Curator’s statement
What began as a mandatory layover before the Galápagos transformed into the highlight of our multi-generational “guys trip.” Navigating Quito’s steep, volcanic Old Town with my father-in-law and brother-in-law, we discovered a city that feels more like a living museum than a capital. Whether uncovering the secrets of agave spirits at Casa Agave or bonding over local flavors despite our shaky Spanish, the warmth of the Quiteño people turned our stopover into a true destination—a world-class culinary and architectural revelation.
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Things to do in Quito
Intiñan Solar Museum: Skip the off-center stone monument and head here for interactive ‘Latitude 0°’ experiments like balancing an egg on a nail. It’s a kitschy but genuine bucket-list moment that actually delivers on its educational promise.
Casa Agave: Discover the lifecycle of the Andean agave and sample Miske, the local spirit, in a social atmosphere that feels more like a private club than a museum. You can even plant your own seed to leave a literal mark on the Ecuadorian landscape.
Homero Ortega: Visit for a masterclass in hat grading before purchasing a 100% Ecuadorian-made Panama hat. Be prepared to pay for high-quality craftsmanship that makes this the ultimate ‘guys trip’ souvenir.
Basílica del Voto Nacional: Even if you skip the tower climb, this is a must-see for its unique neo-Gothic gargoyles—look closely for iguanas and tortoises instead of traditional demons. The interior offers a cool, quiet refuge from the steep streets of Old Town.
Church and Convent of St. Francis: As the largest religious complex in South America, this is a masterpiece of gilded altars and Moorish ceilings. Step inside to see the ‘Winged Virgin of Quito,’ a rare feathered sculpture that is the crown jewel of the city’s colonial art.
Places to eat & drink in Quito
Casa Agave
More than just a tasting. Forget what you know about Mexican Tequila—in Quito, it’s all about Miske. At Casa Agave, we didn’t just drink—we got a full education on the lifecycle of the Andean agave plant. The atmosphere here is incredibly social; we actually formed a lasting friendship with another couple during our tasting. It’s the perfect spot for a “guys trip” group to slow down and appreciate a spirit that is uniquely Ecuadorian. And I was taught how to shake a cocktail!
La Vid
For the best seat in Old Town with the best views of Plaza de la Independencia, head to La Vid. My pro tip: make a reservation at La Vid and specifically request a window table—watching the square transition from the golden hour to being fully illuminated at night is worth the price of admission alone. While the views are romantic enough for a “save the date” shoot, the $30-per-person price point for a full three-course meal with drinks makes it an incredible value for a guys’ trip or a date night.
Tributo
Recently ranked as the #24 best steakhouse in the world, Tributo is a mandatory stop. The service is a choreographed dance—staff communicate via earpieces so subtly you’d think they’re reading each other’s minds. While the steak “pays tribute to the animal,” do not sleep on the dessert. Our pastry chef hand-delivered our final courses to explain the flavor profiles, a level of service that makes this a “do not miss” in Quito.
Pro tip: Make a reservation well in advance.
Need to know
Since Ecuador uses the U.S. Dollar, currency exchange is one less thing to worry about—but bring plenty of $1, $5, and $10 bills, as many local vendors and taxis struggle to change anything larger.
For U.S. travelers, the biggest perk is the lack of jet lag (Quito is on EST/CST), but the real challenge is the altitude. Pack some electrolytes, stay hydrated, bring altitude sickness pills, and plan a ‘slow’ first day to let your body adjust to the 9,350-foot elevation before you start hitting the steep hills of Old Town.
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Sean Flinn
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Ecuador page.