15 Things to Do in Querétaro (Fun & Easy Guide)

Querétaro had me at hola. I bet this captivating city in Central Mexico will cast its spell on you, too. Many travelers set their sights on Mexico’s sandy coasts or the mega metropolis energy of Mexico City. But for anyone who craves a place that feels grounded yet celebratory, in a city built for beauty and connection, Querétaro delivers. Use this fun and easy-to-follow guide to discover the 15 best things to do in Querétaro, from the historic city center to nearby adventures.

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1. Wander Centro Histórico

Santiago de Querétaro, the capital city of the state of Querétaro, was designed as a crossroads linking Mexico City to the silver mines to the north. This may be why the city still feels so walkable and intentionally laid out today. Querétaro’s Centro Histórico seems made for wandering. In fact, many visitors never leave Centro and its nearby walkable neighborhoods, like Barrio de la Cruz and San Francisquito.

No car is necessary to explore the historic center of Querétaro if you enjoy walking and do not mind the occasional Uber ride. It’s fun to seek out attractions and activities, but much of the magic comes from getting lost, soaking up the beautiful buildings, and stumbling upon hidden gems of this historic city.

2. Querétaro’s Plazas

The many plazas in Querétaro’s Centro make it feel especially welcoming and easy to linger in. Just when you think you’ve seen them all, you turn a corner, and there’s another lovely square. It’s fun to happen upon these spots, but there are some to look out for.

Plaza de Armas

This square is surrounded by 18th century mansions that now contain government offices, cafés, and shops. At the center is Fuente del Marqués, affectionately known as Fuente de los Perritos (Dog Fountain) for the water‑spouting canines encircling it.

Jardín Zenea

Boxwood trees and a gazebo add to the picturesque charm of Querétaro’s liveliest plaza. Locals sit on benches in the shade, chatting and listening to live music by street performers, while children ride scooters and play with toys.

Jardín Guerrero

A few blocks away, Jardín Guerrero offers an open and sunny escape, framed by neatly trimmed trees. At the center of this spacious square sits a series of pretty stone fountains.

Trio of Plazas in La Cruz

Three plazas are grouped together on the eastern side of Querétaro Centro in La Cruz neighborhood. Often used for markets, concerts, and other cultural events, the city’s largest square, Plaza de la Constitución, features a large central fountain. It’s adjacent to Plaza de la Cruz, right in front of the butter-yellow Santuario de la Santísima Cruz church. Across the street is Plaza Fundadores, which is lined by charming sidewalk cafés and bronze sculptures of important figures from Querétaro’s rich history.

3. Mirador de Los Arcos

Perched in the Santa Cruz neighborhood, Mirador de los Arcos offers sweeping views of Querétaro’s iconic aqueduct and the city. This lookout point makes easy add‑on after exploring the eastern side of Centro. The scenic overlook is particularly pretty in the late‑afternoon golden hour when the sun lights the aqueduct’s 74 pink arches.

According to legend, the aqueduct’s benefactor, the Marqués de la Villa del Villar del Águila, fell in love with a nun from the Convent of Santa Clara. So, he financed the aqueduct to ensure the convent had a reliable supply of clean water. The Acueducto de Querétaro was built in the 18th century. Often referred to simply as Los Arcos, this water source remained in use until the early 1900s.

4. Lele Dolls

As you explore, be on the lookout for one of Querétaro’s unofficial city symbols, the Lele, which means “baby” in the Otomí dialect. These dolls are outfitted in traditional Otomí clothing with a bright, pleated skirt, a matching embroidered blouse, and a braided ribbon crown. These affordable treasures are often handmade and make meaningful souvenirs or gifts. You’ll even spot adorable flashing Lele silhouettes on pedestrian traffic lights.

5. La Danzante Otomí Statue

An often-photographed, striking statue of an Otomí dancer has come to symbolize the city. It is frequently referred to as La Danzante Otomí, but the official title is Danza de la Conquista. Created by Mexican sculptor Rubén Maya, it honors the region’s Otomí heritage and the living tradition of the Conchero dance. Find it on Plaza Fundadores, right beside Templo de la Santa Cruz.

6. Querétaro Churches

Mexican plazas are often anchored by churches, and Querétaro follows this tradition. There are dozens of churches in the city of Querétaro. Many are small parishes, while others are grand cathedrals. Even if you aren’t Christian or religious, you may want to stop inside these places of worship to appreciate their aesthetic beauty and cultural significance (while being mindful of any services).

If you visit only one “wow” church in Querétaro, make it Templo de Santa Rosa de Viterbo with its ornate stonework, ornamental flying buttresses, and gilded interior. Flanking Jardín Zenea, two other notable options are Templo de San Francisco, a former monastery with a large dome, and Templo de San Antonio, a pink‑hued church with twin towers.

7. Local Museums

Querétaro packs an impressive mix of museums for a mid‑sized city, with about 15 to 20 places to explore. Entry is often free or very affordable, making them an accessible way to experience the city’s history and local culture. Below are a few of the most well-known.

Museo del Calendario (Calendar Museum)

This unique museum, also known as MUCAL, showcases the origins of timekeeping and Mexico’s long tradition of calendar art. Museo del Calendario is housed in a restored colonial‑era mansion with gorgeous courtyards filled with plants and fountains. Be sure to stop for a meal or beverage in the garden café, where diners receive a discount off their tab by showing entrance tickets.

Museo de Arte de Querétaro (Art Museum)

The ornate baroque architecture of the Museo de Arte de Querétaro (MAQRO) is as impressive as the artwork it displays. It’s located in the Convento San Agustín, a former convent built in the mid‑1700s. The museum features colonial-era New Spanish paintings and sculptures as well as contemporary works by Mexican artists. As an art lover, this was my favorite tourist attraction in the city.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Querétaro (Contemporary Art Museum)

For offbeat displays of contemporary works of art, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art of Querétaro (MACQ). The bold modern photography, sculptures, paintings, and immersive installations by Mexican and international artists at MACQ contrast beautifully with the building’s traditional architecture.

Museo de los Conspiradores (Museum of Conspirators)

The Museo de los Conspiradores celebrates the fight for freedom by countries around the world, with a primary focus on Mexico’s War of Independence from Spain. Beautifully hand-painted murals tell the stories behind the struggles. Most of the signage is in Spanish only, with a few displays offering English translations.

Museo Regional de Querétaro (Regional Museum)

Connected to Templo de San Francisco, Museo Regional de Querétaro (INAH) occupies a former Franciscan monastery. Exhibits and artifacts trace the history of Querétaro from its pre-Hispanic roots to Mexican Independence from Spain and beyond. Note that signage is in Spanish only.

8. Alameda Hidalgo Park

Many green spaces shown on Querétaro’s city maps appear to be parks but are actually plazas. For a breath of fresh air with lots of shade from leafy trees, visit Alameda Hidalgo Park. This easy-to-reach green promenade is located in the southern part of the city center in the Alameda neighborhood. The 26-acre urban park (about 10.5 hectares) features wide walking paths, plenty of benches, picnic tables, decorative statues, and a central fountain. Public restrooms are available.

9. Teatro de la República

Built in the mid-1800s Teatro de la República holds deep significance for Querétaro as the place where Mexico’s 1917 Constitution was drafted and signed. It’s a four-level, mostly neoclassical oval theater.

Although it is still a functioning theater today, there is no central box office. Located just a few blocks from Plaza de Armas on Calle Juárez, this is mostly a pretty walk-by attraction unless you score tickets to a concert or other local event. I stumbled upon a group of graduates in their caps and gowns just outside the building, presumably awaiting their graduation ceremony inside.

10. Shopping & Markets

Shopping in Centro is a mix of discount department stores, art galleries, vendor stalls, and specialty boutiques. We even came across a Harry Potter-themed shop, called Motivos 9 ¾ Tienda Mágica. Pop into dulcerías (candy shops) selling cajeta, coconut candies, and other traditional Mexican sweets. Soak up the flavors at Mercado de la Cruz, an authentic covered Mexican market filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, flowers, food stalls, and inexpensive items for sale. Be sure to browse the Mercado de Artesanías for locally made handicrafts.

11. Festivals & Events

Querétaro loves a celebration, with festivals and community events filling the calendar in every season. The city’s most famous event is the Fiestas de la Santa Cruz, held each September, when dancers, processions, and fireworks surround the Templo de la Santa Cruz. In late October and early November, Día de Muertos honors loved ones who have passed away with decorative altars, marigold displays, and a colorful parade of Catrinas through Centro. The easiest way to see what’s happening during your visit is to look at the Querétaro Calendar of Events.

My husband and I were lucky enough to be in Querétaro for Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day or Epiphany). This holiday celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men every January. In Mexico, it’s the day children receive gifts, often even more than on Christmas. We were delighted to witness a holiday parade marching through town and participate in a family-focused fair featuring food booths, vendor stands, lights displays, and character visits.

12. Local Restaurants

Querétaro isn’t known as a foodie destination, but we definitely found plenty of delicious things to eat in the city, from Mexican cuisine to international options.

La Dulce Compañía Panaderia

The biggest challenge with La Dulce Compañía Panadería is deciding what to order from their tempting display case. Choose from shell-shaped sweet conchas, bagels, croissants, cakes, and other delectable pastries. Add a cappuccino, latte, tea, or another beverage. Sandwiches on artisan bread are available, too. Across the street is their cafeteria for dining in.

Blue Fish Restaurante

Although Mexico’s coastline is hundreds of miles away, the fried fish tacos from Blue Fish Restaurante were one of the best dishes we tried in Querétaro City. The flaky fish is coated in a perfectly crisp batter and served with slaw, sauce, pickled onions, and tangy lime. We discovered this hidden gem on the outskirts of Centro, thanks to this Querétaro restaurant review guide by The Nomad Experiment. (Aren’t blogs wonderful?!)

Tikua Sur Este

For a memorable dining experience, dig into traditional dishes inspired by the Yucatán, Campeche, Chiapas, and Oaxaca at Tikua Sur Este. Adventurous eaters can try pre-Hispanic dishes made with insects, such as Tacos de Escamoles. For less intrepid diners (like me), there are more familiar options like sopa azteca, cochinita pibil, and a variety of moles. The setting is sumptuous, with garden-courtyard dining and a stunning painted mural.

La Boheme Bistro

A French restaurant in Querétaro? Mais, oui! La Boheme Bistro delivers a quaint Parisian dining experience with Eiffel Tower theming and the best French onion soup I’ve ever had outside of France.

13. Juriquilla

If you’d like to experience a more modern and upscale side of the metro area, consider Juriquilla. Popular with professionals and international residents, including temporary expats, this neighborhood is known for its gated communities, golf courses, and some of the city’s most impressive homes. It’s a 20‑minute drive north of Centro, depending on traffic.

Antea Lifestyle Center

Juriquilla is home to Antea Lifestyle Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Latin America. Look for familiar brands such as Zara, Levi’s, Hugo Boss, P.F. Chang’s, and more.

City Market

Next door is City Market, an expansive upscale gourmet grocery store that’s a destination in itself. In addition to standard food items, you’ll find an array of gourmet goods, small kitchen appliances, dishes and glassware, and even restaurants where you can pull up a seat to have a bite to eat.

14. Parque Querétaro 2000

Querétaro 2000 is the city’s largest park, about two miles from Centro (3 km). This sprawling green space comprises 68 acres (27.6 hectares). It features walking paths, lakes, sports courts, public swimming pools, and playgrounds. Although we didn’t make it here on our trip, locals consistently recommend Querétaro 2000 as the city’s go‑to spot for outdoor recreation. It’s a great place to escape the hubbub of the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

15. Day Trips from Santiago de Querétaro

Querétaro City serves as a gateway to Central Mexico’s wine country and nearby Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns).

San Miguel de Allende

One of my favorite places in Mexico, and the world, is San Miguel de Allende. I love its pretty cobblestone streets, sunset-colored architecture, walkable downtown, and so much more. Luckily, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is only about an hour’s drive from Querétaro. Discover what to do in San Miguel de Allende in my full guide.

Ready to go? Sign up for a full-day tour of San Miguel de Allende, Dolores Hidalgo, and Atotonilco with my trusted partner, GetYourGuide.

Bernal

One of the world’s tallest monoliths, La Peña de Bernal, anchors Bernal. This photogenic Pueblo Mágico is located about 36 miles (58 km) from Santiago de Querétaro. For a picturesque and bubbly combo, book a Bernal and Freixenet Wine Caves guided tour.

Tequisquiapan

A charming village known for its nearby vineyards and hot springs. Tequisquiapan is about 40 miles (64 km) from Querétaro City, making this Pueblo Mágico an easy countryside day trip. Reserve a tour along Central Mexico’s famous Wine and Cheese Route to sample local wines, artisanal cheeses, and homemade ice cream.

Why I Love Querétaro

I have spent years trying to find a place outside the U.S. that feels exciting yet grounded, beautiful yet approachable, affordable yet comfortable. And from the minute I stepped onto Querétaro’s cobblestone streets, it happened. It was that instant feeling you get when you meet someone who gives you electric butterflies, or when you try on the wedding dress that is way out of your price range, or when the real estate agent opens the door to the home you already know will become yours. I felt it right away. Uh oh. I am in love.

Why uh oh? Because, mis amigos, I want to go. But it looks like my husband’s job may keep us from following this dream. After months of researching and hoping Querétaro might be the balance of close to family, safe, and full of excitement, I almost did not want to confirm my suspicions. That this city is as close to perfect for me as I am going to find. It would be easier to go back home and keep convincing myself that I do not need this adventure. That I am perfectly happy with the comfort and convenience of the U.S., and I do not need to look elsewhere.

But then I went. And I fell. And now I cannot let the dream go.

Where to Stay in Querétaro

If Querétaro is calling your name, too, let’s talk about your accommodation options. When visiting for a week or less, I recommend staying in Centro, especially if it is your first time in the city. You’ll get a real feel for the city and enjoy the best walkable access to attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Casona de la República

I spent way too many hours trying to find the perfect place to stay in Querétaro’s Old Town. I was looking for a hotel with great reviews, appealing rooms, modern conveniences, and parking for our rental car. Thankfully, I found Casona de la República.

This adults‑only hotel occupies a beautifully renovated 18th-century mansion with a grand courtyard, Spanish-style arches, and Art Nouveau touches. Rooms include a mini fridge, air conditioning, and daily housekeeping. Request a courtyard-facing room for quiet, peaceful sleep despite the hotel’s central location.

Breakfast is included and delicious. It comes with coffee, juice, a generous plate of fresh fruit with yogurt and granola, and toast with butter and jam. You also get a choice of eggs cooked to order or chilaquiles with beans and eggs. (As a chilaquiles fanatic, you can guess what I ordered every day.)

Tip: If driving, call the hotel a few minutes before arrival so you can easily hand over the keys to a valet who will park the car in a nearby, secure off-site lot. Front office staff speak English, so this is really not intimidating for those not fluent in Spanish.

Book your stay at Casona de la República now!

Zibatá

If you’re planning an extended stay or are curious about living in Querétaro, Zibatá’s many vacation homes make it an appealing home base. Since my husband and I were scouting Querétaro as a possible future home, we spent a couple of nights here in addition to a longer stay in Centro.

Roughly 25 minutes northeast of downtown, Zibatá is a large master planned community with a public golf course, grassy parks, and plenty of cafés and strip mall conveniences. Note: Unless you’re staying here, it can be difficult to enter Zibatá without a restaurant reservation, as there are multiple gated checkpoints.

Explore More of Mexico

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Bringing the kids? Here is a comprehensive list of activities for children in Cancún, from water play to ancient ruins.

Learn about the intriguing Mexican tradition of Día de los Muertos with my tips for celebrating Day of the Dead in Puerto Vallarta.

From art galleries and hot springs to a unique botanical garden, don’t miss my guide to San Miguel de Allende.

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Which of these fun things to do in Querétaro sounds most fun to you? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

A Note from Colleen: I paid full price for everything mentioned in this article. I will always let you know if I receive a media rate or comp. All opinions are mine, as always.

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