101+ Things To Do In Oaxaca City Mexico In 2023

Are you looking for things to do in Oaxaca City Mexico, then you are at the right place. On the other hand, Oaxaca City has a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. It offers visitors various exciting activities, from exploring ancient ruins to hiking in the nearby mountains, sampling traditional Oaxacan cuisine, attending festivals and events, and much more. 

This blog will look at over 101 things to do in Oaxaca City Mexico, categorized into different areas of interest, including historical and cultural sites, food and drink experiences, outdoor activities, shopping, and more.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this blog will provide all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Oaxaca City. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to explore this beautiful and fascinating destination.

Why Choose Oaxaca City Mexico?

Oaxaca City is a vibrant and picturesque destination located in the southern region of Mexico. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, colorful markets, and mouth-watering cuisine. 

Visitors come from all over the world to explore the city’s fascinating history, art, and architecture and indulge in its traditional dishes, including mole, tlayudas, and mezcal. 

Oaxaca City is also famous for its festivals and events, such as the Day of the Dead celebrations and the Guelaguetza festival. With its warm and welcoming locals, stunning natural beauty, and numerous attractions, Oaxaca City is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Mexican culture.

Why It’s Worth Visiting Oaxaca City Mexico?

Here are some reasons why Oaxaca City is worth visiting:

1. Rich History and Culture

Oaxaca City has a long and fascinating history, and its streets are lined with centuries-old buildings, churches, and museums that showcase the region’s vibrant culture and traditions.

2. Stunning Archeological Sites

Oaxaca is home to some of Mexico’s most important pre-Columbian ruins, including the magnificent Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Delicious Food and Drink

Oaxaca is renowned for its cuisine, which features various unique dishes, including the famous mole sauce and the local specialty cheese. And of course, no visit to Oaxaca is complete without sampling some of the region’s world-famous mezcal.

4. Natural Beauty

Oaxaca has stunning natural scenery, including the Sierra Norte Mountains, Hierve el Agua, and the ancient Tule Tree.

5. Artisanal Handicrafts

Oaxaca is home to a thriving community of skilled artisans, and the city is a hub for traditional crafts such as pottery, textiles, and weaving. Visitors can explore local markets and workshops to purchase authentic handmade souvenirs.

Overall, Oaxaca City offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience that combines history, culture, food, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

101+ Things To Do In Oaxaca City Mexico In 2023

Here are 101+ things to do in Oaxaca City Mexico based on different categories:

1. Historical and Cultural Sites

1. Visit the ancient Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán.
2. Explore the Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Center.
3. Learn about the region’s history at the Museum of Oaxacan Culture.
4. Visit the Templo de la Soledad, a beautiful 16th-century church.
5. See the ancient petroglyphs at Yagul.
6. Explore the Cuilapam Convent ruins.
7. Visit the Ethnobotanical Garden and see a collection of plants used by the Zapotecs.
8. Learn about the city’s colonial past at the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca.
9. Visit the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Contemporary Art.
10. See the murals at the Palacio de Gobierno.
11. Visit the Casa de Juarez, the former home of Mexican President Benito Juarez.
12. See the beautifully restored Teatro Macedonio Alcalá.
13. Visit the Museum of Philately and Postal History.
14. Explore the pre-Hispanic art collection at the Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México.

2. Food and Drink Experiences

15. Take a mezcal tasting tour at a local distillery.
16. Sample traditional Oaxacan chocolate at La Soledad Chocolate Factory.
17. Try chapulines (roasted grasshoppers), a popular snack in the region.
18. Sample regional cheeses at the Mercado de la Merced.
19. Try tlayudas, a local specialty similar to a large, crispy quesadilla.
20. Learn to make traditional Oaxacan mole at a cooking class.
21. Visit a local market and try a variety of local foods.
22. Take a city food tour to sample the best Oaxacan cuisine.
23. Attend the annual Food and Wine Festival held each year in Oaxaca.

3. Outdoor Activities

24. Hike in the nearby Sierra Norte mountains.
25. Swim in the natural pools at Hierve el Agua.
26. Visit the stunning Tule Tree, a 2,000-year-old cypress tree.
27. Go birdwatching in the Sierra Madre mountains.
28. Explore the stunning waterfalls at Cascada de la Reforma.
29. Take a guided horseback tour of the mountains.
30. Visit the Botanical Garden in Santo Domingo.
31. Go on a cycling tour of the city and surrounding countryside.
32. Take a hot air balloon ride over the city.

4. Shopping

33. Visit the Mercado Benito Juárez for souvenirs and local crafts.
34. Explore the Mercado de la Merced for regional food specialties.
35. Buy handmade pottery at Atzompa.
36. Visit the Zapotec weavers of Teotitlán del Valle and buy a beautiful rug.
37. Shop for silver jewelry at the Mercado de la Plata.
38. Buy handmade textiles and clothing at the Textile Museum.

5. Festivals and Events

39. Attend the Day of the Dead celebrations in November.
40. Experience the Guelaguetza festival held in July.
41. Attend the Radish Night festival on December 23rd.
42. Experience the Carnaval de Putla held in February.
43. Attend the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe in December.
44. See April’s colorful parades and festivities during Semana Santa (Holy Week).
45. Attend the Noche de los Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) held in December.

6. Art and Culture

46. Visit the Casa de la Ciudad cultural center for exhibits and performances.
47. Attend a performance of traditional Oaxacan music and dance.
48. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art for exhibits and events.
49. Attend a concert at the Teatro Macedonio Alcalá.
50. See a live performance of the Guelaguetza folkloric dance.
51. Attend the Oaxaca FilmFest held annually in October.
52. Visit the Amigos del Sol Spanish School and learn about the language and culture of Oaxaca.
53. Attend a poetry reading or literary event at the Casa de la Ciudad.

7. Religious and Spiritual Sites

54. Visit the Basílica de la Soledad, a beautiful 17th-century church.
55. Explore the Templo de San Felipe Neri.
56. Visit the San Juan de Dios Temple.
57. Take a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Juquila.
58. Visit the Templo de San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya.
59. Attend a mass or religious ceremony at the Templo de la Compañía de Jesús.
60. Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán for its stunning architecture and religious artwork.

8. Nature and Wildlife

61. Visit the Oaxaca Zoological Park to see animals native to the region.
62. Take a boat tour of the nearby Laguna de Manialtepec.
63. Visit the Botanical Garden in San Francisco Lachigoló.
64. Go on a whale-watching tour in the nearby Pacific Ocean.
65. See the sea turtles nesting at Escobilla Beach.
66. Go on a nature hike in the Sierra Norte mountains.
67. Visit the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden for various plants and animals.
68. Take a tour of the Oaxaca Butterfly Reserve.

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9. Sports and Recreation

69. Play a round of golf at the Club de Golf Oaxtepec.
70. Go rock climbing in the Sierra Norte mountains.
71. Take a yoga class at a local studio or retreat center.
72. Play a game of basketball or soccer at a local park.
73. Swim in one of the many public pools the city has to offer.
74. Play tennis at the Club de Tenis Oaxaca.
75. Go on a guided mountain biking tour.

10. Architecture and Landmarks

76. Visit the Zócalo, the main square in the heart of the city.
77. See the beautiful colonial architecture of the Casa de la Cultura.
78. Visit the San Agustín Church and its stunning baroque architecture.
79. See the beautiful architecture of the Templo de la Merced.
80. Visit the beautiful Palacio Municipal (City Hall).
81. See the stunning murals and architecture at the Ex Convento de Santa Catalina.
82. Visit the beautiful Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco.
83. See the beautiful architecture of the Templo de la Preciosa Sangre de Cristo.
84. Visit the beautiful Templo de San José de Gracia.

11. Day Trips and Excursions

85. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Mitla to see its beautiful ruins.
86. Visit the nearby town of Tlacolula for its vibrant market.
87. Go on a guided tour of the Sierra Norte mountains.
88. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Hierve el Agua to see its stunning natural pools.
89. Visit the nearby town of San Agustín Etla for its beautiful colonial architecture.
90. Take a tour of the nearby Mezcal Route and learn about mezcal production.
91. Visit the nearby town of Teotitlán del Valle to see the traditional Zapotec weaving.

12. Nightlife

92. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Oaxaca City at one of its many bars and clubs.
93. Take a night-time tour of the city to see its landmarks and attractions illuminated.
94. Attend a live music performance at a local venue.
95. Enjoy a late-night meal at one of the city’s many restaurants.
96. Take a cocktail-making class and learn to create delicious drinks using local ingredients.
97. Visit one of the city’s many mezcal bars and taste the local spirit.
98. Attend a themed party or event at a local club.
99. Visit one of the many theatres the city has to offer.
100. Take a moonlit stroll through the city’s historic streets.
101. Attend a cultural event or festival held in the evening.
102. Visit the Teotitlán del Valle market and buy some handcrafted rugs local artisans make.
103. Attend a traditional wedding ceremony and learn about the customs and traditions of Oaxacan weddings.
104. Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Oaxacan dishes.
105. Visit the Oaxaca Textile Museum and learn about the region’s history and techniques of weaving and textiles.
106. Attend a mezcal tasting and learn about this local spirit’s different varieties and production processes.
107. Take a bike tour of the city and its surrounding countryside.
108. Visit the Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños and admire the works of local artists.
109. Attend the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca City in early November.

In conclusion, Oaxaca City offers diverse activities and attractions to suit every interest and taste. From exploring its rich cultural heritage to enjoying its delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. 

So, whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Oaxaca City is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

Conclusion

This is the end of this post, which is about things to do in Oaxaca City Mexico. Furthermore, Oaxaca City has much to offer travelers interested in experiencing Mexican culture and traditions. Whether you want to explore the city’s history, try traditional foods, or relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, there are plenty of activities to choose from. 

From visiting the historic city center and its many museums and galleries to attending cultural events and festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Oaxaca City. Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, making it an exciting destination for foodies and night owls. 

No matter your interests, Oaxaca City will captivate and inspire you with its rich cultural heritage, welcoming locals, and beautiful surroundings.