Plaza Machado (Machado Square), Mazatlan

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Plaza Machado (Machado Square), Mazatlan

Plaza Machado (Machado Square), Mazatlan (must see)

Machado Square, located in the heart of Mazatlán's historic center, is one of the oldest and most beloved public parks in the city. Founded in 1837 by merchant Juan Nepomuceno Machado, it was the first urban space designed specifically for recreation in Mazatlán. Originally named The Orange Tree Promenade for its orange trees and stone benches, the plaza has witnessed key moments in local history, including a battle in 1852 when citizens defended the area against Governor Francisco de la Vega. In 1881, it underwent a significant renovation that added the iconic central kiosk still standing today, and soon after, the surrounding area was developed with impressive commercial buildings and residences belonging to prosperous foreign merchants.

Today, Machado Square stands as the cultural heart of Mazatlán, hosting a range of artistic, musical, and political events year-round. From book fairs and painting exhibitions to food festivals during Carnival, the square offers a vibrant experience for both locals and visitors. Its close proximity to the Ángela Peralta Theater enhances its role as a cultural hub, and the plaza is often bustling with people browsing craft stalls or enjoying performances. The square also has literary significance; poet Amado Nervo frequently strolled its paths and later appeared in chronicles celebrating the charm of the plaza. In 2018, a bust of Nervo was installed nearby to honor his connection to the space.

Rectangular in shape and lush with palm trees and manicured gardens, the plaza is encircled by walkways lined with benches and elegant 19th-century architecture. In the evenings—especially on weekends—the area transforms into a lively open-air dining venue, with roads closed off to allow for tables and music-filled festivities. Restaurants such as Pedro and Lola offer live performances, and visitors can often hear the melodies of mariachi bands echoing across the square.

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Plaza Machado (Machado Square) on Map

Sight Name: Plaza Machado (Machado Square)
Sight Location: Mazatlan, Mexico (See walking tours in Mazatlan)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Mazatlan, Mexico

Create Your Own Walk in Mazatlan

Create Your Own Walk in Mazatlan

Creating your own self-guided walk in Mazatlan is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Mazatlan Introduction Walking Tour

Mazatlan Introduction Walking Tour

Perched on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Mazatlan attracts travelers with a penchant for outdoor adventure and beachside relaxation. On the beaches of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone), soak up year-round sunshine while admiring the bright, colorful architecture in the historic center. One of the top things to do in Mazatlan is to watch a cliff-diving show where fearless divers plunge into the ocean from...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles