Mexico is known for its delicious cuisine, making it one of the most interesting food cities in the world. From traditional to modern dishes, from street food to fine dining, Mexico is renowned for its diverse cuisine. Moreover, it is also called the City of Palaces and is popular for its rich history and culture. What are the top things to do in Mexico City? Let’s dive in.
Top Historic Places to Visit in Mexico City
1. Enjoy the Lively Atmosphere at the Zocalo
With a history dating back to the Aztec Times, it served as a ceremonial center of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire. The centre contains a giant Mexican flag and is one of the important places to celebrate the country’s independence. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant here, especially in the evenings. It is an ideal spot to learn about the local culture and the Mexican people.
2. Explore the Ruins of the Templo Mayor
Templo Mayor, or the Great Temple of the Aztec Period, has an interesting history. It was accidentally discovered in 1970, after being destroyed by the Spaniards. Today, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. You can walk right up to the ruins and see eight exhibit halls displaying ancient artifacts. One of the rooms was dedicated to human sacrifice in the Aztec Empire, and you can see human skulls, knives, and other funerary objects.
3. Experience the Religious Significance of the City at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
It is not just a church but a complex of chapels, churches, cemeteries, sculptures, and shops. The basilica stands where the Lady of Guadalupe appeared. The original tilma from 1531 remains in good condition and is displayed here. It stands as proof of the miracle of the apparition. Visit the Chapel on the Hill, Chapel of the Well, Basilica Museum, Plaza Mariana, etc.
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4. Admire the Stunning Architecture of the Palacio de Bellas Artes
The building is strikingly beautiful with shimmering roof tiles and an elegant marble facade. It is a combination of several architectural styles, including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Neoclassical, etc. Aside from the unique architecture, murals created by world-famous artists such as Jose Clemente, Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, and David Siqueiros decorate the four floors of the palace. Don’t miss the Bellas Artes Theater with a stained-glass curtain, a stage used for seasonal opera.
5. Take a Tour of the Castillo de Chapultepec
The Chapultepec houses the National Museum of History, Chapultepec Park, a botanical garden, the Fountain of Frogs, the Boy Heroes Monument, and a lovely lake. The museum features breathtaking stained glass galleries, and visitors can learn about Mexican history. The gardens offer spectacular views of the city. Immerse yourself in the history of Mexico at the Castillo de Chapultepec.
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Must-Visit Top Museums in Mexico City
6. Examine the artifacts at the Museo Nacional de Antropología
The National Museum of Anthropology’s ground floor has permanent exhibits from pre-Columbian civilizations. One of the most popular artifacts is the Aztec Sun Stone, a huge stone dating back to the 15th century. Other popular displays include the Maya, Olmec, and Teotihuacan civilizations.
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7. View the Works of the Artist Frida Kahlo at the Museo Frida Kahlo
Take a guided tour of the museum, the childhood home of the famous artist Frida Kahlo. See her paintings, personal belongings, and collections. Her paintings are renowned for their bright and bold colors. Individual items include her photographs, wardrobe, utensils, clothes, etc. Learn about her life and how she managed her health issues after the accident, which she met when she was 18. Stroll around the beautiful gardens, where Frida spent most of her daytime.
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8. Appreciate the Collection of Contemporary Arts at the Museo Tamayo
Rufino Tamayo, the founder, named the museum after himself and donated his own works along with his huge collection of contemporary art. Designed by popular architects Teodoro Gonzalez and Abraham Zabludovsky, the museum showcases modern art. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits. The temporary museums keep on changing, but the focus is on 20th-century contemporary art. Take a guided tour if you want to know about the exhibits in detail.
9. Visit Soumaya, one of the Iconic Museums in Mexico City
The museum houses more than 60,000 pieces of artwork by renowned artists like Diego Rivera and European artists like Rodin, Degas, and Marisse. Rodin’s The Thinker, displayed in the lobby, is the highlight of all collections. The stunning architecture of the giant silver building of the museum, tiled with silver hexagons, attracts the attention of the visitors.
10. See Diego Rivera’s Famous Mural at the Museo Mural Diego Rivera
The museum offers two floors of various exhibits to explore, but the central attraction of the Museo Mural Diego Rivera is the ‘Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central.’ Artists painted a 15-meter-long mural in 1947, depicting 400 years of Mexican history with 78 characters. You will learn all about the three main eras of Mexican history and the prominent figures from this amazing mural.
Top Parks to Visit in Mexico and Have Fun
11. Visit the World’s Largest Park, Bosque de Chapultepec
They added Chapultepec Park, the oldest and largest urban park in Latin America, to the World Monuments in 2016. There is so much to see in the park including gardens, museums, fountains, squares, art galleries, sculptures, lakes, a botanical garden, and a palace. Walk and bike around the park to see the monumental fountains, hundreds of plants, art exhibits, and the panoramic view.
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12. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at the Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco
You can enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities including hiking, trekking, mountain biking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, and camping. While strolling, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as tapirs, wild pigs, monkeys, etc. Do you love adrenaline-rushing activities? If so, try ziplining. To laugh and have fun with your family and friends, play paintball. Have a picnic and relax with them. Bring your furry friend and let it enjoy the Dog Park.
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13. Stroll Around the Nacional Desierto de los Leones
Located at 10000 feet altitude, the park is known for its trails, perfect for hiking and biking. Have a relaxed stroll around Ex Convento, a former Carmelite monastery built in the 17th century. The lovely hiking and biking trails take you to breathtakingly beautiful spots including roaring waterfalls, picturesque ravines, gurgling brooks, and coniferous forests. It is an ideal location for chilling out with your loved ones and enjoying the spectacular nature and fresh air.
14. Relax Peacefully at Parque Hundido
Spanning several acres of green spaces, Parque Hundido provides the perfect setting for relaxation and fun with family. Jog, walk, and hike on well-maintained trails. The children will be thrilled to play in the kids’ play area. It is also ideal for solo travelers looking for a few hours of peace. You can just lie down and read a book, listen to the sounds of nature in the serene atmosphere, or stroll in the park enriched with colorful flora and fauna.
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15. Unwind and have Fun in Parque La Mexicana
With children’s playgrounds, crystal-clear lakes, lush gardens, picturesque views, scenic trails, vibrant fountains, a gourmet terrace, an amphitheater, a nature preserve, and unique pedestrian bridges, Parque La Mexicana is a wonderful spot to enjoy diverse activities. Immerse yourself in nature, relax in the peaceful atmosphere, have a picnic, and explore the gardens in this beautiful park.
Summing Up
Mexico City is worth visiting to explore the rich history, immerse in the picturesque neighbourhoods, and try delicious cuisines. Plan your next vacation to this incredibly beautiful city.
