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TRAVEL TIPS

21 Best Things To Do in San Miguel de Allende


Take a walk along the cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning architecture as you bounce between museums, cafes, and galleries. Sit down to take in the sights and sounds of the town square before heading out for a nice dinner and rooftop cocktails. A few days of this, and you’ll quickly realize why San Miguel de Allende is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico.

While a day trip here is one of the top things to do in Guanajuato, this city deserves your time!

For the past two years, San Miguel de Allende has been named one of the best cities in the world by Travel & Leisure. What is it about this small colonial city in Mexico that makes it such a special place?

Let’s take a closer look and check out some of the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

Note: This article has been updated to reflect the current costs and best things to do in San Miguel de Allende in 2021. Enjoy your trip!

1. Hang Out in the Square

As with most cities in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is centered around the main square.

Known as El Jardin, this tree-lined plaza is surrounded by gorgeous buildings such as the parish church of San Miguel. Hanging out here easily tops the list of things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

Looking at the church from the middle of the square.

The square is bustling with activity in the evenings and at the weekend. You’ll see roaming mariachi bands, balloon salesmen, and plenty of snack vendors, making for a very lively scene.

If you ever get lost wandering the winding streets, just find your way back to the square and start all over again.

Visiting the main plazas of the cities and towns is one of the top things to do in Mexico. This is where you’ll find all of the action! Click here to find this square on the map. 

2. Take a Day Trip to Cañada de La Virgen

Not far from town, you’ll find the massive nature preserve of Cañada de La Virgen. The highlight of a visit to this archaeological site is being able to explore the many pyramids.

There is a lot more to do here, including camping, horseback riding, and astronomy tours. While it’s possible to visit on your own, you’re better off signing up for a tour to come out here.

☞ See Also: Things To Do in Oaxaca – 21 Things You Don’t Want to Miss

3. Take a Look Inside the Church

Without a doubt, the emblem of the town is the stunning La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Its towering neo-Gothic façade is a true architectural masterpiece. It was built by the self-taught Zeferino Gutiérrez who is believed to have used postcards of European churches for inspiration.

the parish church of san miguel de allende
A look inside the parish church.

While the outside of the church is absolutely breathtaking, be sure to go inside and have a look around as well. In the chapel, you’ll be able to see the revered image of Cristo de la Conquista (Christ of the Conquest) as well as a beautiful painting depicting the founding of the town. 

**Note: a visit inside the stunning churches is also one of the top things to do in Guadalajara!

4. Visit the Botanical Garden

While many visitors to San Miguel de Allende spend much of their trip admiring the man-made beauty that abounds, you’ll want to carve out some time to get out in nature as well.

The perfect place to do that is the large botanical garden known as El Charco del Ingenio. Here you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the many trails, do a bit of bird watching, or sit down for a picnic near a waterfall.

The reserve is open from 9:00 – 5:00pm year-round, and on certain days free transportation is offered to the botanical garden. Click here for details.

☞ See Also: Manzanillo Mexico: The Ultimate Travel Guide

5. Go on a Walking Tour

It’s fun wandering around the cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende on your own, but it’s even better when you’re accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Signing up for a walking tour of the city is definitely one of the most rewarding things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

joining a walking tour is one of the best things to do in san miguel de allende
Walking around San Miguel de Allende.

Historical walking tours meet at 9:45AM in the Jardin every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They also run an architectural tour on every 3rd Thursday at the same time.

Tours last about 2.5 hours and donations for the tour go towards a non-profit organization that provides medical and dental care to children in the community.

A walking tour with a very good cause, and one of the best ways to travel Mexico. If you’re looking to do a walking tour that includes lunch, click here to read about a popular tour. 

6. Study Spanish

One of the most popular things to do in San Miguel de Allende is to sign up for Spanish lessons. There are plenty of excellent Spanish schools here and the locals are super friendly and ready to help you practice.

Ditch that bad gringo accent and improve your español here before travelling to other parts of Latin America. While there are a few Spanish language schools available, this one comes highly recommended. 

☞ SEE MORE: The Best Time To Visit Mexico – A Guide For Travellers

7. Visit the Home of Ignacio Allende

Did you know that San Miguel de Allende is actually named after two different people? The town gets its name from a friar named Juan de San Miguel and Ignacio Allende, a hero and martyr of the Mexican independence movement.

One of the top things to do in San Miguel de Allende is to visit the home of the latter, which is now the city’s history museum.

A look inside the Casa de Ignacio Allende, one of the top things to do in san miguel de allende
A look inside the Casa de Ignacio Allende.

The Museo Historico is open from Tuesday to Sunday and only costs about $3 to visit. Spend an hour or so here and you’ll leave with a much better understanding of the city, its history, and its importance to the country.

8. Explore the Sanctuary of Atotonilco

Just a 30-minute drive from the centre of town, you’ll find the incredible Sanctuary of Atotonilco.

This historic church complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its Mexican Baroque murals. The paintings are so beautiful, in fact, that it has been dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico.”

9. Take a Walk to a Viewpoint (one of the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende!)

San Miguel de Allende looks amazing at street level, but it looks even better from above.

Thankfully it’s not too difficult to get a fantastic panoramic view of the city. It’s only about a 15-20 minute walk from the plaza up to the viewpoint, which is known as El Mirador.

visiting a view point is one of the top things to do in san miguel de allende
What a view!

Be sure to bring your camera with a full battery so you can snap some shots of this gorgeous town from this great vantage point. Add a hike up to the mirador to your list of things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

10. Visit Fabrica La Aurora

For nearly 100 years, Fabrica La Aurora was a textile mill in the north of San Miguel de Allende. These days, it’s a bustling collection of shops, galleries, and cafes that many refer to as a paradise for art lovers.

If you want to watch the artists at work, try to stop by on a Thursday for their Open Studio day. Check their website to see what’s going on and definitely be sure to include a stop here on your visit.

11. Experience a Local Festival

There are different festivals going on all throughout the year in San Miguel de Allende.

In fact, it’s known as a “fiesta town” because it loves to party! It seems like there’s always something fun happening here, whether it be a music festival or a traditional Mexican holiday.

there are endless festivals in san miguel de allende
Enjoying some music and dancing in town.

There are famous storytelling and jazz festivals here each year, and there’s also the absolutely wild Dia de los Locos (Day of the Crazies). This is one of the best festivals in Mexico, don’t miss it!

People get dressed up in all kinds of crazy costumes for a huge parade that’s tons of fun for all. This crazy day happens on the Sunday closest to June 13th, so plan accordingly.

12. Go Horseback Riding

Far and away one of the most popular things to do in San Miguel Allende is a bit of horseback riding.

There are several different options for horseback riding adventures, from short rides through town up to overnight excursions out on the ranch. One very reputable tour company you can check out is Coyote Canyon Adventures.

⇒ See Also: Puerto Escondido – The Ultimate Travel Guide

13. Dive into the Art Scene

San Miguel de Allende has long been a favourite of artists, both established and aspiring. Walking around town, you’ll quickly notice just how abundant art is in San Miguel.

There are museums, galleries, and institutes all over town, including the famous Instituto Allende. There are several options here to unleash your inner artist, from one-day workshops to 4-week courses.

art and painting is one of the top things to do in san miguel de allende
Amazing art is around every corner.

Even if you’re not into creating the art yourself, you’ll find plenty of eye-catching pieces around town to admire. Those interested in bringing some Mexican artwork home will find San Miguel de Allende a fantastic place to do some shopping.

14. Chill Out in a Cafe

One of my favourite things to do in San Miguel de Allende is to find a table in a local cafe and watch the town go by. Some of the best options include Lavanda Café, Cumpanio, and San Agustin for chocolate and churros.

With a nice boost of caffeine and sugar, you’ll be ready to continue your exploration of this famous Mexican town.

15. See a Show at the Theatre

A trip to the Angela Peralta Theatre is definitely one of the best things to do in San Miguel de Allende. Named after the queen of Mexican opera, this intimate theatre hosts a variety of performances from both local and visiting artists.

visiting the theatre is one of the best things to do in san miguel de allende
A great place to catch a show.

Be sure to check the calendar of events before your trip and grab some tickets to see a show here. One of the biggest events here is the International Jazz Festival, which takes place every year in November.

16. Relax in the Thermal Baths

If you’re wondering what to do in San Miguel de Allende after all that walking around and exploring, relaxing in a thermal bath is your best option. Kick back and relax!

There are several thermal baths near the town where you can go for a nice soak. The most popular choices are Escondido Place and La Gruta, both of which are easily combined with a trip to the sanctuary.

⇒ See Also: 21 Top Things To Do in Mazatlan

17. Eat Your Way Across Town

For such a small town, San Miguel de Allende sure packs a punch when it comes to the culinary scene. From street food up to fine-dining and everything in between, your mouth is sure to be watering constantly as you eat your way across town.

There’s an abundance of delicious local food here, but that’s not all that the town is cooking up. You’ll also find plenty of awesome fusion restaurants as well as international cuisine to please the city’s large expat population.

If you’re wondering what to do in San Miguel de Allende for foodies, there are a couple of food tours you can join:

things to do in san miguel de allende

food tour in san miguel de allende

what to do in san miguel de allende

💡Planning a trip to other areas of Mexico? Don’t miss the fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta, the exciting things to do in Mexico City, and the colonial town of San Cristobal de las Casas. If you’re heading to the coast, check out the awesome things to do in Cabo San Lucas, the relaxing things to do in Isla Mujeres, the crazy partying and other fun things to do in Cancun, the epic ruins and things to do in Tulum, and of course the stunning beaches and other things to do in Playa del Carmen. Mexico really has something for everyone.

18. Visit a Local Market

While there are plenty of excellent shops and restaurants around town, you should still make it a point to check out a local market for your shopping and/or eating needs.

The Ignacio Ramírez market is a great place to pick up some fresh produce, grab a cheap lunch, or purchase some local handicrafts to take home.

19. Drinks With a View

After a big day of exploring all that San Miguel de Allende has to offer, the best way to wind down is with cocktails and a view at one of the city’s many rooftop bars.

You’ve got a few choices for your fancy Happy Hour, including the amazing Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar in the Rosewood Hotel.

enjoying happy hour with a view is one of the best things to do in mexico
Happy Hour indeed!

They often have live music as well, making it an even more fun outing. Enjoying a tasty adult beverage with some live tunes and a lovely view of town is definitely one of the top things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

20.  Fly High in a Hot Air Balloon

So you’ve already hiked up to the mirador and enjoyed some rooftop drinks. If you’re looking for an even better view and one of the coolest things to do in San Miguel de Allende, why not go for a hot air balloon ride? Fly high above town in what is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

It’s around $140 for a flight. Click here for details.

21. Party it Up in a Dive Bar

Fancy wine and cocktail joints are great and all, but you’ve got to hit an old-fashioned dive bar once in a while! If you’re looking for an unpretentious place with cheap drinks and good conversation, head to the rowdy La Cucaracha (The Cockroach).

drinks at the cockroach dive bar is one of the best things to do in san miguel de allende
La Cucaracha!

There’s even a giant cockroach on the wall to make the place even more interesting.

Wondering what to do in San Miguel de Allende to hang out with locals? This is it. You won’t find a lot of gringos here, so it’s a great place to get a little loose and practice the Spanish you’ve been working on!

☞ See Also: Things To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A List of The Best 21 Things

Bonus! Volunteer

There are numerous volunteer opportunities in San Miguel. From spending time at a daycare and building houses for the less fortunate, to packaging school meals for children and teaching English. There are a lot of ways you can give back during your trip.

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding and memorable things to do in San Miguel de Allende.

Now You Know What To Do in San Miguel de Allende

After reading about all of these awesome things to do in San Miguel de Allende, I’m sure you can see why the city is such a huge draw for tourists and expats alike.

Despite its recent fame and rising popularity, the city still retains much of its charm that put it on the map with travellers many years ago. If you’re taking a trip to Mexico soon, be sure to add this beautiful, artsy town to your itinerary.

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FASHION TIPS

Kate Hudson Frosts Herself In Bvlgari at the 2021 Golden Globes


It’s been fourteen yrs due to the fact Kate Hudson “frosted herself” for How to Drop a Dude in 10 Days. Because then, the Music actress has worn innumerable pink carpet appears to be that rival Andie Anderson’s legendary yellow gown, but last night’s Golden Globes outfit doubled down on the diamonds. For the digital awards exhibit, Hudson frosted herself—apologies, the tagline was as cringe-y then as it is now—in jaw-dropping BVLGARI jewels and an equally sparkly off-the-shoulder robe by Louis Vuitton.

Putting on Louis Vuitton and BVLGARI jewelry.

Courtesy of BVLGARI

bvlgari
“We love the typical Bvlgari Serpenti earrings,” explained stylist Sophie Lopez. “They are the ideal condition for the dress.”

Courtesy of BVLGARI

While awards time looks a tiny different amidst a world pandemic, that doesn’t signify famous people are holding back in the glam section. For Hudson, that meant around 38 carats in diamonds and a everyday 13-carat sapphire ring. “We opted for levels and a cool earring second,” reported Sophie Lopez, Hudson’s longtime stylist on the Serpenti earrings the actress wore for the evening. “We made the decision to layer two pairs in every ear and increase a further diamond stud in just one ear, to keep it fashionable and awesome in keeping with the dress.”

We attained behind-the-scenes access to Hudson prepping for her night time at house, wherever she answered our issues about what she misses most about authentic-existence awards exhibits, hitting the pandemic wall, and what occurred to Andie’s gown, underneath.

bvlgari
Making an attempt the gems for the evening

Courtesy of BVLGARI

What at any time transpired to the yellow dress you wore in How to Shed a Guyin 10 Days?

You know what? I have no idea in which that dress is! I know it was Carolina Herrera and our astounding costume designer designed the costume with Carolina’s group. I do not know the place it is, but I feel like we should really uncover it!

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What do you overlook most about IRL awards shows?

A single of the points I love about award time is that it is the a single time I get see all of the persons that I don’t get to see all 12 months. It actually is, for all of us, about how substantially we love the arts, how a great deal we really like our local community and it’s a blast! I personally appreciate the Golden Globes simply because it feels a very little extra calm and it is additional of a dinner party. There’s wine at the table and it is always much more rambunctious, which is enjoyable. The following-functions seem to be a minimal wilder way too! It is really the one time of year I know I’m heading to remain out late.

Is there something you you should not overlook about awards year?

Not definitely! I really feel like if you’re demonstrating up for award period that you ought to be very grateful that that is exactly where you are in your career and that you’ve even been invited. So, I sense grateful just about every award time that I get to check out in with all of my circus pals.

bvlgari
The finishing contact.

Courtesy of BVLGARI

We are all starting off to strike a pandemic wall. Do you have any guidance on how to push forward?

Surely hitting a bit of a wall with the pandemic. That mentioned, I’m remaining pretty concentrated. It’s like the universe is tests us to just keep concentrated on staying healthy, being connected and making guaranteed we maintain many others safe and sound. I really do not seriously have any assistance other than to just take issues one particular working day at a time. I’m pretty much just striving to just take a person working day at a time and I have never accomplished a lot more breathing exercises in my lifetime!

If you could reprise any of your mother’s roles, what would it be?

I wouldn’t reprise any of my Mom’s roles. But Wildcats, I loved. I loved remaining on that established. I bear in mind Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes. I was a little lady and they were all so type to me. It’s a person of all those movies that I imagine would be good to re-make or make a sequel.

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BEAUTY TIPS

Vanessa Williams Wants You to Break Color Barriers Too


Joelle Avelino + Getty

state of black beauty

For the Point out of Black Elegance, ELLE.com chatted with 6 Black icons to hear how they determine Black splendor and how they see them selves in the house—in their individual words and phrases.

When I grew up, there was only a single Black doll on the market. Her name was Sasha and she was made in Sweden. I continue to have my Sasha doll. But that was it for 1969.

When I was developing up, there was just one Black actress in a far more leading purpose to check out. Her identify was Diahann Carroll, the only man or woman with her own exhibit: Julia. In the sitcom, she performed a nurse and she experienced a son named Corey. That was the a person illustration rising up. Then Eartha Kitt played Catwoman, which was yet another great example. Of program, we experienced entertainers that had been singers on Television, but the illustration was not constantly there.

As I grew up, the colour limitations were staying broken. The doorways had been opening up to enable additional chances for women of colour. I saw it slowly but surely and gradually get greater and larger. Absolutely in Black magnificence, in the Black group, we experienced Ebony and Jet. Which is wherever you would see Black commercials and Black fashion displays that would tour throughout the main towns in the United States. You would see Beverly Johnson and Iman and all the fantastic designs that would be at the fashion shows. Which is, again, exactly where you would see Black splendor. It really is a gradual progression. It requires innovators to solid, in phrases of actors, and retain the services of for range. It is really a slow progression, but again, I think we’re at a location now that is glorious. And however there’s operate to be done.

“In 1983, we considered we ended up progressive. It was a little far more challenging than that.”

In 1983, we imagined we had been progressive. It was a minor much more sophisticated than that. Our mom and dad had lived through the civil legal rights motion in the early to mid-’60s. So you would think, 20 yrs afterwards, we might created some development. The 12 months that I received Miss out on The usa, there had been five females of colour: four Black and a person Hispanic, which was the most they’d ever experienced in conditions of range.

american model and actor vanessa williams, the first african american miss america, smiles while appearing in the macys thanksgiving day parade, november 24, 1983 she wears her crown and a mink coat photo by tom gatesgetty images

Tom Gates

Deneen Graham, who was Miss out on North Carolina, who was a ballerina, experienced a cross burned on her entrance garden from the KKK soon after she received Miss out on North Carolina. We believed The united states was progressive. We believed a great deal experienced altered, and it appeared like a good deal didn’t improve.

When I gained, it was a big accomplishment, but it was also a further opportunity for racism to rear its head yet once more. On the a single hand, I read people that were Black say to me, “I never imagined I would see it in my lifetime.” They under no circumstances imagined they’d at any time see Skip The usa be represented by a Black girl.

And then I experienced death threats during my reign. And when I had to be in my homecoming parade, they experienced to have sharpshooters on the top of properties to make certain the makes an attempt that have been threatened would not come about. It was a very complex time.

And even in phrases of splendor, there were being Black individuals that said, “Properly, it would not seriously count, because she’s not Black ample. She’s gentle-skinned, she has light eyes, it does not really depend.” And then there were being of course Black persons that have been joyous and so satisfied that the color barrier was broken. So it was unquestionably difficult, and it absolutely was not 1 or the other. It was all of the higher than.

It is a pendulum. Which is kind of how everyday living is. It’s another cycle. So this is a era where by issues need to have to be taught and relearned, and record requires to be advised however all over again. And it truly is our obligation to teach and present the discrepancies and display the glory of everybody’s variations. And which is up to us to proceed to train people today about bigotry, and becoming indifferent, and not currently being tolerant.

“You can find an instance of each entire body condition, every single hair coloration, each pores and skin sort, each and every freckle.”

The base line is, I’m so content now there are more examples than ever just before. You will find an example of each human body form, just about every hair coloration, each individual eye coloration, each individual pores and skin form, each freckle, each scar, extend mark. There is usually an image of attractiveness that you, that any girl, can locate that looks like them. Of program, everyone’s unique. All people has their own unique natural beauty, but there could not be any far more illustrations of, in conditions of range, because we’ve actually been living in a time now exactly where there are pictures all over the location. Which is wonderful. Not only other women’s photographs but they’re also some girls that are shaping the entire world and are in positions of energy, which, again, is expanding and is phenomenal. We are living in an unbelievable age of women’s empowerment and women’s beauty and beliefs of elegance, which is phenomenal.

It can take an specific to make a alter. Diahann Carroll, who just recently passed, performed my mother in a motion picture that I created for Life span back again in 2000 identified as The Courage To Enjoy. And whilst we were being on established, conversing about Julia and how she produced so numerous strides and opened the doors for all of us, she explained, “Well, I built-in the union simply because I insisted on acquiring a Black girl do my hair mainly because there ended up no Black individuals readily available in the union to do hair and make-up. And I required to make sure that I am a particular look and they understood how to tackle my hair.”

Just a single insistence from a star altered and integrated a union. It really is those people little things that adjust heritage and let the door to be opened and other people today finding in. For sure, most—I would say 90 percent of Black actresses—always have an situation with hair, regardless of whether it truly is on tv or movie, for the reason that we’ve acquired precise hair that requirements unique treatment. A ton of people today decide to have on wigs so they can secure their hair simply because a good deal of people you should not know how to offer with Black hair and not get it broken.

Now, I am so fortunate to have four children and fortunate to be shut to all my children. I am usually available for any crisis, no matter if it has to do with hair, makeup, skin, elegance, and life. And they have excellent illustrations of not only seeing my journey and the ups and downs that I had to go via, but also obtaining definitely dynamic grandparents that have taught them perfectly and told them stories and talked about the great importance of training. And then becoming open up.

I appreciate that element of currently being a mother and a mentor. And I adore staying a mentor for just people today in normal. That satisfies me. And I believe as girls, it is our duty to share. I’m a single of all those females that has a mobile phone that has, oh, you require a babysitter? I acquired someone. Oh, you will need a hairdresser? And where in Cincinnati? I know anyone there. Permit me get in touch with them to uncover out what salon you should really go to. I am that chick. I am in this article to assist, mainly because why not? Why be egocentric? Share, because we all get stronger, and it makes us a more powerful community.

This job interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.

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TRAVEL TIPS

Living In A Sailboat: An Insider’s Guide To Sailboat Life


Have you ever wondered what living in a sailboat is like?! In this article we’re interviewing Emily, who is currently living the sailboat life with her boyfriend.

She shares how to get started, how to purchase a sailboat, how to kit it out to make it livable, the ups and downs of this sailing lifestyle, and more. 

Living this lifestyle provides endless amounts of freedom. Sail around the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or cross the Atlantic — there are numerous (exotic) destinations you can visit when you’re living on a sailboat. 

Read on to learn more about what it’s like living in a sailboat!

First of all, tell us a bit about yourself. What made you decide to start living on a sailboat?

I’m Emily, an ex-primary school teacher from England and I live with my boyfriend Adam on a small sailboat in Sicily.  Nearly a year ago now we quit our jobs and started working towards a lifelong dream — to learn to sail, buy a sailboat and travel the world. 

Here’s a little of how it all came about.

When I first met Adam we both dreamed of leaving behind our ‘normal’ jobs to travel the world. After careful consideration, we decided it wasn’t right for now, and that we should make the sensible decision to focus on our careers and become more financially stable. 

Adam helped me prepare for a job promotion I was desperate for, and I worried endlessly about how unhappy he was with his London commute.

On a Monday morning in March I called Adam in tears — I didn’t get the job. I arrived home that evening to Adam popping open a bottle of bubbly. “We’re celebrating!” he declared. I looked at him, confused. Had he not been listening to our earlier conversation? “To the beginning of our adventure!”

That was the sign he needed. We would never be financially stable, travel would always be a risk. We just needed a push, and this was it.

  • SEE ALSO: How To Find Yacht Jobs and Get Paid To Sail The World

How did you choose your sailboat? What kind of boat is it?

We decided to buy a small sailboat about eight months before we actually bought one. It was a long process of research, travelling to see potential sailboats, and speaking to lots of people who have sailed before.

We knew we wanted a ‘blue water cruiser’, something we could take across oceans if we decided we were brave enough!

But, we quickly realised that pretty much any sailboat can do that, it just depends on your personal opinion as to what is best for the job. 

Our list of ‘must haves’ changed significantly through the process and the boat we ended up with (a Kadey Krogen 38 called Hot Chocolate) had a very unusual design, but ticked a lot of boxes for us — full keel, heavy displacement, protected propeller and rudder, under 38 feet. 

It was also going to be our home, so it needed to feel like one (or at least have the potential to!)

guide to living on a sailboat
Kadey Krogen 38 called “Hot Chocolate”

How (and where) did you purchase your boat? Was it an easy process? Can foreigners purchase abroad? 

We found our sailboat online. On paper, it was exactly what we were looking for (and a good price), so we called the owner and put down a deposit to show we were serious. 

Then, we packed up our lives into two suitcases, flew to Sicily and hoped it was the right boat for us! If it hadn’t been, we would have flown on to Greece. 

We had been to see a boat previously in Spain, and we put in an offer subject to the survey. But, someone else came to see it after us who was happy to buy without a survey (we would never recommend doing this!) so we lost it. 

In hindsight, we are relieved as this boat is a million times better for us, but it was hard at the time.

Purchasing was a pretty straightforward process for us, but it can depend a lot on where you buy, who you buy it from and what paperwork the boat already has (as with everything on a boat, nothing is a simple answer!)

living in a sailboat

Buying a boat that is already registered to your home country, with VAT paid and lots of paperwork on board makes things a lot easier. Our boat was registered to the UK and the VAT was already paid, so it was a fairly easy process.

If the boat isn’t registered to your home country, you can change the boat’s registration on all the paperwork you need to do when you first buy the sailboat, and you can pay the VAT too — you’ll just need to make sure you budget for that.

We bought our Kadey Krogen 38 in Sicily from an individual seller — there were no brokers involved. It wasn’t a very conventional sale. We came out to see the boat and the owner let us live on it for a month before we bought, while we arranged a survey. There was a lot more trust involved than a standard sale!

The biggest problem with buying abroad is getting to see the boat. When you’re on a budget, flights and accommodation can really add up, and getting a survey done on a boat only to find out it isn’t right for you is an expensive and time-consuming exercise.  

Our survey ended up costing about £800 ($1,015 USD) for the actual survey and then another £400 ($505 USD) for the boat to be lifted out of the water, so you have to be pretty serious about buying before you get one done. 

getting a boat survey done before living on a sailboat

You can get it cheaper but there are no recommended surveyors in Sicily so we made the decision to fly one in from the UK. That way there weren’t any language barriers either.

We were slightly unlucky that the marina the sailboat was in was such an expensive one to get a lift out, you can get lifted out for more like £200-£300 ($250 – $380 USD) in other boatyards.   

  • SEE ALSO: How To Find Cruise Ship Jobs – The Ultimate Guide

Did you end up fixing up / kitting out your sailboat to make it your own? If so, how did you do that? What improvements did you make? Or, are you living on the sailboat “as is”?

We haven’t met anyone so far that hasn’t had to do work on their boat — from brand new boats to one-hundred-year-old ones. If you buy a boat you need to get handy, or throw lots of money at someone who is!

We spent the first few months getting to know everything about the boat. We went through all of the things onboard, tried to get rid of things we won’t need, looked through all the old paperwork, and made very long to-do lists.

It would take too long to list all the jobs we have done so far, but here are a few to give you an idea:

We have replaced a lot of the out-of-date safety equipment (life raft, life jackets, lifelines, fire extinguishers, smoke and gas alarms, flares, handheld VHF), it’s amazing how long it takes to research these things!

We’ve replaced the leaking taps, the leaking shower, and several leaking hoses. We’ve repaired the anchor windlass, fitted the sails, repaired the fridge, and replaced some of the electronic systems.

There are still some big jobs to do, replacing the propeller being one of the biggest as we will need to get the boat out of the water to do that and it’s still a big unknown for us.

Where in the world are you living the sailboat life? Why is it a great destination for sailors?

We’re currently in Sicily, at a marina called Marina di Ragusa. We arrived here in February and felt at home straight away. I think what makes this marina so popular is its population of liveaboard boats.

There is a real sense of community here and everyone has been welcoming and friendly since day one. 

There is always an event happening, from the liveaboard happy hour drinks twice a week, to yoga classes and one-off classes in things like celestial navigation and rope splicing. I’ve even been doing some tutoring for the liveaboard kids here.

marina in sicily for people living on a sailboat

Are you living on the sailboat full-time? Or, do you have a land base as well?

We’re living on the sailboat full-time. We have family in the UK that are always happy to have us home (for a week or two!) but Hot Chocolate is our home and we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now.

  • SEE ALSO: How To Work And Travel in 2019

What are the downsides of the sailboat life?

The biggest problem I have had with sailboat life is living with the anxiety of the unknown.

Even the most experienced sailors we have met have run into trouble at some point and had to make decisions in a snap second. Those decisions could be the right ones, or they could be the wrong ones with disastrous consequences.

There is always a little voice in the back of your head telling you to watch out, but I guess that’s also part of what makes this lifestyle so rewarding.

There’s also the pump flush toilets, but I won’t go into that now…

What are the upsides / best things about living on a sailboat?

The simplicity and freedom.

Living in a sailboat is a bit like glamping. You are forced to get outside no matter what the weather, meaning you don’t miss those stunning sunsets, rainbows or dramatic thunderstorms. 

Even more than that, the weather determines your decisions. When you’re living in a sailboat you learn to read the weather and feel it in a way I never did when I lived in a house.

Also, you have to be careful with how much water and electricity you’re using, which has taught me so much about the environment and how little I need all those things I had come to rely on when living in a house.

Then there is the freedom. If you don’t like where you are, you just take your home and move it elsewhere. Plus, the feeling you get when you sail into the ocean and the signal dies on your phone is pretty great — it’s just you and miles of sea, and all the pressures of life just wash away.

There are also dolphins. And sunsets. And stars. And fresh fish. Wait, how many words do I have for this question?!  

best part about living in a sailboat is the sunsets

What does a “day in the life” look like on your liveaboard boat?

Currently, not all that exciting! 

Once we get out sailing for the summer things will change a lot. But for now, a typical day in the marina consists of waking up with the sunrise (we have no curtains yet!) and drinking delicious Italian coffee.

Then we will do a few hours of work — Adam for his remote job and me, teaching primary-level English at the marina.

Luckily, we’re able to earn an income while living on a sailboat.

Adam works remotely in digital marketing for a tech company. When he left his job in London, someone from an old company he worked for got in touch and offered him a few days of work each week, which is perfect for this lifestyle and adds a little to our very limited funds!

After work, we get stuck into boat jobs. It’s amazing how long a simple task such as filling the water tanks or walking into town to get groceries takes.

In the evening we are either passed out in front of a film, joining friends on their boats for dinner, or treating ourselves to a drink at the local bar for happy hour.

Once we get out sailing our days will consist of passage planning, exploring tiny islands, fishing, and swimming. And the work and boat jobs will have to fit in around that!

living in a sailboat full time

  • SEE ALSO: 10 Cheap European Countries You Can Visit for $50 / Day or Less

There are numerous things to know when living in a sailboat. What are some things you wished you knew before you decided to live this lifestyle?  

Apart from wishing I’d done it sooner? I would say that one of the biggest things people don’t think about before moving onto a boat is the maintenance involved. 

We had a kind of head start here, as when I met Adam he was living on a motorboat on the River Thames (London house prices + cost of commuting = desperate measures). He was in the process of completely doing it up, so we learnt a lot about how boats work.

If you had asked me two years ago what a bilge pump or a stern gland was, I would have thought you were referring to some awful medical procedure, but now these terms are part of everyday life.

Still, say the word “engine maintenance” and I’m already thinking about what I’ll make for lunch. Believe me, I have tried very hard to get my head around gaskets and alternators, but even though it’s new to Adam as well, he seems to pick it up so much quicker than I do — which can leave me feeling a bit useless. 

It’s been important to find jobs that I enjoy (and can do) that make a difference around the boat.

Knowing that this is quite normal (luckily I’ve met lots of people ‘in the same boat’) and getting my head around it before moving onboard would have saved a lot of arguments and frustrations in those early days!    

living the sailboat life

Are there any necessary qualifications or certifications you need for living on a sailboat? What about visas for various countries? Travel/boat insurance?

Again, this is a tricky one as a lot of it depends on your own country’s regulations and the regulations of the countries you are visiting. 

For example, in England, you don’t need any qualifications to sail your own yacht, but if you sail it over to Greece then chances are they will want to see your ICC (International Certificate of Competence). 

We don’t need visas for being in the EU (yet!) but there are all sorts of other payments such as cruising tax, etc. You are also required to show your insurance documents, so having those printed and ready is important.

Boat insurance really doesn’t cost that much (similar to insuring a house) and we have spoken to numerous people who have claimed on it, so for us, the peace of mind it brings is well worth it!

How can people follow in your footsteps and buy a sailboat of their own?

We read the book Get Real, Get Gone cover to cover and can’t recommend it highly enough to anyone thinking of buying a sailboat.

It delves into what type of sailboat to look for and why, lots about different safety feature options, and some great general advice for people thinking about living the sailboat life. 

From there, we decided on a budget and scoured the internet for boats — you really don’t need as much cash as you’d think to get a small sailboat that’s ready to live on. We used yatchworld and boatshop24 the most, but eBay and Facebook (for sale by owner groups) are also great places to keep an eye out. 

Start searching for your small sailboat as early as you can. We looked seriously for about six months, and went to see four different sailboats, but we know people who have searched for much longer. 

We came to see this boat on a bit of a whim, and decided that if it wasn’t right for us, we would fly straight to Preveza in Greece — which has a huge boat yard and hundreds of boats for sale. We were going to rent an Airbnb there until we found the right boat for us.

Since living in the marina here in Sicily, we have met several people who bought from the boatyard in Preveza, so if you’re itching to get going that might be a good place to head!

living on a sailboat watching sunset

Any final advice for people on the fence about living in a sailboat?

Get out there and try it!

If you don’t already sail, there are lots of Airbnb sailboat stays where you just stay on someone’s boat in a marina for your holiday.

Adam and I did this on one of our first dates. It will show you quite quickly whether you can imagine living and sharing such a small space, and whether you like the lifestyle.

It definitely isn’t for everyone, but saying that, there will be some aspect of living in a sailboat that you can enjoy.

Sunbathing on deck with a cocktail in hand, getting knee-deep in bilge filth, and catching fish for dinner are all part of sailboat life. Unfortunately, you don’t get to choose one or the other!

Where are you sailing to next?!

We have just got back from crewing on someone else’s boat over to Greece and fell in love with it, so in the next few weeks we hope to sail over there ourselves.

There are hundreds of tiny islands to hop between, meaning no long passages and plenty of safe anchorages. We figured this would be the perfect place to get in lots of practice sailing just us two.

Thanks so much for sharing your story with us Emily! We’re sure this will inspire others to just “go for it” and start living a freer lifestyle — aboard a sailboat! If you want to learn more about Emily and Adam, you can check out their blog, Two Get Lost, or their Instagram and Facebook page.

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Living In A Sailboat: An Insider’s Guide To Sailboat Life



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FASHION TIPS

Irina Unplugged


Tank, pants, Louis Vuitton.

Chris Colls

“I remember having no food at home,” Irina Shayk says quietly. It was the early ’90s, and she was growing up in the obscure Russian town of Yemanzhelinsk, where her dad was a coal miner and her mother taught kindergarten music. “Sometimes there was no salary, or my mom and dad’s salary was delayed.” Shayk hasn’t forgotten that feeling, and early in the pandemic, as food insecurity mounted in this country, she began working regular shifts at a Manhattan food bank. When she first saw the line wrapping around the block, she was shocked, she says, estimating that it was 1,000 people strong. She’s since brought fellow model Joan Smalls along. Appropriately enough, “they put us in the fashion section to give clothing away,” she says. “We made a great day out of it.”

irina

Top, $1,590, pants, $1,190, Proenza Schouler. Earring, Ana Khouri. Bracelet, Tiffany & Co. Flatform sandals, Versace, $1,125

Chris Colls

When Shayk was 14, her father passed away, and her mother and grandmother raised her. She “learned how to survive, without a man,” she says. Her tough upbringing also prepared her for the rejection buffet that is modeling, complete with agents who told her, “‘You have to lose weight.’ I always said no, because I know who I am.”

irina shayk

Skirt jumpsuit, shirt, Hermès. Bracelet, Tiffany & Co. Sandals, DSquared2, $1,170.

Chris Colls

irina shayk

Bra top, $545, briefs, $1,025, Dolce & Gabbana.

Chris Colls

She found success, but struggled to transition between “sexy” and high fashion, back when more of a gulf existed between the two. “They put a label on you: ‘She’s Sports Illustrated, she’s too sexy.’ I heard so many times in my life, ‘She’s never going to work with Steven Meisel. She’s not a Burberry girl,’” recalls Shayk, who went on to shoot with Meisel and appear in campaigns for Burberry.

“They put a label on you: ‘She’s Sports Illustrated, she’s too sexy.’”

irina shayk

Jacket, $2,490, bra top, $1,950, pants, $1,890, Tom Ford. Bracelets, Bvlgari, from $10,900 each. Sandals, Gianvito Rossi, $815.

Chris Colls

“I won’t lie—it was hard to climb the hill and show people that you can be both.” Eventually, she found champions, like Burberry’s chief creative officer, Riccardo Tisci—a fellow small-town kid who’s close with his eight sisters and 91-year-old mother. “We both come from similar backgrounds and are very family-focused,” says Tisci of their bond, adding that he now considers Shayk to be a member of his own family.

Now, at 35, she is “doing some jobs that I never did when I was 20. Maybe it’s because of who I’ve become,” she says. “I feel more comfortable in my own skin: I love my body. I love to eat. I appreciate food; I appreciate life. I really think that’s what fashion is looking for now.”

“I feel more comfortable in my own skin: I love my body. I love to eat. I appreciate food, I appreciate life. I really think that’s what fashion is looking for now.”

irina shayk

Dress, Fendi, $1,690. Earrings, Repossi, $4,050 each. Bracelet, Cartier.

Chris Colls

Off set, she maintains, “I’m not a fashion person. I’m a regular girl who is home watching Netflix.” She has spent her quarantine obsessively organizing (“I think because we cannot control things that are going on in the world, I’m trying to control what’s going on in my house!”), and she installed an infrared sauna in her apartment. (She raves about its benefits, but is also a proponent of a more down-to-earth beauty tip: applying ice cubes to your skin. “Russian girls love cold,” she says.)

irina shayk

Jacket, $4,150, top, $1,600, skirt, $6,200, Chanel. Pumps, Gianvito Rossi, $815.

Chris Colls

Irina Unplugged

Tank, pants, Louis Vuitton.

Chris Colls

Mostly, Shayk is focused on Lea, the daughter she shares with her ex, Bradley Cooper, whom she calls “the most amazing dad.” The two are often photographed together with their daughter in friendly-ex fashion. Lea doesn’t see Shayk as a supermodel, just as Mom, Shayk insists.

irina shayk

Blazer, $2,995, shorts, $225, earrings, $350, necklaces, Versace.

Chris Colls

“I have this huge picture that Peter Lindbergh gave me on my wall. She’ll always joke, ‘I want this mama, I don’t want this mama,’ pointing at the picture, and we laugh about it.” What is it like co-parenting with Bradley Cooper? “I never understood the term co-parenting,”she says. “When I’m with my daughter, I’m 100 percent a mother, and when she’s with her dad, he’s 100 percent her dad. Co-parenting is parenting.”

When I’m with my daughter, I’m 100 percent a mother, and when she’s with her dad, he’s 100 percent her dad. Co-parenting is parenting.”

Irina Unplugged

Jacket, trousers, Emporio Armani. Bra, Fleur du Mal, $98. Earring, Repossi, $4,050. Bracelets, from $10,900, ring, $2,390, Bvlgari.

Chris Colls

irina shayk

Coat, turtleneck, $1,190, dress, skirt, Burberry. Pumps, Louis Vuitton, $1,060.

Chris Colls

While the tabloids often write about her in terms of her ex, Shayk is reluctant to talk about him much. “My past relationship, it’s something that belongs to me, and it’s private,” she says.

“My past relationship, it’s something that belongs to me, and it’s private”

Irina Unplugged

Top, $1,150, skirt, $990, Michael Kors Collection. Hoop earrings, Cartier. Bracelets, Tiffany & Co., from $9,000.

Chris Colls

“It’s just a piece of my inner self that I don’t want to give away.” In the meantime, she’s tuning out of her own news cycle. “I don’t read what is out there. Honestly, I’m too busy raising a child. If they want to write articles [about me], they’re doing their job. I’m concentrating on my life and my friends. The rest is just noise.”

irina shayk

Jacket, $1,490, pants, $565, Max Mara. Bra, Fleur du Mal, $98.

Chris Colls

This article originally appeared in the March 2021 issue.

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BEAUTY TIPS

Viola Davis is Reclaiming Her Self Worth and Not Wasting Time on Beauty Perceptions

For the Point out of Black Splendor, ELLE.com chatted with six Black icons to hear how they outline Black beauty and how they see by themselves in the house—in their very own words.

Black attractiveness, what it means to me is Maya Angelou’s poem, “Phenomenal Woman.” It is loving your hips, your nose, your hair. It is embracing all of the cultural attributes that are in your religion, in your voice, in your mannerisms, in your earlier, and what helps make you different from all people else. It can be also generating peace with the pieces of you that are strong, self-assured, but also vulnerable and the pieces of you that sometimes want enable. It truly is all of it. It is really embracing totally, absolutely, who you are.

I would like I realized that who and what I am was enough—that who I am is just excellent. If an individual would have explained to me again then, I would’ve maybe imagined that was conceited. I would not have seen that as assurance. I used so much time making an attempt to erase and re-consider myself as another person else—Diana Ross, Oprah Winfrey, any man or woman at any given time. I wish I experienced acknowledged that the palette that God gave me was enough. I wasted yrs. A large amount of that had to do with quieting the outdoors noise, particularly with social media. You can not measure daily life by materials matters. I come to feel at the end of the working day, my really worth arrives from my authenticity.

“I wish I realized that who and what I am was enough—that who I am is just ideal.”

The point about our elegance market is, it was an extension of our lifestyle in which historically, Black magnificence and Black femininity have been at the bottom of the totem pole. We ended up chattel. I feel like the splendor sector was an extension of that and what built it worse was rising up with the inside hatred that occurs inside of our Black communities.

Adult men and women not liking the darkest females. The paper bag examination. I undoubtedly was on the other facet of that as perfectly. I acquired it two-fold. Then I saw another person who was a actual physical manifestation of positivity, of the benefit of value. Observing Ms. Tyson, that beautiful, dark-skinned girl with thick lips and the Afro and the sweat glistening off of her was transformative.

What inspires me, in particular now at age 54, is the ability of legacy. I fully grasp the power of photos and that is why it definitely played a big aspect in me even signing up for L’Oréal Paris. I love the Age Great Moisturizer. I signify it virtually appears like my skin. I like it. But I understood how essential it was to Black gals, to see me as the experience of a attractiveness manufacturer, and talking all those phrases: I’m value it. On the lookout at me simply because, believe that it or not, there are folks who under no circumstances see that actual physical manifestation of really worth.

Truly worth is when I arrived out of my mother’s womb, August 11, 1965, in St. Matthews, South Carolina, finish of tale, period. Exclamation level. There is very little that I experienced to do. Nothing at all. I didn’t have to do anything to barter for it, to deal for it. I am deserving and figuring out that, slowly, I have really occur into who I am. I am far better than I’ve ever been.

It is really been a extensive journey, is what it really is been. It was receiving married and accepting enjoy from a superior guy. It was becoming a mother and frequently having to affirm to my daughter that she is wonderful, her brains and her heart are stunning, and have to believe that it myself. It is receiving more mature and recognizing that I do not have a ton of time to squander emotion like I was born in the wrong system. I really don’t have the time.

“It is really embracing entirely, definitely, who you are.”

In the scene in How to Get Away With Murder the place Annalise takes off her wig, that second was significant for me because I wanted to show Annalise as a woman, as a human becoming. I come to feel a good deal of this Black beauty narrative is about image and concept, extra so than real truth. It can be about putting an picture and a message out there of perfection, of great splendor and best hair, in purchase for us to send a concept that, certainly we are gorgeous. What we have to do now is clearly show what it signifies to be human. If you are not doing that, then you’re not acting, that’s not artwork. That’s what that second intended to me, to show you that I am this complicated human: As you are.

I really feel that who I am in private, even without the need of my makeup, my mess, my failures, my pleasure, my imperfection, my complexity—all of that is splendor. It is in the terms of Toni Morrison: “I want to truly feel what I experience, even if it really is not pleasure.”

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and duration.

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TRAVEL TIPS

Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen: A Guide for Foodies


While Playa del Carmen is famous for its beaches and nightlife, there’s also quite the culinary scene here. From taco trucks to fine dining and everything in between, your options are practically endless for eating out here.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, spread out across a few different categories.

When it comes to Playa del Carmen restaurants, there are so many choices that it can be a bit overwhelming. The last thing you want is to end up in an overpriced tourist trap restaurant eating a soggy burrito. There are too many amazing restaurants here to waste your time on these kinds of places!

I just finished up a stint as a digital nomad in Playa del Carmen and I did plenty of research for this guide. And by research, I mean deciding where to stay in Playa del Carmen based on proximity to amazing restaurants.

I also ate a bunch of chilaquiles, tacos, and ceviche. I did my best to focus on local cuisine, as I personally believe one doesn’t travel all the way to Mexico to eat pizza and cheeseburgers.

If you need some comfort food here, though, it’s not hard to find. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico and they’ve got cuisine from all over the world in Playa del Carmen. You can find some pretty solid places for Italian, Japanese, Brazilian, and Thai — if that’s what you want. 

One great thing about going out to eat in Playa del Carmen is that it doesn’t have to break the bank.

You can get some of the best tacos in the world for about $1 each. For just $5 or so, you can enjoy a lunch deal with a soup, main course, drink, and dessert. Even a nice dinner in a fancy restaurant can be had for under $50.

In this Playa del Carmen food guide, I’ll give you three options each for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks & drinks, tacos, and street food. I went ahead and put an extra one in the dinner section. Just be warned that your mouth may be watering by the time you reach the end!

This post has been updated 2021 to include new, tasty restaurants and bars!

Wondering How to Get From The Cancun Airport to Playa Del Carmen?

You have different options for getting from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. You can either take the bus, rent a car, take a taxi, or hop in private transportation booked prior to your arrival.

The fastest, safest and most comfortable option is to take private transportation to Playa del Carmen. You don’t want to waste precious holiday time waiting around for buses, or being ripped off by taxis. Check out Cancun Airport Transportation, which offers a variety of vehicle options — for solo travellers, couples and groups.

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Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen for Breakfast

La Cueva del Chango

  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 8AM-10:30PM, Sunday 8AM-2PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 147 0271
  • Location: Calle 38 between 5th Avenue & the sea, Zazil-Ha (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

There’s perhaps no better place to start your day in Playa del Carmen than at La Cueva del Chango. This restaurant has a beautiful garden setting and is a very popular place to go for a leisurely brunch. You may have to wait for a table here, but it’s well worth it. They’ll even take your drink order while you wait.

Their menu is huge here and they actually serve all three meals. It’s definitely one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, regardless of what you go there for. I put it in the guide as a breakfast spot simply because they make the best chilaquiles I’ve ever had here. Pair those with one of their fresh juices and a coffee and you’re good to go. 

where to eat in playa del carmen

Choux Choux Cafe

  • Hours: Sunday-Monday 7AM-3PM, Tuesday-Saturday 7AM-9PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 147 2691
  • Location: 20th Avenue & Calle 24 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5 

Choux Choux Cafe always comes up on lists of the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen, especially as a breakfast spot. They’ve got plenty of tasty options here, such as salmon eggs benedict or a healthy vegan bowl. We like to get something filling and something light and split them both, making for a solid breakfast that’s not too heavy.

They also have an extensive coffee menu here, from cortados to their specialty ChiChiCino with ice cream and vanilla. If you’re a digital nomad looking to plug in and work for a while, their strong coffee and WiFi make Choux Choux a solid choice. It’s also a bakery, so you might want to grab something to take home while you’re here.

best playa del carmen restaurants

Nativo

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 7AM-12AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 873 0758
  • Location: 30th Avenue & Calle 20 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

If you’re too full from all the tacos and cervezas (which can happen very easily in Playa, believe me), then once in a while you just want a light and healthy breakfast. Nativo is the perfect place to come for that thanks to their amazing fresh juices and smoothies. A huge smoothie full of fruit only costs around $3!

You can just order up a drink to go here, or you can sit down upstairs and order off the menu. They have some great breakfast options and they’re also open for lunch and dinner if you want to come back for lunch or dinner another time.

where to eat in playa del carmen

Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen for Lunch

El Sangha-Rito

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 8AM-11PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 873 1794
  • Location: CTM Avenue & 10th Avenue  (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

There are so many Playa del Carmen restaurants to choose from that it can be a bit overwhelming. One spot that was always my go-to for lunch when we lived in Playa was El Sangha-Rito. It’s one of the best places in town for a filling and reasonably priced lunch thanks to their menu del dia.

This “menu of the day” changes every day and always includes a soup, main course, dessert, and an agua fresca. For just around $5-6, it’s a great bargain. I also really enjoy their trio plate, which consists of chilaquiles, eggs, and a mollete (open-faced sandwich).

La Senda

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 9AM-11PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 803 0499
  • Location: 10th Avenue between Calle 10 and 12 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

For a fresh & healthy lunch, look no further than La Senda. This is one of the best Playa del Carmen restaurants for tasty vegan food at reasonable prices. Even if you’re not vegan, I highly recommend giving this place a try. 

While they’re open all day, I usually come here for lunch to enjoy their salads, pitas, and bowls. They also make vegan versions of Mexican classics, such as their yummy jackfruit tacos. They have a solid drink menu here as well as some amazing desserts, so be sure to save some room!

where to eat in playa del carmen

Las Hijas de la Tostada

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 11AM-11PM
  • Phone #: 01 998 803 0232
  • Location: Calle 2 and 5th Avenue (click here for directions); Calle 38 and 5th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Not surprisingly, seafood is a popular choice here. One of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen for some yummy seafood is Las Hijas de la Tostada. As the name would imply, their specialty here is seafood tostadas and they have several options. They’ve got some pretty fantastic tacos here as well.

They have two locations on the bustling 5th Avenue for you to choose from. The one on Calle 2 has seating above the street, so you can enjoy some great people watching. Their other location on Calle 38 has a nice outdoor seating area. Whichever one you go with, your taste buds are in for a treat!

restaurants in playa del carmen

Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen for Dinner

Zitla

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 8AM-11PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 873 3315
  • Location: Calle 12 between 15th and 20th (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 5/5

If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail a bit and try a more local spot, then Zitla is an excellent choice. It’s especially fun to come here for dinner on the weekend, as they usually have live music. Plus it’s just a nice place to hang out, with some cool murals on the wall and even a swing.

They’ve got a huge menu at Zitla with plenty of choices for tacos, burgers, ceviches, and much more. They also have a full bar here and they whip up some pretty amazing cocktails. All that at a fraction of the price you would pay at touristy spots on 5th Avenue! That easily earns it a spot on this list of the top Playa del Carmen restaurants.

where to eat in playa del carmen

La Perla Pixan

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 8:30AM-12AM
  • Phone #: 044 984 120 2616
  • Location: Calle 34 & 5th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

This is definitely one of the coolest Playa del Carmen restaurants. It’s just off 5th Avenue but feels worlds apart from some of the kitschy places you’ll find there. It’s not only a restaurant but also a mezcal store if you want to take home some of Mexico’s famous liquor.

With a palapa roof, a vast menu that’s both traditional and innovative, and an impressive selection of mezcal, this is the perfect place for a nice dinner out. Whatever you order, be sure to save some room for dessert! They have delicious churros here as well as cheesecake with mezcal. 

Zenzi

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 8AM-2AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 803 5738
  • Location: On the beach at the end of Calle 10 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 5/5

Seeing as how this is Playa del Carmen, I had to include at least one restaurant that’s actually on the beach. My personal favorite definitely goes to Zenzi, especially for dinner as they have some pretty awesome live music every night of the week. There are two different bands each night, one at 5pm and the next at 9pm.

As far as their menu goes, Zenzi has some great sharing bites like their “muchos nachos” or fried calamari. Seafood is definitely the star of the show here, especially their sesame crusted tuna filet. Dig your toes into the sand and dig into a delicious meal here before tearing it up on the dance floor.

best restaurants in playa del carmen

Porfirio’s

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 1PM-1AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 110 7805
  • Location: Calle 12 and 5th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 5/5

The people have spoken, and they have chosen Porfirio’s to top the list of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen. It’s more than just a restaurant, actually — it’s a full gastronomic experience! People rave about their service, drinks, atmosphere, music, and of course, the food.

If you’re a fan of surf & turf, then you’re going to love this place. Appetizers include tuna carnitas and crunchy chicharron, while mains range from lobster tamales to green enchiladas with chicken. Whatever you choose, you’ll surely enjoy your dinner here as you watch the crowds on 5th Avenue pass by.

 

Update 2021: Another great option for Mexican food for dinner is Amate 38. 

SEE ALSO: Exploring The Culinary Side of Guanajuato — A Food Tour

Best Playa del Carmen Bars For Snacks and Drinks 

Cerveceria Chapultepec

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 1PM-2AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 321 9756
  • Location: Calle 20 & 1st Avenue (click here for directions), Calle 14 & 10th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 3.5/5

When you’re just looking for a drink and some simple bar food, this popular chain is the place to go. Most items on the menu are only 21 pesos (about $1.25), so you can have a few drinks and snacks here without burning a hole in your wallet. 

They’ve got two locations in the central part of Playa and both are bumping every night of the week. Surprise, surprise – everyone likes cheap beers and tacos! I prefer the one on 1st Avenue because they’ve got a cool rooftop that feels like a treehouse. 

La Taberna

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 10AM-2AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 803 0448
  • Location: Calle 4 & 10th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

La Taberna is a no-frills sports bar that’s popular with locals. They have a full bar and a solid menu of Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican dishes. Their nachos are huge and perfect for sharing with friends. 

They have 2-for-1 draft beer specials from 6-8PM, but you’ll need to order a snack to take advantage of the deal. This is a good place to come watch the game or just shoot some pool, making it one of the top Playa del Carmen bars.

Club de la Cervesa

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 4:30PM-2AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 147 0635
  • Location: 5th Avenue between Calle 34 & 38 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Corona and Pacifico are fine, but once in a while you just need something a bit more interesting. Cue Club de la Cervesa, which has the most impressive selection of craft beer in all of Playa del Carmen.

Here you can sample craft brews from Mexico, the US, Belgium, England, and more. They also have some solid bar food to go along with the beers, including a fantastic blue cheese burger.

Update 2021: If you’re looking for craft beer in Playa del Carmen, check out Chela de Playa and Colectivo Mexicano Cervecero. For a cute wine bar with platters of meat and cheese, and wine for sale by the bottle, don’t miss Off The Vine.

SEE ALSO: Culinary Mayhem: A Street Food Tour in Mexico City

Best Places for Tacos in Playa del Carmen

El Fogon

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 1-11PM
  • Phone #: 01 984 803 0885
  • Location: Constituyentes Avenue & 30th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

When you bring up the topic of “best tacos in Playa del Carmen,” El Fogon always comes up. This place is so popular that there’s almost always a line here, but it moves fast and it’s well worth the wait.

The star of the show here is definitely their tacos al pastor. Having tried tacos al pastor all over the country, I can honestly say these are some of the best around. They’ve got a huge menu with plenty of other choices as well and everything is very reasonably priced. I recommend the queso fundido dip with chorizo. My mouth is watering just thinking about this one!

Chac Pel Tacos de Mariscos

  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 8AM-8PM
  • Phone #: N/A
  • Location: 10th Avenue between Calle 1 & Benito Juarez (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: N/A

While tacos al pastor are always great, you’ve also got to feast on seafood tacos when in Playa del Carmen. Chac Pel Tacos de Mariscos cooks up some pretty amazing fish tacos and they also have some really good ceviche.

Despite being right in the heart of Centro, this place remains a hidden gem. It’s not even on Trip Advisor yet! If you’re looking for some quality seafood tacos at a great price, be sure to add Chac Pel to your list of Playa del Carmen restaurants to try.

Don Sirloin

  • Hours: Monday-Sunday 2PM-6AM
  • Phone #: 01 984 148 0424
  • Location: 10th Avenue between Calle 12 & 14 (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: 4/5

Don Sirloin is definitely one of the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen for tacos. It’s so popular that they’ve got four different locations in the city. I listed the one on 10th Avenue as it’s the most central, but you can check their website for the others.

They usually have two spits going at once here — one for al pastor and one for sirloin. You can also get arrachera, chicken, or chorizo tacos here. With tacos costing around $1 each, why not try them all? This is the perfect spot to come after a big night out in Playa del Carmen as they stay open until 6AM.

Update 2021: Don’t miss La Cochi Loka if you like cochinita pibil tacos! It may not look like much, but these are some of the best tacos we’ve had in Playa del Carmen. Find it here on the map. If you love birria tacos (stewed beef), then you won’t want to miss Birria Tacos – the tacos here are very good. 

SEE ALSO: Tasting The Town in Puerto Vallarta — A Day With Vallarta Food Tours

Best Street Food Vendors in Playa del Carmen

Taqueria El Gato

  • Hours: Open 24/7
  • Phone #: N/A
  • Location: CTM Avenue & 10th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: N/A

If you’re looking for some authentic Mexican street food, Taqueria El Gato is the place to be. This classic street food stand is located just a few blocks from the beach but it is very much a local joint. They even stay open 24/7 so you can come here any time you like.

I’m a bit biased to this place as we lived around the corner from it. They make delicious tacos, quesadillas, tortas, and more here, and everything is super cheap. You can easily fill up for less than $5 here, leaving you more pesos for important things like margaritas on the beach.

Vendors in the Park

  • Hours: All day
  • Phone #: N/A
  • Location: In the park between Benito Juarez & Calle 2 on 15th Avenue (click here for directions)
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: N/A

One of the best places to sample street food in Playa del Carmen is in the park on 15th Avenue. There are a wide variety of options here, including tortas and burritos as well as Yucatan classics like salbutes and panuchos.

This is also a great place to try the popular local snack known as marquesitas. These are crispy crepes that are rolled up and filled with shredded cheese and other toppings of your choice. These include Nutella, jam, chocolate sauce, or caramel. I’m not big into sweets but these things are delicious.

Taco Trucks Near Mega

  • Hours: Daytime (around 8AM-3PM)
  • Phone #: N/A
  • Location: Calle 14 North/30th Avenue
  • Rating on TripAdvisor: N/A

If you’re looking for some cheap and tasty tacos, just head to the parking lot of the Mega supermarket. It’s never good to go grocery shopping hungry, so smash a few tacos out here before you head into the store. During the day, there are usually several trucks cooking up some mouth-watering tacos here. 

To be honest, of all the times I ate here, I never even noticed a name on a truck. My strategy is to just walk up to whichever one smells good and see what they’re making.

After doing a bit of research, though, one name that comes up is El Rey del Taco (the King of Tacos). With a name like that, you’d better be making some pretty awesome tacos to back it up!

Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen for International Food

Had your fill of tacos, ceviche and guacamole? Don’t worry, there are some top restaurants in Playa del Carmen that will satisfy your cravings.

Check out Trattoria del Centro for Italian, Sakura for ramen and gyoza, Estambul Kebab for Turkish, Po Thai for Thai, Yum Yum by George for Indian/Thai, Mu for the best burgers, and Primo for more upscale dining.

There are so many great places to eat in Playa del Carmen and for the most part, the restaurants above serve pretty authentic versions of the cuisine. 

We have yet to find an amazing Indian restaurant here or consistently good sushi. The best sushi we’ve had so far was at Sushi Club.

Ready to Enjoy the Best Playa del Carmen Restaurants?

¿Tienes hambre? (Are you hungry?) I’m sure after reading this guide you’re ready to drop whatever you’re doing, book a flight down to Mexico, and stuff your face with tacos. You’re already equipped with a solid list of some of the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen to get you started.

If you’re planning a trip down there, be sure to check out this jam-packed guide on the best things to do in Playa del Carmen.

It’s much more than just sitting on the beach here, as you can explore Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, hit rooftop pool parties, and so much more. Playa del Carmen is the perfect base to explore all that the Riviera Maya offers.

Have you been to Playa del Carmen? If you have an excellent restaurant you’d like to recommend, please leave a comment below and let us know about it! 

Some images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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FASHION TIPS

Dolce & Gabbana Merges the Runway with Artificial Intelligence


Courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana / Monica Feudi

For Dolce & Gabbana’s slide-winter season assortment, they’re seeking to the subsequent chapter. Partnering with Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), the fashion house’s present served as a reminder that the long run is close to, casting their viewers-considerably less present with styles and robots alike. Utilizing the iCub and R1 multifunctional humanoids, the end result of IIT’s hugely specialized analysis in the field of assistance robotics and Synthetic Intelligence, the robots served as a centered artwork piece, managed behind-the-scenes, though seems traipsed down the runway.

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With the entire world going electronic, it only tends to make feeling that the manufacturer would lean into the artificial. It really is the e-lady to the nth degree, and there is no stone of cheeky futurism still left unturned. Spotlighting a technicolor rave is an assault to the senses, so this is not for the gentle-hearted. Technicolor graffiti is mashed against shimmering superior-tech product. Holographic layers, neon animal print, and armored apparel mimicking robotic limbs are all on phase. In correct 2021 style, Dolce’s signature tiaras exist alongside deal with shields. But as they say, you are not able to seem forward without acknowledging the past, so the designers tapped into their archives with corseted seems to be and energy shoulder suiting. Virtually referencing their pre-millennial heyday, graphic tees have been emblazoned with “I’m a supermodel” and “90’s Fashion.”

“It is outstanding to believe how man’s cleverness and willpower can give everyday living to new sorts of intelligence, which can understand from their personal encounter and be deployed in the healthcare, environmental and social fields,” Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana stated in a press launch pertaining to the ITT. “Trend has generally been the consequence of the confluence of worlds that can be very much from every other: if technology is truly serving the guy, his requirements and his passions, then a craftsman and a robot will be capable to coexist.”

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BEAUTY TIPS

Tia Mowry on Wearing Curls on ‘Sister, Sister’ and Her Journey to Unapologetic Beauty


For the Condition of Black Elegance, ELLE.com chatted with six Black icons to hear how they outline Black attractiveness and how they see by themselves in the room—in their very own phrases.

Increasing up in Hollywood of study course had its worries, primarily as a younger Black woman and an aspiring actress. You happen to be not necessarily seeing a good deal of representation. It was tricky. We’re on Sister, Sister—we have this strike television demonstrate, ideal? And there were situations when we would see other actors—who were not Black—on the go over of magazines, on elegance web pages, style, all of that—and my sister and I had been like, We want to do that.

I will never title the journal, but I don’t forget there was just one time we had been speaking to our publicist, and we’re like, “We would appreciate to be on the go over of this magazine. Could we be on the protect of the journal?” She told us that we would not market. We failed to understand that we ended up experiencing all of this kickback. You know that kid’s rhyme, “Sticks and stones may well crack my bones, but words and phrases never harm me?” I’m not a lover of that, since what that rejection did was generate a whole lot of insecurity. This journal was a really common teen journal that had fashion, attractiveness, and was known for spotlighting what they thought was gorgeous and what they believed was well-known and scorching at that time. It experienced us navigating who we are as a particular person and what our worth is as a individual in this company. It gave us a great deal of insecurity. It created us feel like we were not important in that place. Like we weren’t useful at all.

united states september 05 sister, sister "car trouble" season one 5201994, the twins tia and tamera tia, left, and tamera mowry with their neighbor roger marques houston accidently scratch ray's car and lisa is blamed, photo by walt disney television via getty images photo archiveswalt disney television via getty images

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When we ended up young, it was superb getting equipped to use our pure hair. People were normally like, “Oh, you might be so cute. We like your curls.” But as we went into adulthood, you could see that when we turned teenagers in the demonstrate, we finished up straightening our hair. It was this kind of a pivotal instant in the collection since it was also a reflection of what was currently being pushed as “lovely” in modern society. When I straightened my hair, it destroyed my hair and it destroyed my organic curls. Once again, there ended up these insecurities. In this small business, if I had my hair curly, I was advised, “Can you pull that again?” On auditions, I was informed, “It’s distracting.”

But I thank God that my mother instructed us, Do not allow for this business to define you. Do not allow this organization to define your joy. Do not let this business enterprise to define your benefit. I believe that that’s what saved us from falling into the pit of childhood stardom.

Then I started to see this wonderful, wonderful movement on Instagram and social media, exactly where Black girls embraced and celebrated their purely natural splendor and ended up self-confident in who they are, celebrating all of the different coils from the thick, restricted-tight-tight strands to the unfastened, wavy strands. I am loving and looking at all the gorgeous distinct shades of Black elegance. Down to the gorgeous chocolate skin like my mom. Down to the caramel coloration. It ignited a fireplace in me. That led me to do my initial massive chop, mainly because I was ready to embrace and rejoice who I am and what my attractiveness is. I have been acquiring that wonderful enjoy affair ever since.

Black elegance to me is being unapologetic. It means powerful. It signifies bold. It indicates confidence. It implies beautiful. When you are a minority, you have to see the lack of diversity getting pushed in beauty and you have to have individuals characteristics of getting unapologetic.

My connection with splendor really developed soon after owning my young children. When I’m 50 or 60 lbs . even larger, I am however gorgeous. Shedding weight just after owning the toddler is still stunning. When you happen to be youthful, you have insecurities about who you are and where you stand, but now I am quite unapologetic. I’m like, “This is who I am. I like each and every component of me. I love the wrinkles that I have. I like my smile. I like my gray hair. I appreciate every single element of who I am.

Now, I’ve moved on towards employing solutions that are organic, organic, not as a lot of chemical substances, everything that is excellent for me. I recognize beauty will come from inside of. It’s about how you come to feel. It truly is about how you just take treatment of your self. It can be about, are you drinking your h2o? Are you feeding on the appropriate meals? I’m much more mindful of what these merchandise are carrying out for my human body. I’m extra aware of what it really is doing for the setting. It’s how you feel inside of and how you get care of oneself on the inside that’s just as significant as how you take care of oneself on the exterior. It’s not so vain as when you are young. When you might be older, it’s additional about how you sense. And then that shines outwardly.

“Black elegance to me is remaining unapologetic.”

The distinct lightbulb instant was when I was dealing with my own health and fitness difficulties. I was diagnosed with endometriosis and my physician was like, “Search, if you really don’t want to go on to be on soreness tablets to assist your signs or symptoms and have surgical procedures, and if you want to have a child”—because it is an infertility issue—”you’re heading to have to begin altering your life style.”

I finished up performing specifically that. I ended up altering my diet regime. I finished up doing exercises. I ended up viewing my stressors. I started out to meditate, do yoga, and I started to choose supplements. I observed big, substantial adjustments within just my perfectly-getting. I no lengthier had eczema. I no extended experienced migraines. My skin was just glowing. My biggest wonder was I was able to have two stunning little ones.

I did not want to preserve that to myself. I desired to encourage and really encourage females to have an understanding of that if you just take demand and management of you and your wellness, you will get started to see advantages. You will start out to really tap into your wellness and your opportunity. I wanted to motivate women to take control of their health and fitness and that is why I came out with a line of dietary supplements, Anser.

Whilst on my wellness journey, I took note of the deficiency of illustration. I didn’t see women of all ages of shade in the marketplace when it came to nutritional supplements. I required to get started having that discussion and speaking with the customers that failed to feel included, that did not feel regarded. I also needed to make certain that the brand by itself was inclusive, which means that it was inexpensive and did not sacrifice the good quality of the merchandise. Anser is vegan—except the prenatal because you have to have the fish oil—no fillers, non-GMOs. Wellness really should be economical and accessible and tangible to every person. The tagline suggests, “You are the Anser,” this means you are the only one that can do this for on your own.

“If you’re the only Black lady in your class, never be ashamed of wearing your purely natural locks or your braids. This is one thing to celebrate.”

Getting a Black attractiveness icon is empowering for the reason that I appreciate inspiring wonderful Black women—young and old—to enjoy the skin they’re in. I’m so amazed with Rihanna and how she came out with Fenty. I’m so amazed with Tracee Ellis Ross, how she’s appear out with Sample. It is really so unbelievable due to the fact we—and I’m which include myself with Anser—we’re part of the natural beauty entire world and have a lot of essential things to say.

If you’re the only Black girl in your class, really don’t be ashamed of wearing your pure locks or your braids. This is something to celebrate. It is historical past. It really is wonderful. If you are seeing us on Sister, Sister with curly hair, we hope you see you. We hope you really feel empowered. We hope you go out and go mountains.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and size.

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TRAVEL TIPS

15 Top Denver Attractions You Don’t Want To Miss


Known as the Mile High City, Denver is the capital of Colorado and one of the most exciting cities to visit in the US. Surrounded by mountains, Denver is the perfect base for those who love a bit of outdoor adventure.

While you may be tempted to head straight for the Rocky Mountains, there are plenty of things to do in Denver to warrant sticking around for a while.

Home to some world-class museums, beautiful parks, all four major sports teams, and perhaps the best music venue in the country, Denver has a lot to offer travellers of all ages and interests.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at 15 must-see Denver attractions and things to do to help you plan the perfect trip to the city. 

1. Visit the Colorado State Capitol

Kicking off our list of the best Denver attractions is the Colorado State Capitol. This neoclassical building was built back in the 1890s and is home to the Colorado General Assembly as well as the governor’s office.

 

If the building looks a bit familiar, that’s because it was built to resemble the US Capitol in Washington, DC. It was made from white granite and topped with a golden dome to commemorate the Colorado Gold Rush. 

One of the coolest things about visiting the capitol is that you can stand at exactly one mile above sea level. There are actually three different markers on the steps, with the one on the 13th step being the most recent and most accurate. Snap a photo here to show you properly visited the Mile High City.

While you’re here, you might as well go in and have a look.

Inside, you’ll see beautiful stained glass windows that depict scenes from the history of Colorado. Be sure to climb up the steep 99 steps to reach Mr. Brown’s Attic, where you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of downtown and the Rocky Mountains. 

The Colorado State Capitol is free to visit and they even run free tours. These start on the hour from 10AM-3PM Monday to Friday, and they recommend arriving at least 20 minutes in advance.

It’s definitely one of the most popular things to do in downtown Denver. You can find the capitol building on the map and get directions here.

2. See the Denver Art Museum

A quick walk from the State Capitol will bring you to the fantastic Denver Art Museum. Take your time going in, as the buildings that house the museum are a work of art in their own right!

Italian modernist architect Gio Ponti designed the museum’s North Building, which somewhat resembles a castle.

Years later, the Hamilton Building was designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, who was “inspired by the light and geology of the Rockies.” This world-class art museum is definitely one of the best places to visit in Denver. 

Once you’re done admiring the architecture, it’s time to head inside and explore the museum’s vast collection.

Here you’ll find an abundance of Native American art among some 70,000 different works of art. Exhibitions are always changing, so be sure to check their calendar to see what’s going on.

The Denver Art Museum is open Monday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday from 10-5. On Fridays, the museum stays open until 8. Tickets cost $13 for adults and kids 18 and under visit for free. You can find the museum on the map here.

3. Visit Red Rocks (one of the best places to visit near Denver)

Of all the excellent Denver attractions, my personal favourite has got to be Red Rocks.

This city park and outdoor amphitheater is a great place to hike, bike, and see live music. In fact, Red Rocks constantly tops lists of the best concert venue in the entire United States.

I’ve seen a lot of concerts in a lot of places, but it’s really tough to beat Red Rocks. I mean, the stage here is set between two massive sandstone rock formations!

Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but this natural amphitheater has some absolutely incredible acoustics. I’ve been there a few times already and it’s always a great time.

There are many great acts that come to this legendary venue. They also regularly host yoga classes and even movie nights, so there’s always something cool going on at Red Rocks.

Even on a non-event day, it’s well worth the trip from downtown Denver to go to Red Rocks.

The park is home to several different hiking and biking trails as well. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit near Denver if you want to get some exercise along with breathtaking mountain views. While you’re here, you can also check out the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. 

Red Rocks is actually located in the small town of Morrison and is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Denver. It opens one hour before sunrise and closes one hour before sunset on non-event days.

When there’s a show, the park closes at around 2PM. Best of all, admission and parking are both free! You can get directions to Red Rocks here. 

visiting the red rocks is one of the best denver attractions

4. Wander 16th Street Mall

Taking a stroll along the pedestrian-only 16th Street Mall is one of the most popular things to do in downtown Denver. This tree-lined street is full of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, so you can easily spend a few leisurely hours here. 

It’s also a great place to just plop down on a bench, relax, and enjoy some fantastic people watching. You’re sure to see some street performers here, as well as some of Denver’s most, shall we say “interesting” characters. 

While many of my friends who live in Denver may decry this area as being a tourist trap, I always enjoy taking a lap around it when I’m in town.

It’s just nice being in a major US city that has a pedestrian-friendly area where people congregate and enjoy some time outdoors. Plus, it’s easy to find a good Happy Hour deal here!

The 16th Street Mall is very easily walkable, but there’s also a free shuttle bus that stops on every corner if you feel like giving your feet a rest. You can get directions to the 16th Street Mall on the map here.

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5. Visit the Botanic Gardens

Nature lovers will want to make sure to add the Botanic Gardens to their list of places to visit in Denver. This massive park occupies 23 acres right in the heart of Denver, creating a green oasis in the middle of a booming city.

Comprised of over 45 different gardens, there’s a whole lot to see here. In total, there are well over 30,000 different plants! This is definitely one of the top Denver attractions and a place you won’t want to miss when visiting the city.

Some of the highlights of the park include the peaceful Japanese Garden, the tropical conservatory, and the Rock Alpine Garden. There’s so much to see and do here that you can easily spend an entire day exploring the gardens and the greater Cheesman Park where they’re located.

Tickets for the main York Street area of the gardens cost $12.50 for adults, $9.50 for seniors/military, and $9 for students and children.

There are actually several days throughout the year when it’s totally free, so be sure to check the calendar. It’s open every day from 9-5, and you can find directions by checking the map here.

6. Visit the Sporting Venues

Did you know that Denver is one of only two US cities where teams in all four major sports play downtown? Denver and my hometown of Detroit are the only places where you can see basketball, football, hockey, and baseball all right downtown.

Denver is home to the Broncos (NFL), Rockies (MLB), Nuggets (NBA), and Avalanche (NHL). The Broncos play at Mile High, with eight regular-season games between September and January.

People really go crazy for their football team here, so it’s a very exciting atmosphere to be a part of.

denver broncos stadium top places to visit in denver

Both the Nuggets and the Avs play their home games at the Pepsi Center. The regular season for both sports lasts from October to April, so there are plenty of chances to catch a game during the fall and winter.

Watching a hockey or basketball game is one of the best things to do in Denver in the winter.

When hockey and basketball are wrapping up, baseball is just getting started. The Rockies play at Coors Field and have home games very often in the spring and summer months. Whichever team you see, checking out a game is definitely one of the top things to do in downtown Denver. 

7. Explore Union Station

It may seem a bit odd to have a train station on the list of the best Denver attractions, but hear me out. The historic Union Station dates back to 1914, when it was rebuilt after a fire destroyed it in 1894. 

Just a few years ago, a massive redevelopment plan began at Union Station. The upper levels were transformed into the luxury Crawford Hotel, and several boutique shops, restaurants, and bars moved in as well. Old ticket counters became the Terminal Bar, and the Great Hall transformed into “Denver’s living room.” 

In addition to all the dining, shopping, and entertainment options on offer at Union Station, it’s once again a fully functioning transportation hub.

Catching the A Line here from the airport is an affordable and environmentally conscious way to travel in and out of the city. You can also catch Amtrak trains here, including the famous California Zephyr line that travels to San Francisco. 

Union Station is located in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) area of Denver. If you end up passing through on your way to or from the airport, be sure to spend a little extra time here.

Grab a drink and a bite, do a bit of window shopping, or just sit on the couch and enjoy some great people watching. You can find Union Station on the map here.

8. Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Denver is home to plenty of excellent museums, and one of the best is definitely the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Their amazing exhibitions on dinosaurs, gems, mummies, and black holes makes a trip here one of the best things to do in Denver for kids. 

In addition to all their interesting exhibitions, the museum is also home to an IMAX theatre and one of the best planetariums in the country.

There’s even a T-Rex Cafe here where you can grab a drink and a bite to eat. With so much to see and do, you can easily spend a whole day taking in all that this museum has to offer. 

Be sure to check their calendar of events, as the museum often has some pretty cool programs for both kids and adults.

For example, they’re having a Renaissance Revelry event soon for adults where costumes are encouraged and drinks/appetizers are included in your ticket. Now that sounds like a fun night at the museum!

The museum is open from 9-5 every day, and tickets cost $19 for adults or $14 for children for museum admission. Special exhibitions, IMAX screenings, and special showings in the planetarium all cost between $5-7 extra. You can get directions and find it on the map here.

9. Relax in the Local Parks

If you’re visiting the museum, you might as well stick around City Park for a while. This is the largest urban park in the city and a popular place for locals and tourists alike.

That’s not all, though. You’ll also find soccer, baseball, and football fields, tennis courts, and a golf course here. There are a couple of small lakes in the park and a boathouse where you can rent some cool animal-shaped paddle boats.

city parks are one of the best things to do in denver

During the summer months, there’s a free concert series in City Park. Be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing if you’re visiting in the summer. You can find City Park on the map here.

Another great choice is Washington Park, which is located just south of downtown (check the map here).

Fitness enthusiasts will love a visit to this large green space thanks to the many hiking and biking trails here. There are also a few lakes here for more fun on the water. 

10.  Visis The US Mint

Have you ever wondered how coins are made? Well you can do just that by visiting the US Mint. It was opened back in 1863 to turn the findings of the Gold Rush into coins for the entire country. 

The US Mint runs free tours Monday-Thursday on a first-come, first-served basis.

Their ticket window opens up at 7AM and you can only get tickets for the same day. There are six tours a day at 8, 9:30, 11, 12:30, 2, and 3:30. You can get directions to the US Mint on the map here. 

On this hour-long guided tour of the US Mint, you’ll see how a bland-looking piece of metal gets transformed into a shiny new coin.

Each coin that’s made here is stamped with a “D” for Denver. They can produce up to 50 million coins a day here! A visit here is definitely one of the most unique Denver tourist attractions. 

11. Visit the Elitch Gardens Theme Park

One of the most fun places to visit in Denver is Elitch Gardens. It’s actually two awesome parks rolled into one, with a theme park on one side and a water park on the other.

Fun fact – Elitch Gardens is the only downtown theme park in the United States!

It’s one of the most popular Denver attractions and a great place to spend the day. With roller coasters, water slides, drive-in movies, free concerts, and amazing fireworks displays, there’s plenty to see and do here. 

Elitch Gardens is open from mid-April to early November. The theme park opening hours vary depending on the time of year and the day of the week, so be sure to check before planning your trip there.

As for the water park, it’s open from 10:30-6 from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Buying your tickets online is much cheaper than getting them at the gate. You can get them for $40 as opposed to $60 by purchasing online. You can find Elitch Gardens on the map and get directions here. 

12. Visit the History Colorado Center

If you’re interested in learning more about the state of Colorado, then be sure to add a trip to the History Colorado Center to your list of things to do in downtown Denver. It’s located in the Golden Triangle Museum District, where you’ll find many of the best Denver attractions. 

The History Colorado Center is a far cry from the dull museums of the past. This modern history museum is full of interactive, high-tech exhibits that are fun and informative for all ages.

In addition to the great exhibits inside, the building itself is quite impressive. It was made from a wide variety of local as well as recycled materials, and it’s a beautiful building inside and out. 

The museum is open every day from 10-5, with tickets costing $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10/$8 for students/children. You can find the museum on the map and get directions here. 

13. Larimer Square

The city of Denver has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a pioneer camp during the Gold Rush. It was founded in 1858 by William Larimer, who named the new city’s main street after himself.

For many years, Larimer Street thrived as a bustling commercial hub. That was until the turn of the century, when it became run down and filled with liquor stores, flophouses, and pawn shops. 

larimer square top attractions in denver

Thankfully, restoration efforts began in the mid-’60s to try to save this piece of Denver’s history.

The 1400 block of Larimer Street was saved from the wrecking ball and buildings were given a serious facelift. Half a century later, it’s the best-preserved area of 19th-century buildings in all of Denver.

It’s known as Larimer Square these days, and it’s once again a thriving area of downtown Denver. Here you’ll find independent shops, restaurants run by famous chefs, and some lively bars.

It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Denver, so be sure to add it to your list. Get directions to Larimer Square on the map here.

14. Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Just a few blocks from Larimer Square, you’ll find the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Home to several different venues, there’s always something interesting going on here.

There are many different theatres in the DCPA. The largest is the Buell Theatre (2,839 capacity), which hosts Broadway musicals and plays. Upcoming shows here include Broadway staples such as Cats, Wicked, and Rent.

Much smaller is the Garner Galleria Theatre, which is a cabaret-style venue that only seats just over 200 people. This venue usually features comedic musicals or improv comedy, so you’re guaranteed some laughs when you book a show here.

Of course, there are plenty of options for wining and dining around the DCPA as well. Go ahead and make a night of it by having dinner and drinks here before the show.

Just be sure to book your tickets in advance for those super popular shows! You can find the DCPA on the map here.

15. Visit the Breweries Large and Small

Beer lovers are in for a treat when visiting Denver. Home to breweries large and small, there’s no shortage of tasty brews to sample here in the Mile High City — visiting is a must do in Denver!

Although it’s not technically in the city, the Coors Brewery remains one of the top Denver attractions. Located in nearby Golden, this is the world’s largest single-site brewery. They can brew up to 22 million barrels of beer here in a single year! 

Tours of the Coors Brewery are available year-round for $10 per person. They last 30 minutes, giving you a quick look at the malting, brewing, and packaging process for one of the world’s most famous beers. After the tour, you can of course sample some of the product. You can find the brewery on the map here.

If you prefer a strong IPA or a milky stout to mass-produced lagers, you can opt to go on a micro-brewery tour instead. Denver Microbrew Tour has a few options for sampling some of Denver’s best craft beer.

Tours cost $40 per person and include ten or more generous tastings of different beers. Having done this tour myself, I can say with confidence that you definitely get your money’s worth!

breweries are one of the best places to visit in denver

Ready For All of The Attractions in Denver?

As you can see, there’s a lot going on in Denver! There are so many excellent Denver attractions that this list could have easily been much longer. I’ve been going to the city every few years for the last decade and I always discover something new.

A visit to Denver is the perfect introduction to the state of Colorado.

After a few days taking in some of the sights in the city, you’ll be ready to get out there and explore the rest of this beautiful, mountainous state. Just an hour and a half drive from the city, you can find yourself in the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountain National Park.

So many of my friends have moved to Denver in the last few years, and I can definitely see why.

With a thriving music scene and countless options for outdoor adventures, I see the appeal! I for one am excited about getting back to the city again soon, and I recommend you add it to your travel bucket list.

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