Riviera del Pacifico Cultural and Convention Center, Ensenada
The Riviera del Pacifico Cultural and Convention Center is one of Ensenada鈥檚 most recognized and historic landmarks. Built in 1928 and opened in 1930 as The Playa Ensenada Hotel and Casino, the building was a symbol of luxury during Prohibition, attracting Hollywood stars like Bing Crosby and Rita Hayworth. When alcohol became legal again in the U.S., the casino lost much of its appeal and eventually closed in the 1960s after several ownership changes.
In the 1970s, the Mexican government restored and reopened the property as a cultural center. Many of the original features鈥攕uch as hand-painted tiles, wood-beamed ceilings, and murals鈥攚ere preserved, keeping the elegance of its golden era alive. The building now hosts art classes, festivals, and community events, and it鈥檚 also home to Bar Andaluz, a cantina that claims to be the birthplace of the margarita. Inside, you can view vintage photos and admire a mural by Mexican artist Alfredo Ramos Mart铆nez, or sip cocktails in the peaceful courtyard.
Another highlight of the Riviera is the Ensenada History Museum, which opened in 1993 inside the same complex. The museum features six themed rooms covering the region's past鈥攆rom Indigenous cultures and prehistoric times to European exploration, missionary efforts, and mining. It also includes a library, photo archive, and a shop. With guided tours and educational workshops, the museum helps visitors connect with Baja California鈥檚 rich heritage, making the Riviera not just a beautiful venue, but a meaningful cultural destination.
In the 1970s, the Mexican government restored and reopened the property as a cultural center. Many of the original features鈥攕uch as hand-painted tiles, wood-beamed ceilings, and murals鈥攚ere preserved, keeping the elegance of its golden era alive. The building now hosts art classes, festivals, and community events, and it鈥檚 also home to Bar Andaluz, a cantina that claims to be the birthplace of the margarita. Inside, you can view vintage photos and admire a mural by Mexican artist Alfredo Ramos Mart铆nez, or sip cocktails in the peaceful courtyard.
Another highlight of the Riviera is the Ensenada History Museum, which opened in 1993 inside the same complex. The museum features six themed rooms covering the region's past鈥攆rom Indigenous cultures and prehistoric times to European exploration, missionary efforts, and mining. It also includes a library, photo archive, and a shop. With guided tours and educational workshops, the museum helps visitors connect with Baja California鈥檚 rich heritage, making the Riviera not just a beautiful venue, but a meaningful cultural destination.
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Riviera del Pacifico Cultural and Convention Center on Map
Sight Name: Riviera del Pacifico Cultural and Convention Center
Sight Location: Ensenada, Mexico (See walking tours in Ensenada)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Ensenada, Mexico (See walking tours in Ensenada)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Ensenada, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Ensenada
Creating your own self-guided walk in Ensenada 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.
Ensenada Introduction Walking Tour
Ensenada, located on the Baja California Peninsula, is a coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culinary scene and rich cultural heritage.
This dynamic port city offers a unique blend of Mexican charm and maritime adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for both relaxation and excitement. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
This dynamic port city offers a unique blend of Mexican charm and maritime adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for both relaxation and excitement. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles