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Where to Go & What to Do in Tijuana, Mexico

What are the best places to visit and things to do in Tijuana?

I’m spending some time in San Diego again and one of the things I love to do is take a day trip to Tijuana .

It’s a one day vacation to a different country with a different culture, a different language, and delicious food!

Now I’ll admit Tijuana, or TJ, is a typical border town and not the most beautiful place on earth.

Some people will even tell you it is dangerous and you shouldn’t go. But if you know where to go in Tijuana and use common sense the way you should always do when traveling to a new place, then visiting Tijuana makes for a fun day trip filled with good food, cheap beer, and great (souvenir) shopping !

How to Get From San Diego to Tijuana

Getting from San Diego to Tijuana is easy and cheap if you know the tricks.

Finding parking along the border can be difficult and expensive. So, if you are staying in San Diego your best choice is hopping on the blue line of the trolley and exiting at the last stop: San Ysidro Transit Center . The fare is US$ 2.50 for a one-way ticket.

Once you exit the trolley you will see signs pointing to Mexico immediately.

I recommend you exchange some money before leaving the USA since the currency exchange is better in San Diego. US$ 20 will probably be enough for food and drinks or US$ 50 if you want to do some shopping as well (bigger stores take credit cards).

You’ll find very obvious signs for money exchange right outside the San Ysidro Transit Center.

The walk from the trolley to the border takes you less than 5 minutes. Everyone has to show their passport so do make sure to take it with you. Customs usually only ask you what you will be doing in Mexico.

If you plan on staying more than 7 days you will have to pay a tourist permit that costs around US$30.

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Tijuana

Many people are worried Tijuana isn’t safe. And yes, there are areas you’d better avoid. But, these are areas that have nothing to offer someone on a day trip to Tijuana anyway.

This is a list of the areas I’d recommend visiting and things to do in Tijuana.

1. Centro – Downtown Tijuana

Centro translates to Center or Downtown. Most people on a day trip to Tijuana spend their day in downtown Tijuana which is centered around one large avenue: the Avenida Revolución ( map ).

Although Zona Rio is the real downtown of Tijuana, Avenida Revolucion remains the historic center of the city and its very soul.

The easiest way to get to downtown Tijuana from the border, if you don’t want to deal with overpriced taxis, is to walk.

The walk from the border to downtown takes less than 30 minutes and you will see many signs pointing you in the right direction.

If you do want to take a cab you will have to bargain since they will probably want to charge about US$ 15 while a reasonable price is US$ 5 for up to four people.

Most taxi drivers speak English so it won’t be difficult to bargain and get a fair deal.

Things to Do in Downtown Tijuana

If you’re into people watching have a drink at Praga Cafe . If you want to enjoy a great meal and sip on tequila, try Cesar Restaurant .

Walk along Pasaje Rodriguez ( map ) to check out murals by local artists and have a beer at Mamut Cerveceria. Take the elevator of the parking lot along 4th street up to the 5th floor to find Norte Brewing and enjoy a great view while sipping on their hoppy Penthouse IPA.

Head to 2nd street for some hot chocolate and the typical mole tamales at Casa Cacao.

Along 6th street, you’ll find all the cool kids drinking in divey cantinas . Try Dandy del Sur, the oldest one in Tijuana, who has great 2-for-1 specials from Sunday to Wednesday.

Walk half a block up on Avenida Revolucion to find Colectivo 9, a trendy collective of small eateries offering international cuisine.

The best tacos are not found on touristy Avenida Revolucion. Head to Calle Madero for that, which is located between 6th and 7th street. The tacos there are great but most taqueros (taco vendors) speak little English so point at what you like or test your Spanish skills!

A cool spot I discovered on my last day trip to Tijuana is the Telefonica Gastro Park . This trendy indoor & outdoor dining spot offers a wide variety of things: from cool twists on Mexican food (I never knew vegan tacos could be so delicious!) to high-quality burgers, good coffee, or just a simple beer.

2. Playas de Tijuana

Playas de Tijuana ( map ) (meaning “beaches of Tijuana”) is the westernmost borough of the municipality of Tijuana, Baja California.

The Boardwalk in Playas de Tijuana is a circuit of four miles of interconnected pedestrian bridges from the Azteca Park to the border with the US.

Here you can see the Mexican-American border (a wall) run into the Pacific Ocean. Along the boardwalk you’ll see diverse murals, shops from local artisans, and a wide variety of Mexican snacks to try.

On the main strip you’ll find a variety of fresh seafood restaurants serving fish tacos, oysters, shrimp cocktails, ceviche, or aguachile at affordable prices.

Many people skip Playas on a day trip to Tijuana but it’s an easy taxi ride from downtown Tijuana and nice to see a different part of the city.

3. ​Zona Rio

Zona Rio ( map ), located East of downtown Tijana, is Tijuana’s business district . It is packed with traffic and plenty to do.

Tucked inside Plaza Rio Shopping Mall is one of Tijuana’s most exciting projects: Food Garden . Food Garden is not your typical food court. Instead of food chains, they offer stalls run by young chefs with different culinary proposals that are unique to Tijuana and the region.

Across Plaza Rio you will find Plaza Fiesta, which is a densely packed area of drinking establishments. There has been a strong shift by the local craft beer scene to exhibit their beers in unique tasting rooms. With 10 different tasting rooms from breweries around the region, you can taste over 100 different beers on any given day.

Next to Plaza Fiesta you’ll see Mercado Hidalgo, Tijuana’s answer to a farmer’s market .

Mercado Hidalgo is where locals and tourists come to experience a little bit of the real Mexico . Cenadurias (Mexican cafes), fruit stalls, vegetable stalls, spicy candy, piñatas, mole paste, tortilla presses and a never-ending assortment of spices from all over the country can be found here.

Don’t miss the coffee shop in the middle of the market with a chapel on the second floor: it is very inexpensive and uses only Mexican coffee beans for their coffees.

Tijuana may be a city with very little traditional Mexican culture due to its short history, but what little the city has can be found in Zona Rio.

This part of town is where you find the Cultural Center, or Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) – La Bola for locals.

Inaugurated in 1986, CECUT has grown over the years. Currently it houses a three story hall called El Cubo (The Cube) with rotating national and international exhibits.

A permanent exhibit detailing the history of Baja California and Tijuana can be found next to El Cubo, alongside a botanical garden and an aquarium.

The sphere itself (La Bola) is an IMAX dome screening natural or cultural documentaries.

​4. Chapultepec

Located south-east of downtown Tijuana, this nice and more upscale side of town is centered around Sonora ( map ). It’s the Avenida Revolucion for those who have landed a stable 9-5 job.

Paseo Chapultepec is a two-story modern mall here with various restaurants such as Cabanna, a bar and grill focusing on fresh seafood. Next door you will find Barezzito with their Thursday night ladies night for all young bachelors.

Just a little bit further up the street you’ll find Pub de la Chapu, a favorite among the locals with a typical Irish bar feel and sports games showing most nights.

And if you make it all the way up the street you will most likely find someone celebrating their birthday at Caffé Saverios, a tiny cafe serving the best Italian food in the city.

5. Caliente Casino and Caliente Stadium

Casinos run deep in the history of Tijuana. They were the reason Frank Sinatra, Rita Heyworth, and Al Capone allegedly visited the city during its early boom.

Caliente Casino ( map ) hosts greyhound races every day for eager patrons waving their winning tickets.

Next door to the casino the same owner built Caliente Stadium for his soccer club “Los Xoloitzcuintles de Tijuana”. Seating 30,000 people, the atmosphere during any match is electrifying and beers go for less than  US$ 2 – need I say more!

Next to the stadium you’ll find Galerias Hipodromo, a shopping mall with several restaurants and bars on its second floor – perfect for a quick appetizer and beer before the game.

Tijuana Has Enough to Offer for a Great Day Trip!

I hope this list of things to do in Tijuana gave you an idea of what Tijuana has to offer.

I think a day trip to Tijuana from San Diego is great, and an easy way to see a different culture. Or make it a nice weekend break if you want to explore a bit more.

Tip: if you want to visit Tijuana from San Diego but don’t want to go alone, Viator offers great day trips to Tijuana with wonderful guides who can show you all the best places.

But, if you want to see the “real” Mexico I recommend not spending too much time in Tijuana. Venture further into the country to get a real taste of Mexico with all its history, culture and friendly people.

Also Read: Things to Know Before Going to Mexico

This article was created with help of Tijuanawalkingtour.com because of their great local knowledge. Thanks guys, I appreciate all your tips! Do check them out if you are interested in a tour of Tijuana.

And if you are going back to San Diego after your day trip to Tijuana, check out these articles:

• What to See & Do in San Diego
• 4 of the Best Day Trips From San Diego
• 8 of the Best Coffee Shops to Work From in San Diego
• Rooftop Bars in San Diego Worth Visiting

Also Read: A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

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This article about places to visit and things to do in Tijuana contains an affiliate link. I may receive a commission for purchases made through this link, at no additional cost to you.

17 thoughts on “Where to Go & What to Do in Tijuana, Mexico”

I’m planning a trip to Tijuana and this post was incredibly helpful in planning our itinerary! The recommendations for the best places to visit were spot on and I appreciate the safety tips. Can’t wait to try all the delicious food and drinks! 🇲🇽

Great post! I’m planning my trip to Tijuana and this information is really helpful. Thanks for sharing!

Great article! It helps us a lot to explore Tijuana.

Hi Stacy, I loved Telefonica Gastro Park for vegan tacos in Tijuana. Definitely try them!

Where do I find vegan food in tJ

I definitely recommend Rosarito, which is just south of Tijuana. If you like wine and vineyards check out Valle de Guadalupe (great for wine tasting and plenty of restaurants but maybe not the number 1 spot for authentic Mexican food). If you want to extend your trip then drive down to Ensenada and spend a night (or two) there.

I completely agree, as a local I always recommend to my friends to go to those places. I love to take them to Revolution and to Valle de Guadalupe.

What towns around TJ to visit that has great local great authentic food

If you are in Tijuana and thirsty for a pint of craft beer. Visit us at Pasaje Revolución, near Pasaje Gómez and Rodriguez, also near Norte Brewing.

This is such a detailed and helpful post. I’m heading to Mexico this year, and your pictures and descriptions have gotten me more excited. Thanks for sharing!

What a great post about an amazing destination. I really hope I can visit Tijuana soon!

I used to live in southern California, and Ive been to Tijuana a couple times. That was years ago. It was always charming in it own way, but it seems like its even better today. Thanks for all these great tips.

I’ve visited all over Mexico but never to Tijuana. I know that Carlos Santana is from Tijuana and he’s probably the most famous Mexican! This is a great in depth points of interest post, I’ll try a walking tour to get an idea of the city and follow your points when I do finally make it there!

I remember doing that trip back in 2004. Nothing in particular stood out. Everyone in my group was mostly curious as to what infamous TJ was actually like.

I remembered going to Tijuana 7-8 years ago with a tour group in California, but we didn’t go to any of the places you listed! Would love to go back again and explore. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Great guide to Tijuana. Haven’t made it there yet but might try to head down next time I visit San Diego.

I do love TJ!! Thank you for giving it such a well deserved, uplifting spin. And yes!!! Vegan tacos totally rock and vegan and vegetarian food is becoming so much easier to come by in Tijuana and beyond.

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Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2024? Your Complete Guide by a Local

Is Tijuana safe? The question of safety is often at the forefront of people’s minds when they plan a trip anywhere in Mexico for the first time and that definitely includes Tijuana, a misunderstood city right on the frontera that acts as a gateway into Mexico from the United States. (and vice versa). 

You are in good hands here because I have been living in Mexico for the last 2.5 years with my Mexican partner. We have passed through TJ numerous times, and created this guide to give you a realistic look at what traveling here is like.

Table of Contents

Is Tijuana Safe to Travel to in 2024?

The reality is that as it stands today, Tijuana is not the safest city in Mexico , not by a long stretch. Crime rates are high (both in terms of violent/drug-related crimes) and petty theft/muggings.). 

Although the former is not likely to affect you as a tourist, it is worth being aware of what the situation is in the places that you travel. Things have definitely changed for the worse in recent years and while TJ might have once been a fun day trip destination from San Diego and Southern California, many areas are now a little run down and rough around the edges. 

That is not to say that you shouldn’t go, or that if you do go, something bad is guaranteed to happen. You just need to have a good level of situational awareness and use the same common sense as you would when traveling anywhere else in the world for the first time. 

You can enjoy a safe trip to Tijuana with precautions. However, this is not a city where you can just wander around freely following Google Maps and allowing yourself to get lost in different areas. 

Know which areas are safe and which are not 

One critical thing to be aware of when you travel anywhere in Mexico is just how much the safety situation can vary substantially from state to state, city to city, and from district to district within a specific city. 

In Tijuana, CDMX, Guadalajara, and other Mexican cities, you can be in a perfectly safe area, walk ten minutes down the road, and then find yourself in a sketchy area where your gringo presence is not apprecaited. Avenida Revolución is essentially the main “strip” in Tijuana and many of the city’s most interesting attractions, nightlife options, etc can be found either directly on the street or just off it. 

It always has a pretty high police presence, even during the day, so you can generally walk around here with no issue, as long as you are mindful of your belongings, etc. 

You want to avoid Rio Norte, TJ’s red-light district that runs from the downtown area right up to the US border zone, as well as the barrios of Camino Verde, Tres de Octubre, Urbivilla Del Prado 2, Mariano Matamoros Sur and Sánchez Taboada.

Rio Norte, in particular, is filled with junkies and brothels. It is a haven for people traveling south of the border from the US to Mexico to do drugs and indulge in all the vices that they don’t feel they can do at home.

With their presence, comes opportunists that want to target them. Downtown TJ and Zona Rio are among the “safer” areas, but crime rates are still high so you need to know where you are going and always be aware of what is going on around you. 

La Mesa and Colonia Libertad have both seen an increase in crime and gang-related activity in recent years and offer little interest to the cultural traveler anyway.

Cartel presence in Tijuana 

No doubt one of the biggest issues facing Tijuana is the cartel presence here and the fact that the city is located right on the Latin America – US smuggling route. As a result, all types of unsavory people pass through here, often involved with drugs, contraband, and human trafficking.

Homicides and violent crimes have increased in recent years, largely due to Mexico’s three largest cartels fighting over the territory.

The city has high rates of violent crime and homicide, with a rate of 105 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022, and at some points in 2022, six homicides per day were recorded in the city.

While looking at the statistics can be scary (TJ sees some of the highest homicide rates in Mexico), these are not random acts of violence and take place between members of crime groups, not tourists. 

Arguably the increased risk of cartel violence could increase the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, but this is still highly unlikely. Violent crimes like kidnappings and homicide do not typically target tourists. 

Crime rates in Tijuana

Your biggest risk here is someone stealing your phone or taking your wallet out of your back pocket but there are precautions that you can take to mitigate that risk that we will look at in this post.  The Numbeo crime index is a safety rating awarded to various cities across the world based on local residents’ perception of safety. 

Tijuana has a very high crime rating of 82.69 with residents concerned that crime has increased over the last three years. If we compare that to other parts of Mexico, Cancun, which is also considered a relatively dangerous city, has a crime rating of 61.76 and Guadalajara has a rating of 73.74.

Safest areas to stay in Tijuana 

Opt to stay somewhere centrally located and popular among tourists like Playas de Tijuana, Zona Central (downtown TJ), and Zona Rio. There are a lot of hotels in Zona Norte too but because it’s the red light district, it really isn’t the best area for solo travelers, families, etc.

There are a plethora of excellent, secure hotels around the central districts of Tijuana and many have 24/7 reception and security. 

Check your government travel advice for Tijuana

If you are a little nervous about your first trip to Tijuana, your government travel website is a good place to start looking for information. The US Department of State provides a state-by-state breakdown of the safety situation in each of Mexico’s 32 states and is updated in real-time to reflect any heightened risks, changes in entry requirements, etc. 

The advisory also goes on to state that the nearby coastal towns of Ensenada and Rosarito are safe with precautions.

It is a little sternly worded and the reality of the situation in Mexico is a little more nuanced than the site sometimes implies, but it is a good starting point. You will also find the Canadian government safety advice for Mexico here , and the UK travel advisory page here. 

Is Tijuana safe for solo travelers? 

Tijuana can be safe for solo travelers. You just need to make sure that you are extra assertive and aware of what is happening around you, etc. 

Being alone can make you more of a target for opportunists looking to take advantage of you. Honestly, this is just as true for men as it is for women – perhaps even more so in some parts.

Be wary of strangers who wander up to you and act as if they are your long-lost best friend. Exceptionally attractive women who are out of your league, and who approach you seemingly enamored are probably on the make (sorry). As are men who promise to take you to certain bars filled with girls. 

Is Tijuana safe for solo female travelers?

This entire website has been written by a solo female traveler based in Mexico (me!). I have traveled to 13 states during my time in the country, including a number of places on the “do not travel list”. 

My partner is Norteño (from Northern Mexico – Sinaloa to be exact) so I have traveled to a lot of adventurous places in Mexico. I am of the opinion that you should never let your gender or your physical appearance deter you from traveling anywhere that you want to go. 

If you really have your heart set on visiting TJ for whatever reason. I would say that Tijuana is a place best reserved for hardened solo female travelers who have at least some experience traveling solo in Latin America or in other countries/cities that require extra assertiveness. 

TJ is definitely somewhere where you will often find yourself looking over your shoulder and unless you are visiting friends here or have locals that can show you around, you might feel uncomfortable with the attention you receive, and the fact that you just cannot freely wander around. 

You might feel a lot more comfortable in places like Puerto Vallarta and Merida, or perhaps Chiapas, Santiago de Queretaro, and Guanajuato City if you are looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path and cultured. 

Mexican women tend to dress modestly in Tijuana to not attract attention to themselves. You will usually note that they wear jeans and a T-shirt even when it’s pretty hot.

It is better to follow suit if you’re coming here alone. 

Is Tijuana safe at night?

Tijuana is sketchy by day so you definitely have to be more careful by night. You don’t want to wander around aimlessly when the sun sets. 

However, if you are heading out to some of the bars and restaurants on Paseo de los Heroes, Avenida Revolución, and Calle Coahuila, you are safe enough to walk from one bar to another.

Most places here have their own private security, the streets are well-lit and there is a heavy police presence. When you head back to your hotel, choose to take an Uber rather than walk, especially if you have had a few drinks.

Is Uber safe in Tijuana? 

Yes. Uber is pretty safe in Tijuana and it is the preferred way to get around in cities across Mexico on the whole, which may come as a surprise depending on where you are coming from and the attitudes towards ridesharing app safety in your country. 

When you think about it though, it makes sense. There is more accountability via the app than when you get into a random street cab because with Uber, you already have the driver’s name, license plate details, etc and the platform has a record of all of the journeys you take. 

Taxi drivers in TJ (like taxi drivers the world over to be honest) are often a law unto themselves and often overcharge unsuspecting tourists to an exorbitant degree. In Mexico, there is also the risk of “express kidnappings” which happens when a taxi driver and his accomplices hold you at gun/knife point and drive you around the city, forcing you to make the maximum withdrawal from every ATM and hand over your valuables. 

It’s not super common but in TJ, it’s a risk you don’t want to entertain. 

How to stay safe using an Uber 

Using Uber in Tijuana isn’t 100% risk-free but it is a lot safer than getting into a car with a random taxi driver. If you are nervous about using the app in Mexico, check the driver’s profile before getting in the car, make sure they have a rating of 4.5 or above, and make sure that they have completed a few hundred journeys/been active on the app for at least a year before riding with them.

If they have only done a handful of journeys or they just joined the app a day ago, it is better to cancel and look for a new driver. As long as you cancel and search again quickly, Uber will not charge you for doing this.

When your driver arrives, make sure that the car and license plate you see in front of you correspond with what you have on the app.

Get someone to order a car for you if you can’t use Uber

Obviously, not every taxi driver in Tijuana is a scam artist. However, the shady few give local cab drivers a bad reputation on the whole. 

Generally speaking, taking a street cab here is just not worth the risk. But if you cannot find an Uber and you need a cab, you should ask the concierge/receptionist at your hotel to order one for you. 

If you find a local driver that you like, you can ask for their number/business card and use them as your go-to driver for the rest of your trip.

Is it safe to cross the border from San Diego to Tijuana (and vice versa)?

The El Chaparral Port of Entry (Puerto Fronterizo El Chaparral) is one of the most popular US-Mexico border crossing points that exist. You can both drive and walk across it, and doing so is perfectly safe during the day. 

If you are crossing in the evening, or this is your first time visiting Tijuana, it is generally better to take an Uber from the border to your hotel or wherever it is that you are going. The crossing takes between 10-25 minutes depending on the time of day

Walking to downtown TJ means crossing a bridge over the Tijuana River which is poorly lit, and is best avoided after dark. 

Practical tips for staying safe in Tijuana 

I have enclosed some practical tips for staying safe during your time in Tijuana below. Some of these things may seem a little obvious, but they are worth reiterating here. 

• Leave your designer labels at home – expensive sunglasses, flashy jewelry, and designer handbags will only make you more of a target in a city with petty crime issues where people often live below the poverty line
• Avoid the bridges around the Tijuana River during the evenings or at night
• Remember that nothing is ever worth your life or your personal safety. If someone insists that you hand over your phone, wallet, etc, it is better to comply
• Always keep your eye on your personal belongings, especially in crowded places like Mercado Hidalgo. Don’t walk with your bag slung over one shoulder, etc
• Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you travel anywhere – a good policy will offer at least $250,000 USD of medical coverage. Today health isnt promised tomorrow!
• Never do drugs in Mexico – not only is it illegal, but it also encourages cartels in the area
• If heading to bars at night, take an Uber rather than walking, especially after drinking  
• Don’t carry wads of cash. 3000-4000 pesos is a lot of money here and is plenty to last you a few days
• Choose street food stands that are popular among locals and where food hasn’t been left out for extended periods

Is it safe to travel to Tijuana for medical tourism? 

Traveling to Mexico for medical reasons is appealing as everything from medical check-ups and surgeries to dental work and cosmetic procedures such as veneers, breast augmentation, etc are much cheaper here than in the United States and elsewhere. 

There are also many reputable doctors and surgeons in Tijuana who have studied in the US and Canada and decided to practice in Mexico. Tijuana might seem convenient if you are in California because of the ease of driving across the border.  

However, other cities like Guadalajara and Merida are becoming increasingly popular for medical tourism and cosmetic surgery and dentistry. I live in Merida and I am very impressed with the treatment here.

If you are nervous about traveling to Tijuana, it’s worth considering the other destinations available. You can find affordable flights to Guadalajara, Cancun, and Mexico City from most US cities. 

Obviously, you should check the references and reviews of any clinic before making a reservation. Mexico expat Facebook groups can be great sources of information where you can ask people about their recommendations and experience. 

Police corruption in Tijuana 

The police force across Mexico is generally considered corrupt. Where possible, it is better to avoid interactions with the police if you can.

While I did not have any negative experiences in Tijuana, my partner and I had an incident in Sinaloa when we were driving and another car sped through a red light and smashed into the side of our car. 

The driver quickly sped away and despite not being the ones at fault, the Sinaloa police surrounded us. We were escorted to the police station and forced to pay a bribe of 1200 pesos (circa $ 71 USD) for something that wasn’t our fault because the police saw an opportunity to make money. 

This is the first and only time we have had a bad experience with the police after several years in Mexico but it is not unheard of. If you are going to be driving in Mexico , be cautious and try not to give the police a reason to pull you over.

Unfortunately, because of the lack of resources, manpower, etc within the Tijuana police, they are not likely to be all that helpful to you if you should be a victim of a petty crime. If someone takes your wallet, phone, etc, you are highly unlikely to ever see it again so that’s why it’s important to take precautions in the first instance. 

Can you drink the water in Tijuana?

You cannot drink tap water anywhere in Mexico and that includes Tijuana. Although it is purified at the source, it may be contaminated en route to your tap. 

Even locals do not drink it. You will be provided with complimentary bottles of water when you check into your accommodation and then you can buy large, multi-litre bottles to store in your hotel fridge. 

You don’t have to worry about having ice in your drinks or consuming Mexican drinks made with water like agua frescas and horchata. Everything is prepared with bottled water and restaurants and hotels have ice delivered. 

Enjoy your time in Tijuana!

At the end of the day, despite its less-than-perfect reputation, traveling to Tijuana can still be enjoyable and the city has its highlights, just like anywhere else in the world. This is a city of 2.1 million people and most of the time, life goes on here as normal.

If you ask locals about the safety situation in Tijuana, many will tell you that you are just fine here and will comment on how over the top the “dangerous” image of Mexico is. While you definitely need to be aware of your surroundings, be sure to focus on enjoying your trip and not on worrying. 

If you are constantly worried or nervous, you simply won’t enjoy your trip. Some of the best, safe, and fun things to do in Tijuana are summarised below.

Tijuana Highlights

• Shop for souvenirs in the famous Mercado de Hidalgo in Zona Rio. This little market first opened its doors back in 1955 and sells everything but the kitchen sink! 
• Have lunch at the elegant, 1920s-style Caesar restaurant. It is here where Chef Caesar Cardini invented the Caesar salad for his American customers on the fourth of July 1924
• Catch a Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling) show at the Auditoria Municipal Fausto Gutierrez Moreno, and check out some interesting Luche libre merch at the   Museo De La Lucha Libre Mexicana  (Calle Hermenegildo Galeana 8 186)
• Admire the gorgeous Catedral de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, the oldest cathedral in the city which has been built with a gorgeous blend of colonial and neo-classical architecture
• Visit the Centro Cultural Tijuana home to a fantastic contemporary art museum, the Museum of the Californias, and host of the annual Tijuana art festival
• Head to the Playas de Tijuana beach and Friendship Park where a giant border wall that separates the US and Mexico is adorned with some pretty impressive murals and people can talk to each other from opposite sides of the border
• Go for drinks along the Avenida Revolucion, TJ’s main nightlife hub and the first paved street in the city. During the Prohibition Era (1920 to 1933), Americans would cross the border to be able to come and drink here.

Explore with a local guide 

One great way to get your bearings in a new city is to do a walking tour with a local. This can help you gain a lot more history and content in a new place than you would ever obtain wandering around by yourself and it can be reassuring if you are somewhere you feel a little uncomfortable or unsafe, like Tijuana.

Better yet? You have a Tijuana resident on hand to ask for recommendations on things to do in the city. 

Recommended Tijuana tours

Several reputable tour companies operate in Tijuana. You can do tours that pick you up in San Diego County and take you across the border or tours where someone collects you from your hotel in TJ. 

You can also do organized excursions out to some of the gorgeous wineries outside the city.

A selection of some of the best options is detailed below for your consideration. Book your place online in advance to avoid disappointment! 

• Tijuana: Guided city tour with local food and beer tasting
• From San Diego: Tijuana city and food tour
• From Tijuana: Valle de Guadalupe private winery tour
• Private Puerto Nuevo tour from San Diego with lobster lunch

Is Tijuana safe? Final thoughts

Tijuana can be safe to visit with precautions, although it is far from being one of the safest places in Mexico . It does not necessarily offer the type of travel experience that everyone seeks. 

What was once a place where daytrippers from California would head for just one day in Mexico in order to experience a taste of the country, grab a taco or two, and sip a couple of margaritas in a sombrero hat before heading back north, is now one of the world’s most dangerous cities.  

You should think carefully about your decision to travel here though with a little caution, planning, and research, you may be able to guarantee that your trip is an enjoyable one that is memorable for all the right reasons. 

Do you have any further questions or worries about safety in Tijuana? As mentioned, I have been living in Merida Mexico for the last few years and I am happy to chat about any questions that you may have. 

Feel free to drop me a comment below, drop me an email, or connect on social media. Safe travels and enjoy Mexico.

Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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17 Safe & Fun Tijuana Day Trips From San Diego

May 13, 2023 By: Maria Haase This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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Are you on the hunt for a Mexican experience while in San Diego and need help figuring out where to start?

The city of Tijuana is located in Baja California, a state that borders San Diego. It’s the gateway for many Americans embarking on journeys through Mexico. 

So let’s talk about the elephant in the room! Is Tijuana safe? As a San Diego local, who goes to Tijuana every couple of weeks, sometimes even by myself, I tell you this: Tijuana is a border town with a high crime rate. You definitely need to be smart about visiting and keep some things in mind, such as:

• Keep your wits about you, so don’t get drunk or be under the influence
• Don’t get involved in shady stuff like buying drugs
• Stay in the more touristy areas of town
• Take taxis or Uber between places if you don’t know the area well
• Don’t be flashy with money, jewelry, and your passport – split up your money and credit cards in a few places
• Read the news about the current situation before you visit
• Tell people where you are going and how long you will be staying before you go
• Go with a group, if you feel uncomfortable by yourself

However, visiting Tijuana with a group tour is, in my opinion, a perfectly safe way to see the city and get a taste of Mexico and I highly recommend it. Whenever we have visitors in town, we always plan a day trip to Tijuana and it is always a highlight of our guests’ trip. The city offers visitors who make the short journey from San Diego tasty culinary delights, exciting history, and fabulous street art.

It’s no wonder the trip has become so popular among tourists.

Thinking about taking a day trip tour from San Diego to Tijuana? Follow this list to find the best Tijuana day trips from San Diego. Dozens of tours run every day, so you’re spoiled for choice.

The Best Tijuana Day Trips From San Diego

Walking tours in tijuana, crossing borders day trip walking tour.

Discover all that Tijuana has to offer on this informative walking tour. On this tour you’ll visit the city’s cultural sights, try out the Mexican street food which everyone raves about, and shop in local areas.

Cross the Mexico border with your professional driver, who will look after you for the day, and dip your toes into the Tijuana lifestyle.

Follow your professional guide around the city on foot to experience how the locals live outside of tourism. Listen to the music they play, smell and sample the food they eat, and learn about the people who make Tijuana what it is.

The six hour day trip to Tijuana begins at 1 pm sharp and includes pick up from San Diego and drop off back at the border. Plus, locally made tacos, craft beer, all tickets needed, and bottled water. Everything you need to have a fantastic day.

Tijuana Local Walking Tour From San Diego

Come and join this exciting 4.5-hour walking tour of Tijuana from San Diego that includes a local guide from the area. They’ll bring you to the city’s best locations to learn about its history and culture. It’s a brilliant way to see Tijuana if you have very little time on your hands.

The local guide will meet you at the border and take you to the city center, where you’ll pass by various famous sights like the Tijuana Arch, El Popo Market, Pasaje Rodriguez, and Avenida Revolucion, where the metropolis began. After you’ve picked up some handmade souvenirs, the guide will bring you back to the border.

Food or drink isn’t included with this fun half-day tour of Tijuana. However, there will be plenty of stops along the way where you can grab a bite.

 Intro To Mexico Walking Tour

See the best of Tijuana on foot in 4 – 5 hours, learning about its genuine hospitality and savoring authentic cuisine while immersing yourself in the culture. Throughout your tour, you’ll spend the day walking downtown, seeing sights like the Tijuana Arch, and venturing to Avenida Revolucion, the city’s birthplace.

Stop off at a unique local eatery to try out the food that Tijuana’s citizens eat daily. You’ll get the raw version of Mexican cuisine, not the watered-down stuff you get on the other side of the border.

Pickup is from the US border edge. You’ll meet your personal guide at San Ysidro Trolley Station and be taken over from there. The return drop-off places you on the Mexican side, from which you can walk. Food tastings, lunch, and bottled water are all included in the price.

Tijuana Toe Dip Walking Tour

Tour Tijuana’s historical sites with a guide adept at navigating the narrow streets, showing tourists a side of the city few others see.

This excursion, which is five hours long and includes round-trip pick up and drop off from the border, is perfect if you want a quick taste of Mexican culture. 

Receive running commentary about the city’s evolving society and past history. Grab some photographs of Tijuana’s famous landmarks, like the fascinating Tijuana Arch, see some street art by Pasaje Rodriguez. Then enjoy a traditional lunch that comes with your booking at El Popo Market.

Shared Tijuana 5 Hour Walking Tour From San Diego

Why join a tour alone when you can do it with other people? Sign yourself up for this shared five hour walking tour of Tijuana.

Collaborate with your guide at the San Ysidro Transit Centre, where you’ll make your way into the city. Roam around on foot and hop on public transport for a real, local experience. Pass by the spice market to test some authentic Mexican tacos, go through Mercado Hildago, where street art is abundant, and finish the day with a nice drink in a trendy bar.

The downside to this tour is that while your guide and transportation are included, bus tickets, food, and drink aren’t. Although, they are cheap, it won’t be much on top of the fee you paid.

Food Tours in Tijuana

Taste of tijuana market & street food culinary tour.

Are you an Anthony Bourdain fan? If so, you might remember his trip to Tijuana. Take a trip to some of those very places, introducing visitors to Tijuana’s delightful food scene.

Start the day by meeting your bilingual guide at the US side of the border in San Ysidro, California, at 9:30 am. They’ll walk you to the Mexican side, where a private vehicle awaits. The first stop is at the visually stimulating Mercado Hildago.

The group takes a two hour walk through Tijuana’s famed produce market, samples various street-style birria tacos, and sips some agua fresca or licuado.

Next up is Las Ahumaderas, often referred to as “taco alley” because of the unique style of tacos made here. Try a fresh al pastor taco with the finest marinated pork.

The third stop will be at Telefónica Gastro Park, known for its collection of styled food trucks surrounding a Mexican microbrewery. This is where the group will get to sample some hoppy Mexican craft beer.

Finally, venture back to the border while soaking up the Mexican countryside along the drive. You’ll be dropped at the entrance, where you can walk across to the US side.

This six hour tour is entirely all-inclusive. Everything is included except for tips. What more could you ask for?

Mexican Street Food Tour

Come enjoy this Tijuana tour from San Diego that foodies are going absolutely mad for.

The tour has everything you need for seven perfect hours: Three appetizing Mexican courses are served throughout the day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — all with drinks and round-trip transportation from the US side of the border and back to the Mexican side. Not having to stress about any vehicle is a massive weight off your shoulders.

Indulge in tacos at the neighborhood food vans, from recipes with simple beans to explosive tacos al pastor (Asada pork with spices), be sure to add guacamole, lime, and salsa on the side for a proper kick.

Stop by the neighborhood tap room to try out the flavorful craft beers or visit an authentic Mexican cantina, where you can see what an honest Margarita tastes like. You decide.

Taco Tuesday Hop in Tijuana

Everyone loves taco Tuesday. Experience it in the land where the phenomenon originated. This small, seven hour group tour will take you south of the border to fulfill your craving for Mexican delicacy.

Enjoy various types of tacos, like carne asada, birria, adobada, even seafood if you’re a fan of fish tacos. Wash it all down with some ice cold craft beers afterward.

Food and drink are included in your tour. Plus you’ll get round trip transportation from and to the border, so you don’t have to worry about driving after a few drinks. 

Taco Tour from San Diego

Visiting Tijuana without trying tacos would be like hitting a bar and not having a beer, it’s criminal. Join this short, three hour tour for a scrumptious day out.

The tour includes return transportation to and from the border, plus lunch, bottled water, and any necessary public transportation tickets.

Hit up the famous Avenida Revolucion district for not one, but two taco feasts that will make your pallet tingle with excitement. Pop your head into two bustling mercados to observe how the locals shop. Eye opening, to say the least.

Tijuana Food Tasting 

Let the tastes and flavors of Mexico’s cuisine blow up in your mouth on this small, six hour food sampling tour through the streets of Tijuana.

Hop from one stall to another while trying out bites you’ve never even heard of. Sip a couple craft beer flights and get the inside gossip on all there is to know about Tijuana’s foodie scene.

Like most tours on this list, a return ride from the US side of the border and back to the Mexican side is included, as are all food and beer tastings. Getting your money’s worth has never been so fun.

Tacos In Tijuana

Grab your sombrero and leap over the Mexico border, where a feast of tacos await. Bite into an array of tacos, from carne asada to a surf and turf combo. Ride public transportation with your guide while asking them all the questions you’ve got and seeing Tijuana from a different perspective.

The tour is short and sweet, just lasts three hours. But it has everything you need for a great time in Tijuana: transportation, five taco samples, lunch, and some bottled water to keep you hydrated in the Mexican heat.

Carne Asada Hangout In Tijuana

Have you ever heard of carne asada? It’s a Mexican luxury that translates to “roast beef” or “barbeque.” Anyone who lives in northern Mexico holds it extremely close to their heart.

Imagine gathering around a grill with your closest friends and having a little party while cooking up a mouthwatering piece of meat that’s about to go on a crispy taco for you to devour. 

Come see what it’s all about on this six hour tour that provides you with transport from the border, all your food, and alcoholic beverages. Shop for your ingredients at the mercado and head to a secret location to prepare a once-in-a-lifetime meal.

Puerta Nueva Lobster, Margaritas, & Mariachi Private Tour

Are you searching for something a little different while in Tijuana? Why wait at the border for some form of public transportation when you can have a private driver come get you near San Diego?

Start your adventure at the Tijuana Cultural Center for insight into the region. Check out Playas de Tijuana to hear the story of Donald Trump’s controversial wall and see it with your own eyes.

Soak up the Mexican beach lifestyle at Playas de Rosarito while sipping a cheeky margarita on the rocks. End your day with lobster Baja-style while a mariachi band hums away in the background in Puerto Nuevo.

When you book this tour, you’ll receive transportation, lunch, and up to five alcohol tastings with your booking. Of course, if you’d like to drink more, or take an ATV or horse ride on Playas de Rosarito, you can do so at your own expense. No drinking and driving.

Mexican Gourmet Tasting

We’ve saved the fanciest food option for last. This is for those who love a splurge every once in a while.

Nourish your soul with some delectable bites from Baja Med cuisine on this small group, six hour tour that stops at three culinary spots in Tijuana. It even includes a visit to the city’s most iconic restaurant. You could only find these places with a local. 

This Tijuana day trip from San Diego includes everything a five-star tour should have, such as gourmet food, alcoholic beverages, and private transportation from and to the border.

Beer Tasting Tours in Tijuana

Tijuana craft beer & street tacos tour.

Get your passport out and embark on this eight hour guided tour of Tijuana’s craft beer scene. All while sampling various taco recipes of the region.

Meet your private tour guide on the US side of the border at 9:45 am sharp, they’ll cross over with you. A private vehicle for the group will be waiting on the other side.

Stop at Mercado Hildago for some taco tastings and a “Welcome to Mexico” shot of either tequila or locally made mezcal. The proper way to kick off any tour in Tijuana!

Visit four breweries at Avenida Revolucion, Tijuana’s popular tourist district, while consuming a four beer taster flight at each one. Finish up by making the tipsy ride back to the border with your guide, who will drop you at the Mexican side to walk back.

With your booking, everything is included in the price, e.g. food, transportation, alcohol, etc.

Baja Craft Beer Tasting Tour

The Baja Craft Beer Tour takes you to several breweries within seven hours, giving you enough time to get home before it gets dark.

Cross the border from the US side with your guide’s private vehicle. Stop at many breweries in Tijuana to taste a pint of their own crafted Mexican beer. Devour a traditional Mexican lunch together with your new friends. All is included in the price.

How many breweries the group will visit depends on how things are going. But don’t worry, you’ll see quite a few. Learn about each company’s brewing process and ask them about the secret to their product. You’ll definitely learn a thing or two.

Mexican Craft Beer Intro in Tijuana

Calling all beer enthusiasts, we have something special for you. Cross the border for this five to six hour small group craft beer excursion. The tour includes four flights of craft beer, a visit to one of Tijuana’s oldest craft breweries, a Mexican meal all to yourself, and private transfers from and to the border.

Find out everything there is to know about the city’s thriving craft beer scene. Learn all the secrets from your well-versed guide and see the work that goes into crafting the perfect brew, all while trying a few for yourself.

Convenience is everything when on vacation. These Tijuana day trips from San Diego are a great way to see Mexico on a short trip.

Of course, you can do it all on your own. However, Tijuana is a lesser visited tourist destination compared to other places, so having someone do all the hard work for you is easier than going at it alone.

You’re in for an unbelievable day trip, whichever way you decide to do things.

Looking for more ideas? Check out these 10 Fun & Unique Things To Do In Tijuana .

Travel Resources for Planning Your Trip

• 🏨 Find your perfect accommodation for your trip on Tripadvisor
• 🎡 Get more emotions from your journey with Viator tours
• ✈️ Buy cheap flight tickets via WayAway
• 🚘 Need a car for your trip? You will find it on Discover Cars

Last Updated on May 13, 2023 by Maria Haase

About Maria Haase

Maria Haase has been a travel writer since 2007, stumbling into this profession during an internship in China. She grew up in Germany, but has lived in San Diego since 2006. Maria is a globetrotter, but also adores to explore her own back yard whenever she is home. She loves to share her favorite spots, help visitors plan their trips and share helpful tips about her chosen hometown San Diego.

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33 Things to Do in Tijuana, Mexico + Local Info

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Are you looking to find the most interesting things to do in Tijuana, Mexico? Well, the good news is that there are plenty!

Tijuana, Mexico, a.ka. TJ Mexico, is an amazing city with a lot to offer. If you like great food, beaches, culture, nightlife, and shopping, you’ll love this vibrant border city.

This post will walk you through some of the very best things to do in Tijuana!

Tijuana is a bustling city with over 1.8 million people calling it home. It’s located in the Mexican state of Baja California, only 20 miles from San Diego, California, USA, and about 90,000 people cross the border daily!

It’s one of the busiest border crossings in the world!

Because Tijuana is such a busy city, there are many things to see and do! You may be wondering if Tijuana is safe to visit, as the city has taken on a bit of a bad reputation in recent years.

I will cover whether or not Tijuana is safe to visit (spoiler: it is!) and all the awesome things to do while you’re there.

It’s a great destination, worthy of being included as one of the best places to visit in Mexico , whether you’re going for a day trip, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing vacation.

Take in the hustle and bustle of downtown Tijuana, aka Zona Centro, or enjoy a sea breeze on the coast! There’s something for everyone here.

If you’re wondering what to do in Tijuana, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 31 fun things to do in Tijuana!

Fun Things to Do in Tijuana

1. eat delicious tacos.

I’m sorry, but if stopping off at every taco stand and restaurant is not your #1 priority, then I don’t know if we can be friends!

I’m kidding, of course, but this has seriously got to be at the top of your list of things to do in Tijuana.

In fact, when travelers ask me what to do in Tijuana, I’ll always say, “Eat tacos!”

Many people believe Tijuana has some of the best tacos because it is a border city that has diverse culinary influences from all over Mexico and the US.

Having traveled all over Mexico, from Mexico City to Tijuana and back, I’d have to say that’s true.

You’ve got to try the carne asada (delicious slow-cooked meat), and I recommend checking out Taconazo if you are near the coast in Playas de Tijuana or Brasa Taquería if you are downtown.

Or you could join a full-day guided tour of Tijuana with a local guide to learn more about the best local spots and learn about Tijuana’s history.

PRIVATE FULL-DAY GUIDED TOUR OF TIJUANA

This 8-hour tour around Tijuana is led by a local guide born and raised in the city. He will take you around the most interesting areas and will tell you all about all the changes the city went through in the past decades.

2. Go Out for a Night Out on the Town!

If you’re looking for things to do in Tijuana at night, you’re in luck. Tijuana nightlife is amazing! There are tons of awesome bars and clubs to check out.

Most are located on Avenida Revolución, the main street in downtown Tijuana, where you can easily find somewhere to stop in, have a few drinks, and dance the night away!

If you want a chill place to grab a drink, check out Mamut Cervecería  or Deck 22 , the latter of which has a patio overlooking the action on Avenida Revolución.

If you want to go clubbing and experience the heart of Tijuana nightlife, Coko Bongo and Las Pulgas are some of the best bars in Tijuana!

3. Shop Until You Drop

Many people will hop across the border from San Diego to go shopping, and for a good reason – things are cheap in Tijuana!

If you’re looking for things to do in Tijuana with family, finding some bargains is a great option.

Whether you’re looking for unique handmade items like pottery, blankets, or jewelry or just for cheap tequila, Tijuana has tons of great shopping.

Like many tourist attractions in Tijuana, you’ll find most of the shopping concentrated along Avenida Revolución, so take a stroll and get some shopping in!

If shopping is your thing, this is easily one of the best things to do in Tijuana.

4. Stock up on Some Local Food at Mercado Hidalgo

Mercado Hidalgo is a great place to shop for food, produce, and homemade wares. It’s a traditional market where you will likely be shopping alongside residents of Tijuana. It’s super fun to wander through, checking out all the different stalls!

There is fresh fruit, vegetables, pastries, cheese, candy, bread… Everything you could need for a grocery run!

It’s typical to bargain over prices here, so learning a bit of basic Spanish is useful! If you don’t know any, pointing and paying will also work! Mercado Hidalgo is located in Zona Río, about a 20-minute walk from downtown.

This is one of my favorite things to do in Tijuana because it makes me feel as if I’m living like a local.

5. Try Some Tequila!

Tequila tasting is one of those quintessential Mexican experiences and is always on my list when considering what to do in Tijuana!

Of course, a lot of us have some not-so-fond memories of crazy nights with tequila, but trust me, you’ll want to give it another shot (literally) while in Tijuana!

It’s a national drink in Mexico and can actually vary quite a bit in flavor and quality. You can stop into just about any establishment along Avenida Revolucion and find somewhere to sample.

I assure you that if you let the server know you want to try some tequila, they can help you out!

You can also pick up affordable tequila just about anywhere. Make sure you look for the “100% blue agave” label to get the good quality stuff that isn’t mixed with cheaper alcohol.

6. Visit the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT)

It’s not all just food and drinking here in Tijuana! There’s plenty of rich culture in this city as well. The best place to learn all about it is the Tijuana Cultural Center.

Located next to the Rio Tijuana in the Río Zone, this museum educates visitors on the history and culture of the region.

It has a unique spherical design, which houses a movie theater, in addition to gardens full of interesting sculptures, an esplanade to walk along, and rotating exhibits to learn more about the area.

For history and culture lovers, this has to be one of the top things to do in Tijuana.

7. Try Your Luck at Caliente Casino

If you’re feeling lucky, this casino is the place to be! It’s located in the Galerías Hipódromo, a large outdoor shopping center and movie theater (also great to check out!).

You’ll likely need a taxi or Uber to get here, as it’s about 3 miles from downtown Tijuana.

This casino has all your tried-and-true favorites like Texas Hold’Em, Craps, or Blackjack. They also have a racetrack that hosts greyhound races on a regular basis!

It’s a pretty unique experience to check out!

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Tijuana and looking to take your chances with Lady Luck, head for Caliente Casino.

8. Eat Your Heart Out at Telefonica Gastro Park

Located a little bit outside of the busyness of downtown Tijuana, The Telefoníca Gastro Park is where all the “hipsters” and young people hang out– locals and tourists alike! – Go to grab a drink and some food.

This is a food truck park with tons of local and delicious food options and more craft beer than you could ever imagine!

Prices here are slightly higher than elsewhere in the city, but it’s a trendy, fun environment you will enjoy. Just make sure to go hungry!

👉 You can also book a guided tour on VIATOR

9. Stock up on Mexican Candy at Walmart

I know, I know, Walmart is not that exciting! But, how often have you been to one in another country?! I recommend going here to stock up on some Mexican candies.

My favorites are Vero Mango (chili-covered mango lollipops), Pulparindo (tamarind and mango candy), and De La Rosa Marzipan candy (peanut candy). So delicious, so cheap. You can thank me later.

The closest Walmart location to Downtown Tijuana is near Playas de Tijuana on Avenida Parque, Mexico.

10. Experience Lucha Libre

Lucha Libre, or “freestyle wrestling,” has become synonymous with Mexican culture for many. Ever walk through a tourist market in Mexico and wonder, “What’s with all those colorful masks?”

Well, those are the traditional facial coverings worn by Lucha libre wrestlers, many of whom take on larger-than-life personas and gain cult-like followings.

There are regular Lucha libre events held at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutiérrez Moreno.

11. Check Out Some Craft Beer

Drinking in Tijuana is not all wild parties and tequila shots. There is a very large and growing craft beer scene in Tijuana.

Make sure to go check out a local brewery, get some recommendations, and try a new beer or two!

I suggest either Mamut Cervecería (they have a watermelon beer!) or Norte BrewingCo. Both are located within walking distance of Avenida Revolución.

If you’re wondering what to do in Tijuana and are up for a beer, you’ll have plenty to choose from.

12. Sample Some Aguas Frescas

If you’re staying away from alcoholic beverages, there’ll still be plenty of delectable delights for you to gulp down in Tijuana.

One of my favorite things about Mexico is its amazingly fresh fruit juices, a.k .a. aguas frescas.

Swing by any restaurant or one of the many street vendors and take your pick of pineapple, orange, watermelon, strawberry, and more flavors. Many times, you can watch them make your drink right in front of you.

There’s nothing more refreshing than a cold agua fresca on a hot Tijuana afternoon. And savoring one of the beverages is always among my favorite things to do in Tijuana.

Best Free Things to Do in Tijuana

13. walk along the us-mexico border.

I don’t know about you, but I think it’s cool to be at an international border looking into another country.

In Tijuana, there is a fence spanning the border, and you can drive along the highway directly beside it!

If you’re out in Playas de Tijuana, you will see where the fence extends out into the ocean.

The Tijuana side of the border is busy right up to the fence, but the American side is pretty empty. It’s a stark contrast that’s cool to see right up close!

Walking this famous stretch of land is one of the most unique things to do in Tijuana.

14. Spend the Day at the Beach

After spending some time in the busy downtown Tijuana area along Avenida Revolución, you might be looking for something a bit more low-key.

It’s time to head out to Playas de Tijuana, along the city’s coast. This area has a beach town vibe with plenty of cafes and restaurants along a boardwalk.

There is a whole stretch of boardwalk with beautiful murals to check out. Grab a blanket and some snacks from one of the many vendors, and enjoy a day at the beach!

15. Channel Your Inner Artist at Pasaje Rodriguez

This was once a run-down alleyway but has since been transformed into a fascinating collection of art galleries and shops! It’s full of art shows and pop-up exhibitions.

It’s definitely worth a look for some insight into the art and culture scene in Tijuana. It’s located off of 3 rd Street along Avenida Revolución.

If you love art, this is for sure one of the places to see in Tijuana.

16. Find Some Quiet at the Tijuana Cathedral

The main cathedral in Tijuana is called the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe. It’s a beautiful piece of classic Catholic architecture and totally free to go and visit.

It was constructed over 100 years ago but wasn’t fully finished until the 1970s.

The cathedral is located in downtown Tijuana, just two blocks from Avenida Revolución. It is a fully operational cathedral, so you can also visit for Sunday mass if you want.

When friends interested in architecture inquire about what to do in Tijuana, I always send them here!

17. See the Statue la Mona de Tijuana

This is a fascinating place to visit in Tijuana! It is an 18-ton, 5-story tall statue of a nude woman. It was built by the artist Armando Garcia in his backyard after the city declined his proposal to build the statue to mark the 1989 Tijuana centennial.

He actually even lived inside this statue with his wife! Now, it stands as a landmark and icon in the city.

The statue is located in the northeast region of the city, near the airport, and you can grab a taxi or Uber for the quick 15-minute drive from downtown Tijuana to see it.

18. Walk Down Avenida Revolución

I’ve already pointed out many things to do in this area, but you don’t need to spend money to enjoy walking down Avenida Revolución. There is so much to see since it is such a busy and bustling street.

You can take pictures at the Tijuana sign and iconic archway at the entrance, check out the architecture of the buildings, do some window shopping, or check out the live street performers in the nearby Plaza Santa Cecilia.

You’ll find many fellow travelers down in T.J. Mexico for a day or two on this, the city’s main drag.

19. Be Your Own Tour Guide on a Self-Guided Walking Tour

GPS My City  is an awesome resource to download a self-guided walking tour that will take you through some of the different neighborhoods in Tijuana. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and find some places you might not normally go to!

Visit the main Tijuana attractions or get off the beaten path. You can decide for yourself what to do in Tijuana!

20. Get Some Exercise and Try the Cerro Coronel Hike

Technically, this hike is in Rosarito, but it’s absolutely stunning and worth the trip! It is a more challenging hike, with over 1000 feet of elevation gain.

However, this means the view from the top is even better! The hike is about 1.5 miles each way, and from the top, you will have stunning, sweeping views of the coastline.

Many people who visit Tijuana Baja California, also make the trip down to Rosarito. Plus, you’ll find a thriving expat community here, with many traveling back and forth from Tijuana frequently.

Romantic Things to Do in Tijuana

21. grab some dessert and watch the sunset in playas de tijuana.

I already mentioned Playas de Tijuana as a must-see on your visit. Another reason to go? The amazing sunsets. It’s such a romantic place to spend an evening.

My recommendation to make it even better is to pick up some desserts from Beaven , a local bakery, to enjoy while you’re there. I love the cheesecake con cajeta with dulce de leche or the classic tres leches cake.

22. Enjoy Dinner at the Birthplace of Caesar Salad

There are a lot of nice restaurants to check out for a romantic dinner in Tijuana, but one of my top choices is Caesar’s.

It’s an upscale restaurant located on Avenida Revolución with a great menu…. But you absolutely must get the Caesar salad – it was, after all, invented here over 60 years ago!

Many travelers would like to boast about eating a Caesar salad at the home of Caesar salads, making this activity rank among the favorite things to do in Tijuana for scores of people.

23. Go Horseback Riding Along the Beach From Rosarito

Connected to Tijuana by a long stretch of beach is Rosarito.

This is the perfect place to try a horseback ride along the fabulous coastline.

There are a number of tour operators that will guide you on a horseback adventure. A good choice to do so is Pretty Horses Rescue , a non-profit that supports the rescue and rehabilitation of neglected horses in the area.

They offer a few riding options, including an ocean view and a romantic dinner sunset ride.

If you’ve always wanted to take in a Mexican sunset while riding a horse down the beach, this will surely be one of your favorite things to do in Tijuana.

And when your friends ask you what to do in Tijuana, you can tell them all about that romantic seaside ride!

24. Take a Wine Tour

Wine tours don’t immediately come to mind for most when thinking of things to do in Tijuana.

However, just south of Tijuana is Valle de Guadalupe, an expansive wine region right here in Baja California.

You can go at it on your own and pick a winery to visit, or join a tour from Tijuana and let someone else do the work!

This is a great option for a romantic getaway, where you and your significant other can savor a wine tasting while taking in the gorgeous scenery around the area.

25. Splurge on a Luxury Hotel in the Valle de Guadalupe

If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay and love wine, you should splurge on one of the exquisite hotels in the Valle de Guadalupe. The most popular and talked about is Encuentro Guadalupe .

Spend the day relaxing in your glamorous Cabin or walking through the vineyards when you are not sipping wine and tasting delicious food.

Plus, it’ll take you away from the hustle and bustle of Tijuana for a bit.

26. Relax at a Spa

When relaxing with your significant other and creating a little romance, why not check out one of the many spa resorts in Tijuana?

Because Tijuana prices are lower than what tourists are used to at home, you can really go all out and book something luxurious!

In fact, many American couples head south of the border to TJ Mexico for first-class pampering at a discount rate!

Several hotels also have spas, such as the highly-rated Quartz Hotel & Spa , or try one of the smaller local options around town.

27. Take a Boat Tour

Tijuana is located along the Pacific Ocean, so there is no shortage of water activities to try.

If you’re looking for a romantic activity, why not join a boat tour or a luxury cruise or even rent a boat yourself?

There are a number of companies that offer tours, so you can look out for one while in town. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Tijuana on a balmy summer afternoon, heading for the water is always a great call.

Tijuana Day Trips

28. visit ensenada.

This harbor city is located about 70 miles south of Tijuana. It’s a popular tourist destination and one of the largest cruise ports along the Pacific coast.

It has a laid-back beach-town vibe, and you’ll love strolling around the waterfront area and watching the boats come and go.

You will have to try some fish tacos: battered, topped with cabbage, lime, and pico de gallo – there’s nothing better!

Also Read: Where to Stay In Ensenada in 2023 + Best Tours

29. Head to San Diego

Many people will start their trip to Tijuana from the United States in the nearby city of San Diego, a classic Southern California beach city that’s worth a visit in its own right!

A day trip to San Diego means you can check out the gorgeous waterfront marina, the expansive Balboa Park, or the trendy Gaslamp district.

Check out one of the USA’s most beautiful cities while on your trip to TJ Mexico.

30. Check Out Valle de Guadalupe

Wine, wine, and more wine. Valle de Guadalupe is a gorgeous wine region within two hours from Tijuana.

You will have no shortage of vineyards and wineries to stop at as you travel through the scenic countryside.

Some wineries have been in operation since 1597 in this region, with over 150 in the area!

If you’re looking for things to do in Tijuana for a day but would like to get out of the city, Valle de Guadalupe is a great option.

31. Go to Tecate

One of the Mexican Pueblos Magicos , and the only one in Baja California, this border town is located about 30 miles east of Tijuana, a 45-minute drive away.

Tecate is a popular location for wellness retreats, so if you’re into yoga, spirituality, or spas, you’ll love it here! This region also has many outdoor activities, such as hiking and rappelling.

Plus, it’s the birthplace of one of Mexico’s most popular beers.

32. Eat Your Way Through Puerto Nuevo

There is one good reason to make a day trip to Puerto Nuevo: lobster. You can buy a lobster meal just about anywhere and enjoy it alongside beans and tortillas.

Puerto Nuevo is located about 45 miles south of Tijuana along the coast.

If you’re wondering what to do in Tijuana for a day and love lobster, make the short trip to Puerto Nuevo.

33. Have an Adventure at Los Arenales Primo Tapia

If you are looking for a bit of adventure and adrenaline, head down to Los Arenales Primo Tapia, just a bit further south of Puerto Nuevo.

This area has miles of sand dunes, perfect for speeding around on a motorbike, quad, or sandboard! You can either join a tour or rent something yourself and go for a spin!

Plenty of thrill-seekers visiting TJ Mexico head here to have some fun.

Is Tijuana Dangerous?

Because of this city’s headlines and reputation, many tourists wonder if Tijuana is safe to visit. Generally, Tijuana is safe to visit, but like any large city, you need to be smart and use your best judgment when traveling.

Use common sense while traveling by avoiding anything drug-related, being aware of pickpockets, and partying safely.

Playas de Tijuana is very clean, safe, and less crowded than the downtown areas, making it easier to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Downtown Tijuana is also safe, but you need to use more caution, as you would in any large city.

The red-light district of Zona Norte has more crime but isn’t typically where tourists go anyway, and you’re unlikely to wander in that direction.

Overall, Tijuana is not a dangerous city and should be considered like any large urban destination – you need to be smart and use common sense, but otherwise, it’s perfectly safe to go to!

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

How to Get to Tijuana

Are you convinced to head to Tijuana yet? There are so many fun things to do in Tijuana, and I hope you go visit!

There are a number of ways to get to this city from other parts of Mexico, though most international tourists will be coming from San Diego, just across the border in the US.

How to Get to Tijuana From San Diego

Most people visiting Tijuana for the day or weekend travel from San Diego. You may even notice Americans referring to “TJ Mexico.” They mean Tijuana, as it’s a popular destination to travel to from Southern California.

You will have the option to walk, drive, or take the bus across the border.

Greyhound offers the bus service, which can cost between $13-$25. It leaves from the San Diego Bus Station and arrives at Tijuana Central Bus Station (1-hour trip).

Crossing by car can take a very long time, with the lines at the border being extremely long. This is recommended only if you must have your car in Tijuana. Otherwise, walking across is probably the best option!

Walking Across the Border in Tijuana

The easiest option for tourists is to take the US San Diego Blue Line trolley to the border crossing at the San Ysidro stop.

You can get on the trolley at various stops in San Diego for just $2.50. Once at San Ysidro (a 45-minute trip), you can follow the crowds and well-marked signs to the border to walk across at the PedEast crossing.

PedWest, Otay Mesa, and Cross Border Xpress are the other pedestrian crossings. To get to any of these locations, you can drive and park at the border or take a taxi or rideshare and be dropped off.

Walking across the border is easy and smooth, with clear signage along the way to get you where you need to go!

Flying to Tijuana

There are no direct flights between San Diego and Tijuana, so flying doesn’t make sense. However, flying from other cities to Tijuana is possible and relatively easy.

The Cross Border Xpress pedestrian bridge connects the Tijuana International Airport with a service terminal on the other side. So, if you fly into Tijuana, you can cross the border right at the airport back into the US.

The Tijuana airport is large – the 11 th biggest in Latin America – and therefore welcomes flights from all over. It is conveniently located just 6 miles from downtown Tijuana, so a short taxi or shuttle ride will get you right where you want to be!

Where to Stay in Tijuana

Wondering where to stay in Tijuana ? Here are my top 3 hotel choices in Tijuana Mexico, for every budget. Otherwise, you can check out this detailed map where you can find your favorite place to stay in Tijuana by location and price point.

K Tower Boutique Hotel by Lucerna

The K Tower Boutique Hotel by Lucerna has a spectacular view of the city from the Rooftop bar and pool.

Location, comfort, and cleanliness. Staff is super cordial and go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and welcomed. david | october 2022

Marriott Tijuana Hotel

Guests rave about everything in the Marriott Tijuana Hotel , from the outstanding service to the great food in the buffet restaurant.

Really good and friendly people always looking to help. Excellent customer service and attention to detail. Very welcoming and helpful. Velazquez | october 2023

Hotel Frontiere Tijuana

What guests love the most about the Hotel Frontiere Tijuana is the cleanliness of the room, free parking space, and the staff’s kindness. The rooms have a modern style of decor and are conveniently furnished. The hotel overall offers great value for money.

An excellent hotel, I prefer this hotel every time because good people work, the location and conditions of the hotel are good Hasan | june 2023

Things to Do in Tijuana: Frequently Asked Questions

What is tijuana famous for.

Tijuana is famous for its vibrant nightlife, tasty street tacos, epic bullfights, and the unforgettable experience of strolling across the bustling border between Mexico and the USA.

Is Tijuana good for tourists?

Yes, Tijuana is a great place for tourists. Many tourists flock to “TJ Mexico” for a slice of Mexican culture. There’s great nightlife, excellent restaurants, beautiful beaches, and more!

Is It Worth to Go to Tijuana?

Absolutely! Tijuana offers a vibrant mix of culture, delicious food, and exciting nightlife. Explore its unique charm, but be mindful of safety precautions and local customs.

Is It Safe to Walk Around Tijuana?

Yes, it’s generally safe to walk around Tijuana, but like any city, it’s essential to take precautions. Stay in well-populated areas and be aware of your surroundings.

Many foreigners, especially American tourists, visit Tijuana every day. You’ll hear Southern Californians lovingly refer to it as TJ Mexico.

How Do You Spend a Day in Tijuana?

You can take a guided tour to discover local places and learn about Tijuana’s history.

If it’s Sunday, join a heartwarming mass at Tijuana Cathedral. Then, head to Playas de Tijuana for a swim and stroll or enjoy food at the seaside cafes and restaurants.

Where do Americans go in Tijuana?

Americans regularly go to “TJ Mexico” to shop, spend a night out, or relax on the beach.

You’ll find many Americans in downtown Tijuana, around Avenida Revolución, and in nearby communities like Rosarito.

What Mexican state is Tijuana in?

Tijuana is located in Baja California. The state makes up the northern half of the Baja California Peninsula and borders the US state of California. Tijuana is its largest city.

Where should a tourist eat in Tijuana?

Tijuana has an endless amount of excellent restaurants. I’d recommend Caesar’s, the home of the original Caesar salad, in downtown Tijuana.

However, if that’s not your thing, there are also amazing taco shops and stands, as well as top-notch seafood restaurants all over Tijuana.

Do You Need Cash in Tijuana?

Most places in Tijuana take credit and debit cards but keep some cash on hand for street vendors and markets.

Remember, no need to carry loads of cash. ATMs are around to withdraw  cash in Mexico , especially in Tijuana.

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in!

• Driving in Baja California
• Things to Do in Todos Santos Baja California Sur, Mexico
• Best Hotels in La Paz Baja California Sur, Mexico
• Best Liveaboards in Mexico for a Memorable Diving Experience
• Things to Do in Baja California Sur

Things to Do in Tijuana: Final Thoughts

After this post, I hope you are more confident about traveling to Tijuana Baja California, and learning about all the amazing things you can do in this controversial city.

There are so many fun and enjoyable things to do in Tijuana.

Be sure to savor the history, culture, and interesting people this border town has to offer!

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About the author

Alyssa is a freelance writer with her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies degree. Alyssa is passionate about travel and has been to over 20 countries – and counting! Living in Vancouver, Canada, she loves to take advantage of the mountains and ocean by getting outdoors as much as possible. When she’s not writing, Alyssa is probably walking by the river, caring for her many houseplants, or grabbing a coffee with a friend. You can keep up with her on her personal blog .

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Tijuana Airport Guide

Crossing the Border

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do

Shopping Guide

Day Trips From Tijuana

Best Tijuana Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Tijuana: The Complete Guide

Tijuana is home to one of the busiest border crossings in the world.   Often referred to as T.J., or "the Gateway to Mexico," this border city is full of contradictions. It's bustling, and yes, there's crime and a seedy side, but you’ll also find a vibrant cultural scene, a dazzling array of choices for locally produced wine and craft beer, as well as amazing food and great shopping. Tijuana also offers top-notch dental and medical care, so if you’re looking for treatments on a budget, this is a good place for it, and you’ll find you can stay in comfort and eat well while you’re recovering without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip south of the border or a longer stay, here’s what you need to know to plan your trip to Tijuana.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: From May through September, when temperatures are warm, there’s no rain, and you’ll find lots of cultural happenings taking place.

Language: Spanish is the most spoken language, but many people also speak English. 

Currency: The local currency is the Mexican peso (MXN). Dollars are widely accepted, but it’s best to have some pesos on hand, particularly for tips and shopping at markets and street-side stands. The peso symbol is the same as the dollar sign, so if there’s any doubt, ask what currency prices are listed in.

Getting Around: Taxis and Ubers are plentiful and economical. When taking a cab, ask the fare before getting in. Buses and shared cabs (colectivos) run from 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., a good option for budget travelers.

Travel Tip: Don’t forget your passport! While in the past, you could cross the border with just a driver’s license or simple ID, these days, you need a passport or other WHTI compliant government ID. Getting into Mexico will likely not be the issue, but rather crossing back to the U.S.

Things to Do

Tijuana offers great opportunities for shopping , eating out, and there’s an active nightlife scene. There’s not that much to do in terms of sightseeing, but it’s definitely worth making a stop at the beach to see the border wall stretching into the ocean, which is covered in colorful murals. Here are some more fun activities in Tijuana: 

• Visit the Centro Cultural de Tijuana and see what’s playing at the IMAX theater. 
• The Museo El Trompo is an interactive science and technology museum for kids. 
• See a Lucha Libre match. They're usually held on Fridays at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutierrez Moreno.
• Explore Tijuana beyond the usual tourist scene by taking a tour with Turista Libre .
• Take a day trip to visit Mexico’s foremost wine-producing region, the Valle de Guadalupe, where you can visit some wineries and eat great food.
• If the beach is more your scene, consider visiting Rosarito or Ensenada, which have more appealing beaches.

Explore more attractions with our full-length article on the top things to do in Tijuana .

What to Eat and Drink

Food is one of Tijuana’s main attractions. There are several restaurants and food trucks where you can sample Baja Med cuisine, which originated in this area. This farm-to-table cuisine brings together Mexican food with Asian and Mediterranean ingredients and influences and is based on fresh ingredients like local seafood, produce, and the local olive oil. Two local Tijuana chefs are at the forefront of this movement: Chef Miguel Angel Guerrero, who runs the upscale La Querencia as well as a more casual bistro, El Taller del Chef, and chef Javier Plascencia, who offers his take on Baja Med at Misión 19 and Caesar's . But it’s not all fine dining. You can also eat really well in some of Tijuana’s casual spots, such as Telefónica Gastro Park , which brings together more than 20 food trucks and offers delicious food, beer, and wine. There are also great tacos at Taquerias El Guero or Tacos El Franc , and you can satisfy a craving for fish tacos at Mariscos Rubén .

Wine lovers and beer aficionados alike will find something to love in Tijuana. Being so close to Mexico’s wine region means there are wonderful local wines to try, and Tijuana’s craft beer scene is flourishing. There are several breweries and tasting rooms where you can sample the local brews. See our article on Tijuana's nightlife.

Getting There

Tijuana is located in Mexico's northwesternmost corner, just 17 miles south of San Diego, California. Tijuana’s General Abelardo L. Rodriguez International Airport (TIJ) has flights to most destinations in Mexico. Also, it has an international bridge known as the Cross Border Xpress , which allows people flying in or out of the airport to cross the border on foot conveniently. If arriving in Tijuana on a day trip from San Diego, it’s best to park on the San Diego side and walk across the border to avoid wait times for crossing and the hassle of driving in Tijuana. However, if you’re planning a longer stay, driving across may be a good option.

Culture and Customs

Tijuana’s border location and unique history have created a cultural hybrid that is different than anywhere else. When it was founded in 1889  , it was a tiny border crossing, but in the 1920s, U.S. nationals were attracted by the legal drinking and gambling they could find south of the border. Avenida Revolución became a tourist center, with casinos and Hotel Caesar's, birthplace of the Caesar salad. Starting in the 1960s, Tijuana became a manufacturing zone, with many U.S. companies choosing the location for its ample cheap labor. Many of its residents came with the idea of pursuing the American Dream but didn’t make it across the border. In recent years, Tijuana has reinvented itself, instead of a destination for hard-partying tourists, it now has cultural offerings for its own residents. 

Violent crime has been and continues to be an issue in Tijuana, though it is, for the most part, limited to Tijuana’s outlying areas and not concentrated in tourist zones  . Downtown, Zona Rio, and Playas de Tijuana are safe, particularly during the day. At night, you should exercise caution and stick to well-lit areas where there are people around. Muggings are rare but do occur. Keeping your credit cards and most of your cash in a money belt and carrying a more easily accessible decoy wallet with a few dollars and a couple of old cards to hand over to thieves is a strategy used by some travelers. 

In bars and restaurants, tourists may be overcharged. To avoid this, check prices when you order, and verify your bill before paying. Request an itemized bill if you’re not given one. When ordering multiple rounds of drinks, it’s a good practice to pay after every two rounds to keep track. It’s customary to tip 10 to 20 percent, depending on the level of service. Tipping is customary in bars and restaurants but is not required in food stalls and markets (although it’s generally appreciated). It's also customary to tip bellhops and cleaning staff at your hotel. Read more about tipping practices in Mexico .

Money-Saving Tips

Tijuana is a very affordable destination in general. If you’re careful to guard against scams and theft, you’ll find it an economical destination overall. Remember that safety is the most important thing: it’s not worth putting yourself at risk to save a few pesos. 

Here are a few ways you can save money while you’re there. 

• Although U.S. currency is widely accepted in Tijuana, shops and restaurants' exchange rate is usually not favorable, so change some dollars to pesos and pay in the local currency. 
• If you’re planning on doing some shopping, have an idea of general prices for the item you're interested in so that you’re not overcharged. In many of the market and souvenir stalls, you can get a good deal if you’re willing to haggle. 
• There are several well-known fine dining establishments in Tijuana, but you can also find excellent food at a fraction of the cost at food trucks and taco stands. 
• Taxis and Uber are less expensive than they are north of the border, but if you’re really pinching pennies, take public transportation. It’s a little more complicated and takes longer, but you may end up saving quite a bit.
• There are lots of things to do in Tijuana for free or very low cost. You can wander along Avenida Revolución, go into the markets, and do plenty of window shopping. You’ll see lots of interesting sights. Stop at the Plaza Santa Cecilia and listen to the mariachis. Go to the beach and see the murals on the border wall.

San Ysidro Land Port of Entry , U.S. General Services Administration

Tijuana, Mexico . Britannica Encyclopedia

Mexico 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Tijuana , U.S Department of State Overseas Security Advisory Council, 2020

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Cheap flights to Tijuana ( TIJ)

Get started finding a cheap flight to Tijuana on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

We recommend using the ‘Flexible Dates’ calendar at the top of the page to see the price of plane tickets on the surrounding dates. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Tijuana.

Roundtrip prices range from $47 - $228, and one-ways to Tijuana start as low as $26.

Be aware that choosing a non-stop flight can sometimes be more expensive while saving you time. And routes with connections may be available at a cheaper rate.

Airlines that fly to Tijuana ( TIJ)

You have several options for which airline you choose to travel with to Tijuana. There are 10 airlines flying into TIJ: Volaris, Aeromexico. 

Cheap plane tickets may be available from different airlines at different times and with unique terms. It’s best to understand the details of each airline’s offer before judging its value.

For example, if you plan to check a bag or bring a carry-on, check whether the cheap airfare deal includes a baggage allowance. If not, verify whether the baggage fee is higher than the difference of other airline plane ticket deals offering free checked/carry-on baggage in exchange for a slightly higher airfare. 

Additionally, your preferred frequent flyer membership programs may influence your choice of cheap airline. Expedia allows you to enter your membership numbers during checkout to earn points from your airline and Expedia Rewards—all while getting a great deal and planning all your travel in one online platform.

Find the best deals

At Expedia, we source many flight deals from multiple providers, so you can easily find the best deals that are right for you. A great strategy for getting the best deals can be to make sure you book and travel at the optimal times. Airfare to Tijuana (TIJ) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You’ll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to TIJ in July and in December for one-ways.

Cancellation & flexibility

To change or cancel eligible flights, go to ‘My Trips’ and navigate to your itinerary. If you booked within the last 24-hours, you might be able to cancel your flight for free. Learn more about flight changes or cancellations from our customer service portal . Some plane tickets are available with no change fees, which you can filter for during your search.

Frequently asked questions

• It’s easy — first, pack in your passport, travel documents, wallet and medications. Next, you’ll want some in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A juicy novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are some wonderful options. If you intend to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, find room for a toothbrush and some deodorant so you’ll arrive looking fresh and raring to go.
• While the list of prohibited items can differ between airlines, the general guide to follow is nothing sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, blades, fuels and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like bows and arrows, and objects that could harm other people, such as swords and batons, won’t be allowed on board either.
• Comfort should be your main priority when selecting what to wear on board. Consider your footwear choice with care too, as swollen feet and ankles are quite common. Shoes which are flat and slightly roomy are always a smart option.
• Caused by sustained periods of immobility, DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a condition that can affect passengers during long flights. But the good news is there are numerous ways to reduce the risk of developing it. Drink plenty of water, wander through the cabin as much as possible and wear compression socks or tights.
• First things first. Your passport and boarding pass will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them within easy reach so you don’t hold up the line.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the scanner’s alarm. This includes things like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy jackets or coats. They’ll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Your electronic devices like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. No need to worry though, you’ll be back online in no time.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your carry-on bag. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a sensible footwear choice as you’re less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Hiking boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp items or pocket knives in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, check them in.

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• Mexico City to Tijuana (MEX - TIJ)
• Los Angeles to Tijuana (LAX - TIJ)
• Mazatlan to Tijuana (MZT - TIJ)
• Oaxaca Intl. to Tijuana (OAX - TIJ)
• Toluca to Tijuana (TLC - TIJ)
• San José del Cabo to Tijuana (SJD - TIJ)
• Puerto Vallarta to Tijuana (PVR - TIJ)
• Sacramento to Tijuana (SMF - TIJ)
• Ciudad Juarez to Tijuana (CJS - TIJ)
• Grand Hotel Tijuana
• Hotel Festival Plaza Playas Rosarito
• Puerto Nuevo Baja Hotel & Villas
• Hotel Ticuán
• Darwin Airline SA Lugano
• Evergreen International
• Ghadames Air Transport
• Aircompany Kokshetau
• Royal Airways Limited
• Vietnam Air Service Co.
• West Caribbean Costa Rica
• Olympus Airways
• Bulgarian Air Charter
• Branson Air Express
• Deutsche Bahn

THE 10 BEST Hotels in Tijuana 2024

Tijuana Hotels

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class, popular hotels in tijuana right now.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Hotel Ticuan

2. Grand Hotel Tijuana

3. Hampton Inn by Hilton Tijuana

4. Hotel Pueblo Amigo Plaza & Casino

5. Hyatt Place Tijuana

6. Hotel Real del Rio Tijuana

7. Hotel Lucerna Tijuana

8. Baja Inn Hoteles Rio

9. Real Inn Tijuana

10. Gamma Tijuana

11. Extended Suites Tijuana Macropalza

12. Quartz Hotel & Spa

13. K-Tower Boutique Tijuana

14. Palacio Azteca Hotel

15. City Express by Marriott Tijuana Río

16. Sleep Inn Tijuana

17. City Express Tijuana Insurgentes By Marriot

18. Aqua Rio Hotel

19. Ibis Tijuana Zona Rio

20. Hotel Velario

21. Hotel Principado Tijuana

22. Fiesta Inn Tijuana Otay

23. One Tijuana Otay

24. Caesar’s Hotel

25. B My Hotel

26. City Express By Marriott Junior Tijuana Otay

27. Hotel Jatay

28. Hotel Rio Rita

29. Del Mar Inn Playas

30. Hotel Villas de Santiago Inn

Tijuana Hotels Information

Hotels near the sights.

Walking Across the Border to Tijuana from San Diego

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2024

Categories Mexico , Tijuana , Visas and Borders

Home » Mexico » Tijuana » Walking Across the Border to Tijuana from San Diego

After spending over a year living in Tijuana and working in San Diego, I have made the walk across the border hundreds of times. Admittedly, the crossing can feel a bit intimidating the first time because it is so large and busy. This guide outlines the process of walking across the border to Tijuana from San Diego. I’ll cover how to travel from San Diego to Tijuana, which documents you need to cross the border, how to get from the Mexican border to downtown Tijuana, the best time to cross, safety considerations, costs, and more. I’ll also talk a bit about driving across the border.

I also made this short YouTube video to outline the main points of the article. 

How to Walk to Tijuana

– Step 1: Take the San Diego Trolley Blue Line to San Ysidro Station ($2.50). This is the end of the line. Alternatively, you can drive to San Ysidro and park in a border parking lot on the U.S. side of the border ($10-$25 per day). – Step 2: Walk one block to Mexican immigration. You’ll need your passport. Here, you will fill out an FMM visitor’s permit. You get the form at the border. If you’re staying in Mexico for less than 7 days, the permit is free. If you’re staying more than 7 days, it costs 687 pesos ($38). – Step 3: After exiting immigration, walk about one block to Frontera street. Take a Taxi, Uber, or shared minibus to your destination in Tijuana. A taxi or Uber to downtown or Zona Rio costs $5-$7. A shared minibus to downtown cost 10 pesos. The ride takes around 10 minutes. You can also walk downtown from the border. It’s a 1 mile walk. The line to cross into Mexico is usually short. Expect to wait 10-15 minutes to cross into Mexico. The line to cross back into the U.S. is usually long. Expect to wait 1-2 hours depending on the time and day of the week that you cross.

Table of Contents

• Border Crossings Between San Diego and Tijuana

How to Travel From San Diego to the Border

• How to Cross the Border on Foot, Step-by-Step
• Do You Need a Visa to Walk to Tijuana?
• How to Travel from the Border to Tijuana
• Traveling to Tijuana Airport
• Crossing Back to the U.S. from Tijuana
• Is it Safe to Walk to Tijuana?

Border Crossings Between San Diego County and Tijuana

Before your trip, you’ll want to decide where you’re going to cross the border. There are three places where pedestrians can walk across the border from San Diego county into Tijuana. These border crossings include:

• San Ysidro Port of Entry (PedEast)- This is the main pedestrian crossing at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. The entrance is located near the San Ysidro trolley station. This crossing is always open. For most visitors, this is the most convenient option. There are paid border parking lots nearby where you can park and walk across.
• Otay Mesa Port of Entry- This is a smaller crossing to the east that links the San Diego suburb of Otay Mesa with the Otay Centenario borough of Tijuana. This crossing is open 24 hours. There are also border parking lots nearby.
• Cross Border Xpress (CBX)- This is a pedestrian bridge that links Tijuana International Airport to the U.S. side of the border. You can only cross here if you’re flying out of Tijuana airport. I’ll talk more about this crossing in a later section.

There used to be another pedestrian crossing called PedWest. This smaller crossing is located near the Outlets At The Border in San Ysidro, about a 10 minute walk from PedEast. The PedWest crossing closed in October of 2021 but it may re-open in the future.

There are lots of ways to get to the border. For the purposes of this guide, I will assume you are starting your trip in San Diego.

You’re going to be crossing the international border on foot. First, you need to travel from San Diego to the Border. The main crossing is actually located in the city of San Ysidro. This is a distance of about 16 miles or 25 kilometers.

To get to the border, you can drive and park in a border parking lot on the U.S. side. You can take the San Diego trolley. You could also take a rideshare or taxi to the border. It is also possible to take the bus to the border. In the following sections, I’ll outline each option.

Taking the Trolley from San Diego to the Border

For most travelers, the San Diego trolley is the most convenient way to travel from San Diego to the border. This light rail system runs all the way from San Diego to PedEast, the main San Ysidro border crossing. The trolley drops you off about a block from the border.

The trolley ticket costs $2.50 for a one-way adult fare. A day pass costs $6. Reduced fares are available for senior, disabled, medicare, and youth passengers. These cost $1.25 for a one-way ticket and $3 for a day pass. Tickets are valid on trollies and city buses. Transfers are included.

To take the trolley to the border, you want to catch a blue line train running south. There are several blue line stops in downtown San Diego including America Plaza, Petco Field, and Barrio Logan. You can also catch the Blue Line trolley further south in the communities of National City, Chula Vista, and Imperial Beach.

Once you’re on the blue line trolley heading south, ride the train all the way to the end of the line. This is the San Ysidro trolley stop. The ride takes about 40-50 minutes from downtown San Diego to the San Ysidro trolley station.

The trolley also has 2 other lines that connect many of San Diego’s suburbs including Mission Valley, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, El Cajon, and Santee. If you’re staying in one of these areas, you can hop on a green or orange line train and transfer to the blue line once you reach downtown.

San Diego’s public bus system is also connected to the trolley system. If you’re not near a trolley stop, you can catch a bus heading toward downtown and transfer to the trolley. The same ticket works on the whole Metropolitan Transit System (MTS).

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to taking the San Diego trolley to Tijuana.

There is free parking at many of the trolley stations. You can park in these lots for up to 24 hours. These are a convenient option for those who are just making a day trip to Tijuana. This way, you avoid expensive border parking. You can find a list of these free parking lots here.

You can also bring your bicycle with you on the trolley at no extra charge. For more information, you can read my guide: Traveling from San Diego to Tijuana by Bicycle .

Taking the Bus from San Diego to the Border

San Diego city busses also travel to the border. You can catch a 901 bus either downtown or on Coronado Island. You’ll have to transfer to a 906 bus at the Iris Avenue Transit Center.

If you want to travel to the Otay Mesa Crossing by public transit, you’ll have to take the bus. Bus 225 and 950 both travel from downtown San Diego to Otay Mesa. You can catch bus 225 at the Santa Fe bus depot downtown. you can catch bus 950 from the Iris Avenue blue line trolley station.

It is also possible to take the Greyhound bus to the border. Greyhound has a bus stop right next to the San Ysidro transit center. From here, you’re just steps away from the PedEast crossing. This is a convenient option if your trip in Los Angeles or Phoenix or further away.

Greyhound also offers service from San Diego to Tijuana Central Bus Station and the Tijuana airport. This journey takes a little over an hour. You’ll have to exit the bus at immigration and wait for everyone’s travel documents to get checked. Tickets cost $15-$25. This option really only makes sense if you don’t feel comfortable walking across the border by yourself or if you’re going to the airport.

Driving from San Diego to the Border

If you plan to cross at the main San Ysidro crossing (PedEas), the easiest way to get there is to take I5 or I805 South and get off at the East San Ysidro Blvd exit. Don’t miss this exit or you’ll end up driving into Mexico. There is no turnaround if you miss the exit.

Once you exit the freeway, continue straight down San Ysidro Blvd. Along this road, you’ll find a number of paid border parking lots. Prices vary depending on the day of the week.

Some lots charge by the hour and some by the day. A common deal is $9 for 10 hours or around $25 per 24 hours. Keep in mind that these lots can fill up during weekends and holidays. Prices are also higher during these times.

The cheapest lot I have found is called International Parking. They charge about $21 per day during the week and a bit more on weekends and holidays. They don’t get the best reviews but they’re cheap. There is another parking lot called Border Station Parking. I’ve never used this one but it gets decent reviews.

From the parking lot, you are around 1-2 blocks from the border. There are also a few lots located further from the border that offer free shuttle service to and from the border.

To save on parking, you can read my guide about how to park for free at the border .

If you plan to cross at the Otay Mesa crossing, you’ll want to take freeway 905 or 125. Exit the freeway at the Siempre Viva Road exit. If you don’t, you’ll end up driving into Mexico. You’ll find several border parking lots in the area.

Taking an Uber, Lyft, or Taxi from San Diego to the Border

You can also take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi from San Diego to the border. This is the most expensive option. An Uber from downtown San Diego to PedEast costs around $50-$70 depending on traffic. Your driver can drop you off just outside of your desired border crossing.

In the past, Uber drivers could drive you across the border to Tijuana. This service was called UberPassport. This option is no longer available as far as I am aware. You’ll have to get out of the car at the border and walk across to Tijuana. After you cross, you can order another Uber in Tijuana to take you to your destination.

Which Documents Are Required to Walk to Tijuana?

To walk to Tijuana all you’ll need is a valid passport (book or card style). It is also possible to cross with an enhanced driver’s license or a SENTRI Card. In addition, you’ll need an FMM visitor’s permit (more on that later)

How to Walk Across the Border to Tijuana

In this section, I’ll outline how to walk across the border to Tijuana, step-by-step. The crossing process is pretty simple. It can feel a bit confusing and intimidating because the area is so large and busy and because security is so tight.

Step 1: Arrive at the Border

The trolley or Greyhound bus drop you off at the San Ysidro Trolley Station. From here, you’re about a block from the PedEast crossing.

From the border parking lots, you might have to walk a couple of blocks. Some companies offer a free shuttle service between the parking lot and border. They can drop you off at the PedEast crossing.

The Otay Mesa crossing has a similar setup. The city bus drops you off near the pedestrian crossing. There are also parking lots nearby.

Step 2: Walk to Mexican Immigration

Once you arrive at the border area, follow the signs to the Mexican immigration building. The path is well marked and everyone is going to the same place. Follow the crowd. You can’t really get lost here.

You will walk down a pathway, through a large metal turnstile, and into the Mexican immigration building. There is no exit procedure from the United States. You walk straight to Mexican immigration.

When you enter the immigration building, there are two lines. One line is for Mexican citizens and residents. The other line is for everyone else.

Wait in the second line until you can speak to a Mexican immigration official. The wait is usually 10-20 minutes. Sometimes there is no wait at all.

Step 3: Pass through Mexican Immigration

The Mexican immigration official will check your passport and hand you an immigration form to fill out. Alternatively, they may ask you some questions about your trip and fill out the form for you.

This form is called the FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple.) It asks for standard travel information such as your name, passport number, how long you’ll be staying in Mexico, where you’re staying, etc. I’ll explain this form more in-depth in the next section.

Step 4: Pay the FMM Fee

If you plan to stay in Mexico for less than 7 days, the immigration officer will stamp your passport and the completed FMM form and send you on to customs.

If you plan to stay in Mexico for 7-180 days, the official will send you to a bank window to pay an FMM permit fee. The the bank is located in the immigration building just a few steps from passport control.

The FMM fee costs 684 pesos or around $38. You can pay the fee in cash in Mexican pesos or US dollars. You can also apply for the FMM online in advance and pay the fee with a credit or debit card.

After paying the fee, you will receive a receipt. Return to the immigration official with your receipt. They stamp your FMM form and send you through to customs. Be sure to keep your FMM form and receipt.

Step 5: Pass through Customs and Security

If you have nothing to declare, go ahead and get in the customs line. Once you reach the front of the line, you will place your luggage on a belt. It will pass through an x-ray machine, just like at an airport. You will also walk through a metal detector. The line moves quickly. Usually, you don’t have to wait more than 5 minutes to pass through customs.

If you have something to declare, you’ll have to go to the customs window to make your declaration and pay the necessary tax. You’ll see the customs window to your left after you leave immigration.

Step 6: Leave the Immigration Building and Enter Tijuana

After clearing customs, you can grab your luggage and exit the immigration building. Just follow the crowd. Everyone is walking in the same direction.

You’ll walk a couple of blocks until you exit the border area and enter the city. Now you’re in Tijuana. The first street you’ll come to is called Frontera. From here, you can walk or catch a bus, taxi, or Uber to your destination.

Do I Need a Visa to Walk Across the Border to Tijuana?

In most cases, no. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Schengen area countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and a number of other countries, do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism or business purposes. If you are a citizen of one of these countries, all you need to walk across the border to Tijuana is a valid passport.

In addition, those who hold a valid permanent resident card from the United States, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Japan, Peru, the United Kingdom, or any European Schengen Area country also do not need a visa to enter Mexico.

If you hold a passport from one of these countries and do not have a resident card from one of the above-listed countries, you do need a visa to visit Mexico. In this case, you will need to arrange the visa in advance through your nearest Mexican embassy or consulate.

About the FMM Visitor’s Permit

Those who are able to enter Mexico without a visa will need to fill out an FMM form (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) upon arrival at the border in Tijuana. The FMM is a visitor’s permit or tourist permit. It is not a visa.

This document allows you to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days for tourism or business-related purposes. You need to fill out an FMM form, even if you’re only visiting Tijuana on a day trip. You will get an FMM form to fill out on arrival at the border.

A Mexican immigration official will either hand you an FMM form or fill it out for you. All you need to fill out the form is some basic travel information such as your name, passport number, how long you plan to stay in Mexico, the purpose of your trip, etc. It is a simple form that takes just a couple of minutes to fill out.

After the immigration official checks the form, they will tear off your copy, stamp it, and hand it back to you. You must carry this document with you while you’re in Mexico. Don’t lose it.

If you plan to stay in Mexico for less than 7 days, then you will not have to pay for an FMM Visitors Permit. If you plan to stay in Mexico between 7 and 180 days, then you will need to pay an FMM fee. The current FMM fee is 684 pesos or around $38. You will pay this fee in the immigration building.

With an FMM Mexico visitor’s permit, you can cross back into the U.S. and then return to Tijuana without having to pay the fee again. You can come and go as long as the FMM permit is still valid. If you fly out of Mexico or exit at another border, you will have to surrender the FMM and you can’t reuse it.

If you have to pay the FMM fee, be sure to keep your receipt. When exiting Mexico at another border or flying out of the country, you may need to show proof that you’ve already paid the fee or you could be charged again.

If you plan to stay in Mexico for longer than 180 days, you’ll have to apply for a temporary residency permit. You must apply for this at a Mexican consulate or embassy.

For more in-depth info, check out my complete guide to the FMM visitor’s permit and Mexican visas.

How to Get to Tijuana After Crossing the Border

Tijuana sits right on the border so you are in the city as soon as you exit immigration.

After you pass through immigration and customs, exit the building and keep following the crowd. You will follow a path for about 2 blocks until you exit the border area.

If you crossed at PedEast, you’ll arrive at Frontera street. From this street, you have 4 transportation options to get to downtown, Zona Norte, Zona Rio, Playas de Tijuana, or anywhere else you want to go in the city. To travel from the border into Tijuana you can:

Take a Taxi de Ruta (colectivo taxi or shared minibus)

Taxis de ruta are shared vans and busses that transport people around the city. They are Tijuana’s public transportation system. The rates and routes are fixed. You can hop on and off wherever you like along the route.

A taxi de ruta from the border area to downtown costs 10 pesos (about 50 cents). To catch one, continue walking until you arrive at the first street you come to after leaving immigration (Frontera if you crossed at PedEast). You will see a couple of vans or minibusses lined up on the street.

Most of these vans go downtown. There should be a sign in the window indicating the destination. There will also be an attendant who you can ask for directions. If you’re trying to go downtown, say ‘el centro?’.

From downtown, you can transfer to another taxi de ruta to take you to your destination. If you’re staying downtown, you can walk to your hotel.

I recommend this option because it’s cheap and convenient. There is always a taxi de ruta waiting at the border. These buses leave about every 10 minutes, 24 hours per day. They leave when they are full. The ride from the border to downtown takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

Take a Taxi

Once you exit the border area, you can flag down a cab on the street. Taxi drivers regularly drive by the border looking for customers. You won’t have to wait more than a minute or two.

If you do this, try to take a white ‘taxi libre’ rather than a yellow cab. White taxis have meters. Fares are cheaper. The yellow cabs have a fixed rate and are more expensive.

The going rate for a ride from the border to downtown, Zona Norte, or Zona Rio is around $6-$7. A ride to Plays de Tijuana costs around $15.

Before getting in the cab, you should ask the driver if they will use the meter. If they won’t you’ll need to negotiate the rate before you get in the cab. If you don’t, you will get overcharged. This is a common scam. Alternatively, you can wait for another cab.

Take an Uber

Uber in Tijuana is slightly cheaper than taking a taxi. Depending on the time of day, a ride from the border to downtown, Zona Norte, or Zona Rio costs about $5-$6. A ride to Playas de Tijuana costs around $12-$14.

The app works the same way in Mexico as it does back home. If you don’t want to use your credit card, you can opt to pay in cash if you prefer. For more info, check out my guide: Using Uber in Tijuana.

It is about a one mile walk from the border to Zona Centro or Zona Norte. I’ll detail step-by-step directions below.

It is also possible to walk to Zona Rio from the border. This is about a 1.7 mile walk. This is a pretty long walk. You can’t walk from the border to Playas de Tijuana or the airport. It’s too far.

You’ll only want to make the walk from the border if you’re arriving during the day. At night, it’s too dangerous. For more info on walking in Tijuana, check out my guide: Is Tijuana Safe?

How to Walk from the Border to Downtown Tijuana or Zona Norte

Most people who are visiting Tijuana want to go downtown. If you cross the border the main crossing during the day, you can easily walk to Zona Centro or Zona Norte.

In this section, I’ll outline how to walk from PedEast to downtown or Zona Norte Tijuana.

• After exiting immigration, follow the path until you reach the first street. This street is called Frontera.
• Take a right on Frontera street and stay on the right side of the street. You will walk up a slight incline and walk across a bridge that goes over the line of cars waiting to cross into the U.S.
• After crossing the bridge, continue walking straight on Frontera street. You’ll walk down a hill next to a busy street with a parking garage on yor right. Continue walking until you reach a big intersection.
• Cross the street at the intersection. The street you are crossing is called Avenida de la Amistad.
• After crossing, turn right and start walking down Avenida de la Amistad. You’ll walk about 50 feet until you see a walking street on your left.
• Turn left at the walking street. You’ll see the walking street right after you pass a taxi stand.
• Now you are on the walking street that leads directly to downtown Tijuana. This is called Calle Primera. Simply follow this street all the way downtow. You will walk over a big pedestrian bridge that passes over the Tijuana River. The bridge is called El Chaparral. You’ll also cross a couple of intersections on your way. Just continue along the walking street and you’ll end up downtown. You’ll know you’ve reached downtown when you see the big arch (Arco Monumental).  This walking street lets you off right at the base of it.
• The arch is the heart of downtown Tijuana. It is located at the start of the main tourist street, Avenida Revolución. Take a left down Avenida Revolución to walk through downtown.

Here is a map of the route on Google Maps.

How to Get to Zona Norte

If your destination is Zona Norte (the red light district), take a right at Avenida Revolución after you exit Calle Primera (the walking street). Walk straight until you get to Calle Coahuila (about 2 blocks). From there, take a left down Calle Coahuila and continue down the street for one block. This will take you to the heart of Zona Norte.

You can also take the taxi de ruta from the border to downtown and then walk to Zona Norte. Of course, you can also take a taxi or Uber.

How to Get to Tijuana Airport (TIJ)

After crossing the border, you’ll have to take a Taxi or Uber to get to Tijuana airport. The airport is located on the border about 5 miles east of the main San Ysidro crossing or about 4 miles west of the Otay Mesa crossing. The ride from the border to the airport takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.

Alternatively, you could use the Cross Border Xpress (CBX). This is a 390 foot pedestrian sky bridge that connects Tijuana airport with a special terminal on the U.S. side of the border in the city of Otay Mesa. You can walk directly to Tijuana airport from the U.S. without having to travel through Tijuana. In the terminal, you’ll pass through immigration and customs. You can pay for your FMM visitor’s permit here as well. It’s very convenient.

There are a couple of ways to get to the Cross Border Xpress terminal. You can drive and park your car at one of the lots. There are several lots at the CBX. The parking fee is around $15-$25 per day depending on which lot you use. There is also a shuttle service from San Diego, San Ysidro, Los Angeles, Fresno/Sacramento, and many cities in between. After you arrive at the terminal, you walk across the bridge into the airport.

It’s important to note that you can only use the Cross Border Xpress if you’re a ticketed passenger flying out of Tijuana airport. There is also a charge to use the Cross Border Xpress. A round-trip ticket currently costs around $32-$34 depending on the season.

At the Cross Border Xpress terminal, you’ll also find rental car agencies, currency exchange, a duty-free shop, and several food stands.

For more info, check out my guide: How to Fly Out of Tijuana Airport and Use The Cross Border Xpress

Walking Back to the U.S. from Tijuana

You can get back to the border with a taxi, Uber, taxi de ruta (shared minibus), or on foot.

If you take a taxi, tell the driver that you want to go to the border (‘la frontera’ or ‘la linea’ in Spanish.) You’ll also want to clarify which crossing you want to use (PedEast or Otay Mesa). If you take an Uber, you’ll set your desired border crossing as your destination.

From downtown, you can also catch a taxi de ruta that is heading to the border. These usually leave every 10-15 minutes. You can also walk to the border if you’re crossing during the day.

If you plan to take the trolley back to San Diego or catch a Greyhound bus, you want to cross at the PedEast crossing. To get to most border parking lots, you’ll also want to go to PedEast.

Once you arrive at the border, you’ll simply follow the path to the U.S. immigration building. You’ll see signs marking the way. You can also follow the crowd. Everyone is going in the same direction.

Passing through U.S. Immigration

There is no exit procedure for Mexico. Nobody checks your FMM upon exit. For U.S. citizens, all you need is your passport. Book and card style passports are both accepted. Alternatively, you can use a permanent resident card.

If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you may need a visa or an ETSA visa waiver to travel to the U.S. Be sure to check the travel requirements for your passport before your trip.

Chances are you’ll have to wait in line. There are three pedestrian lines at the crossings. One is for the general public, one is a Ready Lane, and the other is for those with a Sentri Pass or Global Entry.

Most tourists can use the Ready Lane. In order to use this lane, you’ll need a WHTI-compliant RFID-enabled card that is approved by the Department of Homeland Security. Examples include a passport card or an enhanced driver’s license. You can learn more about the Ready Lanes on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website here.

If you don’t have an RFID-enabled card, you’ll have to use the general entry line. You’ll use this lane if you’re traveling with a regular passport book.

The wait time to walk across from Tijuana back into California varies. On average, I’d estmate the wait is around 1 hour. There are a few peak times that you want to avoid. For example, Sundays and holidays are very busy. Expect a long wait. During these times, you may have to wait in long lines for 1.5-2 hours if you are unlucky. If you’re in a hurry, the line is usually the shortest in the early morning before 7 am and late at night after 8 pm or so. The lines are kind of unpredictable.

You can check border wait times on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website here.

Once you get to the front of the line, you’ll hand your passport to the U.S. immigration official. They’ll scan your document and ask you if you have anything to declare.

You’ll want to declare anything you bought in Tijuana that you’re bringing back across the border including alcohol, medications, tobacco, gifts, etc. There is an exception of $800 for gifts and personal items. Alcohol and tobacco products are restricted. For example, you can only bring one liter of alcohol with you. For info on exactly what you can bring back from Mexico, check out this guide.

After passing through immigration, you’ll pass through customs. You set your bag on a moving belt and it will pass through an x-ray machine. After your bag passes, you can grab it and leave the building. You’re back in the United States.

From there, simply follow the path back into San Ysidro or Otay Mesa. You can catch the trolley back to San Diego, a Greyhound bus to various destinations, or you can walk back to your parked car.

Is it Safe to Walk Across the Border to Tijuana?

Yes, it is perfectly safe to walk across the border to Tijuana. The area is heavily policed on both sides. There are cameras and security gates everywhere.

You also don’t have to worry about corruption at the border. The immigration officials are honest. Nobody will ask you to pay a bribe in order to cross.

The only fee you may be asked to pay is the FMM permit fee if you intend to stay for longer than 7 days. This is a legitimate fee. You will receive a receipt.

During the day it is safe to walk between the border and downtown Tijuana. I do not recommend making this walk after dark for safety reasons. Just take a taxi, Uber, or taxi de ruta.

I have heard several stories of people being held up by armed muggers while walking between the border and downtown Tijuana. These robberies usually happen on the bridge that crosses over the Tijuana River. The bridge has dark staircases where criminals can easily hide. The area also isn’t well policed at night. It gets scary. I don’t make this walk after dark for this reason.

If you absolutely must walk from the border to downtown at night, do not walk alone. Look for someone else making the walk and ask them to walk with you. There is safety in numbers.

One night I met a local man waiting for someone to cross with. He told me about how the previous week he had been held at knifepoint by a group of guys and robbed. This is how I learned this tip.

Walking around downtown Tijuana, Zona Norte and Zona Río is relatively safe at all hours. There is a heavy police presence in these areas. Of course, you still need to remain cautious. Avoid deserted areas. It’s also best to avoid carrying valuables and lots of cash while out and about. Pickpocketing and robbery occur.

I was pickpocketed in downtown Tijuana. I was also inside a bar while it was robbed. The police cannot stop all crimes.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the Tijuana police are not known for being too helpful to tourists. They will do their best to keep the peace and protect you from violence but in the case of petty theft, you’re pretty much on your own.

Police corruption is an issue in Tijuana. An officer can stop you on the street, search you, accuse you of a crime, and ask you to pay a bribe. Some officers ask you to hand over your wallet. This type of corruption is fairly common, unfortunately. The best way to avoid corrupt police is to obey the law and try not to draw attention to yourself. Dress down and walk with purpose. For more info, check out my guide to police corruption in Tijuana.

For more information on safety, check out my article: Is Tijuana Safe? Avoiding Common Scams and Crime.

What is the Fastest Way to Travel from San Diego to Tijuana?

The answer to this depends on the time of day and which crossing you’re using. Generally driving to the border, parking in one of the border lots, and walking across is the fastest way to get to Tijuana. You can usually drive from Downtown San Diego to San Ysidro in less than half an hour when traffic on I5 or I805 is light. When traffic is heavy, it can take an hour to make the same drive.

During busy commuter hours when traffic is heavy, the fastest way to get to Tijuana is usually to take the trolley and then walk across on foot. The trolley runs on time. It’s not held up by traffic. It usually takes around 40 minutes to get from downtown San Diego to the border.

FAQ About Crossing the Border to Tijuana

How Long Does it Take to Travel from San Diego to Tijuana?

The total trip from downtown San Diego to downtown Tijuana will take around 75-90 minutes. The trolley takes around 40 minutes. You’ll spend 15-20 minutes in the immigration building. It will take another 15-20 minutes to travel downtown.

The wait to enter Mexico is usually 10-15 minutes. The line is usually pretty short. During rush hour, it may take up to 25 minutes. Late at night and in the early hours of the morning, there is often no line at all.

How Long Does it Take to Travel From Tijuana to San Diego?

The trip from Tijuana to San Diego can take anywhere from 2-3 hours.

Traveling back to the U.S. takes much longer because there is often a long wait at the border. The wait to cross back into the U.S. on foot is usually 60-70 minutes on average. It can be over 2 hours during holidays and busy weekends. If you cross late at night or early in the morning, you can often cross in less than 20 minutes.

One way to speed up the crossing is to get a SENTRI card or a Global Entry card. This allows you to cross in minutes. This could reduce the travel time to around an hour.

What is the Best Time to Travel from San Diego to Tijuana?

You can cross into Tijuana at any time. The border is always open. The wait is rarely over 20 minutes.

You will want to choose your crossing time more carefully when returning to the U.S to minimize the wait. The best times to cross are between 6 pm and 3 am. During these times, the wait is usually less than 20 minutes. You might also be able to reduce the wait by choosing a different crossing. Sometimes there is a shorter line at Otay Mesa. You’ll want to check the wait time before you go to the border. You can check the wait times here .

Can I Walk into Tijuana Without a Passport?

No. You need a valid passport to walk to Tijuana. Both passport books and passport cards are accepted. Mexican immigration will stop you and ask to see your passport. If you don’t have one, you won’t be allowed to enter. You will also need a passport to cross back into the United States.

There are some exceptions. It is possible to walk to Tijuana with a Sentri card or an enhanced driver’s license instead of a passport.

In the past, you could walk to Tijuana with just a driver’s license or birth certificate. This is no longer the case. Most travelers need a passport.

For more info, check out my guide: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Tijuana?

Can I Fly from San Diego to Tijuana?

No. There are no direct flights between San Diego and Tijuana because the distance is so short. The cities are less than 20 miles apart.

If you really wanted to fly, you could. You would have to make a layover in a third destination like Guadalajara, Mexico City, or Las Vegas. For this reason, it doesn’t make sense to fly between the two cities. It would require a full day of travel. Flying would take far longer than driving.

If you want to go to Tijuana airport, your best option is to use the Cross Border Xpress terminal.

Is There a Bus from San Diego to Tijuana?

Yes. Greyhound operates a bus from San Diego Bus Station to Tijuana Central Bus Station. The San Diego bus station is located at 1313 National Ave.

This route will take you to the border. The bus will stop at the border and everyone will get off and pass through Mexican immigration and customs. The bus will then proceed to Tijuana Central Bus Station.

This trip usually takes around 1 hour. A ticket costs about $15-$25 depending on the day of the week and the season.

Taking the bus really only makes sense if you want to go to the Tijuana bus station to transfer to another bus. The bus station is not really centrally located in Tijuana. If you’re visiting Tijuana for tourism, this isn’t really a convenient option.

Things You Need to Bring when Walking Across the Border to Tijuana

A valid passport.

You need to bring your passport. Either the book style or card style is fine. Your passport will be checked by Mexican immigration when entering Mexico and by U.S. immigration when leaving.

In the past, documents were not checked when crossing into Mexico on foot. You could get away with just a driver’s license or birth certificate. This is no longer the case. You need a passport to visit Tijuana.

If you want to use the Ready Lane when crossing back into the United States, you’ll also need to bring a WHTI-compliant, RFID-enabled card such as a passport card or enhanced driver’s license.

For more info, check out my guide: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Mexico?

You will need some cash for the trolley, taxis, Ubers, busses, and possibly the FMM visitor’s permit. You’ll also probably want to buy some food and drinks and souvenirs while you’re in Tijuana.

I highly recommend you exchange some dollars for pesos. People will tell you that this is unnecessary because dollars are widely accepted in Tijuana but I disagree. You can almost always get a better deal by paying with pesos.

You can exchange money on either side of the border. There are a couple of currency exchange booths near the San Ysidro trolley station. There are also exchange booths in downtown Tijuana.

You can also wait until you cross and use your debit card to withdraw pesos from an ATM in Tijuana. If you decide to do this, be sure to notify your bank that you plan to use your card in Mexico. Otherwise, they may assume that your card was stolen and shut it off.

You can also pay with a credit card at many grocery stores, convenience stores, and hotels. This is a good option if your card issuer doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. You’ll get the best exchange rate this way. Paying with credit cards also protects you from fraud. Before you travel, be sure to notify your card issuer so they don’t shut your card off.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The border area is large and spread out. The distance from the entrance of the border zone to the exit is around 3-4 blocks. At the very minimum, you’ll be walking around a mile round trip.

If you decide to walk from the border to downtown Tijuana, you’ll be walking several miles. The tourist zones in Tijuana are also pretty walkable. Chances are you’ll want to stroll around these areas as well. Comfortable shoes are a must.

When you’re returning to the U.S., you’ll also have to stand in line. You might have to stand for an hour or more.

The border area is handicap accessible. The PedEast crossing is wheelchair friendly. There is a slight incline part of the way.

The Best Hotels and Hostels in Tijuana

• Hotel Ticuán- This historic mid-range hotel is located right in the middle of the city center on Avenida Revolucion. This is one of the most popular hotels in the city.
• Tijuana Marriott Hotel-  This is probably the most upscale hotel in Tijuana. It is is located in Zona Río. 
• Hotel Caesars- This is a highly rated and affordable hotel locate in Zona Centro.

Travel Insurance

Most likely, your U.S. medical insurance won’t cover you if something happens to you while you’re visiting Tijuana. You have to consider if you want to risk being uninsured during your visit.

Before I leave the country, I always purchase travel insurance. This way, I’m covered if I get injured or if I experience an unexpected medical issue. Having travel insurance gives me a little peace of mind.

I use SafetyWing travel insurance.

Final Thoughts about Walking Across the Border to Tijuana

For most visitors, taking the trolley or parking on the U.S. side of the border and walking to Tijuana is the safest and most convenient way to get to Tijuana. This way, you don’t have to worry about buying Mexican auto insurance and driving in a foreign country. Crossing the border on foot is often faster than driving across as well.

once you arrive in Tijuana, you can easily get around the city using taxis, Uber, and taxis de ruta to get around. The main touristy areas of Tijuana are also pretty walkable. You don’t really need a vehicle to enjoy the city if you’re just spending an afternoon in downtown.

If you decide that you’d rather have your own transportation, check out my guide: How to Drive to Tijuana.

If you fall in love with Tijuana like I did, and you want to move there, you can read my guide: Living in Tijuana as an American .

Have you made the walk to Tijuana recently? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!

More Tijuana Guides from Where The Road Forks

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Tijuana from San Diego
• 19 Incredible Things to do in Tijuana
• The Best Craft Breweries in Tijuana
• 25 Mexico Travel Tips
• Healthcare in Tijuana
• Mexico Entry Requirements
• Traveling to Mexico With a Dog

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Friday 2nd of February 2024

Hi Zachary, A very helpful article...thanks! I recently acquired dual citizenship (US and Mexico). Do you know if I'm expected to pay immigration if I'm using a Mexican passport? This will be my first land crossing.

Zachary Friedman

Monday 12th of February 2024

You won't have to pay. You should be able to just walk right through. They may take a quick look at your passport but that's about it.

Thursday 1st of June 2023

I’m a Temporary Resident in Mexico who will be exiting the country via a land border for the first time. You mention in your article that there’s no exit procedure when leaving Mexico, but from my understanding, residents are supposed to report to INM and get their passports stamped before exiting. Is there a place to do this when exiting Mexico near PedEast? Thank you!

wheretheroadforks

Saturday 10th of June 2023

I had never heard of that requirement. There isn't really any passport control for Mexico when you're leaving. There is an immigration office in Tijuana where you could ask.

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

"You also don’t have to worry about corruption at the border. The immigration officials are honest"

I cross regularly and this is 100% not true. During the restrictions of COVID, people (myself included) were forced to buy the $30 FMM permit even if their stay was for one night. There are 2 particular border agents whom I recognize, and if they're working (afternoon until early evening), then you're paying. It's been less abusive recently (2023).

Also, you 100% can cross the border without a passport (or ANY documents). They'll take you to their back office, where the agent will eventually (yup, you guessed it) pay $30. The price varies depending on your negotiation skills. The agent may not initiate the request, they'll play verbal footsie with you until you offer the bribe.

Don't make it sound like the border agents are some magical people who are immune to corruption and bribery. They're normal people like everyone else.

Thursday 9th of February 2023

Thanks for this great read! Now I wanna share my experience real quick and hope it may be of help to others planning to cross the broder on foot. Long story short: Crossed into MX via PedEast on Jan.10, 2023, late AM in little less then 5mins. Mexican official only scanned my German passport, waved me through, then customs X-ray and on to downtown. Stayed two nights in TJ to get accustomed, flew out of TIJ to Cancun, stayed three weeks, flew back to TIJ, brief sightseeing and last Fish Tacos near the beach, then Uber to PedWest. Two MX officials stabnding there, one checked ID (my passport), then walked over that lengthy bridge, showed CBP at the turnstyle my I-94, headed to immigration booth inside the bldg. then walked out in little less than 3mins.

Wondering why I wasn't confronted at all with the FMM. Can't believe the requirement has been waived, elsewhere I read you have to proactively ask for the FMM, getting mixed infos. But I'm pretty sure you'd run into problems if let's say you enter TJ on foot like I did without getting the FMM, and then try to exit MX by plane. So, the only reason I have why I was able to "evade" the 30+USD fee for the FMM is that I went in and out on foot and MX authorities basically don't perform checks of FMM. Some food for thoughts for sure. Happy if my sort of unique experience helps!

Friday 10th of February 2023

@wheretheroadforks, yeah, this "fmm hack" seems to only work in this specific scenario, when walking in and out of TJ.

In some parts of Mexico, they are eliminating the FMM. Instead, they're doing everything electronically. I'm not sure exactly how you got out of the $30 fee. When you walked across the border, they probably assumed you were staying for less than 7 days. There is no fee if you stay for less than 7 days. Then you exited on foot where nobody checks. Anyway, sounds like you had a great trip. Thanks for the write-up.

Amy Holland

Thursday 2nd of February 2023

Hi, we are planning on crossing the border from Tijuana to San Diego after flying to Tijuana Airport. How much is a taxi to the border or is it best to use the Cross border express?

Sunday 5th of February 2023

I can't remember how much I paid for a taxi at the airport. I think it's around $7-$10. You could take the Cross Border Xpress but that is more expensive. You'd also have to take a shuttle to San Diego. If you use the regular crossing, you could take the trolley from the border to San Diego.

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Trip Reports from Tijuana

Tell us about your adventures in Tijuana, the land of spicy hot Latinas!

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Friday night trip report: HK & Chicago 1 2 3

• 2 followers

It had been over a month since going La Zona, I was excited especially since I made plans to go on a Friday night which I rarely do. Checked in to the hotel and walked down to the action quite early for the afternoon shift. Not the best amount of quality chicas but there were a handful of lookers. I get my free HK beer and then I immediately saw a chica on the main stage that I had banged before and had confirmed with her she was going to be working Friday via whatsapp. I waited for her to finish dancing but got the vibe she was in a rush to an arriba only. She declined a ficha and we went upstairs. In the room she wanted the money upfront $120. I told her no, I told her …

Sunday/Monday trip report 1 2

Sunday Night: Headed down to TJ around 10pm. Passed by HK first and not much was going on. Checked out the foam show for a little while then headed to Chicago. It was surprisingly kind of dead with not much happening either. Went to Tropical next as my last resort and hung at the bar for a while out of boredom. Had some nice girls approach me but they weren’t my type. Figured my time would be better spent at Chicago as I had spotted several girls arriving for late shifts. As soon as I walked in this girl at the bar stuck out like a sore thumb since she was above and beyond better looking than the rest. She was blonde and very light skinned, pretty, very fit an…

Fotofreak goes shopping and other adventures

My family life flipped into chaos during my Tijuana last trip in February causing me to detour my life and head back to Florida for an extended visit. But I can only handle chaos for so long and had to get some sanity back in my life so I hopped onto a flight from Florida back to Tijuana.... I got lucky at the airport with a Lyft driver who happened to be driving back into Tijuana so after getting in the Lyft, he cancelled the ride and I paid him 80 bucks to take me from the airport all the way to El Mirador. Not having to lug my bags up and through MX customs and then argue the taxi guys to take me to El Mirador for the listed price was well worth it. I told no on…

Grand return/ Divorce party

Damn I miss Tijuana !! ok where to begin . It’s been like 6-7 years since my last trip . Last time I was in the Zona ped west was still being built , so I had to do some catching up on latest news and pricing. Damn everything doubled 🤯 . i catch my flight ✈️ at O’Hare and head to SD . Didn’t even wait for the plane to land and opened the escape hatch and jumped out 🤣 Sorry stewardess , I got putas to fuck 😁 I climbed on top of the trolly and headed to the boarder howling like a wolf as soon as I see the border ! I stop for a minute and hit the CDC to exchange for pesos . I follow the crowd up and make my way to the left of the línea for “Mexic…

Monday observed 🥳💃

Last night (Monday) HK was full of chunky chicas 🤦🏼😒. Saw a couple possibilities but I was still on my recon mission. I didn't buy any 12 dollar fichas. Found a real cutie in Chicago and was going to break my self imposed rule about fucking in hotel Jalos. Just before we were to go up, she excused herself to go to the bano. She returned a few minutes later to inform me she was menstrual 🤦🏼😢. Bummer, she was very sweet, pretty without a lot of makeup, smooth silky skin and I wanted to taste her big time. She had a lot of healed cuts on her thighs and fore arms from self abuse, sad, but seemed to be in a better place now, although not too happy to be working as …

HK and Chavelas the other night 1 2 3

Made plans to meet up with a regular OTC but she was lagging big time. Took the opportunity to spend some time in HK in the meanwhile. I spotted a girl in her mid to late 20’s with large natural D cups practically falling out of her dress. For the moment I was only keeping an eye on her from afar. Later on I saw her by the stairs talking to some 70 year old Asian man for a while. She kept rubbing on his crotch and kissing him the entire time giving him the heavy sale to take her to the hotel. On one hand good for the older gentleman getting some action but what the fuck, I thought. If I’m ever talking to a girl like that a mesero will approach me every other minute beggin…

Two new to me pies.🤤

Arrived around 3pm Monday and got settled into my room in Rizo. Had a TLN scheduled with a favorita but of course some obscure medical emergency with her aunty came up and threw that plan out the window 🤦🏼🤯. Decided to scope out the scene. Not much happening anywhere. HK had a couple decent looking chicas sprinkled among the heifers, but I wasn't ready. I had taken a small hit off my trusty mota pen and my free shot of Don Julio in Tropical bar and I had the start of a nice buzz going. 🥳. Greeted my amigo Reamz and sat down at his table in Tropical bar but he was negotiating an interlude with a chica in a vip booth. A chica that had just finished a dan…

The Out of Town Hobbyist - One Night Stand Trip

So my crazy busy 3-week work assignment in lovely SoCal is now in it's 6th month and it's finally getting manageable enough that I can write what I can still vaguely recall of an interesting, IMO, One Nighter. I've done a number of ZN weekenders leaving LA on Friday mid-afternoons and spending F/S/Su in ZN, finally realizing the 2-5 hour drive from LA to SD was just too aggravating and affecting my mission to let loose in ZN. A colleague later told me that the I-405 was an acronym meaning for 4-or-5 hours. Wasn't a funny joke at the time for an Islander who doesn't know of drives more than 40-miles. Determined by trial and error that I was much happier getting plaste…

Hk threesome..almost epic

Was cleaning out my phone and found this report I've been working on for a long time. The actual time I was there was the March right before everything got shut down for COVID...circa 2020. This trip to La Zona was for a planned meet up of sorts. But like all things in TJ those plans go out the window once it all begins So I start the first of three reviews with the threesome..During this trip it was the last one that ended up being the most unexpected. I want to believe that a night like mine is a culmination of many things falling into place that somehow form a perfect alignment of luck and being ready for the moment. To set the scene... I had b…

Please enjoy this 15 minute HK video as my trip report 1 2

Enjoy I had to keep moving around to not be super obvious, but there's enough candy there VID_20230628_231542.mp4

TJ Trip Report 12/23 - 12/24 - Xmas Eve 1 2

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Typically, I only have a little time to plan my trips to TJ. Usually, it's just a few days beforehand, if I'm lucky—maybe a week. However, a few weeks prior, it was apparent that I would have a window of time—the weekend before Christmas. I had all my Christmas stuff taken care of at home, and the plan was to be back on Christmas Eve morning/afternoon to be with family and friends. I had the time but was worried about the scene in TJ. I've heard that around Christmas time, things slow down, with the girls heading back home until sometime in late January/February. I experienced this myself. Early in my TJ-going days, I expected everything in TJ to be bigger and …

My first trip report on TT (3 day romp with HK girls)

I know there’s some people who hate reading long reports so if you want to skip this, I won’t be offended. One of my HK girls reached out last week and asked if I had any plans for the weekend. I told her not really, just had to work Saturday and I would be free after that until Tuesday because of MLK weekend. On Friday she asked if I could get out of work on Saturday because she wanted to get away from her house for a few days because of some family drama. I didn’t ask for the details nor did she say, but it felt like her situation was about to play to my advantage. She told me if I could get out of work she would spend Saturday, Sunday and Monday with me and wo…

La Carreta Cuties Available 1 2

Crossed the border beginning about 6:30. Finally made it across about 7:00+. The line into Mexico was the longest I had ever seen it, wrapping around the trolley and back on itself. Fortunately, the agents inside were moving it along at a crisp pace. There were some line cutter asshats who apparently live a rude lifestyle, called out by the people who waited in line, but that didn’t stop them from delaying the legitimate travelers. Met up with a buddy who lives locally in the sports bar in Hotel Cascadas. While I waited, a HK BG who I have known for about five years (who I sessioned with once that five years ago) was there, totally wasted. Physically, she is still v…

Day one and two of a relaxing weekend 1 2

Getting here from LA was a chore Friday. The things we do for pussy. The lack of the Amtrak put me on a bus- Flixbus. Shoddy service, cancelled my bus and had me standing around by metro for 2 hours and it meant my plan for an escort that night was dashed. Checked out HK then went to Chicago and an older lady approached me and was as playful as a dolphin during ficha but then became a shark upstairs. Stopped kissing, avoided letting me manhandle her boobs. Cbid was the worst. Sudden change made me go soft and no finish. Bed hasn’t had stuffing in it since Eisenhower. Eileen was her name, blond but nice tits, and dressed to hide her age and I knew it but I n…

Has inflation hit HK yet? First trip since 2019

First off…what an awesome community! Wish I knew about you guys years ago! I’m headed to TJ on Thursday and plan to get a room and post up at HK all day. This will be my first trip since early 2019 so what is the new rules of road I need to know? what are costs? any new places besides HK worth a visit? anything to be aware or concerns about? thanks for the help guys! And if anyone is around in Thursday wants a dance or two on me let me know!

Tom Thumb Blues TJ style 11/29 to 12/1

So it’s a rainy TJ and so I encourage you to play Bob Dylan’s Tom Thumb Blues as the narrator is a monger in Juarez telling us of all the crazy shit he saw (and he is burnt out and wants to leave). Since this is a quick trip I won’t get to that point. Tuesday I reached out to Goodgirls and showed her a snapshot of my reservation so she knew I was really coming and said I wanted 5 girls, two Wednesday, two Thursday and one Friday before checkout. Gave her six names of who I liked and 4 were available and it took a little work to get a Friday morning girl but she (I think the booker is a she) was very prompt and eager to fill the slots as I asked. Before I st…

Tripped report weds 9/13 to Sat 9/16 1 2

Hola my fellow degenerates. I’ll report this as go. My master plan to play in Tijuana is to have a telegram girl tonight then each morning have good girls send a girl at 930 am and then I decide what I do the rest of the day through Saturday. I budgeted 2 chicas a day. Took the greyhound down from the fine city of Angeles. We stopped at some random hotel 30 minutes from La linea and the driver parks and she says we are here. Everyone is confused. People explain this is not La linea. So I pulled up my ticket that had a link to the bus depot and so I sat up front directing the greyhound driver to La linea. This was a new take on Chuck Berry’s Promised Land. …

Very first time going to Zona Norte ALONE! 1 2

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My First 2021 Trip Report 1 2 3

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Anyone take a TJ on a long distance highway trip?

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Well I've gone on a 8 hour round trip...so 16 hours in total with my 01 TJ. I definitely would've rather taken a more practical vehicle but it did the trick. My TJ is a 4.0 L though. I just tried to tail semi's the entire way and I got about 24 MPG. Just make sure you find a semi trailer with long enough mud flaps so your not catchin his stones with your windshield! But if your up for it you can do it. You wont get that good of gas mileage and it will be a noisy ride. But ya...dont sell the jeep!:thumbsup:  

I drove from Calgary, Alberta, Canada to Davis California and back .. but I did that in a V8 Chev truck. It was good trip, but I don't think it would have been so vice in my TJ. Why don't you hire a car for the trip .. much cheaper than what you'd lose selling the Jeep and buying something else.  

I've taken a few loooooonnnnngggg solo trips in my 02 TJ. I've taken it from Pennsylvania to Arizona (6,000 miles or so round trip), in the summer with no A/C, top down the whole way . I've also taken it from Pennsylvania to the Badlands in South Dakota which was a bit shorter drive. I slept in it a few times on both trips and yeah it gets mighty uncomfortable curled up in the drivers seat but other than that I loved it. Sure, it was definately not the quitest or smoothest ride, and sometimes after a particularly long stretch of non-stop driving I felt like I my bones were being shaken and rattled apart but I would do it again in a hearbeat if I could afford the gas. As a matter of fact I don't think I would want to take a road trip in any other vehicle.  

16 hours.....Oxford MS to Coral Springs FL in my Rubicon....gets uncomfortable acter an hour or so but it is bearable....  

I haven't done anywhere near as far as that trip would be, but drove my TJ from San Diego, CA to Phoenix, AZ last summer. I wouldn't hesitate to do it again. In fact, I am planning on driving from San Diego to Michigan at some point. Agin, in the TJ. I think the only down side is the limited space inside. Might be a little cramped for you with the dog along as well.  

I drove to Wyndotte OK from NM, and then down to Richland hills TX, and then back home. My little 4banger made it ok.  

Havent done one yet, but in a week and a half I'm driving from New Hampshire to Las Vegas, Nevada. That is 2700 miles. I'm going to throw on my ahrd top and hope for the best. I'm sure its bearable.  

Wow! Great response so far, thanks! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: Keep 'em coming. I don't know why it didn't occur to me sooner, but maybe I'll take a sort of test trip. Not nearly as far, but I can take off and go 15 hours from here. See how I like it. I should have at least 3 weeks to do the whole trip, maybe 4. I forgot about gas mileage. I've practically never had it on the highway, all my driving is city and offroad. I have 31's on there but I haven't got round to changing the speedo, but it seems like my mileage is for siht. Some weeks I feel like I'm only getting 100 miles to a tank. I think my best tank so far was about 220 kms, thats 137 miles, with the 31's and wrong speedo gear, so maybe a little more? Crap, thats kind of a big thing to consider isn't it? It would just hurt so bad to go to Baja and not go offroading! :brickwall :brickwall  

BTW, hope you have A/C... when I took my trip earlier this summer I didn't... (AC kit coming next week)... and Tx was horrible w/out it.  

This was in my buddy's Jeep ('01 SE TJ 4cyl.), but we drove from NY to San Diego - well over 3K miles - and we had that thing packed to the brim, plus his dog! We wheeled a bit in Utah on the way. I don't remember it being uncomfortable at all. Softtop the whole way and noise never bothered us either. If you guys truly enjoy the Jeep, don't sell it! You'll probably regret it :thumbsup:  

maine to key west boston to san deigo mobile to knoxville and all back to cape cod not bad just watch out for the wind, and pot hole's.  

A road trip like that, especially in a TJ in hot weather I think you really really want to make sure you go prepared. Lots of snacks, even more water, plenty of money for fuel, hotels, food, etc. and any emergencys you might have. Make sure your jeep is in good shape before you go and make sure you have got a good spare. Never hurts to have some sort of road side assistance either.  

Anchorage to Seattle then Seattle to Jacksonville Fl. Loved every minute of it.. the girlfriend (not so much) so now she's an ex girlfriend.  

I've done VA to CA and back with 2 differant tj's  

As long as you aren't trying to be in a hurry there is no reason a long trip in a Jeep isn't doable. I drove 1100 miles from southern Georgia to northern Michigan 4th of July weekend and came back last weekend. Towing a trailer the whole way, and running solo to boot. That was just a warm-up run. Tomorrow I embark on my 2000 mile Statesboro-to-Tucson move, with a lot more crap stuffed in the Jeep and the trailer. Another solo trip, it should be interesting.....  

Ive taken a trip from austin texas to shawano wisconsin and back with my tj and it was fine and smooth enough for me. the only thing that bothered me was a sore butt from sitting so long but i think anyone with any car would have that problem. other than that i cant think of a downside to long road trips with a tj.  

my friend with a skyjacker 4 in longarm kit, and 33 bfg muds drove from here in east VA to montana!!!! its a TJ  

I took a 1600 mile ghost town tour trip in my TJ with my wife and then much smaller son. It was crowded but doable and really not all that uncomfortable. I also had a roof rack on my hardtop though to hold much of the luggage.  

yucatanstan said: One thing that worries me, i have no carpet and the passenger side gets really hot, I mean fry some eggs hot, just from driving around town. Does that seem out of the ordinary? Would a bedliner help? I want to Durabak it anyway. Click to expand...

Just go and DO IT. I do 1600 miles in two days, twice a month (doesn't leave much time for off-roading). Keep yourselves entertained and take plenty of breaks and you'll have a nice trip. I'm old and and the jeep is as SLOW as me, and neither of us has any gas mileage (now average 10.7 for the jeep and a large coffee between gas stops for me). Go For It and don't forget to HAVE FUN. Remember you only live once and the memories you'll remember always  

I drove from Wilmington NC to New Orleans 3 times in my 99 TJ. Keep in mind it has a massive lift and 37's, rides like a bony earthquake and has no A/C. Loved every minute of it!!!!  

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TJ as road trip/overlander?

• Thread starter Eric_
• Start date May 29, 2022
• Jun 4, 2022

rnArmy said: Think of your TJ as your friend. Do you want to take your friend with you on your trip? If so, then you'll put up with your friend's little idiosyncrasies. My Jeep and I have bonded over many a trip. We have common shared memories. When it hurts, I hurt. It's a Jeep thing. I've driven my 98 TJ (2.5/five-speed, 3.5" lift, 4.88 gears [dana 44 rear], 285/75/16" tires, etc.) up into Canada and Alaska multiple times, and literally across the country multiple times. Usually, I'm pulling a small overlanding trailer, but not always. Noise is probably my main complaint. That and being slow sometimes on the highway (off-road not an issue). It has been awesome as an overlanding vehicle (most often it's with the trailer). This is my primary overlanding vehicle. Usually you're going slower overlanding, and I like having the lockers front & rear. It is very maneuverable off-road in tight sections. You can't sleep inside it though - I've tried. The small home-made trailer makes up for any lack of space inside the TJ. Here's my upcoming overlanding trip I'm leading (July/August 2022) with my TJ and trailer: US Northwest - Idaho BDR (and then some!) | OVERLAND BOUND COMMUNITY The trip will be about 4000 miles total for me, and about 1500 or so of those miles will be paved. View attachment 724493 Some helpful hints if driving your TJ on the highway for long distances and multiple days based on my years of experience (in no particular order): 1. Have a decent stereo system. I'd rather have a relatively cheap stereo and quality speakers than the other way around. Crutchfield is my go-to. 2. Have a way to mount your phone on your dash. I use the phone's GPS function a lot on trips, and like having it in front of me. I've got this from Rugged Ridge and have been happy with it: Jeep TJ dash phone holder - Video Search Results (yahoo.com) 3. Lots of threads are out there about what tools to bring (not trying to go off on a tool tangent here, but hear me out). My experience is what you need will all fit in a small lunch pail sized bag. 1/4 and 3/8" drive sockets (with extensions), assortment of wrenches, screw drivers, plyers, needle nose plyers, wire cutters, etc. - the usual basic stuff. But think small. Like you need a set of torx drivers for those small screws that hold the sensors on the throttle body. Or sockets/wrenches to replace a battery or alternator or starter or O2 sensors in a parking lot - nothing huge. A code reader also comes in very handy. Other than having to swap out a rear driveshaft U-joint once on a trip, most of the few repairs I've done on a a trip (has been rare - the TJ's pretty reliable) have required the small tools. 4. Is your seat comfortable? Do your legs cramp after a while driving it? I put a set of RC 1.25" seat risers in my TJ and it made a huge difference with leg cramps. 5. Taking the rear seat out frees up a lot of space in the back. Mine's out, and I can put a fair amount of stuff back there. 6. Jeeps aren't speed demons. The 2.5 is even worse than the 4.0 ( but I love my lil' TJ! ). Plan on being passed a good bit. That is ok. In the higher elevations in CO I had to go quite slow on the highway. Off-road in CO (picture below) was not a problem. View attachment 724498 7. Do you have H4 headlights like I do (a popular inexpensive mod)? Bring spare bulbs (more than one). 8. It should go without saying, but have a matching spare tire. 9. I like having the hard top. It still isn't quiet inside, but better over the soft top I ran. I haven't tried any soundproofing (like dynamat stuff). But mainly I like it for security reasons - I feel better knowing stuff is locked inside. 10. Currently I'm running a new set of Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT tires 285/75/16" that measure pretty much within 1/4" of 33" tall. They are an aggressive all-terrain (which is what I prefer for the Jeep), with the snowflake/three-peak snow rating. They're an E-rated tire with three ply sidewalls (they are heavy - not helping the 2.5 engine any). I'm saying all this to say they aren't the smoothest riding or quietest tire. But I don't want a highway tire on the TJ - this Jeep is built for off-road and overlanding. So I make allowances and put up with a little more noise and road rumble (it isn't bad - just a little worse than the DC FC-II tires they replaced) for strong performance off-road. 11. Take pictures of your Jeep at places you go. Yeah - we ran Route 66 pretty much from start to finish. I took the long way home once. View attachment 724495 Click to expand...

redruby said: I would be interested in joining you on the Idaho BDR, I’ve done 4 of them already and since I will not be going to Alaska this summer, this BDR is very doable for me, please let me know if I can join you, thx Click to expand...

rnArmy said: Of course you can join us! It would be great (not required but would be nice) if you joined Overland Bound ($30.00 or so depending on if you want a metal emblem or not), and then register as a participant for the trip so you're kept in the loop. US Northwest - Idaho BDR (and then some!) | OVERLAND BOUND COMMUNITY Go to "Store" on the header in the link above, and go from there. Then you can introduce yourself to the group that's going, and participate in the discussions as we prepare for the trip. On the first post of the IDBDR thread, at the bottom there's a box that says "View Rally Point". That's where you register. And the subsequent twelve posts will tell you all about requirements and procedures & such. Don't let it scare you - it is mostly common sense stuff that I just spell out so nobody gets blindsided. I too was originally going to go up north this summer. My plan was to run the Dempster in northern Canada all the way to the Arctic Ocean, but they have strict Covid requirements up north for non-residents that pretty much made it a no-go. I've only done one other BDR so far - the WABDR. The BDR folks have done their homework. Definitely order the paper map (I think they're worth it) when you go to the IDBDR site to get the GPS tracks. Idaho Backcountry Discovery Route (IDBDR) Map & Information (ridebdr.com) Are you planning on doing just the IDBDR (which is totally cool), or are you also interested in doing the bonus "and then some" part of the trip? Please let me know what I can do to help you. It'll be here soon! And to tie this back into the original topic of "TJ as a road trip - overlanding vehicle".... You mention you've done four of these BDRs in the past. Did you do them in a TJ (I'm guessing you might have since this thread is about TJ's)? If so, what was your experience/impression of adventuring in your TJ? Pro's and Con's? Click to expand...

Attachments

• Jun 5, 2022

Eric_ said: Man, I just can’t wheel a manual. I feel like I’d need a crawl box to reduce the gears enough to make it drivable. I had a buddy that rock crawled a manual trans and all we would ever smell was burned clutch. Lol. Click to expand...

Paul lm already a member of Overland Bound but can’t seem to be able to sign up for your IBDR trip, I’m interested in doing the whole trip, I did part of the TAT but broken dow in Moab so I want to finish it, so please send me a pm, thx  

MOAK said: I see this comment a lot about manual transmissions and in particular the clutch. Been driving stick shifts for over 50 years, lots of off road trail running & rock crawling, pick up trucks, euro sedans, medium size trucks, big trucks and medium sized farm tractors. I don’t ever recall burning a clutch. Sadly, most people think that it’s OK to ride a clutch outta the hole. They don’t even realize the damage they do or that anything is wrong with their methodology. Sadly, because of this, stick shifts are going away. ☹☹ Click to expand...

redruby said: Paul lm already a member of Overland Bound but can’t seem to be able to sign up for your IBDR trip, I’m interested in doing the whole trip, I did part of the TAT but broken dow in Moab so I want to finish it, so please send me a pm, thx Click to expand...

Expedition Leader

• Jun 6, 2022
• Jun 7, 2022

I can see folks slipping the clutch when geared wrong with larger tires.  

nwoodworth1390

Before kids and age kicked in my wife and i traveled all over the US and Canada in a 5spd 2013 Ford Fiesta hatchback. Just tossed our dog, ultralight backpacking gear, and a cooler in the back and we were set. If we could do it in a Fiesta, any single person or couple can do it in a TJ. We would have been soooo stoked to have all that 4x4 capability during those years. Now we are the typical people with entirely to much stuff and money stuck into our rig. I miss the simplicity.  

I say ,drive what you can afford/know how to fix/can live with ect. There are likely no perfect choices, just your own choice. I put together a 1992 Hilux Surf with a 2.8L 4 cyl diesel (no turbo,this thing clatters so loudly that Toyota puts a second rocker cover with sound deadening to "try" to keep the noise down......doesnt work)and 235/85/16 tires, you want slow, this is sloooowwwwwww! I also looked at/and thought about the "stuff" I "needed" to bring. Then I though some more....... I put an Amazon folding mattress in the back,and some stuff in a knapsack, and a cheap cooler (more to know where my food was than for cooling honestly) and drove and camped from the UK to Portugal. Then I did 900 kms off road in Portugal North to south. and thats where the Surf really did shine.This silly little truck I put together in my garage went places and did things I honestly thought it could never do,it was way more capable than I was comfortable with, so be honest with what you really need it to do and where you are going to go. I kept the mods minimal (spartan lockers front and rear) and put on good tires (Cooper STT Pro) that are very noisy and but really strong. Thats about it. So now its really noisy, really slow, but dead nuts reliable and tough as nails, and I miss driving it everyday (stayed behind for more adventures out that way and Africa one day). Watch the classifieds on this and many other sites, huge built rigs that end up doing very little adventure and cost way too much to justify as daily drivers get sold off all the time. I have always believed that there is no perfect hammer, sometimes you need a small one and sometimes you need a sledgehammer, so I prefer to have various "hammers"(vehicles) to do what they are intended to do ,not one that does everything (and all my stuff is used/older,because absolutely nothing even remotely new does anything particularly well either,but costs way too much for what they offer). At the end of the day, drive what you want. Cheers, Paulo  

Well-known member

• Jun 11, 2022

rnArmy said: I can see folks slipping the clutch when geared wrong with larger tires. Click to expand...

• Jun 13, 2022

Im starting to think an XJ would be a good balance between the capabilities of the TJ, with the comfort of the 4runner I want. I’m not exactly a huge XJ fan (looks like a box), but if a wrangler and 4runner had a kid, I suppose the XJ would be the perfect blend of the two.  

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Exciting Super Bowl LVIII trip, NFL star meetups given to football fan, decorated Wisconsin veteran

Oshkosh army vet adam alexander was awarded the purple heart, combat action badge and the army commendation medal with valor. he'll now get to meet t.j. watt and more nfl stars at the super bowl..

OSHKOSH ― Someone’s got to represent Wisconsin in the Super Bowl if the Packers won’t.

At least two hometown heroes will be in Vegas this weekend, as decorated Oshkosh Army veteran Adam Alexander is being gifted the opportunity of a lifetime to meet star NFL pass rusher T.J. Watt at the Super Bowl.

Watt, who hails from Pewaukee, made the announcement on X (formerly Twitter) after teaming up with USAA and the Disabled American Veterans on the giveback initiative.

“This is just really unbelievable, not only because it’s the Super Bowl, but this is T.J. Watt,” said Alexander in an interview with the Northwestern.

“I respect him so much as a player, and by all accounts I’ve heard, he’s a standout guy, so it will be great to get to know him more on a personal level.

“It’s also huge because he and his brothers are Wisconsin royalty for us, so it will be great to pick his brain a little bit and give him a chance to reconnect with another Midwestern guy,” Alexander added.

An official NFL partner, USAA works with current and former players and veteran service organizations to provide a pair of tickets each to eight serving or veteran members of the military to attend Super Bowl LVIII.

We Heart You winners: Solutions Recovery duo awarded for substance use recovery efforts in Oshkosh

Alexander will get a chance to meet other players like Gronk, C.J. Stroud, Tua, Jimmy G and Aidan Hutchinson.

Alexander will also have meet-and-greet opportunities with former All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski; star quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa, C.J. Stroud and Jimmy Garoppolo; rookie sensations Bijan Robinson and Puka Nacua; and Detroit Pro Bowl defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

But Watt is the true headliner, and not just because of his Wisconsin roots ― or the fact he played collegiately for the Badgers.

A former Defensive Player of the Year, Watt shares the single-season sack record of 22.5 with Michael Strahan and is a 4-time First Team All-Pro for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He's actually made the Pro Bowl in all but one of his seven seasons in the NFL.

Watt's appearance for this giveback initiative is all a part of USAA’s Salute to Service program, which recognizes and honors the work of military members, particularly disabled veterans.

Initially enlisted in 2008, Alexander was only given a 5% chance of survival after being struck in the head by sniper fire when he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011.

He eventually achieved the rank of staff sergeant following a decorated service history that saw him being awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action badge and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor.

“I was in college spinning tires not going anywhere, and I had some friends who served before they started college and my stories seemed so mundane compared to theirs,” said a now 39-year-old Alexander.

“It was also laundry day, and I needed the free T-shirt, so there’s also that,” he laughed.

Alexander was named DAV's 2022 Disabled American Veteran of the Year as an advocate for veterans' issues.

But his post-service work has been no joke. Alexander was named DAV’s 2022 Disabled American Veteran of the Year for his philanthropic efforts as an advocate for veterans’ issues.

A devoted member of DAV Chapter 17 in Winnebago County, Alexander provided testimony to the Wisconsin State Legislature for a bill that expands eligibility for property tax credits for other disabled veterans.

And that has nothing to do with his local school engagements and his hosting duties on the TV program the Outpost, which provides support and raises awareness for local veterans.

“Being a professional football player requires strength, resiliency and selflessness — all inspiring characteristics that Staff Sergeant Adam Alexander embodies,” Watt said in a news release.

“I’m honored to team up with USAA and Disabled American Veterans to give Adam, a fellow Wisconsinite and national hero, the recognition he deserves, and I look forward to meeting him at the Super Bowl in Las Vegas.”

Oshkosh racer: Oshkosh’s Ethan Jacobs, 17, lands exclusive scholarship on Mazda racing team

Alexander is taking his father-in-law, a fellow Army veteran, to Super Bowl LVIII.

Alexander revealed he will be taking his father-in-law, David Nelson, a fellow Army veteran, to Super Bowl LVIII.

He’s actually not upset they’ll be watching the rival 49ers, and not his hometown Packers, face the defending champion Kansas City.

“Sure, Green Bay making it would have made it all the more sweet, but now I can actually enjoy the game at face value and not have a dog in the hunt because the Packers losing it could really ruin the experience,” Alexander explained.

USAA partnered with other veteran service organizations like the American Legion, Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps Association, the Air and Space Forces Association and Non-Commissioned Officers Association of America to host the eight veterans in the Salute to Service Lounge at the Super Bowl.

Contact Justin Marville at  [email protected] .

Celebrate Spring with These Elegant TJ Maxx Dinner Plates Customers Adore

Parade carefully selects product recommendations for our audience. Commission may be received from purchases made through our links.

Spring is a time of renewal, and what better way to refresh your home and wardrobe than a trip to your local discount retailer? T.J. Maxx offers an assortment of items for the season, including a treasure trove of stylish home and kitchenware ideal for your spring celebrations or an Easter gathering.

The store is currently featuring must-have kitchenware at can’t-miss prices. Shoppers can find top steals like the sophisticated Hammered Fluted Glasses at only $20 for a set of four or opt for charming spring-themed floral cocktail glasses. With such an array of choices, the most challenging task may be narrowing down what to take home.

And for those eager to complement their spring table setting with new dinnerware, TJ Maxx has just what you need. A standout choice for the season is the Royal Stafford English Toile Dinner Plates set, a design that beautifully embraces spring.

This set of six dinner plates, retailing at $49.99, features a beautiful blue floral toile pattern that adds charm and sophistication to any meal. Each 11-inch plate boasts a central design of an overflowing pot of flowers, encircled by a delicate border of blooming florals. The plates are as functional as they are beautiful — dishwasher safe and available both in TJ Maxx stores and online.

These plates are lovely in their versatility, perfectly complementing the coastal grandma trend when paired with similar hues and clear glassware or standing out when mixed with contemporary home decor. They can be dressed up with table linens and candlesticks for a festive meal or casually displayed for an informal buffet-style event.

T.J. Maxx’s savvy marketing team knew they had a hit on their hands, showcasing the elegant dinnerware to their 1.6 million followers on Instagram . It headlined a collection of coastal grandma-inspired products currently in store, prompting enthusiastic fan responses. Indeed, the consensus is clear: these plates are a springtime must-have.

Looking ahead: Check out Aldi’s new $10 Stanley Tumbler doppelganger in fresh spring colors that customers are raving about.

Where can I purchase the Royal Stafford English Toile Dinner Plates set?

You can buy the set at TJ Maxx locations or through their online store.

Are the dinner plates dishwasher safe?

Yes, they are dishwasher safe, making them convenient to use and easy to clean.

How many plates are included in the dinnerware set?

The set comes with six 11-inch dinner plates.

Can these plates be mixed and matched with other styles?

Absolutely! These plates are versatile and can be paired with a variety of other dinnerware and home decor to match your personal style.

For anyone looking to infuse their dining experience with a touch of spring’s beauty, the Royal Stafford English Toile Dinner Plates from TJ Maxx offer that perfect blend of elegance and practicality. With their charming floral design and dishwasher-safe feature, they’re a delightful addition to any spring table setting. Whether you’re hosting a formal Easter dinner or a laid-back brunch, these dinner plates will elevate your meal with their timeless appeal. Don’t wait too long, though; these popular items won’t last, and TJ Maxx fans are already showing their love for these gorgeous plates.

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