Things to Do
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or know and love SMA already, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences to enjoy during your stay. Here are some of our favorite ways to soak up the magic of this unforgettable town:
Wander the
Historic Centro
Get lost in the charm of cobblestone streets, vibrant colonial buildings, and hidden courtyards. Don’t miss the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the pink neo-Gothic church at the heart of town
SMA has so many beautiful shops—it’s hard not to wander into all of them. These are the places I recommend to visitors or sneak off to when I want to treat myself or find something special.
This town is FULL of artists and creativity—everywhere you look there’s something beautiful or unexpected. If you love art, color, or just getting a little inspired, don’t skip these!
Eat Your Way Through Town
From local taco joints to elevated tasting menus, SMA’s food scene is constantly changing and elevating.Click HERE for a list of our favorite places!
San Miguel is surrounded by beautiful vineyards that feel as though they've been pulled right out of Tuscany. If you have a free afternoon and want to explore a little outside the city, these are all easy drives and really special.
If you’re like us and need to get out of the city sometimes, SMA has so many beautiful ways to be outside. Whether you’re in the mood to hike, soak, or just let the kids run wild, here’s where you can go to feel grounded.
San Miguel has lots of wonderful tours—whether you're looking to explore the city on foot or head out on a bigger adventure beyond town. Here are some of our favorites and the ones people always rave about:
Whether you're staying for a week or a few months, San Miguel has amazing ways to learn something new—art, cooking, Spanish, dance—you name it. Many are drop-in friendly and super welcoming.
There are so many awesome camps and activities for kids in San Miguel—art, Spanish, dance, horseback riding, you name it. They'll be having the time of their lives while you sneak off for a cocktail or some much-needed quiet.
If you want to explore a bit beyond San Miguel, there are some amazing towns, ruins, and hot springs within an hour or two. Easy to plan and so worth it.
If you’re here for a while and want to give back, there are some wonderful local organizations that always appreciate help or donations.
Get Outside
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El Charco del Ingenio – The botanical garden is a favorite for a quiet morning walk—tons of cactus, insane canyon views, and not too crowded if you go early.
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Coyote Canyon Adventures – Horseback riding through the canyons is SUCH a fun memory-maker. The guides are amazing and it feels like you’re in a movie.
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La Gruta Hot Springs – Warm pools and that cave tunnel everyone talks about. We’ve gone with the kids and without—works either way.
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Escondido Place – A little more casual and great with a group. Big grassy areas and plenty of space to spread out.
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Camino a la Virgen – A mellow trail just outside town that’s perfect for stretching your legs without committing to a full hike.
Shop Local
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Mixta – Consistenly voted one of the best stores in the world, it’s beautifully curated and one of my go-to's for unique clothes, gifts or just inspiration.
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Suki Palomina – The hat store dreams are made of. Customizable and very San Miguel chic.
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Relox Street – Honestly, just start walking and pop into anything that catches your eye. If you start at the square head down about a block or two and there will be a great shop, Doce 18, on your left filled with over a dozen local vendors selling high quality and unique clothing finds.
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Mercado de Artesanías – Classic SMA experience. Lots of vendors, handmade everything, and you’ll 100% leave with something embroidered.
Explore the Arts
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Fábrica La Aurora – One of my favorite spots. It’s an old factory turned gallery hub with working studios and a couple great cafés.
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Guadalupe Murals – This neighborhood is full of colorful street art. We like to walk through on the way to brunch or just let the kids point out their favorites.
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Museo La Esquina – A toy museum that’s honestly for adults too—it’s so fun and colorful.
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Local Galleries – Studded throughout the city, you can literally just start walking and before you know it you will stumble upon some amazing galleries. It is a great opportunity to find beautiful art at affordable prices!
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Bellas Artes – Bellas Artes, officially known as Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez “El Nigromante,” is one of those places in San Miguel that feels like a secret garden tucked right into the heart of town. Housed in a former 18th-century convent, it's now a cultural center offering art classes, exhibitions, and a serene courtyard perfect for a quiet moment.
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See a show! - San Miguel has drawn bigger and bigger musical artists over the years from Santana to Bella Fleck, as well as local theater and opera, there is always something going on.
Wine & Vineyards
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La Santísima Trinidad – Our personal favorite. Gorgeous Mediterranean grounds, lavendar, fruit trees, a pond, great food- it just has a vibe! Go for lunch and stay until they politely ask you to leave. Kids play area and tastings as well!
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Viñedo San Lucas – Part of the same group as Santísima, with lavender fields, olive trees, and a beautiful setting. Their restaurant is always a hit.
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Viñedo San Francisco – Another one in the Santísima family, with horseback riding and a super photogenic setting. Also kid friendly and have bikes to rent!
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Tres Raíces – A little more modern and sleek. Amazing views, OK wine (not our favorite, but very popular), and great for groups. Book ahead if you want a tasting or lunch on the patio.
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Dos Búhos – Organic, bohemian, and less polished. If you like your wine with a side of chickens and charm, this is your spot.
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Cuna de Tierra – Near Dolores Hidalgo, but worth the drive. Architecturally stunning and great for a more elevated tasting experience.
Tours
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Historic Walking Tours of San Miguel – Affordable, charming, and benefit Patronato Pro Niños (a local children's charity). A sweet way to learn the city. Tours take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Groups meet in the Jardin across from the Parroquia (large church) at 9:45 AM, and leave at 10:00 AM. Donation: 500 pesos per person / cash
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Home & Garden Tour: Every Friday at 1pm, the library hosts a walking tour of 2-3 local homes.
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Angelica Tours – Personalized and professional. Offering both planned or curated tours. Send her a quick message about your interests and she'll build a tour around what you love—history, art, food, or all of it.
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Vineyard Tours – Most vineyards offer tastings and lunch. Book directly or through concierge services. Our favorite is Santisima, it does take a whole afternoon when included with the tasting so plan ahead. They offer cheese plates and lemonade for the kids as well! Angelica can arrange a nanny for you as well :)
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Cañada de la Virgen Pyramid Tour – Archaeologist led hike and history tour of the local pyramid site. Peaceful and super cool.
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Horseback Riding with Coyote Canyon – A full-on adventure through the countryside with real vaqueros. So much fun.
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ATV Tours: ATV's & UTV's are all over SMA and you can take a tour of either the town or it's scenic surroundings.
Classes
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Instituto Allende – Art classes for adults and kids. Everything from watercolor to sculpture in a stunning historic building. Both Matt's parents as well as our kids say this is one of their favorite things to do in SMA!
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Liceo de la Lengua – Spanish immersion classes for all ages. Great for beginners or those wanting to brush up. Our kids love how they implement crafts and field trips into the learning. Tip- Parents can extend the class from 1pm to 3pm!
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El Sindicato – An SMA cultural hub offering fun dance classes for kids and adults—from traditional Tango to modern styles.
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Hiru ArteStudio – Creative workshops in everything from painting to collage. Very casual, very cool.
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Chef-led Cooking Classes – Local chefs offer small-group classes where you’ll cook and eat together. Some even include market tours! Chef Gaby is a great one!
Volunteer
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Patronato Pro Niños – Provides medical and dental care for children in rural communities. They offer tours and ways to volunteer.
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SPA San Miguel – Volunteer to spend time with stray cat's and dogs! Walk a dog Monday-Saturday's 11-2 or socialize with a cat 11:30-2.
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Ojala Niños – Creative education for children in nearby villages. You can donate supplies, time, or talent.
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Amigos de Animales – Animal rescue and care. Help with adoption events or foster.
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Feed the Hungry SMA – Supports school lunch programs and food security. Great organization if you want to volunteer short- or long-term.
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Centro Infantil de Los Angeles – A local non profit pre school offering a safe place for kids while their parents work. Volunteer for the day or for an entire year!
Day Trips
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Dolores Hidalgo – Cute and colorful town known for Talavera, interesting ice cream flavors, Guacamaya sandwiches and a lot of history.
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Atotonilco – Known as Mexico’s Sistine Chapel. Quick drive and gorgeous architecture.
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Cañada de la Virgen – Pyramid site with guided hikes. Quiet, spiritual, and super photogenic.
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Visit a Hot Spring! – Make a full day of it and hit La Gruta, Escondido, Mayan Baths, La Playa at Los Senderos, or head 4 hours out of town to the amazing springs of Tolantango!
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Guanajuato City – A little farther out, doable in a day but you'll want to spend a couple days here! Winding alleys, underground tunnels, historic theaters, funicular to amazing views and a super lively vibe.