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Buenos Aires is a city of passion, history, and tango-filled streets, but beyond its well-trodden paths lies a world of surprises. Beneath its elegant facades and bustling avenues. It hides quirky, mysterious, and unusual things to do in Buenos Aires. From underground tunnels whispering forgotten secrets to a bar disguised as a subway station, this guide takes you beyond the ordinary. Buenos Aires delivers, whether you’re seeking the bizarre, artistic, or downright eerie. Step into the unexpected, challenge your senses and discover the most unusual things to do in Argentina’s electric capital. Ready for the adventure.
Top 10 Unusual Things To Do In Buenos Aires
Here is the list of the top 10 unusual things to do in Buenos Aires:
1. Explore The Palacio De Aguas Corrientes
Photo: Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires / Wikimedia Commons
The Palacio de Aguas Corrientes, or the Water Palace, is an extraordinary architectural landmark that spans an entire city block in Buenos Aires. Built between 1887 and 1894, its striking façade is adorned with over 170,000 glazed tiles and 130,000 enamelled bricks, sourced from Belgium and England. Originally designed as a water pumping station, this ornate building now houses the Museum of Water and Sanitary History. Inside, visitors can explore an eclectic collection of vintage water tanks, antique toilets, and beautifully preserved decorative tiles, offering a quirky and unexpected perspective on the city’s infrastructure. This hidden gem perfectly combines stunning architecture with an unusual museum experience, making it a must-visit for history and design enthusiasts.
Location: Riobamba 750, Balvanera neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings
2. Discover La Casa De Los Azulejos
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tucked away in the Retiro neighbourhood, La Casa de los Azulejos (The House of Tiles) is a hidden architectural masterpiece that often goes unnoticed by tourists. This historic house is famous for its stunning façade covered in intricate hand-painted tiles, which were imported from Milan in the 19th century. Italian artist Trivelloni designed the vibrant patterns and pastoral scenes, adding an artistic charm to the otherwise urban streetscape. While visitors cannot enter the building, admiring its exquisite tilework from the outside is a visual treat. La Casa de los Azulejos offers a glimpse into Buenos Aires’ rich artistic influences and is a must-see for those who appreciate unique architecture.
Location: Paraguay 1530, Retiro neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Daytime
3. Attend A Tango Queer Milonga
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tango is deeply rooted in Argentine culture, but the Tango Queer movement is revolutionizing this traditional dance by breaking gender norms. Unlike conventional milongas where men lead and women follow, these events allow dancers to choose their roles, making it an inclusive and liberating experience. The atmosphere is open-minded and welcoming, attracting locals and tourists who want to experience tango fresh and modern. Tango Queer milongas are held at various venues across the city, from intimate dance halls to grand historic spaces. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this unique take on tango provides an unforgettable experience in Buenos Aires’ vibrant nightlife.
Location: Various venues across the city
Best Time To Visit: Evenings
4. Visit The Xul Solar Museum
Photo: Roberto Fiadone / Wikimedia Commons
The Xul Solar Museum offers a fascinating journey into the mind of one of Argentina’s most eccentric artists. Xul Solar, born in 1887, was a visionary painter, sculptor, and inventor who created imaginary languages and utopian city designs. His surreal and mystical artwork blends symbolism, astrology, and spirituality, making it both thought-provoking and deeply personal. The museum is housed in Solar’s former residence, providing an intimate glimpse into his creative world. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, and even Solar’s unique board games and musical instruments, which he designed himself. For art lovers and those curious about avant-garde movements, this museum is an offbeat cultural treasure.
Location: Laprida 1212, Palermo neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Weekday afternoons
5. Wander Through The Jardín Japones
Photo: Carlos Zito / Wikimedia Commons
A hidden oasis in the heart of Buenos Aires, the Jardín Japonés (Japanese Garden) offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustling streets. As one of the largest Japanese gardens outside of Japan, it features meticulously maintained landscapes, koi-filled ponds, and traditional red bridges that transport visitors into a serene world of Zen. The garden also hosts cultural events, including tea ceremonies, bonsai exhibitions, and origami workshops. Visitors can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant or simply relax in this beautifully designed space. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a unique cultural experience, the Jardín Japonés is a must-visit destination.
Location: Avenida Casares 3450, Palermo neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Spring for blooming flora
6. Explore The Tunnels Of El Zanjón De Granados
Photo: Marc Mongenet / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
El Zanjón de Granados takes you on an underground adventure beneath the historic streets of San Telmo, revealing a hidden labyrinth of tunnels that date back to the 18th century. Originally built as drainage channels, these tunnels were later repurposed and buried under layers of urban development. In the 1980s, they were rediscovered beneath a beautifully restored mansion, leading to one of the most intriguing archaeological finds in Buenos Aires. Guided tours offer insights into the city’s evolution, from its early colonial days to modern times, showcasing remnants of old walls, water systems, and artefacts. Walking through these dimly lit corridors provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s hidden past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Location: Defensa 755, San Telmo neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Weekday mornings
7. Experience A Traditional Asado Workshop
Photo: Thiago Rebouças / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Asado, or Argentine barbecue, is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural tradition that brings people together. An asado workshop offers visitors a hands-on experience of preparing and grilling various cuts of meat over an open flame, just as locals do. Participants learn the techniques of slow-cooking beef ribs, sausages, and short ribs, while also mastering the art of making chimichurri, Argentina’s signature sauce. Alongside the cooking, hosts explain the significance of asado in Argentine culture, emphasizing its role as a social event. Paired with local wines, this workshop is not only a culinary delight but also a deep dive into Argentina’s most beloved gastronomic tradition.
Location: Various venues
Best Time To Visit: Weekend afternoons
8. Sip Cocktails At Uptown Bar
Photo: monika.monika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Uptown Bar is not your average cocktail lounge—it’s an immersive experience that begins before you even step inside. The entrance mimics a New York City subway station, complete with turnstiles and a staircase leading underground. Once inside, the ambience shifts to a stylish speakeasy with dim lighting, graffiti-covered walls, and an industrial-chic design. The bartenders craft innovative cocktails inspired by global flavours, making this a hotspot for mixology enthusiasts. Drinks often feature unexpected ingredients like yerba mate, Malbec reductions, or Patagonian herbs, offering a unique tasting experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed drink or a stylish night out, Uptown Bar delivers a truly out-of-the-ordinary nightlife experience.
Location: Arévalo 2030, Palermo neighborhood
Best Time To Visit: Late evenings, especially on weekends
9. Browse The Feria De Mataderos
Photo: FacundoMatiasOjeda / Wikimedia Commons
For a true taste of Argentina’s rural traditions, the Feria de Mataderos is the perfect escape from the city’s urban vibe. Unlike the more famous street fairs of Buenos Aires, this market is dedicated to gaucho (cowboy) culture, bringing the spirit of the countryside into the city. Every Sunday from March to December, visitors can enjoy folk music performances, traditional dances, and horseback riding displays. Artisans sell handmade leather goods, ponchos, and silverwork, while food stalls serve authentic Argentine dishes like empanadas, choripán (grilled chorizo sandwich), and locro (a rich corn and meat stew). The fair offers an immersive cultural experience, making it one of the most unique events in the city.
Location: Lisandro de la Torre & Avenida de Los Corrales, Mataderos neighbourhood
Best Time To Visit: Sundays from March to December
10. Sleep In A Haunted Mansion, The Hotel Eden
Photo: Adam Jones Adam63 / Wikimedia Commons
For those who love a good ghost story, an overnight stay at Hotel Edén is an experience like no other. Located in La Falda, Cordoba, this historic hotel was once a glamorous retreat for celebrities and political figures. However, its decline over the years has left it abandoned and shrouded in eerie legends. Visitors report strange occurrences, from mysterious whispers to flickering lights. The hotel offers ghost tours that recount tales of its haunting history, secret underground tunnels, and unexplained paranormal activity. Whether you believe in ghosts or just enjoy a spine-chilling adventure, Hotel Edén is a truly unusual place to visit.
Location: La Falda, Córdoba
Best Time To Visit: Evening
Buenos Aires is more than just a city, it’s a living, breathing story filled with untold chapters. While its grand avenues and iconic landmarks paint a familiar picture, its hidden corners and unconventional experiences offer a glimpse into its soul. Whether you’re savouring a perfectly grilled asado, exploring forgotten underground tunnels, or dancing to the rhythm of a reimagined tango, each experience adds a new layer to your journey. The city’s secrets await those willing to seek them. So dare to wander off the beaten track with TripXL, you might just find the most unforgettable moments in the places you least expect.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
