During 17th and 18th centuries, due to its economic growth Queretaro became one of the main cities in Mexico. Wealthy settlers built extravagant mansions on estates growing crop like cotton or wheat. These were complete with majestic patios and ornamental sculptures and included workers quarters. The economic boom associated with increasing haciendas brought even more land into the commercialized agricultural haciendas that were now geared towards export, and began to encroach onto village lands.

Most of there haciendas have been converted into museums or hotels. These extravagant homes can be seen in places like Casona de los 5 Patios, Casa de Don Bartolo, Casa de la Zacatecana, the art museum and La casa de la Marquesa. These haciendas are restored and preserved taking the visitor back in time, emphasizing the differences of the past and present. Staying at one of the rural haciendas in the surrounding mountains will provide for an authentic Mexican experience.