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Decades of first hand Mexico tourism information from me, "Mexico" Mike Nelson.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit

NORTHERN MEXICO: 20 PLACES TO VISIT

There are a number of great reasons to cross the border into Mexico.  Its breathtaking beaches, enchanting scenic landscapes, and attraction-filled cities are just a few that come to mind.  Driving into Northern Mexico is as simple as preparing the car for adventure, procuring mexinsurance, and grabbing your passport.  With thrilling cultural and natural attractions, Northern Mexico is the perfect setting for a driving excursion, vacation, or weekend getaway.

Rosarito Beach

Within an hour from the border, Rosarito Beach attracts people to its fun-filled beaches for swimming, surfing, eating and simply soaking up the Mexican sunshine.  Be sure to check out the iconic Rosarito Beach Hotel too!

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Jesus Rosarito

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – El Vizcaino Whale Sanctuary

The beaches of Northern Mexico are famous for their migrating whales.  People come from all over the world to witness the majesty of whales like humpback and gray whales.  Click here to see the related article on the Whale Migration in Baja California.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
El Vizcaino Whale Sanctuary Baja California Sur

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – Rocky Point

Known in Mexico as Puerto Penasco and “Arizona’s Beach,” Rocky Point is filled with excitement.  Sportfishing, beachcombing, golf, and resort fun make this the ideal Mexican holiday getaway.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Sandy Beach Rocky Point

Copper Canyon

Located in the state of Chihuahua, this canyon system is the perfect place to go ziplining.   Visitors also enjoy hiking, camping, and horseback riding through the incredible scenery.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Copper Canyon Train – Chepe

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – Monterrey

The capital city of Nuevo LeonMonterrey is filled with attractions like the famed Santa Lucia Riverwalk, sporting events, live music venues, and its renowned cuisine.

Monterrey Nuevo Leon
Monterrey Nuevo Leon

El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve

This natural attraction is regarded as one of the country’s most enchanting places.  From its majestic sand dunes to its ancient volcanic craters, this region has an other-worldly charm that attracts many nature enthusiasts and explorers.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – Valle Guadalupe

This wine region and its wineries are well-worth visiting for anyone who loves wine.  This region produces what many consider to be the best in Mexico and some of the most renowned in the world.  Click here to see the page on Valle de Guadalupe and enjoy our free maps of this hidden gem outside of Ensenada.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
El Cielo – Valle de Guadalupe

Ensenada

Known as the Princess of the Pacific, this port city is a celebrated cruise-ship stop.  Famous for its hotels and luxury resorts, Ensenada is filled with entertainment and authentic Mexican charm.  Click here for the Ensenada page.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit

Cumbres de Monterrey National Park

Located near the city of Monterrey, this national park opens onto the Northern Occidental Mountains.  Its canyons, rivers, and waterfalls make for a grand outdoor adventure.

Biosphere Natural Reserve of El Vizcaíno

As the largest wildlife reserve in Latin America, this is a must-see site of Baja California Sur and fun to visit for children and adults alike.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – Tijuana

If you’re looking to experience a night in the Mexican town style, make the easy trek to Tijuana for its memorable nightlife filled with clubs and restaurants.

Tijuana Skyline at Night
Tijuana Skyline at Night

Puerto Nuevo

If you love Mexican food, drive to coastal Puerto Nuevo to experience this village’s world-famous pan-seared lobster.  Enjoy a meal from a seaside terrace overlooking the gorgeous Pacific.  This attraction is only about an hour from the border, it’s the perfect afternoon getaway!

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Puerto Nuevo

Tampico

This exciting Gulf of Mexico city is celebrated for its bullfights and Spanish Colonial architecture.  Be sure to visit its vibrant downtown area.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Tampico Tamaulipas Center

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit – El Cielo

This biosphere reserve located in northeastern Mexico is famous for its flora, fauna, and cloud forests.  Hiking the trails leads visitors to splendid waterfalls and beautiful vistas.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit

La Paz

Beautiful La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur.  Its stunning setting is complemented by attractions like museums, restaurants, clubs, and extraordinary hotels.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
The Arbor in La Paz, Baja California Sur

Todos Santos Islands

Located off the coast of Ensenada, these islands are internationally renowned for their top-notch surfing.

TODOS SANTOS ISLANDS

Museo de las Californias

This famous museum celebrates the natural wonders and cultural contributions of past peoples to this majestic landscape.  Since it’s located in Tijuana, it’s an easy distance from the border.

Rock Paintings of Sierra de San Francisco

The mountains of northern Baja California are famous for their cave paintings.  If you travel through the interior, be sure to check out these world-famous historical attractions.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit
Rock Paintings Baja California – Mulege

Mexicali

This border city is also the capital of the Mexican state of Baja California.  Its cathedral, markets, and restaurants are just a few reasons people drive here to visit.

Northern Mexico: 20 Places to Visit

Tecate

This mountain city near the border is known for its celebrated spas, ranches, and brewery.  It’s a breathtaking city that abounds with attractive natural scenery.

TECATE

These are just some of the best-known attractions of Northern Mexico.  There are many more that entice people to visit from all over the world.  Plan your driving excursion soon and be sure to include some of these attractions on your itinerary.

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