The attractions of Zacatecas are as varied as the different facets of tremendous beauty of the city. Spreading across the majestic slopes of El Grillo and La Bufa Mountains, this city offers attractions that can satisfy even the most difficult to impress. Due to its extensive cultural background, Zacatecas is the home to many museums with incredible historic value. Its natural environment is ideal for people who love to take scenic strolls, allowing for the chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. Archeological sites and science-related themes can never be left out of any traveler's itinerary, nor from the "to do" list of fortunate visitors to this destination.
La Catedral
This impressive and beautiful building is, without a doubt, the masterpiece of an exuberant baroque style, built in the first half of the 18th century. Upon looking at this majestic Cathedral, it is impossible not to be attracted by its exquisite architectonic details, as well as its facade, made in pink quarry stone representing a huge stone altarpiece that shows the history of Christianity. The temple also features two spindly towers that exhibit the same decor.
The Funicular Railway
If you are looking for adventure in the heights, admire a spectacular view from 278 feet above the city in the "Teleferico" (gondola). The Funicular Railway is an aerial cable railway located steps from El Eden Mine in El Grillo Mountain, offering a fabulous ride of approximate 7 minutes, over 1235 yards to La Bufa Mountain.
El Eden Mine
This place is an excellent way to discover the interiors of a mine. It was opened to visitors in 1975, after a thorough and intense adaptation, and became one of the main attractions in beautiful Zacatecas. Get drawn into this interesting trip on a small train, along with 1140 yards of hanging bridges, tunnels and old legends. And if that isn't enough, enjoy the El Malacate Discotheque, located inside the mine.
"Zig Zag" Science Interactive Center
Open since 2005, this place has turned into one of the most visited attractions in town for children, young people, as well as for the not so young. Distributed within its 4750 square yards, this interactive center of science features more than 60 exhibitions displaying natural and scientific themes, such as energy, matter, movement, waves, fluid, electricity, magnetism, electronics and mathematics, all in individual rooms.
Pedro Coronel Museum
This building was originally home to a 17th century college of a Jesuit religious order and has now been restored to its original splendor. Nowadays, the museum is the home to an extensive collection of objects, donated by the artist Pedro Coronel. On the ground floor, there is a library with more than twenty thousand books, some editions dating back to the 16th century. On the top level, admire the objects amassed by the artist during several of his trips.
Rafael Coronel Museum
Located where there was once a Franciscan monastery, discover this magnificent museum, which is something like a time capsule of art. Rafael Coronel donated more than five thousand masks to the collection, among other objects that proudly represent popular Mexican art. Some of the masks were made in the 18th and 19th centuries and are displayed within the museum according to their expression and original use.
La Quemada Archeological Site
This is an archeological site located 31 miles from Zacatecas. It features several constructions made of stone slab and mud, which were built on artificial terraces at the base of a mountain and supposedly date back to 800 A.D. There is an additional museum within the area, giving more detailed information about the site.