing events, professional tennis competitions
like the Guadalajara Open Akron in September and traditional charrería (Mexican
rodeo) exhibitions.
Los
Cabos: This sun-soaked
destination may be known for its scenic beauty and sumptuous hotels, but it’s
also an excellent place for sports enthusiasts, thanks to its impressive roster
of action-packed events. The World Wide Technology Championship, for example, will
bring PGA pros to the Tiger Woods-designed El Cardonal Golf Course on November
2-8, 2026. Los Cabos also hosts Bisbee’s sport fishing tournaments,
including the Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore event and the Bisbee’s Black
& Blue, both of which take place in October, with top-notch anglers competing
for multimillion-dollar purses. The ATP Los Cabos Open, meanwhile, will bring
tennis excitement to the courts on July 18-25, 2026.
Cerro de la Silla in Monterrey, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Carlos Flores)
Best Places for LGBTQ+ Travelers in Mexico
Puerto
Vallarta: In 2026, Puerto Vallarta remains Mexico’s highest-profile
beach destination for LGBTQ+ vacationers, with the city’s Romantic Zone neighborhood
offering an impressive concentration of queer-owned and queer-welcoming
businesses that make it easy for diverse traveler types to feel at home. Top
venues include Mantamar Beach Club for
daytime pool and beach fun and festive events. LGBTQ+-focused accommodation
options include the beachfront, adults-only Almar LGBT Luxury Resort, the upscale, boutique-style Casa Cupula and The Tryst, which
debuted in 2025. Vallarta Pride
usually takes place in May (dates hadn’t been announced as of press time), and Diana’s
Tours offers gay-friendly boat tours year-round.
Mexico
City: The nation’s capital and biggest city is logically home to
Mexico’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ life, with an enticing blend of queer-friendly
culture, businesses and activities. The Zona Rosa neighborhood has the largest
concentration of LGBTQ+ bars — including the cowboy-themed Vaqueros and the
youthful Kinky — but there are welcoming venues in other neighborhoods, too. Out
Adventures offers a five-night Mexico City tour package with two departures
scheduled for 2026. Mexico City Pride, which takes place on the last Saturday
in June, is an ideal time to immerse in the city’s welcoming vibe; the event
includes a massive parade down Reforma Avenue and a festival with live
entertainment in the Zocalo, the city’s largest plaza.
Guadalajara: This
high-profile city is another great place for LGBTQ+ travelers. Pride in
Guadalajara attracts thousands of supporters — but note that two different
organizations actually head two pride-related marches; one takes place on June
6, 2026, and the other on June 13, 2026. For year-round nightlife, clubs
like Babel and staples
like California’s are go-to
places for a night on the town, while Genesis — which isn’t specifically queer
— attracts a loyal following with its fun mix of retro music from various
decades.
Playa
del Carmen: LGBTQ+ travelers who crave the warm, clear Caribbean
waters of Mexico’s Riviera Maya may want to consider a visit to Playa del
Carmen, the laidback beach town with a supremely walkable downtown and a prime
location near the region’s cenotes and Mayan ruins. This isn’t a place for
nonstop nightlife, of course, but venues like Migajera do provide after-dark
diversion. A gay-owned company, Mérida Gay Tours, offers excursions to nearby
attractions throughout the Mexican Caribbean and in the neighboring state of
Yucatan.
Outlook over Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board)
Unique to
Mexico: Archeological Ruins
Teotihuacan: An
easy day trip from Mexico City, it features the stunning remains of an ancient
metropolis dating to around 100 BC. A guided visit is the best way to fully
appreciate this remarkable archaeological site, which includes the gigantic
Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, as well as a series of ceremonial avenues and
plazas. Intrepid Travel is among the operators offering multi-day Mexico tours
that include stays at hotels, including the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City,
which can arrange hot-air balloon rides over the pyramids.
Tulum: Built sometime between 1200 and 1450 CE, Tulum
is one of Mexico’s most picturesque archeological ruins, sitting atop limestone
cliffs on the Caribbean coast. The recent development of interpretive trails in
the Jaguar National Park makes a visit even more enriching, as does the new
Maya Heritage Museum.
Monte Alban: This
dramatically beautiful archaeological site in the Oaxaca Valley was one of the
region’s first urban centers and a hub of the Zapotec civilization. Guided
half-day tours from Oaxaca city are easy to arrange with a variety of tour
operators. Journey Mexico offers customizable, multi-day itineraries that
include visits to Monte Alban.
Uxmal: Founded
around 700 CE, Uxmal is one of the most important archeological sites in
Yucatan. Its symbolic motifs, sculptures and Pyramid of the Soothsayer are
genuinely stunning. On-site guides can provide detailed insight into the site’s
history, and nighttime light shows offer a dramatic after-dark option for
visiting. Many tours combine visits to this site with stops at other nearby
ruins.
Chichen Itza:
This large complex of Mayan ruins in the state of Yucatan — inhabited from around
600 CE until the 1200s — is one of Mexico’s best-known archeological sites,
and with good reason. Its gigantic step pyramid, El Castillo, casts a powerful
profile, and the ball court provides a fascinating glimpse at ancient sporting
life.
Mayan ruins of Tulum, Mexico. (Photo Credit: Simon Dannhauer / Adobe Stock)
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