Things To Do
in Calexico
Calexico is a diverse city located in Southern California right along the Mexico-United States border. Known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community, Calexico offers a blend of American and Mexican influences. The city's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, with a focus on produce such as lettuce, broccoli, and carrots.
Calexico is also a popular destination for shopping and dining due to its close proximity to the Mexican city of Mexicali.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local cafe, enjoying chilaquiles or tacos. After breakfast, visit the Calexico Museum to learn about the local history.
Have lunch at a popular taco stand known for its carne asada. Spend your afternoon shopping at local boutiques and crafting souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a Mexican restaurant and savor traditional dishes. End your evening with a stroll along the border to appreciate the lights.
Visit the historic downtown area and capture photos of the unique architecture. Grab a local pastry for breakfast at a nearby bakery.
Explore the nearby Imperial Valley Expo & Fairgrounds for events or exhibitions. Have lunch at a food truck offering local eats.
Dine at a fusion restaurant that combines Mexican and American cuisine. Consider visiting a local bar for evening live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calexico has a warm climate, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy sunny weather.
- Proximity to the Mexico border allows for easy access to cross-border activities and cultural experiences.
- The cost of living is generally lower than in many other parts of California, making it more affordable.
- The community is close-knit with a diverse population, providing a rich cultural experience.
- There are opportunities for outdoor activities, including proximity to the Colorado River and desert landscapes.
- The economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities in California.
- Extremely hot summers can be uncomfortable and may deter some residents.
- Access to certain amenities and services may be less than in urban areas.
- Border issues can lead to congestion and delays during peak crossing times.
- Limited public transportation options may make it challenging for those without a vehicle.
Best Activities in Calexico
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy rock climbing and bouldering at the scenic Mt. Signal, offering stunning views and challenging routes for climbers of all levels.
Take a leisurely hike around the Gran Plaza Outlets, a popular outdoor shopping center with beautifully landscaped surroundings and walking paths.
Explore the diverse bird species and wildlife at Vicente Fernandez Jr. Park, a tranquil natural area ideal for bird watching and nature photography.
Tours
Uncover the best of Calexico with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Calexico
Visit one of these nice places.
Shopping center with a scenic view of the border and surrounding areas, perfect for photos.
Campground with panoramic views of the desert and mountains, ideal for capturing sunrise and sunset photographs.
Recreational park with beautiful landscapes and viewpoints for picturesque images.
Food in Calexico
Calexico Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish featuring crispy fries topped with grilled carne asada, melted cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. Best enjoyed at Las Brissas Restaurant.
Must-Try!
This regional specialty consists of a bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and a variety of condiments. Try it at Los Manjares de Pepe food truck.
A sizable flour tortilla stuffed with a roasted poblano pepper, rice, beans, and cheese. The perfect place to indulge in this dish is El Dorado Mexican Food.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Calexico better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, the Calexico Food Bazaar is a bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts, making it a great place to sample authentic street food.
This lively street is lined with food stalls selling delicious tacos, tamales, and elotes, providing an immersive street food experience in the heart of Calexico.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Calexico, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.
Calexico is home to a diverse population, so it is important to be respectful and mindful of various cultural norms and practices.
It is important to observe and show respect for local customs and traditions, such as addressing people with appropriate titles and greetings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Calexico with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Calexico
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in Calexico, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to leave a gratuity of around 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for various services.
Payment in Calexico, United States, is primarily conducted using cash, credit/debit cards, or digital payment methods. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Calexico.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Calexico to enjoy mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Expect clear skies and comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
Ideal for those who love hot and dry weather. Summers in Calexico are characterized by high temperatures and clear skies, making it perfect for activities such as swimming and outdoor events.
Fall brings slightly cooler temperatures, making it a good time to explore the city and its attractions with pleasant weather. Expect clear skies and comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures.
Winter in Calexico is mild compared to many other parts of the US. Visitors can expect cooler temperatures, but it's still a great time to explore the area without the scorching heat of the summer.
Calexico at Night
Hiking in Calexico
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This area offers rugged terrain with beautiful desert landscapes and is ideal for hiking, with trails that lead you through unique rock formations and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Located a bit further from Calexico, this expansive state park features numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, showcasing wildflower blooms, palm oases, and impressive geological formations.
While primarily known for off-roading, there are also trails for hiking that provide opportunities for adventure in a vast sand dune landscape.
This area offers some scenic hiking trails along the Colorado River and provides stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
A moderately challenging hike that offers access to stunning views of the surrounding desert and the chance to explore various desert flora.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Calexico through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Calexico by plane.
Located approximately 5 miles northwest of Calexico, this airport serves primarily general aviation and some regional flights.
Located roughly 15 miles south of Calexico, this is the main airport serving the city of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico with flights to various destinations.
About 120 miles west of Calexico, this major international airport serves numerous domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 90 miles northwest of Calexico, this airport serves a variety of domestic flights, especially during the tourist season.
Situated about 200 miles northwest of Calexico, it is one of the largest and busiest international airports in the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Calexico, comprised primarily of individuals of Mexican descent.
A smaller demographic group compared to the Hispanic community, includes individuals of European descent.
A minority group in Calexico, including individuals of various Asian backgrounds.
A small demographic group representing individuals of African descent.
A very small demographic group in Calexico, representing the original inhabitants of the region.
Includes individuals who identify with other racial categories not specifically mentioned above.
The Soul of Calexico
Discover the essence of Calexico through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is extremely popular in Calexico, with many local clubs and youth leagues participating in tournaments.
Basketball is widely played in schools and communities, with various leagues and tournaments throughout the year.
Baseball has a strong tradition in Calexico, with many youth and adult leagues, as well as local teams.
American football is popular at both the high school and community levels, with local teams competing in leagues.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and recreational leagues, especially during the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calexico.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Calexico is home to several eateries that provide an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including El Jardin and The Red Barn.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy safe dining experiences at restaurants like La Resaca and Java Caliente with their dedicated gluten-free menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Calexico with these cultural adventures.
