Guadalajara “The City of Roses” or “The Pearl of the West”
as the locals call it, was founded by the Spanish in the year 1542 and is now second only to Mexico City in population, production, and commerce. Guadalajara’s innumerable colonial buildings, museums, theaters, churches, and parks all contribute to making the city truly rich in history and culture.
Guadalajara is also located within a few hours drive to the world famous Mexican beach resort of Puerto Vallarta. The people of Guadalajara also enjoy one of the most temperate climates in the world; the year round temperature is about 75 degrees.

All of this and much more have made Guadalajara the center of culture and comfort in western Mexico. In addition, the city of Guadalajara is known throughout the entire country of Mexico as one of the most traditional of Mexican cities. After all, it is the birthplace of Mariachi and Tequila.    

Combining an agreeable climate, varied leisure pursuits, historic sightseeing and assorted cultural attractions, Guadalajara (gwah-dah-lah-HAH-rah) is one of Mexico's most appealing destinations. Yet the city is often overlooked by vacationers scurrying to Mexico's beach resorts. This is a shame, since Guadalajara and surrounding State of Jalisco are two of Mexico's most beautiful and historic showpieces.
   Mexico's second largest city (population 5 million), Guadalajara has grown significantly in the last ten years. Traffic congestion, some air pollution, and other urban inconveniences have somewhat tarnished the city's provincial charm. These annoyances aside, it still earns its distinction as one of Mexico's most pleasant cities, and best suits visitors wanting a taste of authentic Mexican culture together with modern comforts and attractions.
   To many visitors, Guadalajara embodies the soul of Mexico. It is home to many traditions and products most identified with Mexico. Tequila comes from the State of Jalisco, as does Mariachi music and many classic Mexican dishes. The area is also known for the charro tradition: Mexico's ornately dressed horsemen who perform a Mexican-style rodeo known as charreadas. The city's friendly residents, referred to as Tapatios, are known for their civic pride and hospitality.
   The city rests on a highland plateau in west central Mexico at an altitude of 5,200 feet. This mile-high plain is blessed with a splendid spring-like climate. Days are warm and sunny, humidity is low and evenings are cool and clear. Afternoon rainfall is common from June through September, when the areas countryside is carpeted with velvet green pastures.
   Guadalajara is known as the "city of roses," and like its sister city (Portland, Oregon), it is green, sophisticated, and charming. Many sections of this large metropolis have the atmosphere and pace of a small town. Parks, fountains, plazas, and wide tree-lined boulevards are sprinkled about the city. As a major center for the arts and education (there are three major universities here), the city is filled with book stores, galleries and fine museums.
   Unlike Mexico City, the area did not have a developed native population when the Spanish finally settled the area in 1542. It first developed as an outpost for exploration of Mexico's vast western region, and later became the capital of the province of Nueva Galicia. Through nearly 300 years of colonial rule, Guadalajara became an important regional center for trade. Lavish wealth from ranching and agriculture bestowed the city with handsome municipal buildings, ornate churches and colonial mansions.
   Although straining to keep up with a recent growth explosion, Guadalajara has preserved numerous colonial treasures. The city's downtown core is a lovely chain of flowering, fountain-filled plazas. The lively Plaza Tapata, is a magnificent five-block long pedestrian mall brimming with stately municipal buildings, museums, department stores, cafes, and striking modern sculpture.
   As for native crafts and shopping, Guadalajara is unsurpassed. The nearby suburbs of Tlaquepaque and Tonal are world famous for their exquisite folk and fine art traditions. The area is particularly famous for fine ceramics, pottery, blown glass, brass, copper and leather goods. Jalisco is also the birthplace of Jos� Clemente Orozco, one of the world's greatest 20th century muralists. Much of his finest work is in Guadalajara, adorning several public buildings.
   Excursions to villages surrounding Guadalajara showcase the State's rural flavor and diverse natural beauty. Of particular interest are the villages lining the shore of Lake Chapala, Mexico's largest freshwater lake. Tapalpa and Mazamitla are tranquil alpine villages, high in the states rugged Sierra Madre mountains. Distilleries around the city of Tequila offer fascinating tours. Lagos de Moreno and San Juan de los Lagos are colonial towns famous for their religious festivals, fine folk art and colorful markets.