Salvador Escalante is a small town in Michoacán, Mexico. It is also known by the name Santa Clara del Cobre. This town is famous for its handmade copper crafts. It sits near the mountains and is full of charm, history, and culture. The streets are quiet, the buildings are colorful, and the people are warm and friendly. If you are planning to visit this beautiful town, you will find many things to explore.
In this travel guide, I will share the 15 best things to do in Salvador Escalante. These ideas are perfect for couples, solo travelers, or families who want to enjoy something different.
Visit the National Copper Museum
This is one of the top attractions in Salvador Escalante. The museum tells the story of copper work in the region. You can see old tools, machines, and beautiful copper pieces made by local artists. Some pieces are very old and others are modern with creative designs.
There are also live demos. You can watch artisans hammer copper into shape by hand. It’s exciting and shows how much skill is needed. Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop to buy handmade copper souvenirs.
Walk Through the Town Plaza
The town plaza is the heart of Salvador Escalante. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy local life. There are benches under trees, old buildings around the square, and often music in the air.
Many events happen in the plaza, especially during festivals. You can buy street food, watch dancers, or just enjoy the calm vibe of the town. It’s also a great spot for people-watching or sipping a cold drink.
Explore the Copper Workshops
There are many small copper workshops all over town. Some are open to visitors. You can walk in, talk to the artisans, and see how they make their items.
Each workshop has its own style. Some focus on pots and pans, while others create sculptures, jewelry, and art. You can even take a short class and try making something with copper yourself.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Zirahuén
Lake Zirahuén is just a short drive from Salvador Escalante. It’s a peaceful lake with clear blue water and green hills all around. The lake is perfect for a day of swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the shore.
You can rent a small cabin, have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, or hike on the nearby trails. The view is amazing, and the air is fresh. It’s a nice break from town life and very popular with both locals and tourists.
Enjoy Local Food at the Mercado
The town market, or mercado, is full of flavors. You can find homemade tortillas, tamales, carnitas, and fresh fruit. It’s a great place to try local dishes that you won’t find in big cities.
Many stalls also sell sweet breads, candies, and drinks like atole or fresh fruit water. The market is a great place to eat like a local. Everything is fresh, tasty, and affordable.
Attend the Copper Festival
If you visit in August, you may be lucky to see the Feria Nacional del Cobre. This is the national copper festival. Artists from all over Mexico come to show their best copper work.
There are contests, live music, dancing, and food stalls everywhere. The whole town celebrates. This is one of the best times to visit Salvador Escalante if you want to experience its culture and traditions.
Visit the Church of Santa Clara
The church in the center of town is a quiet and beautiful place. It has old stone walls, wooden doors, and a peaceful atmosphere. Inside, you’ll see local artwork and religious icons.
People come here to pray, reflect, or just enjoy the peaceful setting. The church is part of the town’s long history and stands as a symbol of faith and community.
Buy Handmade Crafts from Local Artisans
Besides copper, you’ll find other handmade items in town. There are shops that sell wood carvings, textiles, and pottery. Everything is made by hand and full of detail.
Buying from local artists helps support the town’s economy. These items also make great gifts. Each piece has a story behind it, and the quality is always high.
Hike the Forest Trails Nearby
Salvador Escalante is close to forests and hills. There are many hiking trails you can explore. Some take you through pine forests, others to small waterfalls or lookout points.
The air is cool and the paths are quiet. It’s a good idea to go with a local guide or ask for trail info at your hotel. Bring water, snacks, and enjoy the peaceful nature.
Ride a Horse Through the Countryside
Many locals offer horseback rides through the countryside. It’s a slow and peaceful way to see the land around Salvador Escalante. You’ll pass through fields, small farms, and forests.
Most rides are one or two hours. The horses are gentle and guides are friendly. This is a great activity for both beginners and experienced riders.
Visit Nearby Pátzcuaro
Pátzcuaro is a town close to Salvador Escalante. It’s one of the most famous places in Michoacán. You can take a short ride there and explore another part of the region.
Pátzcuaro has a large lake, old churches, and one of the best Day of the Dead festivals in Mexico. It also has more shops and restaurants if you want more options for food and souvenirs.
Learn to Cook a Local Dish
Some hotels and families in Salvador Escalante offer cooking classes. You can learn to make dishes like enchiladas, salsas, or sweet treats. The classes are simple and fun.
After cooking, you get to eat what you made. It’s a great way to connect with local people and take home a new skill. You can even write down the recipe to try again later.
Watch a Copper Hammering Demonstration
Even if you don’t visit a workshop, many shops have hammering demos outside. You’ll hear the loud sound of metal being shaped. It’s interesting to see how a flat piece of copper becomes a pot or plate.
These demos are short, but they show the talent behind each item. Ask questions, take pictures, and admire the hard work that goes into each piece.
Try Traditional Michoacán Sweets
Michoacán is known for its sweets. You can try cajeta (goat milk caramel), candied fruits, or chocolate treats. Some shops make the sweets in front of you.
The best part is tasting different kinds. Buy small packs and share with friends. These sweets are cheap, tasty, and a great way to enjoy something new.
Relax in a Local Café
Sometimes the best thing to do is just sit and relax. Salvador Escalante has a few small cafés. They serve coffee, hot chocolate, and fresh pastries.
Pick a table near the plaza, read a book, or write postcards. Watch people go by, listen to the sounds of town, and take in the slow pace of life.
Final Thoughts
Salvador Escalante may be small, but it offers so much to see and do. From its world-famous copper art to peaceful nature spots, it’s a town full of heart. You can spend a few days here and feel completely refreshed. The people are proud of their town, and visitors are always welcome.
Whether you’re walking through the plaza, tasting street food, or learning how to shape copper, Salvador Escalante leaves a lasting impression. It’s a hidden gem in Mexico that you should not miss.
