4 Things to Do in Mendoza – Besides Wineries!

Things to Do in Mendoza Argentina

Wondering what are the things to do in Mendoza besides drink wine? Well, you came to the right place! Mendonza, Argentina, the land of Malbec, is known for its many bodegas (wineries) and wine tasting tours. However, you might be wondering what else there is to do, besides sampling delicious wine?

While you cannot visit Mendoza without indulging in the outstanding red blend varieties, there are other Argentina activities that will make you feel just as good. Read below to discover the best things to do in Mendoza. You might be surprised by everything that Mendoza has to offer its guests!

1. Embark on an Adventure Tour

Mendoza is set at the base of the Andes Mountains. It is the perfect spot to begin an Argentina adventure tour! From rafting, trekking, rappelling, to horseback riding and zip-lining, Mendoza is an adrenaline seeker’s paradise! For the best experience possible, I recommend a three-day adventure tour that combines Mendoza City, the dramatic landscape of the Andes Mountains, and the laidback countryside.

Begin in the city of Mendoza, once an important hub for trade routes during the colonial era. Wander the streets full of impressive architecture, including the tranquil Parque General San Martin, the World Cup Stadium, and the Frank Romero Amphitheater. Then, embark on a full-day river rafting excursion down the Mendoza River.

Or, opt for a full-day hike in the Andes Mountains range. On the third day, tour the wineries in a different fashion – by bike! The Mendoza Valley receives sunshine year-round, providing the best weather for bike riding. This explains why biking is the most popular activity in the region. Peddle your way through each vineyard, taste testing the different grape varieties as you go.

2. Visit General San Martín Park

Next up on our list of the best things to do in Mendoza is visit General San Martin Park. General San Martín Park is a green oasis in the center of Mendoza City. Designed by Carlos (Charles) Thays in 1897, the grounds evoke a strong reminder of Argentine history. Inside the park is the “Army of the Andes” monument which celebrates the liberation of Argentina, Chile, and Peru from the Spaniards.

This monument is very famous, causing many tourists to spend a moment soaking in the powerful sculpture. The General San Martín Park stretches a mere 420 hectares. There are a number of walking trails that take guests to a myriad of sites:

• Los Portones (the gates): these gold gates were purchased by the Government of Mendoza in 1907 to create a dazzling frame for the park.
• Caballitos de Marly (Marly’s horses): these Carrara marble horses are an exact replica of those that are in the Place de la Concorde in Paris.
• Fuente de los Continentes (source of the continents): stop by the fountains in General San Martín Park and admire their fantastic water feature.
• The Rosedal (rose garden): stroll in the rose garden where nearly 500 species of colorful roses and pergolas thrive.
• The Lake: This artificial lake is more than a thousand meters long. Slow down here and contemplate your thoughts.

3. Discover Puente del Inca

Puente del Inca is one of Argentina’s most stunning natural wonders. Marvel at the bridge’s vibrant orange glow, a result of the warm sulfuric waters mixing with the sediment. Unfortunately, visitors cannot step foot on the bridge due to the instability of its current condition.

However, just the sight of Puente del Inca is worth the day trip and your pictures might turn out a bit wilder than you thought! It is easy to see why Puente del Inca made it on our list of the top things to do in Mendoza.

Note: Puente del Inca is a fantastic base area for trekkers and climbers. From here, continue to Aconcagua or head south to the pinnacles of Los Penitentes.

4. Tour Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno

Last up on our list of the top things to do in Mendoza is a tour of a museum. The Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno is a relatively small museum in the Plaza Independencia. Admire the local and national contemporary artists in the featured and permanent exhibits. View the work of Argentine favorites such as Berni, Spilimbergo, and Gambarte – all on display in the permanent collection.

In addition to the noteworthy paintings, don’t forget to check out the “Engraving Gallery.” In this section of the museum, you can find a collection of woodcuts that present immaculate carving techniques. Also, if you visit the museum on the weekends, you can attend free concerts or theatrical performances.

Note: this museum is closed on Mondays. A small donation is required for entry, however, if you visit the museum on a weekday morning, free guided tours are available.

Need More Things to Do in Mendoza?

Are you curious about traveling to Mendoza, Argentina? Need more information? Check out our New & Improved Argentina Travel Guide. This guide features travel tips, hotel and restaurant recommendations, and more! Discover fun facts about Mendoza and other cities in Argentina while you flip through the pages of this guide!