Top 10 Ciudad de México Activities
It’s hard to see the most populated city in North America all in one trip. México City is truly never ending. Below are the gems that stood out from my experience while staying here long term. As I still have more to see in this beautiful community, this list will be a living post that will change as I widen my CDMX eyes, so stay tune.
This list is in no particular order.
All of the images are mine, I hope I captured a glimpse of each attraction’s glory.
Teotihuacán
My FAVORITE adventure day in México, seeing las pirámides. From symbolism, civilization, community, and archeology while riding on ATVs, this was everything. The tour was extremely informational and not regurgitated blanketed facts. After the tour, the guides took us to the nearby town, San Martín de las Pirámides, to eat in an actual cave. The food was authentic and to my liking on top of the delicious mezcal drinks.
Additional Tips:
Head over on a weekday, when it’s less crowded for more private tour vibes
Tollan Adventures is the tourism company we used. It’s run by the two local guides we met. Tell them las chicas de Chicago sent you.
Castillo de Chapultepec
This is such a beauty from every angle. It gives royalty with views of the city. Located in el Bosque de Chapultepec, it’s a bit hidden from the main road. The walk is worth it as it’s filled with greenery, history, color, and elegance.
Additional Tips:
They close once they hit a capacity of 7,000 visitors for the day. Closed on Sunday and Monday.
If pictures are on your itinerary, dress up for this attraction.
It’s so grand, would dedicate ~2.5 hours to see everything.
Touribus
With CDMX being so large, I’d highly recommend spending a day hopping on and off the red tourist buses to visit attractions. It’s an all day pass that not only allows you to save on rides, it provides an elevated view that captures the amazing scenery that Ubers just can’t compare to. This is an unguided tour so that leaves it all up to you with scheduling.
Additional Tips:
Be aware of the branches if you’re on the top level
Have this be an all day means of transportation to hit up your must see spots
Mercado Artesanal Mexicano
This colorful vendor-filled location is found in the Coyoacán neighborhood. I could be here for hours, and I have. My multiple trips to this mercado gets better with finds every time. This is the perfect spot for souvenir shopping. When I’m not on Mexican soil, having a piece of México through artisan work roots me to my culture.
Additional Tips:
Walk around outside of el mercado to find some more artisan stands. I found an indigenous stand selling earrings
El Péndulo
A bookstore that puts all other bookstores straight to the bench. This multi-floored store and bar is equipped for hours spent here in a day. Working remote, book searching, and grabbing a drink are all activities to enjoy at el Péndulo. There’s a Roma Norte and Polanco location that offer the same services and vibes.
Parque México
This park embodies everything wholesome. With individuals dancing, roller-skating, playing with their dogs, or just soaking up the energy, this is a magical place where people put the phones down and take in the day. I recommend biking there on Sunday when some of the CDMX streets are closed for bikers/runners/skaters. A plus for going on a Domingo is that the neighboring park hosts dog and cat adoptions. My youth was screaming with every turn here.
Zócalo
The layout of Mexico City is truly an art. El Zócalo is no exception. This open plaza bleeds Mexican pride with the gigantic national flag while vendors hustle, visitors gaze at the surroundings, indigenous groups perform, and you see the sun bless everyone in sight. In the morning (usually around 6AM depending on the season), the military raises the flag and in the evening (also depending on season, ~6/7PM) they lower it as a ceremonial ritual.
Frida Kahlo Museum
The very recognizable blue casa de Frida y Diego in Coyoácan is a museum and then some. Art, garden, fashion, and home decor are the focal points that visually summarize Frida’s influence. I went with a friend and her 7 year-old daughter. Seeing it alongside a child’s perspective with a goal of becoming an artist was an added plus. She was so curious about Frida’s raw portrayal on life.
Additional Tips:
To take photos, you must purchase a media pass sticker (on my left thigh in the image)
Purchase tickets in advance. You cannot purchase at the door.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
I always look up and around to take in the architect grandness of Bella Artes. In addition to an array of rich art pieces, some of Diego Rivera’s pieces resides in this palace. The park near by has street vendors and live entertainment that is worth a visit. It’s also a 15 minute walk from El Zócalo if you wish to see these two iconic locations back to back.
Xochimilco
Las trajineras (boats) is life. Grab a group and some extra passengers named Tequila for the ride. It’s BYOB and BYOF with an hourly rate per boat. Not only does your boat vibe have it’s thing, the passing boat parties also bring in extra flare to the celebration of living. Mariachi, shots being poured, and music blasting, I thrived here. It does sit about an hour outside of the city, but the drive can always be the pregame. My Uber driver was nice enough to stop by an Oxxo mid-way through the ride to avoid the inflated prices near the river.
Additional Tips:
Bring an outdoor speaker or rent one there.
Find a local small business connect prior to arriving. Reach us to me if interested.
I hope this sparked a need to visit la Ciudad de México or visit again with these activities in mind. Not only did I learn about the historical culture of my ancestors, I met great individuals and got to share my experiences with them. Forever I will cherish these colorful CDMX moments.
-Iraís, a lover of la Ciudad de CDMX
