The Top Things to Do in Mexico City
In recent years, Mexico’s capital has drawn the international spotlight, winning recognition for its world-class museums, culinary culture, and architecture. These are the best things to do in Mexico City.
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Despite Mexico City’s air of refinement, it still retains an edge. This is a energetic, sprawling metropolis that refuses to be tamed. With that in mind, here are some of the top experiences for travelers in Mexico City – including sophisticated cultural destinations and sights that showcase the more eccentric aspects of its personality.
1. Take in the Zócalo
Archaeological site
Officially called La Plaza de la Constitución, Mexico City’s main square is better known as the Zócalo. This historic location was a ceremonial hub for the Mexica indigenous people who ruled the Aztec Empire. The destination still has an important role in official celebrations and protests. Covering an area of 620,000 square feet, this is one of the largest public squares in the Americas. From the Zócalo, you can admire the impressive sights of the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and frequent displays of Aztec dancing and music.
2. Stroll the Paseo de la Reforma
Architectural Landmark
3. Explore the Templo Mayor and its museum
Museum, Ruins, Archaeological site
4. National Museum of Anthropology
Museum
5. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum
Museum
6. Wander through Leon Trotsky’s house
Museum
The Leon Trotsky Museum is just a short walk from La Casa Azul. The exiled Russian revolutionary had originally lived with Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera, but was expelled by Rivera after he had a romantic affair with Kahlo. The Russian stayed at 410, Río Churubusco, until a Stalinist agent attacked him with an ice pick in the study in August 1940. He died from his wounds the following day. Much like Kahlo’s house, the museum gives you an intimate look into its former owner’s history – the rooms are preserved as they were when Trotsky lived and a tomb in the garden contains his ashes.
7. Wander through the city’s artistic center
Building
8. Tour a creepy island
Historical Landmark
9. Pay for an electric shock
Archaeological site
10. Enjoy Chapultepec Forest
Park
11. Enjoy a soccer game at the Azteca Stadium
Stadium
12. Cheer on some masked wrestlers
Stadium
13. Sip a coffee at the city’s most literary cafe
Cafe, Coffee
14. Climb the Pyramids of Teotihuacan
Ruins, Historical Landmark
15. Sample the city’s specialty tacos
Food Kiosk, Mexican
16. Down a mug of pulque
Bar, Mexican
The bitter beverage, pulque, has made a huge comeback in recent years, thanks to a renewed interest in Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past. The drink itself has been produced in the country for more than 2,000 years and is made by fermenting – rather than distilling – the sap of the spiky agave plant. Many bars now offer pulque natural, which is a white, frothy drink with an acidic aftertaste. Newcomers to the beverage may prefer pulque curado, a flavored version that won’t overwhelm an unfamiliar palate. Casa Conejo is a popular bar offering both varieties of the drink.
This article is an updated version of a story originally created by Paula Zamorano Osorio.
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