Markets, Mercados and Tianguis: A Mexican tradition that can be traced back to pre-hispanic times is the Tianguis, an open air market or bazaar usually held on the same day every week, where locals can purchase a variety of items, from fresh produce to clothing and so forth. In addition, traditional markets or mercados continue to draw customers in many cities large and small.
Walk the Malecón: While many areas in Puerto Vallarta can be easily enjoyed on foot, walking the Malecón stands out as a must-do activity for visitors and locals. Day and night, alone or in a group, at a leisurely pace or even jogging, the Malecón is a social gathering place for visitors and locals that allows the opportunity of experiencing traditional Puerto Vallarta at its best.
Take the Malecón Sculpture Tour: Puerto Vallarta features a vast collection of public sculptures, most of them installed along the city's scenic Malecón. A natural draw for visitors and locals, the sculptures can be enjoyed on your own. However, a guided sculpture tour will provide you with interesting historical and artistic insight on Puerto Vallarta in general.
Enjoy the South Side Shuffle: The South Side Shuffle is a street party of sorts, a "shindig" that takes place in colonia Emiliano Zapata every other Friday from 6 to 10 pm, in the vicinity of Basilio Badillo and Constitución streets. Everyone is invited. The South Side Shuffle is an "open house," whose purpose is solely to promote the local businesses and to have fun.