Plaza Machado
Plaza Machado
4.5
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Central plaza named for Juan Nepomuceno Machado who donated the land.
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4.5
2,143 reviews
Excellent
1,485
Very good
542
Average
100
Poor
9
Terrible
7
Mike Mihaljevich
27 contributions
Dec 2019
The plaza is small in comparison to most cities in Mexico. But Mazatlan is attempting to fix up the downtown area and make it more attractive. I ate at a restaurant here and the service was bad and did not enjoy the coconut shrimp (which was breaded coconut). The young waiter was one of the most incompetent I have had the displeasure to be customer off and that is saying something in Mexico!! But, the place can be bustling with visitors who appear to enjoy the attractive plaza, a sometimes bustling restaurant (there are several with outside seating). There was a female singer there, I would say rather amateurish but hustling for some money. I suppose they have others, maybe better on other days. This area attracts tourists in the downtown section since there is not really that much going on. I passed through here several times and was not impressed. But others might disagree. I have travelled to many cities in Mexico and I would say that Mazatlan is cool if you want to enjoy beaches of which they have many.
Written 7 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lindrein
Chesterfield, VA80 contributions
Dec 2019
We happened to be in Plaza Machado the night the Christmas tree was lit. There were fireworks and the whole park was alive with music and families. Vendors sold their wares, children played, the whole festival was so alive! We ate at a corner restaurant that evening and watched the events happening right in front of us. It was a very positive happening and hope to be back another December.
Written 27 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cris9505
Lodi, CA151 contributions
Dec 2020
Plaza Machado is one of the main squares in the heart of old town Mazatlan. It is surrounded by great restaurants and is always displaying fun art, or fests for the seasons! The opera house is also located here.
Get out to tourist Mazatlan and come down to Machado Plaza where you can watch the young lovers stroll hand in hand (being closely watched by their parents!)
This is real Mazatlan! You are cheating yourself if you do not spend time here!
Get out to tourist Mazatlan and come down to Machado Plaza where you can watch the young lovers stroll hand in hand (being closely watched by their parents!)
This is real Mazatlan! You are cheating yourself if you do not spend time here!
Written 19 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol J
Sedona, AZ72 contributions
Feb 2022
Plaza Machado was within walking distance from our AirBnB. We walked there every day at different times and it's charm never waivered. We tried several of the restaurants and were never disappointed. In the day you could spend a quiet morning or afternoon sitting in the shade watching people strolling with their dogs and children playing. Strolling musicians or dancers will entertain you. The evenings are magical. The restaurants have bands playing and lovely lighted areas that give it a magical feel. On weekends there are vendors galore selling jewelry, clothing, trinkets, and much more. street entertainers travel the plaza with their talents. Sit inside or out depending on you pleasure and the weather. The plaza is just such a pleasant place to be any time of day.
Written 6 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott H
Marshall, IL9 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Plaza Machado in the El Historico area is a MUST VISIT when going to Mazatlan. The architecture is beautiful and, depending on the time of your visit, the sidewalk merchants and bands are interesting to see. At night, the streets are blocked off and the restaurants offer outside seating so that you can enjoy, both the weather, and the ambiance of the beautiful surroundings. We ALWAYS dine at El Bife restaurant and the food (we have the steak) is delicious. For a different and unique dining experience, try their Milk Tripe!!!
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tracy T
Portland, OR127 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
We spent a lot of time here on the weekend as there is a lot of music, artists, many restaurants and a gazillion people. In other words a pretty typical tourist spot, but with lots of local color/life.
We didn't eat at any of the restaurants, but did at several near-by and spent tie in the plaza afterwards listening to the various bands. Mexican music is ALWAYS loud, and the competing artists made it more so.
So after dinner spend some time there and enjoy the 'theater.'
We didn't eat at any of the restaurants, but did at several near-by and spent tie in the plaza afterwards listening to the various bands. Mexican music is ALWAYS loud, and the competing artists made it more so.
So after dinner spend some time there and enjoy the 'theater.'
Written 9 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pamela V
Scottsdale, AZ457 contributions
Nov 2022
There are many good restaurants on the plaza and it is clean and lovely. When the cruise ships are in there are always performances afternoon and evening. It is a safe area to stroll and enjoy people watching. There are good shops nearby.
Written 17 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carmen81
Chapin, SC52 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
The machado is a beautiful area of shops and restaurants. Stores & restaurants don’t open until after 10am. There are wonderful “blue shirt” volunteers all through the area that can help you find your way to whatever you are looking for. The shop/ restaurant people are very friendly and welcoming. You can easily walk the whole area. Don’t miss the local market only a couple short blocks away. Bustling market full of locals and safe. Inexpensive souvenirs. Not for the squeamish! It is a real market, meats, cheeses, tamales, etc.. A fun experience. In the evening the streets to the machado are closed off to cars, there is music , beautiful candles everywhere, dancing, the streets are full of people. Wonderful atmosphere- totally different from the day. The walkways are very uneven and may be difficult for some people to navigate.
Written 19 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas K
Chicago, IL28 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Went to this plaza twice today, once during the day to sit and watch people go by and tonight for dinner.
This is a very lively place with shops, small stalls, Ice Cream and a wonderful plaza.
Had a great day here.
This is a very lively place with shops, small stalls, Ice Cream and a wonderful plaza.
Had a great day here.
Written 3 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
murray1041
dublin16 contributions
Nov 2019
Love this plaza. Reminds me of Seville. Really good restaurants and prices are reasonable and staff are terrific. We go there every year. Casa 46 is connected to Pueblo Bonito and the tab can be put on your room at Emerald Bay
Written 12 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It’s about 15 KM between the two, but it’s easy to get there by cab, or City Bud if your adventurous.
Written 31 January 2024
How is the parking situation around Machado square? I will be staying long term and bringing my car- found a good rental in that area, so want to make sure that finding parking won't be an issue.
Written 2 January 2022
How far from El Cid? Walking distance? Safe for tourists?
Written 29 April 2019
It is in old Mazatlan. You will need a taxi or a pulmonia. Cost 15 to 20 .00 US. It is well worth the money and enjoy the Music. Totally safe. Your driver will probably wait until you finish dinner, drinks and desert. It is a place you will visit often.
Written 29 April 2019
how far is this from Cruise ship dock? and how much is taxi to there? thanks
Written 9 July 2016
It is walking distance by following a blue line in the center of the road that ends at the Plazuela. There are local guides and traffic police that can keep you heading in the right direction. You can take a taxi, or more fun yet, a pulmonia (a suped-up golf cart) that are right there as you leave the terminal. It's about a five-minute ride. Have fun!
Written 7 March 2017
Kim G
Huntsville, Canada
How far is this from the Riu, Emerald Bay Resort? Can you walk there?
Written 17 January 2016
The Plaza Machado is in Centro Historico and is about a 30 minutes north along the coastal road, the Malecon. A nice taxi or pulmonea ride - but to far to walk.
Written 19 January 2016
We are cruising to Mazatlan and wondering what would be a fun thing to do while at port. Beaches close enough to walk to?? Anything close enough to walk to??
Written 7 March 2015
There are several shops, restaurants and a city center (Plaza Machado) near the ship dock; however, the beach is too far to walk to. If you want to go to the beach or boardwalk (malecon), you can take a pulmonia. Pulmonias are white golf carts that are less expensive than taxis. You should ask the price before accepting the ride. The price shouldn't be more than $5 USD.
Written 7 March 2015
Merblack
Banff, Canada
I have been looking at reviews for Plaza Machado as we will be in the area in March. I just wonder how reviews can range from "its too dangerous and there have been shootings" to "it is completely safe and vibrant, don't miss it". What's a person to make of that?
Written 11 February 2015
I've lived here for six years and have taken dozens of family and friends to the Plaza and have never encountered a problem. There was a shooting there during carnaval about four years ago that was a domestic violence situation, one victim and the perpetrator immediately arrested. Since then I haven't seen or heard of anything like that.
Written 7 March 2017
CPALM2010
Lake Park, Minnesota
I see listed in amenties/activities that there is nightly dinner entertainment or shows. Is there a schedule of events? The website is vague. We are coming January 27 and wondering about any entertainment on the 28 or 29th. My daughter's (11th) birthday is Jan 28 and would like our group to celebrate together with a dinner show if possible.
Written 24 January 2015
I don't think you will find the type of entertainment you are looking for near Machado Square or anywhere in Mazatlan. I also checked the monthly guides and found a few performances at the beautiful Angela Peralto a Theater just steps off the square. There are Mexican bands playing on the streets and some of the finer restaurants (Topolos) have singers. There are no dinner theaters. If there were, they would be in Spanish. The only theatre I can find is on January 29th at 7:00 where actors are performing parts from a Neil Simon play.
Written 24 January 2015
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