Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town
When you’re traveling abroad, you sometimes have to choose between staying in the tourist areas and seeing the way the locals live. But in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, it’s easy to do both. Old Town – or Viejo Vallarta, as it’s more properly known – isn’t actually the oldest part of the town, but it’s the section that has retained its authenticity over time. This is the place to go if you want to see how the locals live, but don’t want to leave behind modern conveniences or venture too far afield.
When you enter Old Town, you’ll know it right away. There are cobblestone and brick streets, and any modern developments are noticeably lacking. Instead, you’ll see people going about their daily lives, shopping in the markets and visiting the local bakeries. You’ll definitely enjoy strolling along the tree-lined walkways and seeing the traditional brick buildings during your trip to Old Town.
Another important stop is Restaurant Row, which is located on Basilio Badillo Street in Old Town. Here, you’ll find food that runs the gamut from rustic local cuisine to fine gourmet European dining. Le Gourmet is a five star restaurant, while The Shrimp Factory is the place to go for seafood. Later, you can work off the day’s calories dancing in one of the area’s clubs and cantinas, many of which feature live music and dancing. Be sure to sample some of the many local tequilas as well. For the best experience, visit Tequila Town and choose a shooter sampler to enjoy while you learn all about how tequila is made.
Between October and April, you can also enjoy the Old Town Art Walk. Held every Wednesday during these months, you’ll visit 17 different art galleries where you’ll see everything from contemporary paintings to authentic arts and crafts from Mexico – all while enjoying free cocktails. Even if you aren’t a diehard art snob, you’ll certainly appreciate the beauty and cultural history displayed on every Art Walk.
Old Town is also home to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Every year in December, the Festival for Our Lady of Guadalupe is held. During this 12-day festival, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy fine Mexican cuisine and see the beautiful grounds of the Cathedral firsthand.
However, if you book a tour to Puerto Vallarta, you may find that a visit to Viejo Vallarta isn’t on the agenda. If you stay in the Hotel Zone, you’ll most likely see only the traditional tourist destination, as many tour guides receive commission for steering you toward certain shops and restaurants in the Hotel Zone. However, you’ll find that shopping and dining are much less expensive in Viejo Vallarta. There are tours of Old Town if you look for them though or just strike out on your own. Unlike many tourist destinations, where it isn’t safe to stray, you’ll find that Viejo Vallarta is a safe location, home to many expatriates and friendly locals. For this reason, a visit to Viejo Vallarta is a visit to the real Mexico.