Free in PV:A guide to No-Cost Activities in the City
Wed. 16th/Aug/2017.
A visit to Puerto Vallarta is a fantasy for curious travelers around the world, but that doesn't mean it has to be expensive Yes, the city is home to a range of upscale amenities, the rich culture of the area means both residents and guests can enjoy inexpensive and enjoyable activities as well. There are even an array of free activities that savvy visitors can take advantage of to bolster their experience during their time in Mexico without breaking the bank.
Basilio Badillo Street
Calle Basilio Badillo is a lively strip in the northern end of Old Town boasting one of the most dynamic atmospheres in the city. The five-block stretch that runs inland from the Pacific Ocean is populated almost entirely by small boutiques, art galleries and other establishments that make the street an excellent choice for an afternoon of sightseeing. Perhaps the peak of the parkway's appeal is during the seasonal South Side Shuffle events, biweekly events held every other Friday during the high season that bring the entire community together for a delightful street fair celebrating the rich and diverse culture of the Puerto Vallarta area.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Religious as well as secular visitors are sure to find plenty of interest in Our Lady of Guadelupe Parish. The iconic church that stands proudly just a block off the main town square in downtown Puerto Vallarta is more than just a place of worship, but a local cultural touchstone. One of the reasons it has remained so beloved in the minds of area locals is its instantly identifiable architecture, which includes a stylized crown placed atop the church by four massive bronze angels.
Along with the series of scheduled daily mass rituals that are conducted throughout the day in both Spanish as well as limited English presentations, the church also hosts an extensive collection of artistic religious work. The most visible masterpieces in this beautiful basilica are the paintings by artist Daniel Lechon as well as the communion railings carefully carved from precious wood and the antique marble altar.
Our Lady of Guadelupe Parish is open to the public, and so visitors can simply stop in and take in the experience at any time. A highlight of every year involving this local institution is the Guadelupe Processions, a time-honored religious celebration where the faithful make pilgrimages to the church from around the city in the form of parades backed by fireworks, church bells, and general revelry.
The Malecon Boardwalk
This recently renovated seaside promenade was once open to motor traffic, but was reconstructed in 2012 to become a path accessible to pedestrians as well as human powered vehicles, making it a prime destination for sightseeing. Street performers, live shows and other temporary exhibitions are common on this popular walkway, particularly at the Los Arcos Amphitheater approximately halfway down the boardwalk, which features local cultural shows.
The Malecon features a wide selection of shops, bars and restaurants if you feel like spending a few pesos, but a stroll along the sunny Pacific coast is an excellent value for the price and the sunsets are consistently spectacular. Another prominent feature of the Malecon includes its collection of sculptures, which are detailed as part of an equally free walking tour that is conducted every Tuesday morning. This tour, conducted by a local art history expert, can provide a uniquely compelling insight into the artistic DNA of Puerto Vallarta.
Los Muertos Pier and Beach
At the end of the Malecon beckons the Los Muertos Pier and Beach, one of the most frequently visited areas of the city.
This recently constructed addition to the Pacific Ocean promenade shows off a walkway measuring over 150 feet in length as well as the crowning feature of the pier, a roundabout observation deck jutting out into the water and marked to visitors in the distance by its large sail-like installation, which coruscates with multicolored lights in a magnificent display. This pier is also an outstanding vantage point for enjoying the nightly fireworks show provided by a local pirate ship tour.
Los Muertos Beach itself is one of the most celebrated shores in Mexico, boasting ample width for lounging sunbathers as well as panoramic views of the Banderas Bay. This makes it an excellent spot for photo opportunities as well as gaining a healthy, sun-kissed glow. It stands as one of the can't miss destinations in the city as well as one of the least expensive, although a taking along few pesos to buy a delicious, fresh caught fish filet from a passing vendor isn't a bad idea!
The Cuale River Island
The Rio Cuale Island proper is also an inviting point of interest, exploding with local artisans making their authentic handmade crafts available to passing visitors at their stands on the sides of the walkway. The island is also home to the Rio Cuale Cultural Center, which features a regular rotation of events and classes intended to expose visitors to Mexican culture as well as an array of special one-time presentations. The island hosts a plaza honoring film director John Huston, who film buffs will recognize as the director of Night of the Iguana, a movie that gave tremendous exposure to the area and was transformative to its future.
Gringo Gulch
The Rio Cuale Island proper is also an inviting point of interest, exploding with local artisans making their authentic handmade crafts available to passing visitors at their stands on the sides of the walkway. The island is also home to the Rio Cuale Cultural Center, which features a regular rotation of events and classes intended to expose visitors to Mexican culture as well as an array of special one-time presentations. The island hosts a plaza honoring film director John Huston, who film buffs will recognize as the director of Night of the Iguana, a movie that gave tremendous exposure to the area and was transformative to its future.
Matamoros Lighthouse
Fans of incredible views will definitely want to visit the Matamoros Lighthouse, located just outside the nexus of the city. Constructed in 1932 by Harbor Master Roberto Alcazar, this reliable beacon served ships sailing to the city until 1978 when it was officially decommissioned. Today, it stands as a historical attraction for visitors, restored with added observation space and stair access. The Matamoros Lighthouse invites its guests to enjoy unforgettable vistas spanning downtown Puerto Vallarta as well as the larger Banderas Bay, and is a great place to spend an hour or two taking photos.
Puerto Vallarta's Main Plaza
Just outside the main municipal building less than a block from the Banderas Bay sits the main town square of Puerto Vallarta. A range of cultural activities unfold in this public plaza, including street festivals offering visitors a smorgasbord of flavors and sights as well as important historic observations such as the unified Cry for Freedom that marks celebration of Mexico's Independence Day. The square also often serves as a community dance floor on Sunday evenings, with locals gathering from around the area to enjoy traditional music and good company.
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