Huaraz’s chief attraction is the Museo Arqueológico de Áncash (Luzuriaga 762 on the Plaza de Armas, tel. 043/42-1551, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, US$3.50). It contains a well-organized collection of stone sculptures from the local Chavín (2000–200 B.C.) and Recuay (A.D. 200–700) cultures. Upstairs are displays of pottery, textiles, and metal objects from the later Huari, Chimú, and Inca cultures, which also passed through this valley.

The Plaza de Armas is a sprawl of concrete and tile that funnels onto Luzuriaga Street. Directly uphill from the plaza is the Iglesia Soledad, rebuilt after the 1970 earthquake and surrounded by a pleasant plaza. There are a few good hotels in the neighborhood and some of the best views of both the Cordillera Blanca and sunsets over the Cordillera Negra.

For a view of the city, head up to the Mirador Rataquena, a lookout marked with a giant cross. The safest way to get there is by taxi. The round-trip journey should cost US$5. To get there walking, head up Villón or Confraternidad Este to the cemetery and then head right, up a switchbacking gravel road. But travel in groups and during the day, as assaults have been reported.