Cool things to do in Quito

Perched high in the Andes at 9,350 feet, Quito offers a captivating blend of colonial history and modern South American culture. The historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features stunning Spanish colonial architecture, including the ornate Compañía de Jesús church with its breathtaking gold-leaf interior. Visitors can wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards and local artisan shops.

For a unique geographical experience, the TelefériQo cable car ascends the slopes of Volcán Pichincha to an altitude of 13,000 feet, providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanic peaks. At the Mitad del Mundo monument, tourists can stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the equator line, though the true equator actually lies a few hundred feet away at the Intiñan Museum.

The vibrant La Mariscal district pulses with modern energy, offering diverse restaurants serving local specialties like locro de papa and empanadas, alongside lively bars and cultural performances showcasing traditional Ecuadorian music and dance.