A First-Timer's Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico

• Take an architecture tour: One of my favorite things about Oaxaca is that it is full of beautiful buildings. While in Oaxaca City, take a tour with a local architect to discover the history, building techniques, and hidden gems behind the beautiful facades.

• Taste authentic mezcal: I took a cocktail-making class and had a blast, but you can also join a farm tour to learn about the production and cultural significance of the spirit while getting your taste on!

• Learn to cook: Thanks to its biodiversity, Oaxaca has some of the most unique cuisine in Mexico. Take a cooking class with a local to learn new recipes using traditional cooking techniques.

• Visit Pasillo de Humo: Or “Smoke Hall,” this is a bustling market in Oaxaca City filled with vendors selling everything from smoked meats to edible grasshoppers and authentic mole. Take a food tour to make your way through the market with ease and get lost in your senses.

• Stroll around Jalatlaco: This colorful neighborhood within Oaxaca City is officially recognized as a Barrio Magico or “Magic Neighborhood.” Take a walk and admire the beautiful murals, pop into local art boutiques, and have brunch on a rooftop overlooking the neighborhood.

• Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum located in Oaxaca City is a fabulous display of thought-provoking pieces from Mexican artists.

• Visit the Botanical Gardens: This tour-only, open-air museum houses a unique collection of flora from Oaxaca. It is also a great Instagram spot during golden hour!

• Explore Mitla: This little magic town is home to the second most significant archaeological site in the state. A perfect day trip for history lovers.

• Be a beach bum: When you’re done exploring the city, head to Puerto Escondido to take beach walks, eat fish tacos, surf, or chase manta rays on an epic boat tour!

• Visit the Cloud Forest: For something a little more off the beaten track, take a trip to San Jose del Pacifico. Here you’ll find rope suspension bridges amongst the treetops, a perfect pit stop for adventurers.

• Los Danzantes: This restaurant is a crowd favorite for upscale dining in the city, and it did not disappoint. The octopus is a must-try!

• Selva Oaxaca: This moody craft cocktail bar is my go-to spot for unique cocktails in the city and local flavors. The beef tongue taco was good, too!

• Tacos Del Carmen: This little food cart was so good I had to go back three times! You have not lived until you have tried the squash flower quesadilla.

• Boocaflor: This hidden cocktail bar is located inside an all-pink boutique. The perfect place to sip and shop.

• Los Andantes Terraza: A great spot for food, cocktails, and live music overlooking the main square. The rooftop is a great place to people watch and offers perfect views of Templo Santo Domingo at sunset.

• Los Amantes Mezcaleria: Another one of my favorite bars in the city. This hidden cave-like bar offers a moody atmosphere and delicious craft cocktails using local spirits.

• Ama Terraza: This cafe is the perfect stop for a late afternoon snack break. They offer a botanical rooftop and an extensive drink list featuring coffee, tea, wine, and cocktails. I highly recommend the chocolate chip cookie and chai!

Pro tip: When traveling in Oaxaca, get used to eating on the go! Food carts and market stalls reign supreme here. The street tamales de mole will change your life in a good way.