Why Tequila, Jalisco is the Ultimate September Getaway (And It’s Not Just the Drink)

When it comes to autumn escapes in Mexico, few places in the country rival the appeal of Jalisco, the birthplace of mariachi, folk traditions, and, most famously, tequila. As September rolls around, a fresh breeze starts sweeping across the highlands, rustling the blue agave fields that stretch like endless waves across the valleys.

Within this scenic heartland, one town stands out as an unforgettable September destination—Tequila. Festivities, colorful streets, and, of course, Mexico’s most iconic drink. But this picturesque pueblo magico (magical town) is so much more than a pit stop on a booze tour; it’s a quirky, sophisticated destination where history, culture, and craftsmanship converge.

September is a particularly special month to visit Tequila, for reasons that go beyond the moderate climate and seasonal beauty. In Mexico, the entire month is dedicated to celebrating national pride, culminating in El Grito de Independencia, the midnight cry that marks the start of Mexican Independence Day on September 16. There’s no better place to witness these celebrations than in a town that embodies Mexico’s indomitable spirit, both literally and metaphorically.

While many towns in Jalisco deck themselves in green, white, and red for the festivities, Tequila’s independence celebrations have a special magic. Locals gather in the plaza, bands play traditional mariachi music, and vendors sell steaming plates of antojitos—tacos, elotes, and quesadillas—against a backdrop of colonial architecture. And of course, there’s always a glass of tequila nearby, toasted in honor of Mexico’s freedom.

September also marks the start of the agave harvest season. The agave plant, which thrives in Jalisco's volcanic soil, matures in the cooler months, and September visitors can witness jimadores, the skilled agave farmers, slicing away at the tall stalks with their sharp coa tools, revealing the piñas (hearts of the plant) underneath. These piñas are roasted and distilled to create the drink that’s become synonymous with the town itself—tequila.

More Than Just a Drink

While the beverage might steal the spotlight, Tequila the town is steeped in centuries of history that predate the arrival of distilled spirits. Once inhabited by the indigenous Caxcan and Tepehuán peoples, the region’s relationship with agave has ancient roots. Agave has been used for millennia in food, textiles, and ritualistic ceremonies. But when Spanish conquistadors brought the distillation process in the 16th century, the production of tequila began, and with it, the town cemented its identity.

Visitors to Tequila can take a deep dive into this history at places like the National Museum of Tequila (Museo Nacional del Tequila), where exhibits explore the cultural significance of the drink through centuries of transformation. Casa Sauza and Casa Cuervo, two of the oldest distilleries, offer guided tours that walk you through the traditional distillation process, showcasing both the artistry and science behind each bottle.

For a deeper look into the town’s history, you can visit the Plaza Principal, a charming square anchored by the Parroquia Santiago Apostol, a stunning 18th-century baroque church. The surrounding streets are lined with colonial-era buildings that have been restored into boutique hotels, restaurants, and craft stores. This architectural grandeur offers a glimpse into the wealth that tequila production brought to the region during its boom in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Encounters in Tequila

Tequila isn’t just a destination for connoisseurs or history buffs; it’s also home to quirky attractions and offbeat adventures that make it delightfully unpredictable. A ride on the Jose Cuervo Express, for instance, is an immersive experience that feels more like time travel than a simple train journey. Departing from Guadalajara, this elegant train winds through the scenic Jalisco countryside, offering passengers tastings of premium tequilas while live mariachi bands serenade you onboard.

For thrill-seekers, Tequila Volcano, an extinct volcano that looms over the town, offers some of the best hiking trails in the region. The journey up the slopes rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the endless agave fields below. And for the most daring, there's even the option to paraglide off the volcano’s ridges—a true heart-pounding way to take in the Jalisco landscape.

Back in town, one can wander through the cantaritos stands, where vendors sell refreshing cocktails made from fresh-squeezed orange, lime, and grapefruit juices, mixed with a generous pour of tequila and served in clay mugs. And if you have a penchant for art, Tequila’s local murals will catch your eye. Painted by local artists, they depict the town’s history and relationship with agave in vibrant, surrealist styles, making even a casual walk feel like a trip through an outdoor gallery.

A Culinary Destination

September isn’t just a good time for tequila; it’s also prime season for savoring the local cuisine. Tequila’s gastronomic scene is a delicious fusion of tradition and modernity, offering visitors a unique array of flavors that pair perfectly with the town's spirit.

Start your day with a plate of birria, a slow-cooked stew made from goat or beef, traditionally served with handmade tortillas and a spicy broth. The dish, which originated in Jalisco, has become a breakfast staple across Mexico but tastes best in the region that gave birth to it. Another must-try is tortas ahogadas, a sandwich filled with shredded pork and drenched in a spicy tomato sauce—a messy but irresistible delight.

For a more elevated dining experience, Tequila offers a growing number of gourmet restaurants that creatively incorporate local ingredients and tequila into their menus. La Antigua Casona, located within the Casa Salles Hotel Boutique, is renowned for its sophisticated takes on traditional Mexican dishes, like mole served with a tequila-infused twist. Pair it with a cocktail crafted from local agave spirits for a culinary experience that fully immerses you in the terroir.

An Authentic Escape

Tequila’s lodging scene has blossomed in recent years, offering options that range from rustic agave field glamping to luxurious boutique hotels housed in restored colonial estates. The Solar de las Ánimas, an opulent hotel set in a 19th-century mansion, offers a stay that feels as rich and vibrant as the town itself. With its regal interiors, rooftop infinity pool overlooking the agave fields, and a world-class spa offering tequila-infused treatments, it’s a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

For those seeking something more whimsical, consider staying at Matices Hotel de Barricas, a one-of-a-kind lodging experience where the rooms are shaped like giant tequila barrels. Set in the middle of a working distillery, the hotel gives visitors an intimate look at the agave fields, with tasting sessions and tours included in your stay. It’s a quirky, delightful way to fully immerse yourself in Tequila's spirit—both literally and figuratively.

While Jalisco is filled with incredible places to explore, Tequila stands out as a town that encapsulates the essence of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, all while embracing its quirks. September is the best time to visit, not only for the harvest and independence celebrations but because it’s when the town’s unique charm is on full display. Whether you're savoring tequila under a canopy of fireworks, hiking up the side of a volcano, or strolling through its historic streets, Tequila offers an unforgettable escape.