Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

sasha1
sasha1
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
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Editor Pick

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

  • January 4, 2006
  • Rated 3 of 5 by Kellie R. from Dallas, Texas
Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Tlaquepaque nearly lives up to its colorful name, derived from the Nahuatl word meaning "best of everything," but alas, falls just a tad short.

Billed as an "arts and crafts village," conjuring images of ancient Native American women hovering over pottery wheels, Tlaquepaque is more accurately an outdoor mall with a series of indoor shops and galleries--a little more sanitized and soulless than I had hoped for. While Tlaquepaque does offer great food, beautiful paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and pottery, it does not offer, say, ANYTHING that your average college student (or in my case, teacher) could afford to buy. For that reason, locals have dubbed the arts and crafts center "lock your pocket," which may be the more appropriate nomenclature.

That said, I would still encourage you to visit Tlaquepaque. Even if the prices are a little too rich for your blood, and even if you are put off by the fact that chances are pretty slim that you will actually encounter the creators of said art at the village, you can still get a lot out of it.

You don't have to spend a dime to take in Tlaquepaque's quaint architecture and winding cobblestone paths, reminiscent of a colonial Spanish village. Fountains, flowers, and other surprises are waiting to be discovered around every corner. One of the architectural highlights is the chapel, built over 30 years ago, which is actually used for weddings.

I suggest you eat lunch at Rene (inside Tlaquepaque village). The prices are surprisingly reasonable considering the nice atmosphere and artistically composed dishes. (Read my full review of Rene in this journal for more info.)

And, take heart--you can always treat the experience as if it were a museum instead of a shopping center, looking at all the art free of charge.

And don't forget to lock your pocket...

From journal Bird's Eye View of Turkey Day

Editor Pick

Tlaqepaque Sedona's Arts and Crafts Village

  • November 30, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by sasha1 from , Florida
Tlaqepaque Sedona's Arts and Crafts Village

Spend a day at Tlaquepaque after a day of hiking, jeeping and enjoying the strenuous activites that Sedona offers. Tlaquepaque is an artist village and landmark since the 1970s, the dream come true of Abe Miller. As you twist and turn through the four courtyards (you will swear there were more), there are fountains, flowers, scupture, restaurants and stopping places you won't want to resist.

Named for a suburb of Guadalajara, within a short time, more than 40 shops filled the niches. Wander around, sit by the fountains, peek in the shops, nibble on the great food. Tlaquepaque is a place to relax. The artists have brought their work outside for you to enjoy whether wondering at the wind scuptures or posing in the funky metal art work chairs. A shortcut down Canyon Road, easily accessible although the parking lot can be a bit hair raising.

The Sedona Trolleys might be a better choice if you want to maintain that wonderful feeling of tranquility. There are also several festivals like the Cinco de Mayo Ballet, the Fiesta, and the Luniminaras but don't worry if you miss an event. This is a place for languid relaxations, smiles at the surprises around the corners and a day of relaxation that will make you come back.

From journal Sedona, Arizona: Leave Everything Behind and Enjoy

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