Hermosillo Unveiled: A Guide to Mexico’s Sonoran Gem
Hermosillo is the capital of the state of Sonora. It is the most populated city in the state and is also near the border with the United States.
It’s an important commercial city due to its location. Also, there are natural landscapes where you can appreciate extensive flora and fauna.
On the other hand, it has beautiful cathedrals, avenues, and streets impregnated with the culture and history of the city.
A destination that combines history, entertainment, sports, and the best adventures in deserts, forests, and nearby beaches.
Where is Hermosillo Mexico?
Hermosillo is about a 3-hour drive from the U.S. border (Nogales-Arizona), and a 1.5-hour drive to Bahia de Kino, the nearest beach.
There are several ways to get to Hermosillo, including:
By Plane: The city airport has daily flights from major cities in Mexico
By Bus: Several bus companies offer regular services to Hermosillo from other cities in Mexico. This can be a more affordable option and also allows you to see the scenic landscapes along the way
By Car: If you have a vehicle or consider renting one, you can drive to Hermosillo. The city is connected by highways to other parts of Mexico, and the drive can take several hours depending on your starting point
18 Best things to do in Hermosillo Mexico
1. Visit the Zaragoza Plaza in Hermosillo Mexico
Plaza Zaragoza is located in the center of the city, in front of the cathedral. It is a perfect place to relax and stroll surrounded by trees and enjoy its Moorish-style kiosk from Florence.
This is where most celebrations and parties, both local and national, take place. During the weekend afternoons, there are usually cultural and artistic events.
The plaza and its kiosk offer views of the cathedral, the government palace, and the municipal building.
2. La Asunción Cathedral
The “Catedral de La Asunción” was built in 1877 and is located in the Plaza de Zaragoza. It is the icon of the city and one of the most visited places in Hermosillo.
In its interior the altar stands out, it also has a neoclassical style decoration.
It is dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption and is about 30 meters high. Its façade has an eclectic style combined with certain neoclassical and baroque elements.
3. Plaza de los Tres Pueblos
The Plaza de Los Tres Pueblos was erected in commemoration of the towns of Batúc, Suaqui, and Tepupa after they were flooded by the construction of the Plutarco Elías Calles dam.
It has an original pink quarry façade built in 1758 and was moved from Villa Seris to Hermosillo in 1964 for the tribute of the 3 towns.
The inhabitants of these towns usually gather in this plaza to pay homage to their deceased and organize festivities and typical dances of the nearby towns.
4. Hermosillo Bicentennial Plaza
Hermosillo’s Bicentennial Plaza was inaugurated in 2010 and pays homage to the centennial of the Mexican Revolution and 200 years of Independence.
It is a recreation point and a place where cultural events are often held. In the square, art and culture are promoted; there are usually local artists presenting their work.
In its surroundings is Plaza Zaragoza, the Cathedral Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, and the Municipal Palace.
5. Art Museum of Sonora (MUSAS)
The Museum of Art of Sonora has an extension of 5000m², aiming to promote art and culture.
It holds exhibitions, conferences, concerts, festivals, projects, and programs related to art and culture. It is related to other public and private institutions to promote artistic exchange.
6. Museum of Popular and Indigenous Cultures
This museum was built in 1904 and was the former home of Dr. Alberto Hoeffer. It has 2 exhibition halls and several temporary murals for the exhibition of diverse themes that reflect the cultural diversity of Mexico and the world.
It immerses the public in the history of each ethnic group through the memories and traditions that characterize them.
7. Cerro de la Campana (Bell Hill)
The Cerro de la Campana is one of the city’s symbols, and its name is due to its shape.
It is located 1 km from the historic center and has a beautiful panoramic view of the entire city, where you can enjoy spectacular sunsets.
At the top, there is parking for those who want to go up by car, although it is recommended to do it on foot to enjoy the walk. There is also a cafeteria to relax and have a drink.
8. Regional Museum of Hermosillo Sonora
There are many interesting museums in Hermosillo Mexico, and this one was inaugurated in 1985, in the old building that belonged to the Sonora Penitentiary.
The goal of this particular museum is the educational and cultural formation and to preserve the historical memory of the Sonoran people.
It has recreation areas for temporary exhibits, courses, and workshops for both public and private institutions. The museum also has guided tours.
9. Madero Park in Hermosillo
Madero Park is located downtown and is the “lung” of the city. It comprises many trees and a lawn ideal for those who want to picnic or sit and spend a pleasant moment.
The park has children’s areas, a skate park, and several benches to rest under the shade of trees. Families usually frequent it with children, runners, and folks walking their pets.
10. Sonora Ecological Center
The Ecological Center of Sonora was opened in 1985, and its purpose is to promote knowledge, culture, and ecological values.
Its space covers a 2.5 km semi-desert trail, with different animal species native to the state of Sonora. It also represents the diverse ecosystems in the state, such as mountains, deserts, and prairies.
It is an important exhibition and breeding center. An example of this is the Mexican gray wolf and jaguar species. They represent prosperity in both fauna and flora.
11. Bachoco Hill
The “Cerro del Bachoco” is located north of the city, almost on the outskirts. It is frequented by sportsmen, hikers, and cyclists, mainly in the evenings and on weekends.
The top of the hill is 600m and is a challenge for those who want to climb it and enjoy views worthy of a movie.
12. La Sauceda Ecological and Recreational Park
This park is a natural recreational space with more than 40 hectares. The park has many facilities focused on the amusement of children and grown-ups alike.
It has pools with slides, mini-golf areas, go-karts, electronic games, and the Children’s Museum “La Búbuja,” where children can experiment and have fun through their senses.
13. La Burbuja, Children’s Museum
An open-air space, this museum is located inside La Sauceda Ecological and Recreational Park. The place has 6 themed rooms plus 1 for little kids with more than 100 interactive exhibits.
The most outstanding are those that teach children through games about road culture, the food process, and coexistence with nature.
There is also a room that focuses on raising awareness of preserving and not wasting water.
14. UNISON Museum and Library
The UNISON Museum and Library was inaugurated in 1948 and is known as one of the most beautiful and important buildings in the Sonora region.
In the beginning, it was only planned to be a museum, which opened its doors to the public in 1957. Today it has a modern library, auditoriums, and other areas that promote cultural education.
It regularly offers guided tours to visitors of all education levels, from preschool to university, foreign visitors, and people from all over Mexico.
15. House of Goblins
La Casa de Los Duendes is home to a varied collection of elf figures of different sizes and appearances.
Its owner Don Gabino Medina created it with the purpose of making known the true meaning of these fantastic creatures.
He considers them to be kind beings that come from nature and that under good care help to attract prosperity.
The house has a backyard where there is a mural representing these magical characters.
On the other hand, the museum offers the possibility of buying one in its store where they explain the function or “power” of each one to then make the purchase choice.
16. Hidalgo Artisans Society Cultural Center
The Centro Cultural Sociedad Artesanos Hidalgo is located in downtown Hermosillo Mexico, between Garmendia and Monterrey Avenue.
The venue was built in 1896, restored in 2005, and completed in 2007. This space is used for art exhibitions, concerts, theater presentations, and rehearsals.
There is no cost to visit, and it is also a public library of the Hermosillo City Hall.
17. Hermosillo Children’s Park
The Hermosillo Children’s Park is located in the city’s center and belongs to the System for the Integral Development of the Family (DIF Sonora).
This park was built to promote family union and recreation.
It offers a variety of spaces and services for the enjoyment of children and youth for optimal development.
It can be enjoyed from Wednesday to Sunday until 8:00 pm.
18. Hermosillo Mexico: Try the Food!
As with most other places, gastronomy is part of the charm of Hermosillo, with typical dishes made with tasty beef cuts or a variety of fish and seafood from the Sea of Cortez.
The typical food of Hermosillo has options that stand out, among them the machaca, a good parrillada, the tamal de elote, the gallina pinta, a caldo largo sonorense or a caguamanta, the chivichangas, the burritos percherones or a delicious cheese broth.
The state of Sonora is home to the best cattle ranches in Mexico, producing prime beef products.
To sweeten your day, try some delicious “coyotas” either with cajeta, jam or nuts, you will love them.
Also, while visiting Sonora, try its typical drink, bacanora, a distillate of wild agave (the local’s moonshine), try it, it is part of the local tradition.
Hermosillo Travel Guide: Conclusion
Hermosillo stands as a vibrant and multifaceted gem in Mexico’s Sonoran landscape.
From its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights to its breathtaking natural wonders and modern urban amenities, this city has something to offer every traveler.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, indulging in local delicacies, or immersing yourself in the city’s history and art scene, Hermosillo promises an unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to uncover the hidden treasures of this enchanting destination.
Hermosillo Mexico awaits, ready to captivate and charm all who venture within its embrace.
