Although I have lived in the State of Mexico for almost my whole life, the reality is that I was born in Mexico´s third-largest city (after Mexico City and Guadalajara) and second-largest industrial center. Yes, I was born in Monterrey, so I am a “regia” as we call those of us who born in the city of Monterrey, the capital of the northern state of Nuevo Leon.

With the beautiful sight of the iconic Cerro de la Silla (Saddleback Mountain) which can be seen from just about anywhere in the city, Monterrey offers the perfect combination of industry, modernity and history, culture, tradition, entertainment, nature and gastronomy. Let me invite you to join me for a day in some of my favorite places of this multi-faceted city.

Every time I to travel to Monterrey to visit my family, it is a must to have a breakfast of huevo con machaca, always served in either a flour burrito or  flour taco, which are more common than corn tortillas in Northern Mexico.

After a traditional breakfast we are ready to head to a gorgeous destination to begin the day. I would like to take you to the Macroplaza, one of the world’s largest public squares that encompass green areas and pretty fountains as well as ancient monuments and colonial buildings that contrast with new buildings. You can either enjoy a walk with family and children or you can take a touristic bus ride for a quick way to get to know the Macroplaza and the most important points of interest around it, like the the Antiguo Palacio Federal (Old Federal Palace), el Palacio de Gobierno (State Government Palace) or the Faro de Comercio tower. Also imposing there is the Metropolitan Cathedral, which dates back to the early 17th century and took well over 100 years to complete.

If you are curious about Mexican art and would like to get immersed in the local culture let´s hop to the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Monterrey, better known as MARCO. Its galleries boast an impressive collection of great artists and modern artwork from across Mexico and it also organizes excellent temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Since we might be hungry by now, let´s start one of the most enjoyable walks along the pedestrian walkway that runs throughout Paseo Santa Lucía (Santa Lucia Riverwalk), an artificial canal that stretches nearly 3 kilometers across the city, and head to La Divina restaurant, were we can have a taste of Mexican cuisine in a pleasant atmosphere and traditional Mexican music playing.

Let´s continue strolling along the Riverwalk all the way to Fundidora Park, a sustainable park located inside the former Monterrey Foundry Property. I like to go there and just take a walk and relax, but if your enjoy outdoor activities, among the different attractions that you can find inside the park, there is also a track were you can jog, skate, and even ride a bike before heading back to Macroplaza by boat to enjoy the full experience of the Santa Lucia Riverwalk.

Monterrey is famous for its Cabrito (baby goat) restaurants. Let’s end our day and enjoy a great dinner at El Rey del Cabrito, the most popular restaurant where you can experience the taste of this local dish. Despite being a very touristy place, I like this restaurant because it brings me back memories from my childhood when I lived in Monterrey and we used to eat there every time my grandparents visited us.