population: 1.24 million

extension: 11,699.96 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Querétaro and interested in museums, a great place to visit is the Museo Regional de Querétaro, which showcases the history and culture of the state. Other nearby museums include the Museo de Arte de Querétaro, which focuses on contemporary Mexican art, and the Museo de la Ciudad, which explores the city's history and architecture.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to eat in Querétaro, according to local people, include:

1. Gorditas: Thick tortillas stuffed with a variety of fillings such as cheese, beans, meat, or vegetables.

2. Barbacoa: Slow-cooked lamb or beef that is incredibly tender and flavorful.

3. Enchiladas queretanas: Tortillas filled with chicken or cheese, and then covered in a rich red sauce made from dried chiles, tomatoes, onion, and garlic.

4. Cabuches: Edible flower buds that are pickled and eaten as a snack or used as a topping for tacos.

5. Escamoles: The larvae of ants that are sautéed with butter and spices and served as a delicacy.

6. Chiles en Nogada: A festive dish featuring poblano peppers stuffed with ground meat, fruits, and nuts, covered in a creamy walnut sauce and topped with pomegranate seeds, making the colors of the Mexican flag.

7. Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork that is succulent and crispy on the outside, typically served with tortillas, salsa, and guacamole.

8. Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a spit, which is sliced off and served on tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.

9. Sopa Queretana: A hearty soup made with pork, chorizo, beans, and vegetables, often served with a side of crispy tortilla strips.

10. Agua de Jamaica: A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, sugar, and water, served cold.

Activities

Querétaro has plenty of fun activities that locals enjoy. Some popular options include:

1. Exploring the historic center of Querétaro, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site
2. Visiting the Jardín Zenea, a beautiful park in the heart of the city
3. Trying some of the delicious street food, such as tacos and gorditas, from local vendors
4. Taking a hot air balloon ride to see the stunning landscape from above
5. Hiking or mountain biking in the nearby Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve
6. Attending a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) match at the Plaza de Toros Santa Maria bullring.