TLAQUEPAQUE, Mexico — Strolling the boutique-lined streets of this arts-and-crafts enclave near Guadalajara, Mexico, is like stepping into the brightly colored pages of a storybook.
Above, rainbow-colored bunting flaps beneath an often cerulean sky. Fantastical sculptures on the sidewalks cast stark shadows on the vivid yellow, white and terra cotta walls of the stucco buildings.
Even the name has an engaging rhythm — tuh-lah-keh-pah-keh.
And the best part is this fairy tale visit to Tlaquepaque’s historic center includes tacos.
How to get there
Tlaquepaque, historically known as San Pedro Tlaquepaque, is a suburb of Guadalajara, capital city of the state of Jalisco. To get here from downtown Guadalajara you can rent a car or take a taxi. Another option is to take an open-air tour bus, www.tapatiotour.com.mx. Once in Tlaquepaque, head for the historic center. The main street is Independencia, which is lined with stores, galleries, restaurants and bars. You’ll also want to explore the smaller side streets. A major landmark is the Jardin Hidalgo, a large plaza flanked by two colonial-era churches on Independencia and the Parian, 199 Calle Juarez, which is a block of restaurants and bars known for mariachi music, especially on weekends.
