The Best-Kept Secrets of Mexico City, Mexico

Interested in exploring secret sights? Then book your place on Express Mexico City, where our local insider will lead you to some lesser-known places.

The Museo de la Memoria y Tolerancia (Museum of Memory and Tolerance) opened in 2010 and narrates the suffering of people when minority groups are oppressed. It aims to promote acceptance, tolerance and responsibility within society. Exhibitions are often praised for being powerful, intriguing and informative.

When a desire for Cuban ice cream, quality Colombian coffee or Venezuelan arepas strikes, this is the place to go. And for those who do not have the chance to explore beyond the Mexican borders, it is a great chance to sample authentic Latin American cuisine. Look out for Frutería Rafael (a Colombian fruit stall) and Helados Palmeiro (a Cuban ice-cream parlor).

On the third floor of a perfume shop is the Víctor Artes Populares Mexicanas. Materials used in the handicrafts here include silver, tin and traditional textiles, while designs vary from traditional Huichol art to Frida Kahlo-inspired styles. Hand-painted glass pitchers and dolls made from papier-mâché are some of the delicate and colorful crafts sold here.

Inside a beautiful 20th-century house is the first chocolate museum in Mexico, Mucho Mundo Chocolate, which outlines the historical and gastronomical importance of cacao through interactive exhibits. Displays include chocolate masterpieces and coffee pots, as well as the opportunity to glance into the kitchen to see the production process.

The Monumento y Museo a la Revolución (Monument and Museum of the Revolution) stands as a reminder of the tragedies of the Mexican Revolution. Five heroes of the revolution are buried under this impressive landmark, which acts as their mausoleum. Climb the arch for a panoramic city view, day or night, or take a stroll around it and the beautiful fountains in front.

The art on display is what makes Jardín del Arte a joy; the idea is that artists sit along the path of a beautiful park to show their work. Some frequent creatives even become well known. The artists develop their pieces, whether it is a painting, sculpture or waxwork while also sharing and selling their art with passers-by.

Generally, not much serious art focus is placed on caricatures; however, this modest museum in the Centro Histórico does exactly that. Whether you are a fanatic or know nothing about caricatures, the Museo de la Caricatura is the perfect museum to visit for some enlightening entertainment.

Salón Los Angeles offers an excellent night of Latin American entertainment. The open dance floor and backdrop in the style of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema invite all to feel and enjoy the rhythms of Latin American music, whether salsa, cumbia or mambo.

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