Monterrey, capital of the Nuevo León state, is the third largest city of Mexico and is located 150 miles south of Laredo, Texas, in a valley surrounded by mountains. Its moderate, dry climate, cool mountains, and hot springs make Monterrey a popular resort.
   Monterrey is home to many eighteen and-nineteen century buildings. Some of these buildings are the Old Municipal Palace (nineteen century), the Government Palace (early twentieth century), the Museum of Obispado (eighteen century), the Sanctuary Of Guadalupe (nineteen century), the Temple of The Sacred Heart of Jesus (nineteen century), the Chappel of Sweet Names (nineteen century) and the Cathedral (eighteen Century).
   Monterrey also has recreation areas, such as Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Purisima, Plaza Zaragoza, Macroplaza and the recently created Parque Fundidora -located in the old Fundidora de Monterrey facilities.
   There are plenty of museums, such as: Regional Museum of Nuevo Leon, Museum of Obispado, Mexican History Museum, Contemporary Art Museum (MARCO), Monterrey Museum, Glass Museum, and Alfa Cultural Center.
   In the outskirts of Monterrey are several natural attractions, such as the Cerro de la Silla, where you can go hiking. Another beautiful peak is Mitras, also ideal for mountain climbing. Another mountain ride is Chipinque, where you can walk to, or drive.