Things to do in Puerto Vallarta

Mexican cuisine is so globally revered that in 2010 it made UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List—an award granted to no other national food group. And while we don’t hate the idea of spending a Puerto Vallarta vacation hopping from one taco stand to the next, there’s a better way to take a deep dive into what makes Mexican cuisine so prized. Say hello to Vallarta Food Tours, an intimate three-hour tour that introduces the unique flavours and history behind tacos, chocolate, mole sauces, tortillas and more. If you prefer a liquid diet, Vallarta Food Tours also offers an exciting Mex-ology tour that features local artisanal mezcal, tequila, craft brews, and Mexican-inspired cocktails.

For a mesmerizing evening of world-class entertainment, Rhythms of the Night is a Cirque-du-Soleil style show set on a secluded, private island. The evening begins with an open-bar sunset cruise to a picture-perfect palm-fringed cove. Upon arrival, hundreds of tiki torches and candles illuminate the path to a stone pyramid stage. Live music and modern dance performers then tell dramatic stories of Mexico’s riveting past—all beneath a romantic, starry night sky. Dinner is served after the show to round out the experience. Speaking of open-bar cruises, no mention of gay Puerto Vallarta is complete without a shout out to Diana’s Gay Cruise Excursions. An institution in Puerto Vallarta, Diana has been hosting LGBTQ catamaran rides around Banderas Bay for 19 years. The day includes a visit to Los Arcos for swimming and snorkelling, the occasional whale and manta ray sightings, delicious food and drink, and all around fun-loving vibes. Diana’s tours sell out far in advance for good reason, so plan accordingly.

Puerto Vallarta has long attracted artists to her colourful streets, so it should come as little surprise that the city is home to more art galleries than any other coastal Mexican town. You’ll stumble upon many a gallery while exploring the Romantic Zone, but one of the best ways to experience Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant art centre is via ArtWalk. These self-guided tours happen every Wednesday evening (October through May) and provide a unique opportunity to chat with local artists and mingle with like-minded travellers. If it’s home furnishings you’re after, Elements of Design is an eclectic collection of Mexican-designed decor, with everything from mirrors to rugs to furniture. The boutique emphasizes local and sustainable Mexican craftsmanship, promising high-quality, one-of-a-kind showstoppers.

Many of Mexico’s best bites are from nondescript street vendors and hole-in-the-wall family establishments. That said, Puerto Vallarta has its fair share of Michelin-worthy restaurants—and they do a damn good job at elevating the Mexican fine dining experience. A must-visit on any Puerto Vallarta vacation is Tintoque. From a sleek open-kitchen in glittering Marina Vallarta, PV native Chef Joel Ornelas turns out complex takes on creative, local ingredients.

Try his famed Fried Shrimp, served in an eel gel and chipotle emulsion. It’s worth noting Chef Ornelas trained at Café Des Artistes, another heralded Puerto Vallarta institution that certainly warrants a meal (or two.) Expect luxurious haute cuisine that’s wowed customers for over 27 years. Finally, Food Park is Puerto Vallarta’s take on the ever-popular contemporary food courts sweeping the global culinary landscape. Between the three food trucks and eight food containers, there’s a little something for everyone here. It’s best to visit on weekends when live music and DJs elevate the trendy foodie experience.

For Puerto Vallarta nightlife, Blondies Loft is worth seeking out. This gay-owned lounge and cocktail bar offers epic sunset views of Banderas Bay—along with an attractive and friendly gay staff. The ambience? A mix of colourful pop art decor and tunes from the 40s. The frozen slush cocktails are particularly popular here, but you can’t go wrong with any imbibement. Another stylish gay cocktail and martini bar is Mr. Flamingo, a tiki-inspired bar that emanates classy Hawaii vibes. With great music and a lively crowd, it’s the ideal spot to either start or end your night.