Patos de Minas is a charming city in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, founded in 1868. Sitting at around 815 m elevation, it’s home to roughly 159,000 people over ~3,190 km². The economy is driven by agriculture, livestock and mining, and the city is known for its high quality of life, including nearly universal street paving, treated water and sewage service.

Top Things to Do

Based on local and traveler sources:

1. Museu Histórico e Geográfico de Patos de Minas – Learn about regional history through photos, documents, and artifacts 

2. Feira Livre (open-air market) – Sample pastéis, cheeses, sausages, tropical juices, shop crafts and mingle with locals.

3. Parque das Emas Nature Reserve – Guided hikes, birdwatching (notably greater rhea birds), boating on wetlands and scenic views 

4. Mirante da Serra do Salitre – A hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping city and mountain vistas, especially at sunset

5. Cachoeira do Barrocão – A peaceful waterfall tucked in lush surroundings—ideal for nature lovers 

6. Praça do Coreto (Coreto Square) – Browse colonial-era architecture, relax on benches, and soak up the local vibe

7. Fenamilho Festival – Held each year in May–June, this “National Corn Festival” mixes agricultural exhibits, music, food, and community culture 

Eat & Drink

Local flavors shine in Patos de Minas:

• Sample fazenda-style Brazilian dishes, including broa de fubá (corn cake), canjica, pamonha, and hearty mineiro stews. At the festival, corn-based sweets and savory treats are popular

• Enjoy local cafés and brewpubs—Tripadvisor highlights restaurants like Fábrica Patos, Villa Aroma Bistro, Aguinaldo das Pamonhas, Casa Grande Cervejas Especiais, and Diner Box Burguer for excellent regional cuisine and friendly service 

Travel Tips

• Visit in May–June to coincide with Fenamilho, a major cultural event that brings the city alive.

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothes and bring sun protection—central Brazil can be hot and sunny.

• Many outdoor sights are best at mornings or late afternoons, both for wildlife activity and softer lighting.

• Cash is helpful at the market and small vendor stands—card use is sometimes limited 

• Portuguese is prevalent; learning a few basic phrases goes a long way.

Where to Stay

Recommended hotels from sources:

• Gálatas Golden Hotel – 3.5★, free breakfast, Wi‑Fi, and parking; great reviews, ~US $60/night

• Victor Hotel – 2.5★, budget‑friendly (~US $38/night), free breakfast/Wi‑Fi; rated “Very Good” 

• Gran Roza Hotel – 3★, modest prices (~US $40/night), breakfast, decent location near city theater and Lagoa Grande Park 

• If you prefer chain economy stays, the Ibis Budget branch is another affordable and clean option (~US $40–50/night)