20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Oaxaca (Mexico)

Oaxaca is the Centro District of Mexico. You will see the eclectic parts of Mexico that have ever existed.

The city is known for several historical museums, tasty wine, vineyards, and greenery that will enthrall visitors for days.

It is such a beautiful piece of outdoor adventure attractive to visitors for ages.

While there are many places to visit in Oaxaca that have a more traditional flavor, there are also a few unusual things that visitors can explore in this amazing city.

If you are looking for the best and most fun things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico, kindly read through what we have painstakingly compiled for you!

Things To Do In Oaxaca

1. Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán

Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán is a top archaeological site in Mexico that was founded about 500 B.C.

Inside this amazing museum in Oaxaca, visitors will have an opportunity of seeing some historical artifacts which are either relics or monuments.

Besides, in this beautiful museum in Oaxaca, visitors are well put in direction as to where each of these artifacts emanated from and their relative importance to the development of Oaxaca history.

Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán is such a fun place you can visit if you are planning a trip to Oaxaca in Mexico.

Importantly, this historic site also has the nicest sets of staff ever.

They are receptive and always attend to visitors in a unique way.

Definitely, this place wouldn’t be boring if you are in Oaxaca.

Incredibly, the entrance fee to this amazing place is absolutely free.

Although, it is necessary to state that, in this amazing place, they cap the number of visitors per day.

Obviously, there wouldn’t be rowdiness here, as everything is always in order.

Of note is the fact that visitors can also get delicious meals at nearby restaurants.

These restaurants offer inexpensive meals, and they are of the best quality and nice taste.

If you plan to visit Oaxaca, do remember to add this beautiful place to your list of itineraries!

Address: Ignacio Bernal S/N, San Pedro Ixtlahuaca, Oax., Mexico

2. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is a nice church in Oaxaca, with amazing people.

Besides, there is a jarring amount of detail in this church.

If you are here, it will surely boggle your mind to think about how many lifetimes it must have taken the master sculptors, masons, and painters it took to create something so beautiful.

Indeed, Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán in Oaxaca is a must visit if you are visiting Oaxaca.

If you want to enjoy the best part of this incredible place, be sure to check out their weekend weddings.

This will definitely have to be the most spectacular church in Oaxaca.

Even if you are not a practicing Catholic, a parishioner of another faith, you will definitely appreciate the beautiful interior of this amazing Oaxaca structure.

In fact, the construction of this ancient building began in 1521!

Amazing right? Yeah! It is an incredible structure that has so many things for fun to offer visitors.

The gold and amazing workmanship in every inch of the interior of the building are amazing!

Everything is beautiful here and a photo or description doesn’t do it justice.

This cathedral is stunning. If you are a fan of baroque-style architecture, then you will also be happy to come to Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán in Oaxaca.

Address: C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is a cultural center that doesn’t need much description because of its popularity in Oaxaca and neighboring towns.

This amazing house in Oaxaca houses archaeological artifacts and ancient books.

Interestingly, this museum in the heart of Oaxaca is really big and beautiful.

Besides, they also have multiple rooms to visit and some exteriors as well.

In fact, visitors coming here can see a large portion of the botanical garden from the 2nd floor through the many points of view.

Even with many fun things here, their prices are very decent. It is totally affordable!

Aside from that, they have a nice visitors’ park which is available for visitors to park their respective cars while on a visit to this incredible location in Oaxaca.

If there is one place to visit in Oaxaca, it is this museum!

Of note is the fact that this beautiful museum in Oaxaca explains the local history of the inhabitants very well.

Every corner is a picture! Get ready to spend half a day or more here because it will be super fun!

Why not come and see this architecturally beautiful and cool building containing a permanent exhibition of important historical artifacts and temporary exhibitions?

If you are in Oaxaca, you have to visit Museo de Las Culturas. It is a stunning museum with interesting exhibits!

Address: 1a. Cerrada de Macedonio Alcala s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

4. Operadora Turistica pueblos mancomunados

Do you want a nice place to have the best of fun while on a visit to Oaxaca, Mexico?

If all you want is an amazing and best fun place to have a nice time while coming for a visit to Oaxaca, we recommend you prioritize your itinerary by adding Operadora Turistica pueblos mancomunados to it.

This wonderful Oaxaca structure is not only an eco-tourism company but a whole social project for Pueblo’s Mancomunados.

Indeed, this place wouldn’t make you feel bored.

Besides, they have some friendly staff and professional guilds who wouldn’t hesitate to treat every visitor well.

The guilds are so welcoming and are always attentive to every question and challenges visitors may encounter while in this Oaxaca museum.

Moreover, even if you are not coming for anything else, their hiking facilities is something you need to check out! It is so amazing and no lover of hiking will not want to come over again to this amazing Oaxaca museum.

In fact, if you want to lodge, their accommodations and food will surpass your expectations.

Notably, the operators at the office are very friendly and speak very well English as well.

Above all, their prices are affordable, and they make adequate provisions for visitors to park their cars.

Address: C. Niño Perdido 306, Agencia Municipal Sta Maria Ixcotel, 68100 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

5. Jardin Etnobotanico De Oaxa

The Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca is an amazing botanical garden in Oaxaca, Mexico.

This beautiful location is on about 2.32 acres of land or opposite the Church of Santo in Domingo.

Unlike other fun places in Oaxaca, this beautiful location is administered by the government of Oaxaca.

Even with that, the admission fee to this fun and the best location is entirely free.

You would love to see the amazing varieties of trees from across the region here. They look so beautiful.

Importantly, in this beautiful Oaxaca tourist, English-speaking guides are very informative and friendly.

Just to ensure this beautiful Oaxaca region is not overcrowded, they only let people in at 10 am, 11 am, and 12 pm and it caps at about 50 per group.

If you planning a trip to Oaxaca in Mexico, we highly recommend you add this beautiful place to your itinerary.

Address: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

6. Mercado 20 De Noviembre

Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a memorable market in Oaxaca, Mexico

Without much description, this beautiful place is a bustling traditional covered market with stalls for fresh produce, baked goods & local street foods.

Apparently, this is an amazing place you can get all kinds of farm produce if you are in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Moreover, there is also a hall of smoked meats, which no visitor will complain about on any visit.

Their attendant and vendors are friendly and polite in their interactions.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre is such a great market with cheap. You should endeavor to visit this place if you are in Oaxaca!

Not only that, but this place is also well maintained and always clean. You wouldn’t have craved a better marketplace!

Most vendors also speak English and wouldn’t hesitate to make the best recommendations to visitors.

So, why wouldn’t you be kind to yourself by visiting this place anytime you are in Oaxaca?

It will surely be worth a stop because you will have so many fun and amazing experiences coming here!

Address:20 de Noviembre 512, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

7. Zócalo

Zócalo is a historical landmark in Oaxaca.

Although, this place is relatively small, however, that doesn’t reduce the level of fun things this place has to offer visitors.

No wonder visitors are always coming to this amazing Oaxaca attraction.

In fact, they offer the best-crafted wines in the entire Oaxaca. You wouldn’t have wanted something better!

The buildings that house this amazing place is very beautiful and the dwellers are not in any way rude.

Moreover, they have amazing restaurants that offer the best Mexican dishes that will satisfy every visitor’s cravings.

Their attendant and the entire employees in this amazing Oaxaca destination are equally friendly and highly professional.

Besides, this amazing place provides an avenue for hikers to engage in hiking at no additional cost.

So, why wouldn’t you plan a stop here if you are planning a voyage of discovery in Mexico?

Oaxaca is definitely the definition of what you need to call yourself adventurous!

If you plan a visit, you can also come with your younger children and colleagues because there is something fun for all categories of visitors here!

Address: Portal del Palacio, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

Planning to see more of Mexico’s beautiful cities? Why not check out our lists of the most amazing things to do in Tijuana and things to do in Cozumel? 

8. Rufino Tamayo Museum Of Pre-Hispanic Art

Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art is another amazing museum in Oaxaca where you can have so much fun.

This large and incredible museum in Oaxaca is commonly called the Rufino Tamayo Museum because the famous artist bought artifacts for their artistic value and not their archeological value.

The photo is of an object almost life-size here!

You just have to stop imagining how fun this place could be. Instead, we recommend you plan a visit here!

Not just that, this amazing place has some great collections of pre-Hispanic artifacts.

Notably, this wonderful attraction also presented more aesthetic quality than a normal museum.

Sundays are also half-price days. So, you have so many reasons to come and catch some fun here if you are in Oaxaca!

You would definitely love to explore the museum.

Incredibly, what would be expected of every visitor as admission fee is totally inexpensive!

So, while planning your trip, be kind to yourself, do add this amazing location to your itinerary, you would leave happier!

Address: Av. José María Morelos 503, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

9. Museo Textil De Oaxaca

Museo Textil de Oaxaca is a beautiful art museum in Oaxaca, Mexico.

It is a modest and equipped museum with free admission to all visitors from all parts of the world.

Despite that, there are so many best and most fun things to explore in this amazing destination.

Notably, this incredible place features local exhibits that depict and illustrate the history of this region.

You will marvel at the time this museum took in putting the pieces together because they are extremely beautiful!

Moreover, in this amazing destination, they also have an incredible garden and the display is highly magnificent.

It’s peaceful the gardens are incredible. The displays are magnificent.

There are also little textiles that are just a reflection of what Oaxaca people valued.

Besides, most of the information is not just in Spanish but equally translated into the English language. So incredible!!

The designs are just beautiful and there is quite a well-presented map of where the different styles come from.

So, stopping here will be worth it even if you’re not really into fabric and design, coming to see this ancient structure itself is necessary!

This is a must-see!

Address: Miguel Hidalgo 917, Centro Histórico, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

10. Museo De Filatelia De Oaxaca, A.C.

Museo de Filatelia de Oaxaca, A.C. Is another wonderful and charming museum in Oaxaca that features stamps and surrealist art.

If you are craving a place to explore, it is advisable you visit this museum.

If not here, you wouldn’t get these forms of artifacts elsewhere!

Besides, not is only this amazing attraction all about artifacts alone, they also have a beautiful tranquil patio and gift shop.

Definitely, this is a place where you can explore.

The entrance fee is free and incredibly, they also offer free Wi-Fi. If you wouldn’t visit anywhere else while in Oaxaca, this is a must to visit!

Besides, their bathrooms are well maintained and always open for visitors.

This is just an amazing museum! More than postage stamps!

Above all, they have an amazing and lovely courtyard to linger in.

They also have some amazing and fun things for kids to explore.

That aside, their little playground will also make your kids happy.

If you are looking for where to relax and cut off some time, we totally recommend you come here!

Address: C/ de la Constitución 201, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

11. Oaxaca Amate Books

Are you searching for a place to get some nice Spanish and English books while in Oaxaca?

Amate Books is a bookstore that offers a great selection of books in Spanish and English

Even if they don’t have the exact order of visitors, they have a friendly staff that will definitely give a perfect recommendation.

This is simply a must-visit spot in Oaxaca for all book lovers!

Moreover, their wonderful selection of fiction and non-fiction books in this destination is top-notch!

Incredibly, this is equally a perfect place to get Oaxaca and Mexican culture books and, remarkably, the biggest English language library in Oaxaca.

If you are in Oaxaca, we recommend you come to this super amazing bookstore with a really thoughtful selection of books!

Incredibly, the prices of their books are totally cheap. You wouldn’t get these kinds of books elsewhere at the prices they offer it here!

So, are you a researcher, a story writer, or a lover of good books?

If at all you are in any of these categories, then you shouldn’t leave Oaxaca without visiting Amate Books!

Address: C. Macedonio Alcalá 307, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Ejido del Centro, Oax., Mexico. 

12. Basílica De Nuestra Señora De La Soledad

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is a beautiful basilica in Oaxaca, Mexico.

This amazing ornate basilica is located just a few blocks from the zocalo and definitely worth a stop if you are coming to Oaxaca.

This is just one of the most beautiful churches that will not resist the fun things it has to offer!

The surrounding of this area are also lively and the members of the church are so friendly.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is simply a fun and well-located cathedral with beautiful stone cravings and barroque indoors.

If you are a Christian looking for a nice place to visit, you can simply visit this inclusive church with the nicest architecture.

It is typically a beautiful example of the baroque stucco of Oaxaca, with religious XVII oil paintings.

Definitely, this part of Oaxaca has so many fun things to offer visitors while in Oaxaca!

Address: Av. de la Independencia 107, CALZADA MADERO, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

13. Oaxaca Exconvento De San Pablo

Exconvento de San Pablo is a museum in Oaxaca that has great exhibitions and attention.

This is a beautifully restored convent with a cultural center, library, cafe, and restaurant.

It is such a perfect location for visitors to take a break from sightseeing.

Interestingly, despite all these amazing features, this incredible location requires absolutely nothing to gain entrance.

No admission fee, it is totally free!

Even at that, they have beautiful and periodic exhibitions and various cultural ceremonies aimed at entertaining visitors and onlookers.

In fact, they have an amazing library where research could be made.

So, how else would you expect a perfect museum to be structured if not like this?

It will be really worth the few hours you will spend here if you are in Oaxaca!

Of note, they have an amazing staff who wouldn’t do less than to make visitors stay fun and happier!

If you want to explore the entire of Oaxaca, your visit without coming here will never be complete!

Do remember to add this museum to your itinerary while planning the exploration!

Address: Miguel Hidalgo 907, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

14. Oaxaca Zona Arqueológica De Atzompa

Are you interested in delving into the remains exacted from the earlier inhabitants in order to get insight into what transpired in the past?

If you want some insight into how the earlier inhabitants lived their lives, Zona Arqueológica de Atzompa is a place that is worth visiting.

This is a well-preserved archaeological site in Oaxaca, Mexico that has so many interesting and informative artifacts on display.

These artifacts are without a doubt, resourceful to every visitor who is interested in the history of Mexico.

Besides, they are well labeled and the tour guild will definitely provide additional information In case a visitor is confused.

Notably, this is the only archeological site where you can see artifacts that provide information about the Zapotec civilization with breathtaking views.

Moreover, this place is not always crowded, and no admission fee is required!

It is almost as big as Monte Alban and it is on top of a mountain, therefore you have a great view!!

If you are in Oaxaca, come to this beautiful museum and experience all the history, grand jour, beauty, and feel without spending anything!

Address: Cerro de La Campaña, 68010 Santa María Atzompa, Oax., Mexico. 

15. Cathedral Of Our Lady Of The Assumption

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is an ancient Cathedral church in Oaxaca.

This building is the main church of the City, and it is located on Zocalo square.

In addition, it is easily distinguishable from other churches because it was built out of the native green volcanic stone.

Notably, the outside of this Oaxaca attraction is massive, stocky, squat, and fortress-like.

In fact, the baroque sculpted façade and the very tops of the bell towers are the redeeming value of its outer appearance.

Not just that, the interior of this place is a standard basilica layout with a main nave and two side isles.

This is such an amazing and perfect visitor destination in Oaxaca!

Even if you are not Catholic, it is worth paying a visit; because this place is like a museum!

If you plan a visit to Oaxaca, this should be a perfect destination, you should endeavor to check out!

Address: Av. de la Independencia 700, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

16. Oaxaca Teatro Macedonio De Alcalá

Teatro Macedonio de Alcalá is a movie theater that has been attractive to visitors of all ages.

It is notably a historical and cultural building with nice architecture and a perfect location for small concerts.

So, if you are looking for an amazing and perfect destination to host your events, try considering this amazing.

Besides, it is equally a great venue for music and dance and their tickets are absolutely affordable!

Incredibly, they show international movies and the inside is just fun and pretty impressive like an opera house!

Also, the night view is amazing

This is Top Notch. And a top-notch tour.

Staff in this amazing location are absolutely friendly and understand the nature of their job very well.

In fact, in most cases, they offer free popcorn to visitors and onlookers.

So, if you are looking for a perfect place to enjoy your stay in Oaxaca, we recommend you come to this amazing location.

Also, if you want a perfect location to host your events, consider bringing it here!

It is a decision you will be glad you make!!

Address: Av. de la Independencia 900, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

17. Oaxaca Auditorio Guelaguetza

Auditorio Guelaguetza is a beautiful and ancient auditorium in Oaxaca, Mexico.

This beautiful Auditorium is the perfect establishment for this state’s celebrations and several ceremonies.

Notably, if you are in Oaxaca, you can come here to enjoy traditional like Guelaguetza and Donají.

Besides, nice concerts are periodically held here.

From this amazing destination, you can have a beautiful view of the city from the seats. Absolutely delightful place to visit if you are in Oaxaca!

Seats in this amazing place are comfortable and neatly arranged.

That aside, they have some chilled crafted beers which are inexpensive.

Overall, their admission fee and the cost of their drinks are totally affordable!

Getting such great crafted beers at this cheap price might be uneasy in Mexico!

If you are in Oaxaca, this is just the perfect location to come if you need to take some exercise, relax or have some cool time, either alone or with friends.

Definitely, you will have access to the vantage of fun things in this part of Oaxaca.

Do remember to visit this amazing place on your next visit to Mexico.

Address: Carr. Internacional, Area sin Asignacion de Nombre de Colonia, 68070 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

18. Oaxaca Mezcaloteca

Mezcaloteca is a known bar in Oaxaca due to its friendly, attentive, and well professional staff

They will ask you about your experience with mezcal, what coffee/ beer/ wine you like, and then provide a personalized tasting.

This and some other unique attributes of this amazing place are the reason why it kept attracting visitors to Oaxaca.

This is a fun place to visit!

Meanwhile, if you want to go, just make sure you have a reservation far in advance because this place is where all visitors are craving to explore!

If you have been here for a tasting, you wouldn’t have to try other places again!

They have the best and most excellent Mezcal tasting experience!

Incredibly, this amazing destination only does one tasting per hour, so it feels like you have the whole bar to yourself!

Interestingly, the bartenders are experts in the art of making and drinking and they are great at recommending varieties that suit visitors’ tastes.

It is obviously a great destination for mezcal tasting and to improve knowledge of mezcal.

Overall, this place will create a great experience to learn and know more about mezcal!

Address: Reforma No. 506, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

19. Oaxaca Mercado De Artesanias

Are you in Mexico looking for a perfect market where you can get traditional handicrafts, such as embroidered blouses, carved animal sculptures, or pottery?

Mercado de Artesanias is a popular market where visitors and inhabitants can get to enjoy a great variety of clothes for women.

Although, this amazing market also has provisions for men’s clothes, however, the items made for men are quite limited.

Nevertheless, this is simply a vibrant, colorful, and great market to visit in Oaxaca!

In fact, this small Mercado is guarded by huge figures that stand by the door and make visitors feel that they must go in!

This incredible market is also a well-stocked market where you can find a selection of artisan goods that come from the market towns surrounding the City.

Interestingly, most of the stalls in this wonderful market are selling textiles (including rugs, shirts, bags, sheets, curtains, etc.

Apparently, you can get so many things from this incredible market!

If you are in Oaxaca, come to Mercado de Artesanias and one and enjoy lots of lovely handcrafted items!

Vendors are so friendly and welcoming. Not just that, the prices of these commodities are awesome!

Address: Gral. Ignacio Zaragoza, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico. 

20. Oaxaca Museo Histórico Casa De Juárez

Museo Histórico Casa de Juárez is a museum in Oaxaca dedicated to a true Mexican hero.

This incredible museum has received several recognitions locally and internally due to the nature of historical facts available here.

This is just the only museum that showcases the early life of Benito.

If you are curious to know more about Mexican history, endeavor you have a stop in this historical museum situated at Oaxaca.

Moreover, no admission fee is required to gain entrance here and the receptionist and tour guilds are always friendly.

Besides, this amazing location has enough parking space which is provided for visitors to park their cars.

Above all, there are nearby restaurants, and the prices are bearable.

If you are in Oaxaca and value Mexican history, do remember to have a stop here, it will surely create a long-lasting memory!!

Address: C. de Manuel García Vigil 609, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico.

Final Remarks

With these amazing things highlighted above, we hope you find the recommendations useful in planning your voyage to this wonderful city.

With its beautiful museums, amazing restaurants, malls, and historical documentation, we are confident if you adhere to these recommendations, your stay will be extremely fun in Oaxaca.

Safe Trip!