Visitors who find themselves in Guadalajara on 16 September are in for a festive and patriotic treat. One traditional way that Tapatíos enjoy celebrating this holiday is with a reenactment of the "Cry of Pain" (Grito de Dolores), the incident that, in 1810, kicked off the war that ended with Mexico's independence from Spain. At the stroke of midnight, locals go to the main square and shout out in unison: half yell "Viva" and the other half "México", going on to the names of important heroes of Mexican history: "Viva Hidalgo", "Viva Morelos", and so on.
Panteón de Belén
This old cemetery dates back to 1786. It has been converted into a museum that is full of interesting stories of cemetery hauntings and Tapatío culture in general. There are also night tours Th-Sa that many people are afraid to take! Photos and videos for a fee. Tours are offered.
Instituto Cultural Cabañas
This UNESCO World Heritage Site east of Plaza de la Liberación is a cultural and art center where the fresco paintings of Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited.
Museo de la Ciudad
Exploring Guadalajara's over 450 years of history, the Museo de la Ciudad is situated in a former convent in the Centro Histórico that dates to the 18th century. The museum's permanent collection is housed in six exhibition halls arranged chronologically according to century (16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st) and comprises artifacts and explanatory tests related to the history of Guadalajara in terms of art and architecture, ethnography, urban development, and the everyday life of Tapatíos. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and lectures, workshops and symposia often take place in the auditorium and outdoor courtyard.
MUSA, Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara
University museum featuring temporary exhibits by local artists. The museum's star attraction is a lecture hall with a backdrop of a famous mural by Jose Clemente Orozco.
Located directly in front of the cathedral, Plaza Guadalajara contains a circular fountain and an outdoor restaurant. Under the fountain there is an underground commercial center which offers all kinds of goods for sale including fruit, beverages and jewelry.
Plaza de Armas offers one of the best views of the cathedral, as well as the Government Palace. It features a French ironwork bandstand that was purchased by former Mexican president Porfirio Díaz in 1885, and four statues on the corners of the place symbolizing the four seasons. The bandstand serves as the performing arena for marching bands.