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Some History and Background
The city of Tijuana lies in a region once inhabited by the Kumiai (Kumeyaay) Indians, a tribe of Yuman-speaking hunter-gatherers. Europeans first arrived in the area in 1542, when the Portuguese explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo landed and explored the local coastline. Cabrillo would die the following year after suffering a fall at San Miguel Island. While nobody knows for sure, he is believed to have been buried on Catalina Island.
The local coastline would later be mapped in 1602 by Sebastián Vizcaíno and in 1769, Father Juan Crespí documented more detailed information about the region that would one day be called the Valley of Tijuana and Father Junípero Serra founded the very first mission of Alta California, just to the north in San Diego.
The area would see more settlements near the end of the mission era when the governor of Baja and Alta California – José María de Echeandía – awarded a large land grant to Santiago Argüello in 1829, which included the large cattle ranch, Rancho Tía Juana (“Aunt Jane Ranch”), and covered 100 square kilometers.
As a direct result of the Mexican-American War with the United States, Mexico lost all of Alta California in 1848 and Tijuana would almost immediately begin a period of transformation as it adapted to its new role as a port of entry on the international border with the U.S., abandoning its cattle ranching origins to begin forming a socio-economic structure for the city.
July 11, 1889 marked what would become the real beginning of urban settlement, with the signing of an agreement between the descendants of Santiago Argüello and Agustín Olvera to begin development of the city of Tijuana. Decades later the date would become recognized as the date the city was formally founded although some argues its true beginning was when it became an international port of entry.
Tijuana and tourism became synonymous, almost from its inception, attracting large numbers of tourists from California to the north who crossed the border heading south looking for trade and entertainment.
During the Mexican Revolution, Tijuana played a role when revolutionaries loyal to Ricardo Flores Magón took over the city in 1911. The uprising would be short-lived however, as federal troops soon arrived and routed the rebels. San Diegans would drive down and park on the northern side of the border to be able to watch the battle from a safe distance.
The Eighteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified in 1919 and the fallout from Prohibition would change Tijuana forever. The 1920’s would bring droves of Americans coming south across the border to partake not only in legal drinking but gambling and other vices as well. Tijuana would see rapid economic development as a result of new hotels, restaurants and bars being built along with luxurious casinos like Agua Caliente that would open, bringing in Hollywood celebrities and business tycoons.
The 1920’s brought not only a significant increase of American tourists but also caused a large influx of Mexicans from other parts of Mexico, seeking to relocate in hopes of finding better jobs as a result of the increase in prohibition related tourism. Even after prohibition was repealed, tourism to Tijuana continued to grow for several years and between 1940 and 1950 the city grew from 21,971 to 65,364 inhabitants.
The nightlife scene, which had fueled Tijuana’s skyrocketing growth for decades finally began to decline during the 1950’s and with fewer tourists coming south across the border, the city began to restructure its tourism industry, promoting a more family oriented scene with a greater variety of attractions and activities to offer its visitors.
Origin of the Name of Tijuana
An often argued topic but we’ll go with the version provided by historians who have dedicated a lot of time researching and investigating the origins of the name of the city of Tijuana.
While it’s true that there was a ranch in the area named “Tía Juana” (Aunt Jane), the true source of the name comes from the Yuman Indian language from the early indigenous inhabitants of the region with historians finding several documents that show the region has been known by several variations of the name over the last four hundred years with mentions of “Tiguana”, “Tiuana”, “Teguana”, “Tiwana”, “Tijuan” and “Ticuan” appearing in colonial times and “Tia Juana” and “Tijuana” only appearing after Mexico won its independence from Spain.
Based on the Yuman language and its pre-colonial usage by native populations in the region, historians have come to recognize Tijuana originating from “Tiwan”, meaning close to the sea.
Nonetheless, most English-speaking Americans pronounce the name of the city “Tia Wanna”, though it is commonly called “TJ” in Southern California.
Things to See and Do in Tijuana
Mention to friends or family you’re thinking about visiting Tijuana and some (or most) of them may simply think you’re nuts. And believe us, we get it.
As the busiest border crossing city in the world and its “sin city” reputation – a synonym for many of our vices in life going all the way back to prohibition when crowds streamed across the border seeking alcohol, gambling and, well, let’s just say… more.
The city of Tijuana however, took full advantage of the very busy border traffic and capitalized on its close proximity to the U.S. to develop and grow strong cross-border economic relationships, building itself up into what is today a dynamic, reinvigorated and multi-cultural gateway to the Baja Peninsula of Mexico.
And if you haven’t been paying attention, The region has also developed into a true gastronomic destination; a foodie’s Disneyland of delicious aromas, flavors, seasonings and international cooking styles.
If seafood is near or at the top of your list, you will feel right at home down here and these restaurants are among our favorites for fresh and delicious seafood in Tijuana:
- Los Arcos – Boulevard Salinas y Escuadrón 201 No. 1000 Col. Aviacion, Tijuana 22420
- Villa Marina – Paseo de los Heroes 4449 Rio Tijuana, 4449, Baja California, Tijuana 22320
- La Corriente Cevichería Nais – Calle 6a, esquina con Ave. Madero, Tijuana
If you choose the last option at La Corriente Cevicheria and you’re not ready to head back home right after dinner, you can continue the fun by simply moving over to the connected mezcal bar – El Tinieblo; a dark and intimate party hideaway that brings in the best in regional electronic DJs who really know how to adjust to the temperature and mood of the room.
And because there’s no such thing as too many tacos, a visit to Tijuana’s “Taco Alley” is a must stop for anyone visiting this border city.
A great option if you don’t know where to go is to simply sign up for one of the popular Tijuana walking tours and make it a group event with your friends and family!
Another very popular spot to eat would be to treat yourself to the fine dining experience at Mision 19; the internationally recognized product of Javier Plascencia—a well-known chef who dared to start a fine dining revolution in Tijuana with his Baja Med style cuisine.
Other formal dining options in Tijuana include the Oryx Capital – which hides the Nortico speakeasy in the back and one of our old favorites – Villa Saverios, a very classy restaurant serving a trendy blend of Mexican, Italian and Mediterranean dishes with top-notch quality service and flavor.
You love craft beer?
Then you are really going to love Tijuana as “cerveza artesanal” has a really active and growing community here and Plaza Fiesta – formerly a mall full of nightclubs – has become an extremely popular, must-stop attraction for sampling new brews.
There, visitors can hop from tasting room to tasting room and sample brews from Norte Brewing Company, Mamut Brewery, Border Psycho Brewery, Lúdica Artesanal and Cervecería Lírica as well as other new, emerging brand names that are quickly growing in popularity on the local scene.
If you want to have some cocktails with a view, try heading over to take in the rooftop scene at Cine Tonalá, before or after you catch a show at Tijuana’s first art house movie theater downstairs.
These are just some of our favorite spots in Tijuana and for a more complete look at what you can see and do, here’s a “can’t-miss” list of perennial favorites for tourists in Tijuana:
1. CECUT – Tijuana Cultural Center
Known for its iconic spherical shape and desert sand color, the Tijuana Cultural Center is one of the top places to visit in Tijuana. The Center opened in the 1980s and since then has become one of the icons of the city, located in Zona Rio, which is just five minutes away from the U.S. border.
Tijuana Cultural Center is one of the only institutions of the National Council for Culture and Arts in Mexico. Here, visitors can come to learn about the history of Baja California through its many exhibitions at the Museum of the Californias; through film in the IMAX dome; and live performances in the Performance Hall, aquarium, and more.
The Cultural Center pays special attention to the native peoples of the region, with participation of artists and artisans that are both national and international. The center even has its own Cineteca Tijuana, which screens films and has been a gathering point for directors, screenwriters, and actors.
Address: Paseo de los Héroes 9350, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C.
2. Avenida Revolucion
Avenida Revolucion is, in a word, legendary. What was once the main thoroughfare for the city’s notorious “seedy” activity has now become the focal point of the Tijuana renaissance. Locally known as “La Revu,” today, it is a kaleidoscope of physical color, and holds the secrets from a tawdry past. It is the source of new life for the city, brimming with cafés, restaurants, hotels, brilliant street murals, designer galleries, and outdoor performances.
If you’re looking for artisan craft shops, this is the street to explore. Many of the shops along the street stock their shelves with goods produced by Tijuana natives. Think stained glass, leather, and figurines. You’ll also be able to find Talavera pottery, wooden figurines from Oaxaca, and textiles from the Yucatan.
There is always something to see, hear, smell, or taste along the main artery of the downtown. This is also the heart of Tijuana’s culinary revolution. Flanking either side of the Avenue, visitors will fi
nd many modern restaurants churning out traditional and experimental dishes from both local and international chefs.
3. El Trompo Museum
El Trompo is an interactive science museum geared towards local families, and tourists. It’s fun for the whole family here, with cultural shows, games, and multiple exhibitions.
General admission is around $5. Their website often has a calendar of upcoming events, as well.
The learning space encourages kids and their families to take a hands-on approach to experimenting and incorporating science into everyday life. The expansive four-story building has four interactive rooms, with a collection of 108 pieces, as well as a Multipurpose Room and an auditorium with a capacity for 4,000 people.
Within the exhibits, visitors will find sculpture and robotics workshops; a youth science center; a center for computer programming; and space for concerts, conferences, and book presentations. A movie hall plays 3D movies, as well.
Address: Av de los Insurgentes s/n, Rio Tijuana 3ra Etapa, 22226 Tijuana, B.C
4. Pasaje Rodriguez
Amid the frenzy of La Revu, tucked between the slew of hotels, restaurants, and shops, an oasis for the artistic stands under the radar. This is Pasaje Rodriguez, a back alley packed with art, delicious food, and excellent energy.
Pasaje Rodriguez is a nod to the evolution of Tijuana and the revitalization that is reshaping the way the city is seen around the world. The project responsible for the Passage began in 2009, when parts of the passage were opened up for just a few days in order to display local art. It’s not surprising that artists, designers, and photographers wanted the space to remain open even after the festival was gone.
Today, visitors can find a walkway of brilliant murals, small hole-in-the-wall restaurants, artistic galleries, and much more. First Fridays of each month tend to be great times to go, when exhibitions are organized, as well as festive parties. Evenings are also the most energetic and interesting time to explore, as well.
Tijuana Map – Lookup Address / Location
5. El Popo Market
Mexico is all about its local markets, and Tijuana is no different. Mercado El Popo is arguably the best in town. If you want to see a slice of local Tijuana life, this is the place to start. The downtown market is brimming with products, from fresh cheeses and candy, to sacks of dried chilies, candles, soaps, oils, cinnamon, fruit, herbs, and incense.
El Popo is a perfect spot to tuck into the local cuisine, or pick up some fun and festive souvenirs. It’s also a great place to see locals coming in from out of town to sell their products from the countryside.
Address: 22000, Calle Benito Juárez 2da 8053, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C.
6. Playas de Tijuana
Venture outside of “downtown” to discover Playas de Tijuana, a western borough of the entire municipality. The boardwalk here is a four-mile ring of pedestrian bridges that runs from the Azteca Park to the U.S. border. It’s difficult to visit Tijuana and ignore the very real political issue between Mexico and the United States, and the boardwalk is an in-your-face reminder, as you can see the border wall that runs into the Pacific Ocean.
Seafood reigns supreme in Tijuana, and in Playas there is a bounty of it, from fish tacos to ceviche and beyond. The majority of travelers bypass Playas to head toward downtown Tijuana, but this is definitely a change-of-pace, laid-back vibe that offers a different side of northern Baja.
7. Casa de la Cultura
Don’t let anyone ever tell you there’s no culture in Tijuana. Casa de la Cultura in Tijuana is one of Mexico’s buildings that has been declared a site of historical heritage.
Originally designed as an elementary school (modeled after one in Yuma, Arizona), today it is a place of learning. In 1975, the building became the first cultural site in Tijuana. In 2014, it was named a cultural heritage site of the state.
It includes a theater, the Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez library, the Benjamin Serrano Gallery, Literary Cafe, and plenty of rooms for workshops and exhibitions. Past workshops have included dance, hip hop, language, green cuisine, and more.
Casa de la Cultura brings an average of 25,000 visitors per year. In 2018, Casa de la Cultura became one of the first centers in the city to have a program supported by the National Institute of Fine Arts in Mexico.
Address: Calle Benito Juárez 2da y Constitución s / n, Zona Centro, CP 22000
8. Caesar’s Salad
Did you know that when you order a Caesar Salad, you’re actually ordering Mexican food? Well, sort of. Though there is some debate surrounding it, it’s widely accepted that the Caesar salad was invented in Mexico – and in Tijuana, to be exact.
The salad’s birthplace is widely regarded as Caesars Restaurants Bar, at the Caesar Hotel in Tijuana. It was invented by none other than Caesar himself, Caesar Cardini, who was the owner of the hotel at the time. At that time, Tijuana was popular among the Hollywood elite while Prohibition was raging in the United States, which brought them south of the border for a little bit of lawless fun.
Many other theories exist regarding where the salad was created, but most people hold it to this version of history. So can you still get a Caesar salad the way it was originally intended? Of course! Caesars is still around, and their table side salad is an iconic dish. In fact, it’s one of the longest-reigning culinary traditions in Tijuana.
Address: Av. Revolución 8190, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C.
9. Plaza Santa Cecilia
A stroll through Plaza Santa Cecilia is like a step back in time to historic Tijuana. It happens to be one of the oldest parts of the city. It is from this Plaza that Tijuana was born, at the intersection of First Street and La Revu.
Today, it’s hard to envision historic Tijuana, as it’s a hodgepodge of outdoor craft stalls, restaurants, and modern businesses like pharmacies and dentists. That said, trust that you are standing in the birthplace of this iconic Mexican Bordertown. With the brassy blast of mariachi in the air and the fluttering flags that are strung overhead, it won’t be hard to use your imagination and picture how things used to be decades ago.
Like the rest of Tijuana, the plaza wasn’t always a gregarious and joyful place. It used to be a hotbed for criminal activity. But those days are long gone. Today it’s very much a potpourri of color, activity, art, and music.
10. Zona Rio
Just east of downtown Tijuana is this thriving commercial hub, brimming with shops, restaurants, and plenty of things to do. First place to visit should be the Plaza Rio Shopping Mall, especially if you love to eat. Here, you’ll find Foodgarden, which is a humming dining destination with food stalls run by young chefs from Tijuana and the region.
Tijuana is being redefined by its foodie scene, so you won’t want to miss eating here. You’ll also find the Mercado Hidalgo near here, which is more or less a farmer’s market, and this is one of the best places in the city to discover the “real” Tijuana. It sells everything from tortilla presses and coffee to candy and pinatas.
Address: Paseo de los Héroes 96-98, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C.
