Calexico

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Calexico's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Calexico
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a popular taco stand known for its carne asada. Spend your afternoon shopping at local boutiques and crafting souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a Mexican restaurant and savor traditional dishes. End your evening with a stroll along the border to appreciate the lights.

day 2
Culture and History
morning
:

Visit the historic downtown area and capture photos of the unique architecture. Grab a local pastry for breakfast at a nearby bakery.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Imperial Valley Expo & Fairgrounds for events or exhibitions. Have lunch at a food truck offering local eats.

evening
:

Dine at a fusion restaurant that combines Mexican and American cuisine. Consider visiting a local bar for evening live music.

day 3
Nature Day
morning
:

Head to the nearby Rio Grande for a morning walk or a picnic. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit a botanical garden and learn about desert flora. Have lunch at a café that features farm-to-table options.

evening
:

Watch the sunset over the mountains while enjoying dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Consider going for a night hike in the nearby nature reserve.

day 4
Local Arts
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local diner, then head to local art galleries. Explore the creative talents of local artists.

afternoon
:

Participate in an art workshop to create your own piece of art. Enjoy lunch at a café with artistically inspired dishes.

evening
:

Attend a local performing arts event or theater performance. Finish the night with dessert at a charming ice cream shop.

day 5
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

After breakfast, set out to hike one of the trails in the nearby mountains. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views.

afternoon
:

Have a packed lunch amidst nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or birdwatching at a local wildlife refuge.

evening
:

Return to town and have dinner at a barbecue place. Relax by heading to a local park to enjoy the cool evening air.

day 6
Shopping and Dining
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a popular brunch spot. Afterward, head to local markets for unique finds.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a diner with a retro theme. Continue shopping at vintage stores and artisans' shops.

evening
:

After dinner, grab a cocktail at a lounge and unwind.

day 7
Culinary Experience
morning
:

Start with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite spot. Join a culinary tour to explore the diverse food scene.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes. Enjoy lunch with the meal you made.

evening
:

Stroll through the local nightlife and enjoy live music or a bar if you're up for it.

day 8
Sports Fun
morning
:

Have breakfast at a sports-themed diner. Visit local sports fields to catch some morning games.

afternoon
:

Join an afternoon game of soccer or basketball with locals. Refuel with lunch at a sports bar that features game-day specials.

evening
:

Watch a local sports game as the highlight of your evening. Celebrate a win or enjoy the team's spirit at a nearby pub.

day 9
Day Trip
morning
:

Grab breakfast to go and visit nearby attractions such as Salton Sea. Enjoy the scenic drive and scenic views along the way.

afternoon
:

Explore local attractions or natural wonders such as the Salton Sea or the Anza-Borrego Desert. Have a picnic lunch at one of the beautiful spots.

evening
:

Return to Calexico and enjoy a laid-back dinner in town. Relax and end the day with a movie or board games.

day 10
Festival Time
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a local event or festival food stall. Spend the morning exploring arts and crafts at festival booths.

afternoon
:

Join in on activities and entertainment provided during the festival. Don’t forget to grab lunch from one of the popular food vendors.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a special festival dinner event, celebrating local cuisine. Enjoy fireworks or live performances that often accompany the festival.

Discover Calexico

Read more in our Calexico 2024 Travel Guide.

Calexico Travel Guide