23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Tijuana (Mexico)

In search of the best & fun things to do in Tikuana, Mexico?

Tijuana is the biggest city in the Mexican state of Baja California and is very popular as a border town that separates Mexico from the US.

This border city has a rakish reputation and is almost an aphorism for earthly pleasures. US citizens regularly visit for good times and cheap health care in nearly a century.

Tijuana remains a flourishing center, with a matching nightlife-strewn Downtown area and red light district. There are grimy parts, too, especially if you move towards the Zona Norte.

Tourists often visit this city, thanks to you its literal proximity to the US-Mexico border, so needless to say, there are lots of things channeled towards visitors. Let’s explore the best things to do in Tijuana.

Things to Do in Tijuana

1. Avenida Revolucion

Avenida Revolucion
Credits: Tydence Davis / Flickr
Avenida Revolucion

Avenida Revolucion, means legendary!. Tourists now love Tijuana, which was once a dangerous place for tourists.

Avenida Revolutioncion was created to celebrate this success. This place is home to many international brands, restaurants, cafes, and other businesses.

This is a great place to gift your family and friends a souvenir. Avenida Revolucion has a lot to offer.

You will also find many restaurants that offer both local and international cuisines lined up along the streets.

2. Tijuana Must-See: Mexican Lucha Libre

Mexican Lucha Libre
Credits: ANGELOUX / Flickr
Mexican Lucha Libre

Lucha Libre, or “Mexican wrestling,” is undoubtedly one of the top things when considering all of the most popular Mexican exports, including food and tequila.

It deals with the Mexican culture that people are generally often less aware.

Head to the Museo de La Lucha Libre Mexicana (MULLME) for an opportunity to get into the Lucha Libre while learning about the most popular sport in Mexico.

Located in the Downtown area, this place is unique and cool, teaching visitors about the sport’s history. You will see a handful of Lucha Libre masks, and you can even pick up some souvenirs for yourself.

3. Tijuana Cultural Center

Tijuana Cultural Center
Credits: Willem van Bergen / Flickr
Tijuana Cultural Center

One of the top attractions in Tijuana is the Tijuana Cultural Center, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do while in this city.

Most of the Tourists on their way to Tijuana have one goal in mind: to see Tijuana Cultural Centre.

You can recognize the center from afar because of its iconic shape and brick-colored color.

Tijuana Cultural Center is the only branch of the National Council for Culture and Arts in Mexico.

Tijuana Cultural Center is located in the Zona Rio area of Tijuana, close to the border. It was built in the 1980s, and it is now an iconic symbol of the area.

Address: P.º de los Héroes 9350, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

4. Try a little local tequila

Tequila
Credits: Alberto Valenzuela / Shutterstock
Tequila

Not trying tequila is something you cannot do without in Mexico. Tequila is just everywhere as national alcohol; next is its stronger cousin, mezcal.

One of your favorite things to do in Tijuana would be exploring the world of mezcal and tequila, even if you are not enthusiastic about alcoholic beverages.

Head to El Museo for the rattlesnake tequila, or you can try some specialty tastings at Dandy del Sur Cantina. On the other hand, you could go straight to Mama Tequila, where about 30 brands of tequila (just tequila!) Is served.

5. El Trompo

El trompo
Credits: Festival Ambulante / Flickr
El trompo

If you are interested in science, add a visit to El Trompo to your list of things to do in Tijuana.

El Trompo promises to educate both tourists and locals about science through its games and exhibitions.

The place is full of activities and events, which visitors can enjoy with a $5 entry fee. El Trompo is open all year round. You can be sure to find an event here.

This experience encourages people to take an interest in learning and allows them to get dirty doing experiments.

The auditorium can hold over 4000 people, and a Multipurpose room is available. You can hold various types of conferences or even have concerts in the many spaces.

Address: Av de los Insurgentes s/n, Rio Tijuana 3ra Etapa, 22226 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

6. Playas de Tijuana

Playas de Tijuana
Credits: Fernando Cebreros / Shutterstock
Playas de Tijuana

Are you too busy to go to Rosarito, Don’t worry, Tijuana also has beach surprises.

Playas de Tijuana is located close to downtown Tijuana. A boardwalk is made up of pedestrian bridges that run from Azteca Park to U.S. Border.

You can see the border crossing the Pacific Ocean. This is how you can tell that these issues are real!

Playas de Tijuana offers a great time and some of the finest seafood you’ll ever eat. This place is popular with tourists because of its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe.

7. Celebrate local festivals

Tijuana Love - Festival
Credits: Keneth Cruz / Flickr
Tijuana Love – Festival

Mexico is recognized for its passionate festivals, and Tijuana Mexico is in no way different.

First is Christmas. In Mexico, good ol’ Christmas is celebrated like a true fiesta: parades, plenty of food to push down, markets, and lights everywhere.

There is the Entijuanarte in October. This festival is lesser-known and features beautiful decorations which adorn the city.

And we do not forget the Dia de Muertos (or “Day of the Dead”). This festival takes place in late October/early November and is probably the most popular Mexican festival.

Tijuana’s performance at the festival is just astonishing. Check the calendar to know the best possible time to be in town for any of these events.

8. Beer Tasting in Tijuana

Beer Tasting in Tijuana
Credits: Rido / Shutterstock

Americans have a long tradition of crossing the border to enjoy a few drinks. Tijuana has been an entertainment destination for Americans for generations.

Tourists associate Tijuana with Tequila, and the city is known for its vibrant nightlife. Zona Centro and Avenida Revolucion are the main areas that offer the best bars and pubs around town.

These are two of the best places to relax and unwind. Calle Basil is another place to go if you want to experience the most luxurious and classy bars. Plaza del Zapato is well-known for its excellent nightclubs.

This answers what to do in Tijuana for some relaxation, one of Tijuana attractions for your bucket list of unique things to do in Tijuana, Mexico

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9. Parque Morelos

Parque Morelos
Credits: fcastellanos / Flickr
Parque Morelos

If you want to enjoy some green space in a rather building-oriented city, you should head over to Parque Morelos.

This park adds to our list of best things to do in Tijuana, and it is worth every reason.

Parque Morelos is a blend of traditional park and woodland. There is a lake and also a train for moving about. The latter is probably aimed at the kids, but the inner child in you can also hop aboard.

10. Mercado Hidalgo

Mercado Hidalgo
Credits: Chris Hunkeler / Flickr
Mercado Hidalgo

Mercado Hidalgo is the perfect place to submerge yourself in the daily life of Mexico. It is one of those places that you have to go to if you want to experience the culture of Mexico in the form of a market.

Located in Zona Urbana Rio, Mercado Hidalgo is full of crafts, eateries, fresh local produce, and every Mexican food or souvenir that you could want.

It sells everything from cosmetics to electricals to the entire mountain of foodstuffs. This market is an absolute sensory overload checking this market is one of the ultimate things to do in Tijuana.

And if you love fruits, you are going to see piles and piles of them here.

11. El Popo

El Popo
Credits: Rebeca Anchondo / Flickr
El Popo

Do you want to live among the Mexicans? Want to know how Mexicans shop? We have El Popo for your convenience.

El Popo, another local market in Mexico, is well-known for its freshest products.

You will be greeted by the smell of fresh Mexican goods as soon as you step into the market.

You will be amazed at the variety of curry and spices available. There are many colors in the market, with them all popping up everywhere.

You will find local cinnamon, oils, and candles here. You can eat like a local or buy a gift for a loved one while you are in the area.

Address: 22000, C. Benito Juárez 2da 8053, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

12. Plaza Rio Tijuana

Plaza Rio
Credits: Festival Ambulante / Flickr
Plaza Rio

For a memorable shopping experience, add a visit to Plaza Rio Tijuana to your list of things to do in Tijuana, Mexico.

Plaza Rio Tijuana is a top-rated shopping center in Mexico. It boasts a total of almost 73500 square meters of shopping space.

Mexico had no shopping centers in the past. In 1981, the Mexican government built a shopping center that was identical to an American one.

There are many international brands and local shops within the store. You can also find a food court where you can sample Italian, Mexican, and Chinese cuisines.

Two movie theatres are also located inside the mall and many other attractions.

Address: P.º de los Héroes 96, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

13. Pasaje Rodriguez

Pasaje Rodriguez
Credits: Pasaje Rodriguez / Facebook
Pasaje Rodriguez

Did you ever think that an alley could be the most popular tourist attraction in any city? This alley isn’t your average one.

Pasaje Rodriguez, a vibrant street art gallery filled with delicious local food and energetic people, is a must-see in Tijuana to see the city’s ever-changing landscape.

Pasaje Rodriguez, a 2009 project that locals completed in their own time, was finished by Pasaje Rodriguez in 2009.

The area has been home to many artists and photographers since then. The place is full of energy that makes it hard to leave.

Many street art pieces and small art galleries can be found in alleyways, which inspire young artists to create their best.

If you are an art lover, do not leave Pasaje Rodriguez out of your list of things to do in Tijuana.

Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

14. Rosarito Beach

Rosarito Beach
Credits: VG Foto / Shutterstock
Rosarito Beach

There is no one too busy to enjoy a great beach town. After you’re done with Tijuana’s sightseeing, take a stroll to Rosarito for the beautiful beaches.

Although it is a small town, it has many residential areas and meets the ocean at its end.

At a distance of only 20 km, the coast is just a short drive from Tijuana. Dolores del Rio and Spencer Tracey were among the many golden stars who chose Rosarito for their weekend escape from hectic shooting.

It is a white sandy beach that is always empty. It is so vast that it doesn’t matter how many people visit the beach; it will seem as if it is empty. Rosarito Beach Hotel, which is in the area, overlooks the ocean.

15. Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad
Credits: Adam DR / Shutterstock
Caesar Salad

Are you a regular customer at a restaurant who orders Caesar Salad? You are actually ordering a Mexican food.

Mexico is considered to be the origin of the caesar; People also claim that the Caesar Salad was born in Tijuana.

Ordering Caesar Salad in Tijuana would be ordering authentic Mexican food. Caesars Restaurants Bar is the exact place where this dish was created.

Caesar Cardini, the restaurant’s owner, invented the dish. This dish was created because Hollywood stars flew to Tijuana to enjoy some fun, as many things in America were prohibited during this period.

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16. Puerto Nuevo

Puerto Nuevo
Credits: Timothy Sulllivan / Flickr
Puerto Nuevo

Are you already in Rosarito? You don’t have to leave when you can enjoy Puerto Nuevo. This town is known for its crabs.

The lobster taco, which is almost 100,000 crustaceans cooked in this town’s restaurants, is a must-try.

You can also enjoy the best beaches and surfing opportunities. Mexico’s best wine list is also available at the local restaurants.

Puerto Nuevo restaurant is very close to Tijuana, and it offers a memorable dining experience.

17. Casa de la Cultura

Casa de la Cultura
Credits: CesarBojorquez [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Casa de la Cultura
If you think Tijuana has only one cultural center? You’re mistaken. Officials have declared Casa de la Cultura in Tijuana as historical heritage.

It was initially designed as an elementary school. However, in 1975 it was made a cultural site.

Josefa Ortiz De Dominguez (a library), a literary cafe, Benjamin Serrano Gallery, and a theatre are all found on the campus.

There are also many classes and exhibitions on the site. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tijuana, and it is visited by approximately 25000 people each year.

18. Zona Rio

Zona Rio
Credits: PedroEmiliano [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Zona Rio/center>
Zona Rio is The heart of economic growth in downtown Tijuana. It is home to some of the most beautiful and delicious food scenes as well as the trade and commerce of the city.

The world loves Mexican food. Even today, Mexican food is the first choice for many people who wants to enjoy spicy foods.

Why not get authentic Mexican food from the producers? Mercado Hidalgo is a market-style food hall in Zona Rio.

Mercado hidalgo allows you to taste the authentic Tijuana flavor. You can find everything authentic Mexican, from the finest tortillas to Mexican coffee and spicy candies to pinatas, all at an arm’s reach here.

What are you waiting to do? You can experience Baja Californian culture, as well as the best shopping and nightlife! Tijuana has many great spots and experiences just waiting for you.

Address: Carrillo Puerto y o Tercera 8701, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

19. Tijuana’s Monumental Arch

Tijuana’s Monumental Arch
Credits: PedroEmiliano [CC BY-SA 4.0], Wikimedia Commons
Tijuana’s Monumental Arch
One of the top things to do in Tijuana is taking a picture of Tijuana’s Monumental Arch.

You might wonder what specific reasons for this inclusion, right?. It is because it is simply monumental as you get to see it before crossing the border.

It is a complete introduction to the city and is quite amongst Tijuana’s free things to do. Some visitors tag it as a must-see, but there is no way you will find it hard to see at all.

This answers what to do in Tijuana for some sightseeing, do add to your list o Tijuana attractions to visit.

20. Museo de las Californias

Museo De Las Californias
Credits: vladimix / Flickr
Museo De Las Californias

Museo De Las Californias is housed in the central building at the Tijuana Cultural Center and showcases a permanent exhibition that gives guests a real sense of place in the state..

Do stop by and reflect for a few minutes before jetting out for the more lurid pleasures of Tijuana.

The museum preserves and teaches about the natural and human history of the California peninsula.

You will start from prehistoric times while working your way to the mid-20th century through the Jesuits, War of Independence, and Revolution.

There are repros of the Yuman native groups, rock paintings found in the Sierra de San Francisco, and dioramas of the Cochimí.

You would also see examples of artifacts from the old Desert Line railroad, models of pre-Hispanic settlements, folk art, models of New Spanish metalwork, and a well-explained model of a Spanish carrack

21. Plaza Santa Cecilia

Plaza Santa Cecilia
Credits: ¡Carlitos / Flickr
Plaza Santa Cecilia

If you want to go back in time and experience the old Tijuana, add a visit to Plaza Santa Cecilia to your list of fun things to do while in the area.

Plaza Santa Cecilia, located at the intersection of First Street and La Revu streets, is the birthplace of the town of Tijuana.

This is, without a doubt, the oldest area of Tijuana, as you can see from the décor and aura.

The area is so developed now that it’s becoming difficult to predict the future. This area is home to many modern shops and malls, which has helped this region grow.

If you tilt your head, however, you will still be able to see the colorful flags flying above.

Although it was not peaceful once, now it attracts tourists with its colorful surroundings.

Address: C. Primera, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico

22. Visit Ensenada

Ensenada
Credits: Creative Jen Designs / Shutterstock
Ensenada

Ensenada is an exciting place to visit while in Tijuana as it is located very close to the city.

The coast to the north and south of Ensenada is lined with stunning beaches. Many of these beaches have amazing surf breaks.

You have two options if you are looking for relaxation: either private beaches at Estero Beach, where you can purchase a day pass and use the facilities, or public beaches like El Punto or San Miguel, which are also popular among surfers.

Ensenada can also be used as a starting point for wine tours in Valle de Guadalupe. It is a long-established industry in wine tourism. You can take a bus tour to visit the wineries.

Ensenada hosts the Grape Harvest Fiesta in August, where wineries from the region set up tasting stalls.

23. Parque de la Amistad

Parque de la Amistad
Credits: Laurel Patricia Fallon / Wikimedia(Public Domain)
Parque de la Amistad

Parque de la Amistad is one place you might want to check out if you seek some romantic things to do in Tijuana.

Its leafy paths, picnic areas, sprawling green spaces, and BBQ spots make it an excellent place for couples to spend quality time together.

You can easily beef up the couple-centric vibes by going out on a boat ride! It is the perfect way of spending an afternoon, pedaling out, floating around the lake while soaking up the atmosphere.

And if you have an appetite, grab some snacks from a food seller, after which you can take a stroll around this truly lovely park.

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Plan your trip to Tijuana

Tijuana is a lovely and lively city which is booms because of the American-Mexican effect. While tequila, sleaze, and margaritas are everywhere, we’ve seen that there are many more to explore

The little arty plazas and passages in Zona Centro, bar-hopping at the more advanced Caliente and Calle Brasil, ancient structures, and beautiful parks make here worth visiting. The Pacific coast and the Rosarito offer shore and sand fun for visitors too!

So, start preparing towards visiting this city on your next vacation. Feel free to check back on this piece for more guidance if need be.