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Discover Mascota: Jalisco’s Hidden Colonial Gem

The Sierra Madre Occidental, in the state of Jalisco, holds treasures full of colonial charm and prodigious nature. El Pueblo Mágico de Mascota (The Magical Town of Mascota), located about 100 kilometers ( 62 miles ) from Puerto Vallarta and 206 kilometers ( 128 miles ) from Guadalajara, proposes a change of scenery and much tranquility.

 

Although it is known as “La Esmeralda de la Sierra”, the name Mascota comes from the words amaxacotlán and mazacotla, which translates as “Place of deer and snakes”.

 

Incorporated to the program of Pueblos Magicos since 2015, it is part of the so called Corredor Mágico that goes from Cabo Corrientes to Puerto Vallarta, San Sebastian del Oeste, Mascota, Talpa de Allende, Atenguillo, Mixtlán and Guachinango.

 

Mascota's Main Plaza is a colorful, musical and vegetation-filled heart where it is very pleasant to spend time. Its beautiful neo-Mudejar style kiosk is usually occupied by mariachis who add rhythm and passion to the atmosphere.

 

Finally, when you've worked up an appetite, a good place to go is the Mercado Municipal de Mascota, which on the first floor offers all kinds of typical products, candies, fruits and vegetables, while the top floor is dedicated to gastronomy and is an excellent place to try specialties such as chingaderas, menudo and barbacoa.
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