Guide to the top art exhibition spaces to visit for can’t-miss culture
Art is one of the best ways to get to know a culture. So how well do you know Guadalajara? Rich in history, art, architecture, music, literature and more, Guadalajara has culture to match whatever vibe you’re feeling. Get to know some of the essential artistic places, from historical to modern, using this guide.
Historical and astonishing vibes
Looking for a combination of art and architecture? Hospicio Cabañas is one of the most emblematic buildings in Guadalajara. It used to be a hospice, but nowadays it’s a space dedicated to the diffusion of the arts. Besides its neoclassical style and several courtyards, the place is known for the exhibitions and cultural activities that it hosts.
No matter what you do there, you must go to the dome of the main chapel. There you will find the most representative mural of Orozco, one of the most important Mexican muralists, with 57 paintings capturing images of religion, industry, oppression, indigenous roots and Mexican history.
UNESCO recognized it as a world heritage site in 1997 for its architectural beauty and historical and cultural importance. You can't miss it!
Antique and musical vibes.
You can’t leave Guadalajara without visiting the Degollado Theatre! Built with a neoclassical style during the 19th century, it is the headquarters of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco. Besides, the building hosts theater, opera and dance performances along with some artistic and cultural festivals. Its facade will make you think of a Greek temple and its inside will transport you to a classic red, gold and elegant atmosphere. It’s a gem both inside and out.
If you pass by, don't hesitate to go in! There are guided tours where they’ll show you every corner of the theater, besides that you will be able to know its history and details. Have a look at the musical and performing offers, buy a ticket and live the whole experience.
Cultural chill vibes.
Host to both international and local artists, MUSA is one of the most important museums in Guadalajara. In this place you can find artworks from different art styles as well as workshops, conferences and other activities. When you’re there, ask for the auditorium, where, just like in Hospicio Cabañas, you’ll have the opportunity to admire an impressive dome painted by Orozco.
It is a place that you can enjoy both by yourself or in company. Ask for the free guided tours! You can always learn something interesting. At the end of your tour you can go to the coffee shop and just chill. Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the gift shop!
Peaceful and warm vibes.
Are you looking for a unique, atypical and peaceful place? ITESO Clavigero house, designed by the renowned Mexican architect Luis Barragan, is an icon of the architecture and culture in Guadalajara. The house is a work of art itself made of color, light and space. On the inside you’ll have the opportunity to admire both the exhibitions it offers and its design, while the outside shows a contrast of colors, nature and peace.
This place offers guided tours to learn more about its history and architecture. If you’re interested, don’t forget to make an appointment through one of their social networks. If you fall in love with this place and you want to spend more time there, you can sit in its coffee shop, have a drink and relax.
Artsy and minimalist vibes.
Tiro al Blanco is a contemporary art gallery that exposes both international and local artists. Its minimalist and modern style will please you as much as the exhibitions it offers. Besides that it seeks to boost the artistic taste, it might advise you on the purchase and investment of artworks and assist in the marketing of particular collections. The staff is very friendly and the vibe is enjoyable.
An excuse to spend more time in this pleasant place is its coffee shop! It offers both coffée and other beverages as well as alcoholic options. It’s perfect to work or have a cool conversation.
Local, warm and bookish vibes.
If you are into books, art and coffee, this is your spot! Mar de Tinta is a small gem hidden in Guadalajara streets that offers carefully chosen books about arts, poetry, theory, classics, etc. Besides that it sells books signed by the author as well as first editions, it seeks to disclose local art, that’s why the walls are decorated with artworks of local artists.
Walk through its shelves and ask for recommendations. If you want to enjoy more of this ink sea, have a coffee and read your new book. After all, a book is the best company there is.
Classic vibes
A convent from the 18th century turned into a cultural center. The Ex Convento del Carmen, in addition to its central courtyard surrounded by arcades, paintings, photographs or sculptures, mainly from Mexican artists. Besides that, it offers classes of different artistic expressions as well as permanent activities like musical Tuesdays and literary Wednesdays. Walk through the building and enjoy its classic style along with its artistic offerings.
Contemporary and open minded vibes
The MAZ is a contemporary art museum located in the historical center of Zapopan. In its exhibition halls and its courtyard you can find paintings, sculptures and different structures both from local and international artists who seek to generate a reflection in the viewer. The place has a small auditorium where films are shown on Thursday and Saturday evenings.
If you want to keep soaking up art and culture, have a look at the offered workshops, conferences and courses! After visiting the museum, walk through the area. It’s very pleasant and it’s full of restaurants, besides the fact that some of its pedestrian areas are intervened by sculptures from the museum.
Culture Everywhere Vibes
The Conjunto Santander de Artes Escénicas is a place for culture lovers, especially in the area of performing arts. With an outdoor room, theaters, experimental rooms, among others, it offers content for all tastes: theater, dance, music, cinema, concerts, opera, etc. Check the billboard! It also offers workshops and masterclasses and there are quite affordable prices.
The facilities are amazing! It’s one of the biggest cultural centers in Latin America. Besides all of that, there’s a huge library right by, so that you can complement your visit with a good book! Walk through the facilities and enjoy yourself.
Vibrant and folkloric vibes.
Colors, art, crafts, Mexican food, culture and music! This is a place that spreads art and culture. The main streets of Tlaquepaque are an amazing opportunity to interact with Mexican art and culture. There you will find jewelry, paintings, drawings, clothes, embroidery, etc.
Besides the vibrant vibe that lies in its streets, you will find a lot of art galleries! Don’t hesitate to enter all of them, on many occasions the artists themselves are there. Sergio Bustamante’s gallery is a must. Accompany this cultural encounter with some Mexican food! Tlaquepaque offers a whole experience.