Whether you’re planning an industry conference, a team-building retreat, or a destination wedding, Live Aqua Urban Resort in San Miguel de Allende offers the perfect mix of dreamy backdrop and must-have, modern amenities.
Among the most beautiful cities in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende has quietly retained its colonial charm over the centuries while becoming a vibrant hub for artists, writers, expats, and well-heeled urbanites from Mexico City looking for a change of pace. One might even say, it is colonial Mexico with a touch of Brooklyn, especially in places like the Fábrica La Aurora, a turn-of-the-century textile factory transformed into a space for art galleries and shops in 1990. You’ll also find a clutch of local coffeeshops serving serious pour-over coffees, legit street tacos, and musical performances.
Whether your scouting for an event location or looking for personal inspiration, perhaps what stands out most about San Miguel de Allende is its authenticity. History and tradition have been meticulously preserved, but the city has also changed with the times, from inviting innovation to attracting cutting-edge culinary talent. Even on side streets, the seamless mix of old and new has redefined the cityscape, from swanky rooftop bars to cool boutiques selling sustainable and locally sourced wares. A recent example of this evolution is the newly opened Live Aqua Urban Resort which showcases the city’s boho-chic aesthetic and creative energy.
As a point of introduction to the town center, the iconic pink-hued, neo-Gothic Parroquia parish church, which is one of the most photographed structures in Mexico, and the Jardín Principal, or main square, are still the vibrant core of this hilly city, which was founded in 1542 by a Franciscan monk. In fact, just a decade ago, the quaint cobblestone streets and colorful Spanish colonial buildings that comprise the 64-block historic center and 18th-century Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco church complex were deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. For those who live here, it means this up-and-coming city will keep its soul.
Perfectly situated walking (or biking) distance from the city center on the Presa del Obraje reservoir, Live Aqua is very much an urban oasis with 153 rooms and suites, as well as a collection of restaurants and the largest event spaces in the area. The ballroom alone can accommodate up to 1,000 guests and is the largest one in the state of Guanajuato. Inside, the versatile space can be divided into five separate sections, while outside, the large covered terrace overlooking the river can host al fresco events—an especially attractive option given that year-round temperatures average 73 degrees to 88 degrees Fahrenheit.
For those seeking immersion in the real Mexico, Live Aqua is a convenient gateway to the relaxed lifestyle of San Miguel de Allende complete with creature comforts like a full-service spa, pool, and hot tub. For its food and beverage program, the resort has tapped celebrity chef Eduardo Palazuelos, known for his appearances as a judge on top international cooking shows, for its signature restaurant Zibu. On the property, there’s also a pan-Asian eatery Spice Market and a sophisticated Cigar Bar showcasing more than 300 wines, whiskeys, tequilas, and mezcals.
With Mexico City’s tech scene booming just three hours away, San Miguel de Allende offers the ideal location for conferences and meetings—or a creative community to inspire your next big personal project or adventure.
