A Travel Guide with Eric Dowdle: Puerto Vallarta

This Week, It's All About Puerto Vallarta!

The following post was first published on BYUtv. 

Last night, we joined Eric as he ventured south to one of Mexico's most well-known cities, Puerto Vallarta, in Painting the Town with Eric Dowdle!

After trying his hand at a homemade tortilla, making his own piñata, and even speaking a little español, Eric is feeling like a Puerto Vallartan himself! So we teamed up with him to create the ultimate travel guide that will have you feeling like a native in no time!

If you’re dreaming of a vacation to this sunny Mexican paradise, this travel guide is just what you need to help you find all the must-see spots in Puerto Vallarta!

Famous Landmarks Worth Giving A Visit:

El Malecon Boardwalk (Paseo Díaz Ordaz S/N, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico)
This famous boardwalk is known for its extensive promenade, which features everything from locally made goods to high end restaurants. This makes it the perfect place for locals and tourists alike to spend a night out!

Los Arcos National Marine Park (Los Arcos National Marine Park, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico)
Arches are a main attraction of the city and represent an open gate, welcoming all inside. So a trip to Puerto Vallarta just wouldn't be the same without a visit to Los Arcos National Marine Park, where you can cruise along the shore and through the arches or snorkel the crystal blue waters that host an array of sea life.

The Parish of Our Lady Guadalupe (Hidalgo 370, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico)
With its famous crown of angels, this church serves as one of the highlights of Puerto Vallarta. Here you can get to know some of the city’s oldest history while taking in the beauty of this ornately decorated cathedral.

Rancho el Charro (Carretera Talpa-Tomatlan, Salida ala Cuesta KM2, Centro, 48200 Talpa de Allende, Jal., Mexico)
There’s nothing quite like hitching a horseback ride through the serene landscape of Puerto Vallarta, and at Rancho el Charro, you’ll get to experience just that! Rancho el Charro offers a variety of scenic horseback trails that accommodate the whole family.

Vallarta Adventures (Vallarta Adventures' Center, Av. Las Palmas #39 Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit; ZC 63732, Mexico)
From swimming with dolphins to riding one of the longest ziplines in Mexico, you can do it all at Vallarta Adventures! There’s an activity for everyone, young or old, at Vallarta Adventures, so don’t miss your chance to experience Puerto Vallarta on a whole new level.

Best-Kept Secret of the Town:

Come check out incredible murals painted by celebrated artist and Puerto Vallarta native Manuel Lepe, whose art captured the innocence and childlike atmosphere of the city. One of the most famous murals can be found on the outside walls of Old City Hall.

Manuel Lepe Mural at Old City Hall (Independencia 123, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico)

Eric's Favorite Places to Eat:

Mexico’s cuisine packs in the flavor, and there was no way Eric was going to miss out on the delicious comida that can be found around the town. Check out some of his favorites!

Carlos’n Charlie’s (Av, Blvrd Francisco Medina Ascencio 2479, Las Glorias, 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico)
This top-rated restaurant offers not only an entertaining atmosphere, but a list of tasty menu items, including Caribbean ceviche.

Pipi’s (Calle Guadalupe Sánchez 804, Centro, 48304 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico)
Another tourist favorite, Pipi’s is known for their homemade guacamole, featuring some of the freshest avocados in the world, as well as their mouthwatering fajitas.

The "Puerto Vallarta" Painting

After taking in all the views—both on land and sea—and even meeting the daughter and grandchildren of famous artist and ambassador of Puerto Vallarta Manuel Lepe, Eric had plenty of inspiration for his folk painting! Check out his painting of Puerto Vallarta here!

And if you love this painting, don't forget to buy the puzzle!