Ensenada: City Tour in a Ford Model T with Margarita & Wine

Imagine cruising through the colorful streets of Ensenada in a vintage Ford Model T, soaking up local sights and tasting the essence of Mexico, all in just two hours. This tour promises a blend of history, culture, and delicious drinks, making it a memorable way to explore Baja California’s vibrant port city. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or just looking for a uniquely fun experience, this tour offers something for all.

What we love about this experience: First, the chance to ride in a classic car that makes the journey itself an attraction. Second, the opportunity to visit legendary venues like Bar Andaluz, where the margarita was born. Third, the focus on locally made products—tequila, wine, and opals—that bring a genuine taste of Ensenada. One potential consideration: the tour is quite compact, so if you’re craving a deep dive into each stop, you might wish for more time. This tour suits travelers who want a lively, curated taste of Ensenada without the fuss—ideal for first-timers eager to see the highlights with style.

Good To Know

• Vintage Charm: Riding in a restored Ford Model T adds a cinematic, nostalgic touch.
• Cultural Insights: From margaritas to opals, learn the stories behind Ensenada’s iconic products.
• Taste Authentic Flavors: Sample tequila and sip local wines at renowned spots.
• Historically Rich Stops: Explore Riviera Cultural Center and Rivera del Pacifico, former hotel and casino.
• Concise but Complete: The 2-hour tour covers key highlights efficiently.
• Value for Money: For $90, you gain a scenic ride, guided commentary, and access to notable attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ensenada Ford Model T Tour

A Unique Vintage Ride through Ensenada

From the moment you see the brightly painted, vintage Ford Model T waiting for you, it’s clear this will be a different kind of city tour. The classic car, with its charming rumbles and retro vibe, instantly transports you back in time. The driver and guide, often a local with detailed knowledge, set the tone with engaging commentary, sharing stories about Ensenada’s history, architecture, and quirky facts.

Most reviews highlight how smoothly the car rides are despite its age—”It was surprisingly comfortable,” one guest commented, noting that the open-air design made for a breezy, immersive experience. The route is designed to maximize sightseeing, and the guide’s commentary keeps you engaged without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Birthplace of the Margarita

A definite highlight is Bar Andaluz, where the margarita cocktail was first created in honor of Mrs. Margarita Plant. Here, you’ll savor a margarita right at the bar where it all started—a true treat for cocktail aficionados and history buffs alike. The venue itself boasts historic charm, with a cozy, vintage vibe that makes the drink taste all the more special.

Reviews praise the expert storytelling, with one guest mentioning, “It’s fascinating to stand in the place that invented the margarita and actually sip one there.” The tour doesn’t include the drinks, but they’re available for purchase, so you can indulge without worry.

Discovering Opals and Mexican Artistry

Next, you’ll visit the Opal Mine Ensenada, where you can get a glimpse into the world of these dazzling stones. Expect to learn how opals are mined and crafted into jewelry, making it a good stop for souvenir shopping or just appreciating Mexico’s natural beauty. Visitors note that the mine is an informative stop with the chance to see real gems up close.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Learning about Tequila at the Tequila Museum

No Mexican experience is complete without tequila, and the Tequila Museum offers a comprehensive look at this iconic spirit, from plant to bottle. The museum educates visitors on the distillation process and the importance of tequila in Mexican culture. You’ll also have the option to sample six different tequilas—although the samples aren’t included in the tour price, many guests say it’s well worth purchasing a tasting flight.

One reviewer remarked, “The museum was very insightful, and I appreciated the chance to try different tequilas—some I’d never heard of.” It’s an engaging stop that balances education with sensory delight.

Visiting the First Winery in Baja California

Wine lovers will enjoy a visit to Bodegas De Santo Tomás, the first winery established in Baja California. Here, you can taste a variety of local wines or purchase a bottle to take home. While the tour doesn’t include samples, guests often comment on the quality and value of the wines, with some noting that the tasting experience is well curated and the wines well priced.

Exploring Rivera Cultural Center and Rivera del Pacifico

The Riviera Cultural Center, formerly a hotel and casino frequented by Al Capone, offers a glimpse into Ensenada’s lively past. The building’s architecture and history make it a compelling stop, and the guide shares colorful stories that bring the location to life.

The Rivera del Pacifico, a historic venue with Art Deco charm, once was a hub for entertainment and gambling. Both spots provide excellent photo opportunities and an authentic sense of local history.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick yet rundown of Ensenada’s highlights. Pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels and ports, simplifying logistics. The group is private, so you won’t have to contend with strangers—just your trusted guide and fellow travelers.

The tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference. The driver and guide, often well-versed in local stories, keep the commentary engaging and informative.

For the price of $90 per person, you receive entry to all the key sites, a scenic vintage car ride, and expert insights. While alcohol tastings are extra, the tour’s focus on history, culture, and authentic tastes offers a lot of value. It’s an ideal introduction to Ensenada for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the city’s highlights.

Transportation and Comfort

Expect a fun, open-air experience in a vintage car that’s more about the vibe than luxury. The seats are comfortable enough for the short ride, and the open design lets you enjoy the fresh sea breeze and city sights. The driver’s knowledge and friendly demeanor add a personal touch that many reviewers appreciate.

Timing and Group Size

Tours run at various times—check availability when booking. The private group format (often just your party and the guide) allows for a flexible and relaxed pace. This format keeps the experience intimate, and you can ask plenty of questions or tailor it slightly if needed.

Booking and Cancellation

With the option to reserve now and pay later, planning is flexible. Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change at the last minute.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers interested in a fun, efficient overview of Ensenada’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who appreciate vintage charm, local history, and authentic Mexican flavors. Families, couples, or small groups will enjoy the personalized touch and the opportunity to learn and taste without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each site or a longer, more leisurely experience, this compact tour might feel a bit too brief. Still, for a quick cultural fix packed with photo-worthy moments, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a wonderful balance between entertainment, education, and tasting experiences, all wrapped up in a charming vintage ride. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to see the main sights in style and gain insights into Ensenada’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

Priced at $90, it offers good value—especially considering the included visits to historic sites, the ride in a classic car, and the chance to learn about tequila, wine, and opals from passionate local guides. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine lover, or someone eager for a fun group activity, this tour is likely to leave you with delightful memories and a deeper appreciation for Ensenada.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the vintage ride and sightseeing stops, but keep in mind that tastings are adult-only.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect quick overview of Ensenada’s main attractions.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from select hotels and ports are included, simplifying transportation logistics.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour?
Yes, drinks like margaritas and tequilas are available for purchase at the respective venues, but they are not included in the tour price.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, accommodating most travelers.

Are the stops crowded or private?
The tour is a private group, ensuring a more personalized, intimate experience.

Is the car ride comfortable?
Yes, the vintage Ford Model T has comfortable seats, and the open-air design offers a breezy, enjoyable ride.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is designed to cover key highlights efficiently, but you can discuss preferences with your guide beforehand.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no strict age restrictions, but very young children or those sensitive to open-air rides should consider comfort levels.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

This vintage-style Ensenada adventure offers a fantastic snapshot of Mexico’s colorful culture, history, and flavors—all in a fun, stylish package that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: