What to Do in Jalisco After the World Cup Matches
The four World Cup matches scheduled to be played in Guadalajara have come to an end, but that does not mean the celebration is over in Jalisco. There are still many reasons to visit the state during the remainder of the World Cup.
What to Do in Jalisco During the World Cup Celebration
Although the matches in Guadalajara have concluded, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. In an interview, Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Secretary of Tourism of Jalisco, shared that the state launched a passport featuring 39 travel routes to explore Jalisco.
These routes are inspired by the 39 days of the World Cup. The passport is available at tourist information centers and includes destinations such as Tequila, Chapala, Cocula, Costalegre, Tapalpa, Mazamitla, and the Highlands (Los Altos) region of Jalisco.
Each of these destinations offers significant tourist, cultural, and historical value. Jalisco has 400 kilometers of coastline and 12 Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns), giving visitors countless places to explore and a wide variety of traditional cuisine to experience, as it is one of the most representative gastronomic regions in Mexico.
Whether you follow this passport, use the trip planner available on the Visita Jalisco website, or explore the state’s artificial intelligence assistant, La TapatIA, there are plenty of reasons to visit Jalisco during the rest of the World Cup and throughout the year.
Must-See Attractions in Guadalajara and the Metropolitan Area
Museum of the Arts of the University of Guadalajara (MUSA)
The museum houses two masterpieces by renowned Mexican muralist José Clemente Orozco, along with exhibition galleries featuring both Mexican and international contemporary art.
Zapopan Art Museum (MAZ)
This is the only public institution in Jalisco dedicated exclusively to contemporary art. It is recognized for its exhibitions that promote critical thinking.
Tequila LAB
This immersive museum experience is dedicated to tequila. It was created through a collaboration between the Government of Jalisco and the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) to celebrate the identity, tradition, and science behind the agave plant.
Jalisco Planetarium and Interactive Center
Considered one of the best-equipped planetariums in the world, it combines astronomy, hands-on science, and twenty-first-century innovation in a fully interactive environment suitable for all ages.
Michin Aquarium
The aquarium combines aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity with the worldview, history, and legends of Mexico’s Indigenous cultures.
The facility honors Indigenous peoples through five themed pavilions, each inspired by a different culture and deity.
Three Magic Towns in Jalisco Beyond Tequila
Ajijic
Ajijic is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful murals, art galleries, and unique bohemian atmosphere.
It is located on the northern shore of Lake Chapala, approximately 45 kilometers south of Guadalajara, less than one hour away by car.
Mazamitla
Known as the “Mexican Switzerland,” Mazamitla is famous for its cool mountain climate, cozy cabins, pine forests, adventure sports, and the beautiful El Salto waterfall.
The town is located in southern Jalisco within the Sierra del Tigre mountain range, approximately 124 kilometers from Guadalajara, less than a two-hour drive.
San Sebastián del Oeste
This former mining town in the Sierra Madre Occidental is distinguished by its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and centuries-old churches that give the impression of having remained frozen in time.
For travelers visiting Puerto Vallarta, it is an excellent day-trip destination, located about 65 kilometers east of the city, just over an hour away by car.
Jalisco Became the Most Mexican Host of the World Cup
Korean fans enjoying cantaritos, the massive Gangnam Style dance, and of course mariachi music, traditional cuisine, and the hospitality of the local people helped position Guadalajara as one of the favorite host cities of the 2026 World Cup.
According to Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Jalisco’s extensive tourism offerings are what have made it such an exceptional host.
For that reason, beyond the matches at Akron Stadium and the World Cup Fan Fest held in Guadalajara’s Historic Center, numerous additional activities have been organized to encourage tourism.
Vibra Jalisco has been one of the main initiatives, featuring giant screens broadcasting the matches at different locations throughout the state, including its 12 Magic Towns and iconic destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and the Lake Chapala region.
However, since the celebration is about more than just soccer, these venues have also hosted concerts, food festivals, amusement rides, and family-oriented activities, ensuring entertainment for visitors of all ages.
As the Secretary of Tourism explained, the combination of entertainment, cultural activities, and the warmth of the local people has made Jalisco an attractive and safe destination for visitors from around the world.
This has generated a highly positive impact for the state, as the World Cup serves as a global showcase. Beyond the direct economic benefits, the international exposure Jalisco has received is considered invaluable.
The World Cup has undoubtedly established Jalisco as one of the world’s soccer hubs, but it has also reinforced its position as one of Mexico’s most important tourist destinations. The wide variety of attractions available beyond the sport itself is proof of that.
Source: excelsior
