Around Mendoza

Outside of Mendoza's center, the city is full of things to do and see. These destinations are just a short walk or cab ride away from the city center.

Beware of pickpockets at Avenue Las Heras and the Mercado Central. With increased tourism, there has been increased crime—primarily tourist muggings. Like traveling anywhere, keep your wits about you: Carry wallets in your front pocket, stash passports in your hotel safe, don't wear flashy jewelry, and don't wave your camera around.

Restaurants

Now in his 80s, Mario Ferrari started his restaurant more than 30 years ago. This family-friendly locale has an extensive menu full of classic Argentinean cuisine, from milanesa to parilla (a small barbecue right at your table). Try the pasta, too; it's made in-house.
25 de Mayo 1324, Dorrego-Guaymalleen, (261) 431-1810
Palmares Open Mall: Ruta Panamericana 2650, Godoy Cruz, (261) 439-4838

A mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Mendoza, Chacras de Coria is a neighborhood with several winery estates that is surrounded by Mendoza's bodegas (vineyards). It offers a bounty of family-owned cafes, chic restaurants, shops, and of course, access to the wineries.

Activities

This stunning park covers 865 acres of Mendoza, so take a picnic lunch and let little legs run along wooded paths. Don't miss the panoramic view of the city from the peak of Cerro de la Gloria. The park's information kiosk gives detailed info on park offerings, like the annual Fiesta de la Vendimia, or grape harvest festival, which reaches the peak of its celebration in March.
Av. Emilio Civit and Bologne sur Mer, (261) 420-5052

Free to the public and with varying exhibits in contemporary art. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
9 de Julio at Gutiérrez, (261) 429-0117

Mendoza's smaller plazas are worth a look: The statue at Plaza San Martín, fountain sculpture at Plaza Italia, and the tile-covered benches at Plaza España are perfect for a photo op.
Consult a street map for exact locations.

Your best bet with a winery tour is to choose a few wineries you'd most like to see, make reservations for a tour at the winery, and hire a tour guide to take you there. Bus tours tend to hit too many wineries in a short time, while your own guide can customize the tour for you, and if the kids get too tired, you can head back to the hotel. Families are welcome on most tours. Most hotels have someone they work with, so ask for their recommendation—it's likely someone licensed (tour guides must be licensed by the government) and trustworthy.

Shops

The gubernatorial palace of a prominent 19th century Mendoza politician has been transformed to house the city's chicest wine shop. A knowledgeable staff advises which vintages to add to your collection and even packages them for international transport.
Chile 898, (261) 420-2840

Mendoza's answer to an American mall, this sleek, modern shopping center has all the same labels as street-side shops but is safer. Go to Giro Didactico for their selection of kids' music and hit Librería Yenny for children's books en español. After a wood-fired pizza lunch in the food court (Big Time) get a dulce de leche (or vanilla with Malbec) ice cream at Ferruccio Soppelssa and take the kids to play at the funky arcade. Shoppers will recognize classics Lacoste, Yves Saint Laurent, and Dior, but don't miss local favorites Prüne for handbags, Ricky Sarkany for shoes, and Cloter for jeans.

The relics of old Argentina make a comeback (and a great souvenir!) at this flea market, held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Corner of Alem and Primitivo de la Reta.