Choose from 61 Fun Things to Do in Central Mexico
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La Feria de Chapultepec
As one of the most popular amusement parks in all of Mexico, La Feria de Chapultepec is a top spot for families with more than 50 rides and activities. Attractions range from roller coasters and flat rides to zoo animal exhibits and carnival games. Most are organized either for children, families, teens, or extreme adventurers and are designated as such.
The park dates back to 1964 when it debuted some of the tallest and faster roller coasters at that time. It has since been renovated, but keeps much of its original charm and nostalgia. The most classic roller coaster is La Montana Rusa, which held the world record for tallest roller coaster when it was built. There are also many slower rides and rides suited for ages 10 and under, such as the monorail, train, and bumper cars.
Practical Info
The park is located in the middle of Chapultepec Park near the Constituyentes Metro station. Admission costs are based on the amount of activities you’d like to take part in. The park is open daily from 10am-8pm.
Address: Circuito Bosque de Chapultepec, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: 10am-8pm
Admission: $100-200 MXN
From $ 12
Azteca Stadium
Soccer—or fútbol as it’s called in Spanish—is an integral part of Mexican culture. For the country’s people, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca), which is the largest stadium in Mexico, is the heart of the sport. Home to the professional soccer team Club América and the Mexican national team, the 84,000-seat stadium is the first venue to host two FIFA World Cup finals, and it will welcome a third in 2026.
The Basics
Its name a tribute to Mexico City’s Aztec heritage, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca) opened its doors in 1966 and continues to draw throngs of fans every year. In addition to the World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the stadium hosted the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, where both the memorable “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” were scored.
Besides scoring tickets to a match, die-hard soccer fans can get their fix with a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, which usually includes a look at the inner workings, such as a visit to the locker rooms, press room, and bench area, plus a walk onto the legendary field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
How to Get There
In the Santa Ursula neighborhood of Mexico City and about nine miles (15 kilometers) from the historic center, the stadium is accessible via the Azteca station on the Xochimilco Light Rail line, which connects to the city’s metro system at the Tasqueña station. (The light rail and metro require two different tickets.) It’s also about a 30- to 40-minute car ride from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
The Mexican football league system (Club América is part of the Liga MX division) divides its season into two: Apertura (opening season) and Clausura (closing season), each with its own tournament and champion. If you want to catch a match, visit Azteca Stadium from July to December (Apertura) and from January to May (Clausura).
Tips for Attending a Match at Azteca Stadium
Like with most sporting events, you’ll have to contend with traffic, security, and unruly football fans on match day. Some things to keep in mind
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Address: Calz de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, D.F. Mexico 04650, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
El Tajin Ruins
Perhaps the most well-preserved pre-Hispanic ruins in the state of Veracruz, El Tajin is rich with Mexican history and mythology from the infamous Totonac people.
Archeologists believe this once thriving town was occupied as early as the year 800. Its fertile grounds are divided into three distinct areas that include open plazas, natural greenery and iconic pyramids, including the famous Pyramid of the Niches. This popular landmark was built at approximately the same time as the well-known Chichen Itza in the Mayan Region. Its rocky steps lead to a peak that’s home to incredible views and a holy temple where Totonacs once worshiped.
El Tajin Ruins are numerous, and while the World Heritage Site is interesting to wander alone, expert guides are available for travelers looking to learn even more about the history, culture and traditions of the Totonac from a resident expert.
Practical Info
El Tajin is located northwest of Veracruz City. It’s possible to catch a bus from the central bus station on Salvador Diaz Miron, between Marcelino Tuero Molina and Orizaba Streets. Buses leave from Papantla a few times daily and the 270-kilometer ride takes about four hours. Travelers can usually find a taxi from the Papantla station to El Tajin.
Address: El Tajin, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 90
Diego Rivera-Anahuacalli Museum
The Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, commonly just referred to as the Anahuacalli Museum, can be tricky to find in Mexico City, but it is worth the extra effort to visit. Diego Rivera was a famous painter who was known for his cubist style and murals. He lived in Mexico City for most of his life and was married to the artist Frida Kahlo. The Anahuacalli Museum is designed by him and houses ancient artifacts he amassed during his lifetime as well as some of his own works of art.
The museum was opened in 1964, after Rivera’s death, though the layout and design of Anahuacalli was planned out by the artist prior to his passing. The pyramid-shaped building made of volcanic stone is impressive in and of itself to see, but the real allure of the museum is inside where 2,000 artifacts from his massive Pre-Columbian art collection is housed. A tour through the museum will teach you about the history of Mexico’s ancient civilizations, a subject Rivera was especially passionate about.
Practical Info
Anahuacalli Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours start every half hour and generally last 45 to 60 minutes. Your ticket to Anahuacalli Museum also gets you admittance to the Frida Kahlo Museum, which is also in Mexico City. Anahuacalli Museum is located in the Coyoacan neighborhood of Mexico City at Calle Museo 150 San Pablo Tepetlapa.
Address: Museo 150, San Pablo Tepetlapa, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: $60 pesos
From $ 7
Chapultepec Castle
North America may not be known for its regal royalty or holding court, but Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City—the only palace on the continent—is definitely the real deal. Located more than 7,000 feet above sea level, Chapultepec has housed sovereigns, served as a military academy and was even an observatory. In 1996 the castle was transformed into Capulet Mansion for the movie Romeo and Juliet, too.
Until 1939, Chapultepec Castle served as the presidential residence. Then a new law moved it elsewhere and the castle became home to both the National Museum of History and the National Museum of Cultures instead. A stroll through these halls, followed by a tour of lush castle grounds is a perfect way to spend a Mexico City afternoon.
Until 1939, Chapultepec Castle served as the presidential residence. Then a new law moved it elsewhere and the castle became home to both the National Museum of History and the National Museum of Cultures instead. A stroll through these halls, followed by a tour of lush castle grounds is a perfect way to spend a Mexico City afternoon.
Practical Info
The castle is located on Calz del Rio in Chapultepec Park off Paseo de la Reforma Road and is accessible via the metro at Auditorio and Chapultepec stations. A visit costs less on Sundays, but cheaper entry means bigger crowds. Avoid the crush by visiting during the week, and pack a camera since views from the hilltop are some of the best in the city.
Address: Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo, Ciudad de México, Distrito Federal 11580, Mexico
Hours: Tue-Sun 9am-5pm
From $ 13
Arena Mexico
Came to Mexico City in search of some adventure? Look no further than Arena Mexico. This hard-hitting lucha libre (Mexican Wrestler) playground is known to wage epic battles of good versus evil in full luchador splendor.
Built in 1968 to hold 16,500 spectators, this was once the largest stadium ever built for professional wrestling – proving what a following the sport has in Mexico City, which is a little different from its American counterpart. In Mexico, the lucha libre match is a fight not just of contestants, but of good vs. evil, and the crowd (of all ages) gets behind the event to cheer for their favorite wrestler in whatever his particular plight might be. Beer is served, the rules are announced (though loosely adhered to), and then all bets are off, so to speak. Truly an event unique to Mexico, if you’re the type of traveler who wants to do how the Romans do, you must attend an event at Arena Mexico and see the tight-masked wrestlers do their thing.
Practical Info
Arena Mexico is located in the Colonia Doctores district of Mexico City at 189 Calle Drive. Ticket prices vary per event.
Address: 189 Calle Drive, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 35
Iztaccihuatl Volcano
A trio of craggy peaks looming in front of the still-smoking mound of Popocatepetl volcano and clearly visible on the horizon from Mexico City, the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks and a popular choice for hiking and camping excursions. Named for its resemblance to a sleeping woman, Iztaccíhuatl translates from the Nahuatl language to “white woman,” with the three peaks said to appear from a distance like the head, breasts and feet.
Reaching a height of 17,000 feet (5,230 meters), the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano measures in as Mexico’s third-highest peak, and scaling the permanently snow-capped summit offers impressive views over the neighboring Popocatepetl and the Valley of Mexico below. Most hikes start out from La Joya at 12,000 feet (3,700 meters), from where a range of technical and non-technical hiking trails run up the mountainside, taking about three to four hours to reach the summit.
Practical Info
The Iztaccihuatl Volcano is located 40 miles (65 kilometers) southwest of Mexico City and is typically visited from the town of Tlalmanalco, connected by regular buses to the capital. Hiking the summit is not recommended without a guide.
Address: Iztaccihuatl Volcano, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 52
Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo)
Known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) for its bold blue façade, the Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo) was the birthplace and childhood home of the well-known Mexican artist. Inside, the fascinating collection of personal items, furnishings, sketches, and paintings offer insight into both the life and art of Frida Kahlo.
The Basics
The Frida Kahlo Museum is one of Mexico City’s most visited attractions and prebooking your admission tickets can potentially save hours of waiting in line, especially during peak times (weekends and holidays). Visitors can explore independently or on a guided tour, visit as part of a Mexico City tour, or combine a visit with other top attractions, such as the Xochimilco canals or the National University of Mexico.
After exploring the Casa Azul, it’s just a short walk to the former home of Kahlo's husband, artist Diego Rivera, now the Diego Rivera Mural Museum (Museo Diego Rivera), or that of her lover, communist revolutionary Leon Trotsky, now the Leon Trotsky House Museum (Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is closed on Mondays and opens late on Wednesdays.
- Visitors are required to pass security checks to enter the museum, and large bags, suitcases, and sharp objects are prohibited.
- To protect the artworks, video and flash photography is prohibited inside the museum, although special permits are available.
How to Get There
The Frida Kahlo Museum is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City and is a short walk from Plaza Coyoacán. The closest metro stations are General Anaya (Line 2), Coyoacán (Line 3), and Metro Viveros (Line 3).
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round, but it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season (July and August). Admission tickets are cheaper on weekdays, and it’s generally the quietest time to visit, especially if you make an early start.
Highlights of the Frida Kahlo Museum
Casa Azul, with the rooms and gardens still in much the same state as Kahlo left them, offers insight into many facets of her life. Admire her Mexican folk art collection, see the bedroom where Leon Trotsky stayed during his exile in Mexico, and view some of her lesser-known artworks and rare self-portraits. A large collection of personal items, including the prosthetic leg she wore in the months before her death, is also on display.
Address: Londres 247 Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Tues: 10am - 5:45pm. Wednesday: 11am -5:45pm. Friday - Sunday: 10am - 5:45pm.
Admission: 200 pesos
From $ 26
La Condesa
The charming, bohemian vibe of Mexico City’s La Condesa neighborhood attracts locals and tourists alike. The stylish area boasts a thriving food scene, as well as plenty of bars and clubs. Its wide, tree-lined avenues are dotted with modern cafés, galleries, and boutiques mixed with fixtures of its past, including art nouveau mansions and art deco apartment buildings.
The Basics
Located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of central Mexico City, La Condesa housed the artistic upper class during the early 20th century. Eventually those residents moved to newer neighborhoods, making way for younger, creative types who were seeking cheaper rent. Today Condesa, which draws comparisons to hipster neighborhoods in Brooklyn, has become a foodie destination within Mexico City, with readily available cuisine tours of the area and nearby La Roma.
Things to Know Before You Go:
- La Condesa is a popular place to stay for many travelers visiting Mexico City.
- Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, and Michoacán Avenues are the main spots for nightlife.
- The neighborhood’s Parque Mexico was previously a racetrack and now serves as the center of the district.
- Roma and La Condesa were among the areas hit hardest during the September 2017 earthquake, and the local residents and businesses are still recovering.
How to Get There
Centrally located in Mexico City, La Condesa is easily accessible by several major transportation lines, including four nearby metro stations (Patriotismo, Chilpancingo, Chapultepec, and Juanacatlán) and the Insurgentes route on the city’s Metrobus system. There are bike-sharing stations located in the neighborhood, and it’s a 30-minute drive from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
If you’re visiting La Condesa on a day trip, keep in mind that, as in most of Mexico, many businesses and shops close between 2pm and 4pm. Traffic may be heavy and boutiques may be closed around that time. Also, Mexico City’s peak tourist season typically runs from November to May, so popular areas like La Condesa may be more crowded.
The Frida Kahlo Museum
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Frida Kahlo Museum, located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of Roma and La Condesa in Coyoacán. Also known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) because of its can’t-miss cobalt blue walls, the historic home—which was Kahlo’s birthplace—now serves as a museum filled with works from the famous Mexican artist and her husband Diego Rivera, along with the couple’s Mexican folk art, photographs, memorabilia, personal effects, and other items.
Address: Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad Mexico, FD 06140, Mexico
From $ 65
La Antigua
Considered by many to be the first true Spanish town in all of Mexico, La Antigua is the home of Hernan Cortes, who led the expedition that ended the Aztec Empire. His house, which was built in 1523, draws travelers from across the globe who seek a window into Mexico’s incredible—and sometimes bloody—past. Today, Cortes’s home, built of coral and stone, is wrapped thick with vines and overgrown with tree roots.
In addition to Cortes’s family home, the oldest church in the Americas, as well as Edificio del Cabildo—which held the first city council—are both located in La Antigua. Travelers can walk through what remains of the Cavalry Lancers’ garrison, where ready troops were once stationed to defend the town, or explore the Spanish colonial architecture hidden in the landscape of this sleepy town.
Practical Info
La Antigua is about a half hour north of Veracruz City. A Xalapa-bound bus from Veracruz stops about 15 minutes away from La Antigua and costs less than US$2 each way.
Address: La Antigua, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 70
Cuernavaca
Nicknamed the ‘City of the Eternal Spring’ thanks to its year-round warm weather and idyllic surroundings, Cuernavaca has long been a popular retreat for capital dwellers, home to some of Mexico’s best spas and famous for its lively Spring Fair and carnival celebrations.
The state capital of Morelos makes an easy day trip from Mexico City and the main highlights of Cuernavaca can be discovered on foot. Start by exploring the central squares of Zócalo and Jardín Juárez, dotted with colorful market stalls, restaurants and cafes, and flanked by landmarks like the Palacio de Gobierno, the Palacio Cortés and the Cathedral, then wander around the tranquil Jardin de Borda or admire the many jeweler’s shops, filled with gems found in the nearby Tepozteco Mountains. The countryside around the city is also renowned for hiking, cycling and rafting, and attractions like the magnificent Casa Maximiliano, which dates back to 1866, and the San Anton waterfall make worthwhile detours.
Practical Info
Cuernavaca is located around 100 km south of Mexico City.
Address: Cuernavaca, MOR, Mexico
From $ 55
Jamaica Market (Mercado de Jamaica)
When it comes to cities at altitudes over 7,000 feet, flowers aren’t usually the very first thing associated with a market. Here at Jamaica Market, however, in the heart of Mexico City, colorful flowers appear by the truckload to fill the air with the sweet scents of roses, hydrangeas, and lilies. At this bustling wholesale flower market, families shop for white flowers they’ll need for an upcoming funeral, or lovers purchase bags of rose petals—available by the kilo. The stalls are a rainbow of brilliant colors, the air a fragrant elixir, and flower prices are so shockingly low they’re almost too good to believe. The tens of thousands of flowers aside, Jamaica Market is also known for its stalls of colorful produce, as well as authentic, exceptional street food at prices that travelers will love.
Insider Tip: Many of the trucks arrive at around 8pm, when it’s possible to find deals that are even cheaper than the already rock bottom prices. Also, the market floor can be covered in puddles—so best to wear closed toed shoes.
Practical Info
Jamaica Market is located 15 minutes south of the central historical district. The market is open 24 hours, and is relatively safe at all hours, provided you take regular precautions.
Address: Guillermo Prieto 45, Jamaica, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Open 24 hours daily
From $ 99
Angel of Independence (Monumento a la Independencia)
Built in 1910, this iconic monument commemorates the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the nation’s War of Independence. Its towering stone column stretches high into the Mexico City skyline and both drivers and pedestrians can see its golden angel statue as they move about the popular Paseo de la Reforma.
Once a monument of commemoration, travelers will now find that the Angel of Independence has become a common meeting place for locals and the gathering spot for protests and celebrations—particularly after the Mexican national soccer team wins a match. The base of the monument also serves as a mausoleum and final resting place for a number of Mexican war heroes.
Practical Info
The monument is located in the roundabout near Padeo de la Reforma in downtown Mexico City. Entrance is free and small groups of 12 visitors can climb the more than 200 stairs to the top. Travelers who are unfit will find the steep12-story climb a challenge and those who fear tight spaces may want to avoid the narrow stairwell altogether.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Eje 2 PTE, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 32
Coyoacan
Villa Coyoacan is 29 blocks of one of Mexico City’s most charming districts. Also one of the area’s oldest districts, the area is filled with cobblestone streets, counterculture museums, and small park plazas that date back to Spanish colonial times and have an absolutely charming feel. Independently ranked as one of the best urban places to live, Coyoacan is where Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and Leon Trotsky all chose to reside, and museums dedicated to them now fill their old houses. Tranquil on the weekdays, filled with culture and music come the weekend, Coyoacan is more than simply a nice neighborhood – it’s a hotbed of culture and a must-see if in Mexico City.
Address: Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 39
Centro Historico
Built on the site of the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, the Centro Histórico is both the historical heart and the modern epicenter of Mexico City. Centered on the grand Zócalo—Plaza de la Constitución—the sprawling district is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of historic monuments, museums, parks, and hotels.
The Basics
There are numerous ways to discover the sights of Mexico City. Stroll around the Zócalo and along Paseo de la Reforma on a walking tour; zip around the city on a Segway or bike tour; admire the illuminated streets on a night tour; or tuck into tacos on a food tour. Notable landmarks include the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio de las Bellas Artes, the skyscraper Torre Latinoamericana, and Tenochtitlán’s Templo Mayor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As in most major cities, pickpockets are common around the main tourist areas, so keep an eye on your belongings and only carry the essentials.
- Most museums in the Centro Histórico are closed on Mondays.
- Many Centro Histórico attractions are wheelchair accessible, but some of the neighborhood’s narrow, uneven lanes are difficult for wheelchairs to navigate.
How to Get There
It’s easy to reach most of the attractions in the Centro Histórico on foot from the Zócalo, but the area is also well served by public transport. The main metro station is Zócalo (Line 2), and numerous buses also pass by the square.
When to Get There
The most popular time to explore Mexico City is between March and May, when the warm, dry weather is ideal for sightseeing. The Zócalo is the center of many of the city’s festivals and events, including the annual Independence Day celebrations (September 16), the Alebrije Parade (late October), and the Day of the Dead parade (November 1–2).
Mexico City’s Aztec History
Founded in 1325 as an Aztec capital, ancient Tenochtitlán was built on an island on Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico, and the enormous Zócalo was its spiritual, political, and ceremonial center. According to Aztec legend, a vision instructed the wandering Aztec tribe to build a city on the spot where an eagle, perched on a cactus, was devouring a serpent—an image that now adorns the Mexican flag. When the Spanish conquered the city in the 16th century, they drained the lake and destroyed many Aztec palaces and temples, rebuilding their new city around the Zócalo.
Address: Plaza de la Constitución, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
La Merced Market
For a genuine glimpse of everyday life in most cities, head to the local food market. While Mexico City is packed with such spots, it’s La Merced Market that offers the most bang for your buck. With a maze of street food stalls selling goods from local produce to pinatas, this traditional spot is the city’s largest market and a major tourist draw.
The Basics
Located on the eastern edge of the city’s main plaza, La Merced spans more than four city blocks and includes a daunting labyrinth of passageways that can be hard to navigate, even for experienced Spanish-speaking travelers—with this, booking a walking food tour through the market with a guide can be beneficial. In addition, if you’re searching for the best mole, tacos, or guajillos chiles, for example, a tour guide will be able to steer you in the right direction. Plus, you’ll be able to learn about the history of the market, which was established in colonial times.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear closed-toe shoes and keep jewelry to a minimum since it’s a crowded space.
- La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm, and is free to enter; it is closed on some holidays, such as Good Friday.
- Many walking tours include food samples and offer information on Mexico’s culinary culture.
How to Get There:
Located east of Mexico City’s historic center, just north of Sonora Market and the Fray Servando Teresa de Mier, the market and its surrounding neighborhood serve as the city’s commercial hub. La Merced is roughly a 15-minute drive from the airport and is easily accessible and within walking distance from downtown hotels. There is also a subway stop and a bus stop at the market.
When to Get There
La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm. Like most food markets, the best time to visit is midweek during the mornings to avoid the crowds and score the freshest produce, meats, and other goods. Market vendors observe national and religious holidays, such as Good Friday, so be mindful of that before making plans to visit.
What to Eat at La Merced Market
The market is divided into different sections based on the types of food being sold, such as meats, fruits and vegetables, and even insects. For adventurous foodies, specialty vendors offer up crispy, fried insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and ants and their larvae. Other traditional Mexican food to try includes caldo de gallina (hen stew), pancita (another kind of stew made from cow's stomach), pork posole, and plenty of fresh tacos.
Address: Calle Rosario S/N, Venustiano Carranza, Merced Balbuena, Ciudad de México, D.F., Mexico 15810, Mexico
From $ 69
Catemaco Lake
Catemaco Lake is a natural wonderland for travelers who love the outdoors. Whether it’s joining one of the thousands of fishermen casting lines into the 22-meter-deep waters, or hiring a boat to explore the surrounding sites, Catemaco is a still undeveloped Mecca perfect for spending a sunny afternoon.
This rustic freshwater lake in south central Veracruz was formed by a natural lava flow from the nearby San Marin Tuxtla volcano. Its chilly waters and the fertile foothills that surround it offer plenty of options for outdoor exploring. Travelers can hire a local boat and paddle into the depths of Catemaco Lake before washing ashore Monkey Island, where playful primates swing freely between towering emerald green trees. Or they can head to nearby Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve for a refreshing swim in the peaceful lagoon, followed by relaxing mud massages and a dip in the hot springs.
Practical Info
The lake is located in the heart of the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas, about 100 miles south of Vera Cruz City. Buses leave from the main station and cost about $10 per person for the 8-hour round-trip ride.
Address: Sierra de Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico
Admission: $10
From $ 90
Chapultepec Park
Overview
Chapultepec Park, named for the Aztec word chapoltepec (at the grasshopper’s hill), is one of the world's largest city parks. The green space spans 1,695 acres (686 hectares) and is dissected by walking paths connecting quiet ponds, monumental buildings, and museums, including the Museum of Anthropology and the Rufino Tamayo Museum.
The Basics
Located in the center of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park (Bosque de Chapultepec) is found 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the zócalo, or central plaza, along the border of the popular upscale neighborhoods of Reforma and Polanco. Considered one of the world’s oldest urban parks, it’s believed to have been set aside as green space in the 1300s, but wasn't officially protected until 1428 by King Nezahualcoyotl.
In addition to exploring the grounds by bike, Segway, or on foot, many tours also provide the option to visit main attractions, such as Chapultepec Castle, which is home to the National History Museum (Museo Nacional de Historia) and the National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropología).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chapultepec Park is divided into three sections (Primera, Segunda, and Tercera Seccions); most of the popular attractions are located in the first section.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, if you plan to explore the park all day, since it’s double the size of New York's Central Park.
- The green space features a zoo and small amusement park called La Feria Chapultepec Mágico, making it a must-see destination for families with young children.
How to Get There
Within walking distance to many Mexico City hotels, Chapultepec Park is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Line 1 to Chapultepec Station, which drops you off right at the park. The Turibus’ main line (Chapultepec–Centro Historico) also travels through the park.
When to Get There
Chapultepec Park draws both locals and tourists throughout the week (admission is free). It’s especially busy on weekends (particularly Sundays) and holidays. The first section is open during daylight hours, while the second and third sections are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
National History Museum
Found inside Chapultepec Castle, which is famous for being the only castle in North America to have housed royalty, the National History Museum features a permanent collection that includes paintings, documents, artifacts, and clothing from different periods in Mexican history. It also serves as a venue for concerts and theater productions. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 12
Ex-Convento del Carmen
Ex-Convento del Carmen is a former monastery that now houses a museum. It was built in the 17th century and features a simple colonial church style of architecture that has a serene quality when walking through it with a peaceful courtyard.
The museum at Ex-Convento del Carmen is home to a variety of religious artwork, most notably paintings from the 16th century through the 18th century. Another interesting – and possibly eerie depending on your outlook – aspect of a visit to Ex-Convento del Carmen is found in the crypt. Down there, you’ll encounter a collection of remarkably well-preserved mummies. These 12 mummified human corpses are a highlight of most people’s visit to Ex-Convento del Carmen so be sure to travel downstairs to the crypt to find them before departing. The mummies also make Ex-Convento del Carmen a more kid-friendly site to visit as children will be enthralled by the real-life mummies.
Practical Info
Ex-Convento del Carmen is located in the San Angel neighborhood of Mexico City at Avenida Revolución 4. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and you are allowed to walk through at your own leisure.
Address: Avenida Revolución 4, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From $ 53
Cempoala
Cempoala—a name that means “the place of twenty waters”—is a set of ancient ruins in the heart of Ursulo Galvan that was once inhabited by the Totonac, Zapotec and Chinantecas people. This historic district’s name came from the aqueducts and irrigation systems that once flowed to the nearby gardens and fertile farmland. Travelers can explore the numerous temples that comprise this archeological site, which include a few landmarks that are not to be missed.
Templo las Caritas, the temple of charity, is a two-story structure decorated by hundreds of stucco skulls that pays homage to the god of death. Ornate murals and detailed clay faces, as well as a hall of hieroglyphs, make it a unique place for travelers to touch the ancient past. Templo del Sol, also known as the great pyramid, is similar to the Sun Temple in Tenochtitlan. It’s built on the same ground as the Templo Mayor and affords beautiful views of Cempoala.
Practical Info
Cempoala is about 26 miles northwest of Veracruz City. Buses depart daily from the main station. The ruins are located between Hernan Cortes Nte. and Carmen Viveros Cruze, north of Miguel Hidalgo.
Address: Cempoala, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 78