It's amazing what secrets a couple of blocks can hold. It doesn't matter where you are, from the smallest town to obviously the big metropolises: there is always something to discover in just a few steps. And speaking of streets that hide wonders, it is unthinkable to talk about San Miguel de Allende without stopping at Aldama Street, by far the background landscape of the vast majority of the photos we see on Instagram, Tiktok videos and all the content created in the town. It is its privileged location and the perfect frame it offers towards the Parish that have made it a must to walk around and take the obligatory photo.
It is ironic that despite being one of the busiest streets in the center, we do not always know what it has to offer. With that in mind, we decided to take a stroll from its beginning, just behind the Parroquia (Quadrant) and to its mouth at the Fuente Roja. In just three blocks, we can discover the essence of San Miguel. Here we tell you.
Going down Aldama
In addition to the residential use that the street has, from the beginning we can find the first businesses, such as The House of the Inquisitor, a space where Martha Grife has been teaching knitting and using yarn to create true designer pieces for years. Then, on the right side, a small and modest art gallery begins to immerse us in the local artistic proposal. To stay on this emblematic street, behind its magnificent wooden carved door we have the Heart Inn and The Sanctuary Estate With its fascinating collection of Mexican art and a mini-bar decorated with an incredible mural titled “La Sanmiguelada”, it is definitely a hidden spot to photograph and share. Right there and to take a break and refresh yourself, you are in luck because the fresh water bar The Samaritan Woman It has only recently opened.
And since you've had a rest, why not go shopping? That's what it's for. Asteria by José Yañez, an eclectic boutique with items made by the designer, who has positioned himself as a worthy representative of national design; here you will 'get lost' for a while, we warn you. Just a few steps away, and if you are into unique shoes and hats, you have to go in Cock of the Walk Designs by Carrie Cameron, artist and designer of boots and one of a kind pieces and one of the pioneers in always keeping the entrance arch decorated with flowers, further beautifying the street. Review why I think José is inside Carrie C's boots And of course, accessories cannot be missing, an area where Elisheva & Constance has strong credentials as one of the most recognized jewelry design brands in Mexico.
Another couple of notable hotels are Hotel Matilda that we like for its paradisiacal spaces and its luxury amenities (make sure to stop by and try it out) Moxi and a drink at Múi, or relax in its spa), and on the emblematic corner is Mansion of the Forest, which retains all the vibe of the old properties offering very accessible and comfortable rooms. We continue down and right at one of the entrances that lead to Aldama Street, a few steps from the children's games at Parque Juárez), you will find a Coldwell Banker, you know, in case you feel like buying a property in the town, by chance.
Of course you have to follow yourself to Fantastic – Xocolatl to recover with a good dose of energy with the artisanal chocolate that they prepare and that is perfect to take as a souvenir to your family and friends. At this point you will have reached the Fuente Roja roundabout, finding yourself in front of the beautiful Hotel Coup de Vista, where we finish our tour. We leave the rest to you so that you can discover on foot everything you don't know about San Miguel.
