Tijuana Arch (Arco Monumental)

The basics

You can’t miss the Tijuana Arch if you’re sightseeing in Centro. Many city walking tours start at the structure, which straddles two sides of Avenida Revolución—the main thoroughfare of historic downtown and the tourist center. If tours aren't in your plans, combine a trip to see the arch with a visit to nearby Plaza Santa Cecilia, a historic public plaza lined with shops, where you can often see mariachi concerts and dance performances geared toward tourists.

Things to know before you go

• The arch is within a public space and is free to visit.

• You won’t need more than a few minutes to see the entire structure.

• Some of the sidewalks near the arch are accessible to wheelchairs.

• The arch is a common point of reference when giving directions in the city.

How to get there

Tijuana Arch crosses over Avenida Revolución at the intersection with Calle Primera in the northern reach of Centro, Tijuana's downtown neighborhood. It’s a short distance from the border crossing and is easily visible from the street. To reach the arch from the border, walk or drive down Avenida Internacional or use the pedestrian bridge from the US side.

When to get there

You can see the arch anytime as it’s within a public area. Visit during the afternoon or later when the odds of crowds are lowest, while the early evening light is good for taking photos. Generally, the best time to visit Tijuana is during spring and summer, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant enough for exploring outdoors comfortably.

Tijuana’s most famous Caesar salads

Legend has it that Caesar salad was created in Caesars, a retro tourist restaurant on Avenida Revolución, which is less than 10 minutes on foot from the Tijuana Arch. Head there for an elaborate meal in a classic 1920s-style interior—think escargots, beef Wellington, and salmon meuniere.