Things To Do
in Mexicali
Mexicali is a sprawling border city in Baja California, Mexico, situated across from Calexico, California. It is a commercial hub known for its desert climate, strong manufacturing sector, and growing culinary scene shaped by Mexican, Chinese, and migrant communities. The city blends urban energy with a gateway feel to the Baja region and the Colorado River delta to the north.
Visitors can expect a lively border-town atmosphere, modern amenities, and opportunities for day trips into rugged desert landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes in downtown Mexicali, savoring traditional dishes like chilaquiles or machaca. After breakfast, stroll through the streets of the Historic Center, marveling at the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the city's story. Stop by the Plaza de los Tres Poderes, where you can take in the beautiful surroundings and appreciate the local culture.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo Sol del Niño, which offers an interactive experience for both children and adults to learn about science and technology. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a popular taco stand, where you can indulge in authentic tacos de carne asada. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the nearby Mercado Municipal, a bustling market filled with local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to the Plaza Cívica, where you can enjoy live music and local performances. Dine at a traditional Mexican restaurant, experiencing the local flavors with dishes like birria or enchiladas. Finish your evening with a stroll through the park, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Mexicali at night.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of cultural exploration. Visit the Museo de la Ciudad, where you can learn about Mexicali's rich history and heritage through exhibits and artifacts. Engage with local historians or guides to gain deeper insights into the city's past.
After lunch at a nearby cafe, make your way to the Centro Estatal de las Artes, an arts center showcasing contemporary art, galleries, and workshops. Take part in a creative workshop or simply enjoy the art exhibits on display. Spend some time relaxing in the gardens, appreciating the blend of art and nature.
For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant, renowned for its fresh ceviche and shrimp dishes. After your meal, head to a local bar or cantina for live music, where you can dance the night away to traditional Mexican rhythms. Experience the warmth of Mexicali's nightlife and mingle with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚶One-way public transport ticket | $0.50-1 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant border-city energy and modern amenities
- Rich fusion cuisine with Chinese-Mexican influences
- Close access to desert landscapes and day trips
- Very hot summers and dry conditions
- Some areas can be crowded or industrial
- Cross-border travel requires documentation and planning
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers / Bless you
Places to Visit in Mexicali
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic district with colorful signage, old brick chimneys, and vibrant street photography opportunities reflecting the Chinese-Mexican heritage.
A local cathedral with Gothic-inspired details and soft morning light ideal for architectural photography.
Scenic edges along the river where the water and sky create reflective compositions, especially at sunset.
Bustling streets, storefronts, and everyday life offer candid shots and urban textures.
Food in Mexicali
Mexicali Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, slow-simmered beef stew served with tortillas, onions, cilantro, and lime; popular at markets and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
A Baja California classic featuring enchiladas topped with a tangy sauce, cheese, and local toppings.
Shredded dried beef scrambled with eggs, onions, peppers, and tortillas in a hearty breakfast dish.
Grilled beef marinated with citrus and spices, often served with onions, peppers, and fresh salsa.
Crispy tortillas topped with citrusy ceviche, avocado, and chilies, a nod to Baja seafood traditions adapted to inland markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, salsas, dried goods, street snacks, and daily essentials.
Numerous stalls line the streets offering tacos, tortas, aguas frescas, and quick bites best sampled al fresco.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hola or buenos días goes a long way; handshake is common in formal settings.
Many shops close briefly for a midafternoon break in some areas; plan around local business hours.
Crossing borders is common for work and travel; be patient at customs and have necessary documents ready.
Direct questions about personal income or age are generally avoided; small talk is appreciated.
Ask permission when photographing people or private spaces, especially in neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Mexicali
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if service is not included. Pinching at casual spots is common; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, with many places also taking credit/debit cards. Some markets and smaller vendors may prefer cash; ATMs are common in central areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry with high temperatures; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Lighter heat, comfortable days, and cooler evenings; a good window for walking tours and outdoor exploration.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler nights; layers are useful and many outdoor spaces remain pleasant during the day.
Warm days with occasional breezes; ideal for markets, street photography, and patio dining.
Mexicali at Night
Hiking in Mexicali
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged desert trails with volcanic rock formations and expansive desert vistas, best with proper footwear and water.
Canyon and ridge hikes offering dramatic viewpoints and desert plant life; moderate to challenging depending on route and season.
Airports
How to reach Mexicali by plane.
The main international gateway to the city, serving domestic and some international flights; connected by taxi and shuttle services to downtown Mexicali.
U.S. airport near the border; convenient for cross-border travel and connections to other U.S. destinations, with ground transport to Mexicali via border crossing.
Major international hub about a couple of hours drive away; useful for international connections and longer trips via land crossing into Baja California.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group with diverse cultural influences throughout the city.
A historic and visible community in the La Chinesca area and across local eateries.
A significant portion of residents commute to and from the United States for work, education, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in the region with local teams and frequent community games.
Widely followed at amateur and professional levels across the city.
Regional events and gyms offer boxing training and events in the border area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mexicali.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for fresca salads, bean-based dishes, cheese-focused options, and vegetable-forward plates; ask for grilling separate from meat or for oil-free preparations when needed.