Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buenavista to Tepexpan

Mexico is a country of vibrant culture and beautiful scenery. When planning a trip from Buenavista to Tepexpan, one can easily find the most popular tourist destinations to visit. However, it's often the hidden gems along the journey that make for the most memorable experiences. This article aims to highlight five unexpected places to stop when driving from Buenavista, Estado de México, to Tepexpan, Estado de México.

Starting from Buenavista, the journey takes approximately two hours by car on Route 57D. The picturesque route offers spectacular views of the countryside, and the journey itself is enjoyable. Along the way, there are several towns and places to stop by, but there are five places that stand out. These are the five unexpected places to stop on this journey:

1. Ecatepec de Morelos

Ecatepec de Morelos, MEX, is the halfway point between Buenavista and Tepexpan. It has a population of over 1.6 million people and has a rich history dating back to pre-Hispanic times. Visitors to Ecatepec de Morelos can visit the Ecatepec Temple, which was built in the 16th century, and has become an important landmark for the town. Additionally, visitors can take a stroll along the town's Zócalo, an open-air plaza surrounded by colonial-style buildings. Here, visitors can enjoy street performances, local food, and artwork. The town's vibrant energy is sure to offer a memorable experience for visitors.

What to eat: Ecatepec is famous for its tacos de cecina (salted beef tacos), which are a must-try when visiting the town.

2. Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan is located only a few kilometers off Route 57D, making it an easy and convenient stop. This ancient city is home to some of the most impressive pyramids in the world, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Visitors can walk along the Avenue of the Dead, which connects the two pyramids and is flanked by well-preserved ancient buildings and structures. Visitors can also visit the Museum of Teotihuacan Culture to learn more about the history of the ancient city.

What to eat: Visitors to Teotihuacan should try the traditional pulque, a milky fermented beverage made from the maguey plant that is only found in Mexico.

3. El Oro

El Oro is a magical town located in the State of Mexico, just an hour's drive off Route 57D. The town was once a bustling mining town and is now a well-preserved colonial town filled with cobbled streets, picturesque plazas, and ornate churches. Visitors can walk along the town's main street, Avenida Hidalgo, and visit the town's historic buildings, such as the Municipal Palace and the Temple of El Carmen. El Oro is also famous for its silver jewelry, which is made by local artisans.

What to eat: Visitors to El Oro must try the delicious miner's enchiladas, which are made with spicy red sauce and chorizo.

4. Hacienda de Panoaya

Hacienda de Panoaya is a hidden gem located in Amecameca, just an hour's drive off Route 57D. The hacienda was once a luxurious estate, and now it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the vast gardens, which are home to over 500 different species of flowers and plants. The hacienda also offers a small zoo and an outdoor theater, where visitors can watch live performances.

What to eat: Visitors to Hacienda de Panoaya should try the delicious barbacoa, a traditional Mexican dish made with slow-cooked lamb.

5. Xochicalco

Xochicalco is an important ancient archeological site located three hours from Buenavista along Route 95. The site is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of the most important archeological discoveries in Mexico. Visitors can explore the ancient pyramids, homes, and workshops of the city. The site also offers a small museum with interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the history of the site.

What to eat: Visitors to Xochicalco should try the famous chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican breakfast dish made with fried tortillas, salsa, and beans.

In conclusion, a road trip from Buenavista to Tepexpan is an adventure that offers a unique insight into Mexican culture and history. The five unexpected places to stop on this journey offer a combination of natural, cultural, and culinary experiences that will make the trip unforgettable. From the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan to the picturesque town of El Oro, visitors will discover new and exciting things at every turn. So grab your keys and hit the road!