Monterrey has a very different vibe than the other Mexican cities we’ve visited. Located just outside the Texas border, the city of Monterrey is incredibly developed and is considered by residents to be Mexico’s “most American city.” Parts of it even reminded us of Canada! The city skyline is stunning, and the mountains on all sides only add to Monterrey’s beauty. During our four days in the city, we were able to do a lot of exploring and eating in addition to working, and now, we’re excited to share our favorite destinations with you!
What To Do In Monterrey
Climb the Via Ferrata Ruta Vertigo with GEO Aventura in Parque La Huasteca
The Via Ferrata was one of our travel highlights of 2019. It’s essentially assisted rock climbing with harnesses, hand holds, bridges, and amazing views. Our tour started with a 30-minute hike, which ended at the foot of a sheer cliff. We then strapped into our harnesses and began a challenging—but hugely rewarding—climb. We traveled straight up the cliff for a couple of hours, stopping to admire the views and to take pictures on various ledges in the rock. About an hour and a half into the tour, we hit three hanging ladders, totally vertical and only a few feet away from the face of the cliff. Climbing the ladders was definitely the scariest part of the day, but the view at the top was absolutely stunning. The price is super reasonable, so if you don’t mind heights and are in good physical health, this is an awesome way to spend some of your time in Monterrey. Plus, you get to zipline part of the way back down the mountain!
Watch the Sunset from the Jardines de Cerro (Priest Pointview)
The Jardines de Cerro is very accessible and is visible for miles around due to the giant Mexican flag that stands here. You can Uber to a certain point and then walk to the top of the pointview. We decided to go at dusk so we could watch the sunset over the city, which was beautiful. We were even able to see the Via Ferrata Ruta Vertigo from a different angle!
Walk Fundidora Park and Explore Museo del Acero Horno 3
Fundidora or “Foundry” Park was built on the grounds of an old steel foundry. It’s home to an industrial history museum called Museo del Acero Horno 3, which is situated in an abandoned blast furnace. You can ride one of the old elevators (which might be scarier than the Via Ferrata!?) and learn about the history and process of steelmaking during a presentation at the museum. The park itself is beautiful, too, with plenty to explore by bicycle, if you’re interested.
Walk the Paseo Santa Lucia
This is a relaxing river walk, which connects to Fundidora Park. It’s very accessible, and the air is cooler next to the river, which is nice. We enjoyed this walk so much that we did it three times during our trip to Monterrey!
Walk the Macroplaza
In the “older” city center, you’ll find the Macroplaza. At one end is the Museum of Contemporary Art, and at the other end is the Museum of Mexican History. The history museum is connected to the river walk and Fundidora Park, so there’s a lot to explore in this area alone. (There’s plenty to eat and drink, too!)
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
This was one of our most memorable experiences in Monterrey. On the outside of the Museum of Contemporary Art is a sculpture of a fat bird, which reminded us of Angry Birds, so we decided to check out the inside. It ended up being one of our favorite museums of all time! It’s a unique combination of technology and art exhibits, many of them interactive. We definitely recommend a visit.
Where to EAT
Tacos Orinoco
Tacos Orinoco is well known for their trompo, or pork tacos, and for good reason. There aren’t a ton of meal options here, but that’s okay; everything we tried was delicious. Their various salsas are great, as are their roasted potatoes. If you’re gluten free like Amanda, be sure to request a corn tortilla instead of a flour one!
Ojo de Agua
This is one of our favorite restaurants in Mexico City, so we were thrilled to find one in Monterrey. They make the best chilaquiles. If you’re traveling in any major Mexican city, be on the lookout for Ojo de Agua.
Antilope Café
We found some really good coffees and matcha teas at Antilope Café, as well as a great atmosphere for getting some work done. They also have an excellent breakfast menu that includes gluten free options. It’s located in San Pedro Garza García, the neighborhood where we lived while in Monterrey. It’s a great neighborhood to walk around and explore!
Opa
Opa is a Greek restaurant near Tacos Orinoco. You’re able to create your own food platter, which is super fun and convenient. Their homemade dips and spreads are delicious, and there are a ton of healthy meal options.
J Poke Point
This is an amazing Hawaiian restaurant, located near Ojo de Agua. Their poke bowls are some of the best we’ve had, and the service is great, too!
Want to visit one of these places? Find it on a map!
We hope you enjoy and make lasting memories in Monterrey! If you’re interested in exploring more of Mexico, be sure to check out The World Wanderers Guide to Ajijic and 10 Awesome Things to do in Mexico City!
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