Acapulco - Excursions

The Costera Miguel Alemán 

As a starting point, the Avenida Miguel Alemán, Acapulco's seven-mile long coastline thoroughfare that is also known simply as the Costera, is the perfect landmark. This palm-lined strip is home to most of Acapulco's hotels, condos, restaurants, bars, shopping and nightlife. It is also the heart of the reason Acapulco earned its reputation as Mexico's original party town with non-stop action 24 hours a day. The boulevard and surrounding area are a shopping Mecca for everything from souvenirs to fine gallery art to fashionable clothing. Needless to say, this area is a people-watching paradise! Behind the Costera, Acapulco slopes upwards into the rugged hills that surround the bay. 

Guerrero Cultural Cent 

For a glimpse into the area's culture, check out the Guerrero Cultural Center, which houses a small archaeological museum as well as an art gallery with changing displays. It is located on the Costera, next to the Oceanic 2000 building. The Acapulco Cultural and Convention Center The Acapulco Cultural and Convention Center is a state-of-the-art meetings and convention center that hosts major events, exhibitions, concerts, seminars, fairs and expositions. The "Fiesta Mexicana Show" of traditional music, dance, colorful costumes and food is performed here three times a week. 

Downtown and Old Acapulco 

Follow the Costera west to Old Acapulco, the traditional Mexican heart of the city. Here, this resort community is transformed into a colorful tropical harbor, featuring a bustling seaside promenade lined with sidewalk cafés. El Zócalo The main square, or el Zócalo, is opposite the city's crowded fishing harbor. Lined with stately trees, it provides shade and a relaxing atmosphere. It is a colorful place where children play, local women gather and men meet at outdoor cafes for a spirited game of dominos. Cathedral Facing the Zócalo is the Nuestra Señora dela Soledad Cathedral, built in 1959. Its stark white exterior and two Byzantine spires, in blue and yellow, give it more the look of a Russian Orthodox Church or a mosque than a Mexican church. 

San Diego Fort / Museum 

The narrow and lively streets leading off the main square will point you uphill to the Fuerte de San Diego (San Diego Fort), The fort is a classic five-point fortress surrounded by a now dry moat. It was rebuilt following a massive earthquake in 1776, but abandoned shortly thereafter. 
The fort now houses the Acapulco Historical Museum, with an interesting collection of objects dating back to the founding of Acapulco in the 16th century. Many of its displays illustrate the city's long history of trade with the Far East. In addition to its displays, it is also interesting to visit the chapel and kitchen, which have been restored to their original state. Be sure to enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the bay and mountains. 

Municipal Market 

Nothing matches the Municipal Market to give you a healthy taste of the sights, sounds and smells of old Mexico. A labyrinth of stalls offer all the staple meat and vegetables, plus hand-carved wooden crafts, baskets, flowers, leather sandals and even magic potions! Arrive early in the morning, any day of the week, because many stalls close by 1p.m.

Beyond Acapulco: Just a few minutes outside of the Acapulco Bay area, there are sights of fabulous beauty and tranquility. The beaches and lagoons, inhabited by exotic wildlife and rich in spectacular scenery, are unmatched.

Coyuca Lagoon is one of Acapulco's most charming and beautiful natural attractions, noted for tropical vegetation, tiny islands and exotic wildlife. Boat excursions are a great way to spot the great variety of bird life that makes its home here. Several scenes from well-known movies have been filmed here, including Rambo II, early Tarzan films and scenes from the Humphrey Bogart classic, African Queen. Several small hotels and restaurants complete this pleasing picture. 

Acapulco is not only the center of action, but also gateway to the Triangle of the Sun. Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and Taxco form the other corners of a fascinating region rich in culture, long in history and bursting with tremendous natural beauty. 

Taxco

One of the many beautiful trips available in the State of Guerrero is a trip to the pleasant colonial town of Taxco. This picturesque former silver mining town, founded in 1529, has been declared a national historic monument and is considered one of the prettiest towns in Mexico. Perched delicately on a hillside among beautiful mountain scenery, it truly is one of the most enticing places in all of Mexico. It will delight you with its colonial-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and strong old-world ambiance.