A major industrial hub in central Mexico with grand colonial architecture, a thriving leather market, and wide tree-lined plazas anchored by the 18th-century cathedral.
León, Mexico's leather-making capital, is an industrial city in central Mexico. You'll find the Metropolitan Park with its pier and rose gardens, the Explora Science Center with its interactive exhibits, and hundreds of leather goods shops in the central district. At night, the city center fills with street vendors selling tacos and tamales, while local musicians perform near the 18th-century Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Light.
Getting Around León
You can use the Optibús rapid transit system to reach most parts of the city. León has 65 kilometers of dedicated bicycle paths, and you can rent bikes at stations throughout the city. About 39% of all trips in León happen by walking or cycling, making it one of Latin America's most active cities for non-motorized transport.
Shopping for Leather Goods
The central shopping district has over 500 stores selling locally-made shoes, boots, jackets, and accessories. Visit during the Sapica trade fair in March or August to see the latest shoe designs, or during ANPIC to explore leather industry innovations. For international brands alongside local boutiques, head to Plaza Mayor or Altacia shopping centers.
Exploring the City Center
During the day, you can walk through the pedestrian zones and browse the shops. In the evenings, these streets fill with families taking walks, street performers playing music, and food vendors preparing snacks. The Cathedral Basilica, dating from 1746, has detailed stonework on its exterior and religious art collections inside.
Cultural Venues and Parks
The 260-hectare Metropolitan Park includes sports fields, cycling tracks, and quiet areas. You can visit the pier overlooking the lake, walk through the rose garden, explore the orchards, or set up at the camping grounds. At the Explora Science Center, four exhibition halls focus on the human body, water, communication, and movement. The center also has an IMAX theater and runs daily science workshops. León Zoo houses more than 2,000 animals, including polar bears, tigers, lions, and water birds.
Food and Local Life
Small restaurants across the city serve traditional Mexican dishes. You'll find street food stands in the center selling tacos, tamales, and regional specialties. The city has modern amenities while keeping its industrial character, without the tourist-focused atmosphere of nearby colonial cities.
Getting There and Away
Del Bajío International Airport in Silao has flights to major Mexican cities and U.S. destinations including Houston, Dallas, and Chicago. Flights from Mexico City take 45 minutes. From the central bus station, you can take regular buses to nearby cities, with hourly service to Guanajuato taking about one hour.
