Things to Do in Puerta Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is just second after Cancun as the most visited city in Mexico. The picturesque natural beauty, local art and outdoor adventures are a few reasons people are drawn to this city for vacations.
Canopy & Outdoor Adventures: Canopy Tour

Canopy & Outdoor Adventures is one of many tour companies in Puerto Vallarta. The canopy tour is an exciting way to explore the jungle. You are suspended from cables and rappel through the treetops to several platforms. The tour begins with a ride to the Canopy & Outdoor Adventures private ecological reserve, which is in the center of the Sierra Madre Occidental. Canopy tour guides explain the tour, provide safety information and secure each person's equipment. You then rappel on 11 zip lines through 14 observation platforms, two hanging bridges and a "Tarzan" swing, each providing a magnificent view of the jungle. Tours are available every day except Wednesdays.

Canopy & Outdoor Adventures
Edificio Marina Golf
Local 13-C, Calle Mastil, Marina Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco 48354, Mexico
(888) 303-2653
www.canopy-adventures.com

Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens

The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens are in the Sierra Madre Mountains. The gardens serve as both a research center and a garden for visitors. The gardens are 20 acres and feature more than 3,000 plant species. There are many areas to experience, including the Rose Garden, Agave Gardens, Fern Grotto and Orchid House. Bird watching is also one of the many things to do at the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Visitors also may swim in the Rio Los Horcones. The gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday, and free admission is given to children younger than 12.
Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Carretera Puerto Vallarta a Barra de Navidad Km. 24
Las Juntas y los Veranos Cabo Corrientes Jalisco. C.P. 48447
011 52 322 223-6182
www.vallartabotanicalgardensac.org

Malecon

The Malecon is the beachfront promenade in Puerto Vallarta's downtown area. Walking on the promenade provides gorgeous ocean views, and bronze sculptures lining the walkway offer spectacular photo opportunities. On the nearby beach, local artists create sand sculptures. The Malecon features vendors and kiosks offering goods such as jewelry and local "street food." Heading to the south end of the promenade is an open-air amphitheater where performances are held. In the evenings, musicians, puppeteers and folk dancers put on shows. The Malecon is open daily but is busiest on the weekends.

Malecon
Paseo Diaz Ordaz
Puerto Vallarta 48300
Mexico
www.villaencantada.com/puerto-vallarta-malecon-info.html

Based in San Diego, Catherine Anne Alipio began writing in 2009. She writes mainly about travel, relationships and pets, and her articles have been published on numerous websites, including ibeverageblogs.com and Bleacher Report. Alipio is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English at San Diego State University.