The state's capital and second largest city (1.7 million), Chihuahua unfortunately doesn't get much attention from North American vacationers. Most visitors are either in transit overnight on their way south to Mexico's interior, or heading westward into the Sierra Tarahumara mountains on a Copper Canyon excursion.

Founded in 1707, the city is very comfortable and prosperous. It showcases some interesting museums, colonial era vestiges, and turn-of-the-century architecture. It is worthy of at least a few days of exploring, and makes an excellent base for sightseeing around Chihuahua state.

Only six hours from the El Paso, Texas, the city is a historical gem. Some of Mexico's most famous citizens, such as Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, Benito Juarez, and Pancho Villa, have been a part of Chihuahua's past. You can visit the Palacio de Gobierno with grand murals and see the spot where Miguel Hidalgo, referred to as the father of the country, was imprisoned and executed. Museo de La Revolucion (Quinta Luz as the home was called) was the former home of Pancho Villa and now is a museum dedicated to his life. In the Plaza de Armas, you'll find the dominating cathedral, Catedral de San Francisco, dating to 1717. A couple blocks away is Casa de Benito Juarez, as he held Chihuahua as his capital in the fight against the French invasion in the 1860's.

Chihuahua is a first class city and has all the facilities needed for the Copper Canyon adventurer including an international airport, large and modern bus station, first class hotels and restaurants, and supplies for your visit to the Copper Canyon.