A Photographer’s Lifestyle Guide to Guadalajara, Mexico

A city of contrasts, Guadalajara is full of surprises. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it’s the birthplace of mariachi, tequila, and many expressions of traditional Mexican folklore. The city beautifully blends colonial history with modernity, offering stunning architecture, a unique culinary scene, and a vibrant artistic life. Although it’s the second-largest city in Mexico, the Historic Center still maintains a calm, almost slow pace of life that feels refreshing. Photo by lonur

At the heart of the city stands the Guadalajara Cathedral, a harmonious structure ideal for architectural photography. Surrounded by four plazas, it’s just steps from must-see spots like Plaza de Armas, Teatro Degollado, the Rotonda of Illustrious Jalisciences, and Plaza Liberación. Visit at sunrise or golden hour – when light and atmosphere are at their most magical. Photo by analog-frankie

At the heart of the city stands the Guadalajara Cathedral, a harmonious structure ideal for architectural photography. Surrounded by four plazas, it’s just steps from must-see spots like Plaza de Armas, Teatro Degollado, the Rotonda of Illustrious Jalisciences, and Plaza Liberación. Visit at sunrise or golden hour – when light and atmosphere are at their most magical. Photo by analog-frankie

Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 10, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
If you’re after a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path vibe, head over to Colonia Americana. Just west of the historic center, this neighborhood was voted one of the coolest in the world – and for good reason. Think Art Deco houses, leafy streets, quirky cafés, and a seamless mix of old and new. Ideal for lifestyle shots, urban textures, and spontaneous portraits. Don’t forget your Petzval Art Lens – you’ll want them ready. Photo by gerry_film_guy

If you’re after a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path vibe, head over to Colonia Americana. Just west of the historic center, this neighborhood was voted one of the coolest in the world – and for good reason. Think Art Deco houses, leafy streets, quirky cafés, and a seamless mix of old and new. Ideal for lifestyle shots, urban textures, and spontaneous portraits. Don’t forget your Petzval Art Lens – you’ll want them ready. Photo by gerry_film_guy

Col Americana, Obrera, Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Tucked inside Colonia Americana, Plataforma Arte Contemporáneo (PAC) is a dynamic space dedicated to experimental and contemporary art. From genre-defying installations to artist talks and workshops, it offers a fresh perspective on Guadalajara’s creative pulse. A great stop if you’re looking to explore bold ideas and emerging talent.

Av. Ignacio L Vallarta 1246, Col Americana, Americana, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento is a neo-Gothic gem where locals gather and time slows down. Inside, stained-glass windows cast dramatic light, and outside, the evening square comes alive with street food and music. A must for golden-hour portraits and street scenes – you’ll find endless reasons to pull out your camera. Photo by gerry_film_guy

Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento is a neo-Gothic gem where locals gather and time slows down. Inside, stained-glass windows cast dramatic light, and outside, the evening square comes alive with street food and music. A must for golden-hour portraits and street scenes – you’ll find endless reasons to pull out your camera. Photo by gerry_film_guy

C. Manuel López Cotilla 935, Col Americana, Americana, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
Next to the Expiatorio Temple, MUSA, the University of Guadalajara’s Museum of Arts, features bold exhibitions and ceiling murals by Gabriel Orozco. Small but impactful, it’s a quick, inspiring stop for art lovers and analogue explorers alike. Photo by iuyinpan

Next to the Expiatorio Temple, MUSA, the University of Guadalajara’s Museum of Arts, features bold exhibitions and ceiling murals by Gabriel Orozco. Small but impactful, it’s a quick, inspiring stop for art lovers and analogue explorers alike. Photo by iuyinpan

Av Juárez 975, Col Americana, Americana, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
Latin America’s largest indoor market, San Juan de Dios Market is pure sensory overload – from local snacks and handmade crafts to bold colors and nonstop bustle. It feels like a movie set where the explosion of scents, sights, and sounds will awaken your senses, and it’s perfect for spontaneous, cinematic street shots. Photo by lonur

Latin America’s largest indoor market, San Juan de Dios Market is pure sensory overload – from local snacks and handmade crafts to bold colors and nonstop bustle. It feels like a movie set where the explosion of scents, sights, and sounds will awaken your senses, and it’s perfect for spontaneous, cinematic street shots. Photo by lonur

C. Dionisio Rodríguez 52, San Juan de Dios, 44360 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
Bosque Los Colomos is a lush urban forest that makes you forget you’re still in the city. Take a peaceful stroll along the trails, visit the Japanese garden, or go horseback riding. Bring your LomoChrome Purple film to play with surreal tones in this calm, green oasis. Photo by gerry_film_guy

Bosque Los Colomos is a lush urban forest that makes you forget you’re still in the city. Take a peaceful stroll along the trails, visit the Japanese garden, or go horseback riding. Bring your LomoChrome Purple film to play with surreal tones in this calm, green oasis. Photo by gerry_film_guy

C. El Chaco 3200, Providencia, 44630 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Filmamento is a film studio and creative space dedicated to analogue photography and visual experimentation. It hosts workshops, exhibitions, and markets, making it a key spot for connecting with Guadalajara’s creative community. You can also restock your favorite Lomography films here – perfect for keeping your photo journey going.

C. Bélgica 336, Col Americana, Americana, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Have you ever wanted to explore a new city and find all the best hidden locations and hotspots to feed your analogue passion? Well, we’re here to help you! We’ve pulled together some of our Community’s most-loved museums, meeting places, photography spots, and must-visit processing labs and shops in Guadalajara to give you the perfect guide to this great city through the eyes of an analogue enthusiast. All these recommendations have been approved and verified by fellow Lomographers.

Photo by sara_tijeras
Photo by sara_tijeras

Museums, Art, Photography and Culture in Guadalajara

We’ve curated a list of our favorite museums, art galleries and cultural landmarks in Guadalajara to give you an inspiring guide to the best creative hotspots to visit on your trip.

José Clemente Orozco Museum
Guadalajara is famous for its murals, especially those by legendary artist José Clemente Orozco. One of his seminal works is on view in his former home and studio, now a museum that also hosts rotating contemporary installations – a compelling blend of historic and modern Guadalajaran art. Just near the entrance, stop by Islote, a charming sweet shop recently opened by Virginia Jauregui.

Travesía Cuatro
Co-owned by José Noé Suro, Travesía Cuatro has a sister gallery in Madrid – but this Guadalajara location is something special. Set inside a former residence designed by Mexican modernist Luis Barragán, the space features internationally acclaimed conceptual artists in a setting that’s both personal and architecturally striking.

Zapopan Art Museum (MAZ)
As the only museum in Guadalajara dedicated to contemporary art, MAZ is a must. Located in the heart of Zapopan’s historic center, it offers boundary-pushing exhibitions and a vibrant plaza for people-watching or a relaxed photo walk.

Tiro al Blanco (TAB)
Bold and minimal, TAB is an experimental space featuring contemporary works from rising and established Latin American artists. The raw gallery space lends itself to dramatic compositions – ideal for moody portraits and graphic shots.

Photo by sara_tijeras & jilyns
Photo by sara_tijeras & jilyns
Photo by sara_tijeras & jilyns

Street Photography & Lomography Film Community Scene in Guadalajara

The wealth of knowledge and experience that comes from the Lomography Community is simply unrivaled. In this section we share some of our Community’s top-tips about the city of Guadalajara. This includes their favorite locations for visiting and photographing, and some invaluable tips on shooting in analogue. We also showcase some of our most inspiring Guadalajara-based LomoHomes and Partners.

Barranca de Huentitán
If you have a bit more time to venture out of the city, don’t miss the Barranca de Huentitán, a breathtaking canyon on the outskirts of Guadalajara. The views from the lookout are absolutely stunning – if you’re passionate about landscape photography, you’ll be so glad you made the trip.

Museo Cabañas
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Museo Cabañas is known for its expansive courtyards and the monumental frescoes of José Clemente Orozco. Its neoclassical architecture and soft natural light make it a dream for analogue photographers who love architectural geometry and atmosphere.

A Taste of Guadalajara
Mexican cuisine is famous worldwide, but there’s nothing like trying regional favorites right where they were born. Treat your taste buds to birria, carne en su jugo, tortas ahogadas, and a glass of tejuino. Stop by Taquería La Tomate for tacos, or head to Carnes Garibaldi in Santa Tere for a fast-paced, flavorful meal. Grab a classic torta ahogada at La Bici, brunch at Yunaites Menjurjes Pueblerinos, and enjoy a cozy dinner at La Fonda de la Noche. Wrap up the night with drinks at Farmacia Rita Pérez and dancing at Pare de Sufrir – a full-circle experience of the city’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene.

Photo by misaelcatana, juicybby & lonur
Photo by misaelcatana, juicybby & lonur
Photo by misaelcatana, juicybby & lonur
Photo by misaelcatana, juicybby & lonur

Anything missing?

Got a favorite photo gallery, hidden photo spot or local tip we haven’t covered in this city guide? Help us make this the best analogue travel companion! Send your suggestions to travel@lomography.com and we’ll take a look.

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Lomographers from Guadalajara

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    237 Photos · joined 2021-06-17
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    🌐 Urbanist 📊 Data Scientist 🗺️ Mapping 📷 Collaborate in @Cassini_mx writing and photographing✍️ ig: Desyfree #InFilmWeTrust #filmcommunity Most of my work is with film 35mm format and instax min …

  • gerachino

    368 Photos · joined 2011-01-29
    gerachino

    http://www.flickr.com/photos/gerachino/

  • hugo_burton

    320 Photos · joined 2019-05-25
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    Hola. Me hago llamar Hugo Burton,soy principiante y entusiasta de la fotografía en general. Cuento con una cámara Analógica Yashica …

  • chilledgreen

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    chilledgreen

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    446 Photos · joined 2010-08-29
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    Thanx for the visit. Hey check my Flickr page to http://www.flickr.com/photos/deyvydg/

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    68 Photos · joined 2022-01-12
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    Hi! I live in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. I like to take photos and tell jokes. Bye! https://www.instagram.com/_saul_sr_/

  • mousses

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Where to Develop Film and Buy Analogue Cameras in Guadalajara

Filmamento

C. Bélgica 336, Col Americana, Americana, 44160 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico
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