Child-friendly Mexico City

Our Local Expert Says:

This viveros have the most friendly squirrels you will ever encounter. Purchase a bag of nuts at the entrance and let the furry things come and introduce themselves, take nuts from your hand, and pose for photographs.

Description:

Approximately one kilometre west of Plaza Hidalgo and the Jardín Centenario, are the beautiful green fields of Coyoacán. These extensive viveros or plant nurseries, are often used by joggers early in the morning, with free admission for the public.

The best time to take a stroll through these gardens is along with the joggers in the early morning or later on in the evening, to avoid the blazing sunshine. This is also a good place to admire the varied flora of Mexico.

Description:

Hard Rock Café Ciudad de Mexico is located to the north of the city, in an exclusive area. The enormous size of the place and its art deco style immediately stand out (it was previously the house of a Mexican millionaire). The Hard Rock Café can be divided into three parts: the gift shop, the restaurant and the concert hall (Hard Rock Live). At the back of the restaurant, you'll find a Harley Davidson bike suspended in midair. The furniture is wood and metal, accented with colorful gingham tablecloths. On the second floor, you will across tributes to the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. At the end of the staircase lies Elton John's piano cover and hundreds of gold and platinum albums that have been donated to this "museum". The café serves HRC classic dishes such as hamburgers, Buffalo wings, chef's salad, nachos and sandwiches.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Description:

This tour offers something for everyone, including those passionate about history and art, or those just yearning for adventure! Explore Mexico City's Chapultepec Park with its museums, tranquil lakes, a zoo with adorable pandas, an amusement park with one of the world's largest roller coasters, a relaxing botanical garden and many quiet walkways. What are you waiting for - book now!

Get orientated when you arrive in Mexico City with this comprehensive tour which combines many points of interest that Mexico City has to offer, as well the Anthropology Museum which is a 'must see' for anyone traveling to Mexico!

On this tour you will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, which is the largest church in all of Latin America housing many art treasures of the colonial period. This landmark was begun in 1572 and not completed for some 250 years. This fact becomes evident when you observe the structure's mosaic of architectural styles.

Next, become a part of a vast cultural and recreational attraction known as Chapultepec Park. This 2,100 acre park contains five museums, two tranquil lakes, a zoo with adorable pandas, an amusement park with one of the world's largest roller coasters, a relaxing botanical garden, and many quiet walkways.

You will also visit the National Palace, one of the oldest Government seats in the world, which still houses the President's Office and the Ministry of Finance. Become a part of history when you walk through this 1693 palace while observing the Diego Rivera murals that blazon the inner hallways of the building.

Lastly, learn about Mexico's 30 centuries of human evolution when you visit the Anthropological Museum, which is the finest archaeological museum in the world. Here you will have the chance to see thousands of artifacts, including burial tombs, giant Olmec stone heads, the famous Aztec Calendar Stone and a reconstructed Mayan temple.

Our Local Expert Says:

Once Latin America’s tallest building and still one of the most impressive aerial views of this massive city.

Description:

Built in the mid 50s this modest skyscraper was Latin America's tallest building for several decades. Now visitors can, for a fee, climb to the observation deck on the top floor and see how the immense Mexico City behaves. The sight is breath taking and on a clear day one can see as far as the local snow clad volcanoes and the beginning of Mexico State. Make sure to walk around the building as well as its grounds are often used as a backdrop for great sculpture exhibitions.

Description:

La Casa de las Sirenas is located in a XV Century mansion right beside the Templo Mayor and Mexico City's Catedral, two of the main tourist destinations and landmarks of the city. The building alone is worth a visit, but if you require additional bribe' La Casa de las Sirenas boasts of over 250 different brands of tequila. The food itself is a fine example of Mexican cuisine' duck in tamarind sauce, chicken in a mango "mole" (traditional sauce with dozens of ingredients), and a variety of intricate and delicious soups, seafood and desserts. La Casa de las Sirenas also boasts an amazing terrace area where you will have great views of Mexico's downtown.

Description:

This impressive new building houses the most colorful and tasteful collection of popular art in Mexico. Masks, piñatas, dancing skulls, "alebrijes" (dreamlike colorful creatures), fantastic glass and decorative art make this large museum a very children friendly and non-museum-goer friendly place. The splendidly displayed collection is well labeled and has English tour facilities and a souvenir shop that is a tourist's dream come true. A definite must see while in Mexico City.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Description:

Mexico is rich in culture and many different groups inhabited the country before the arrival of the Spaniards. Aztecs, Mayas, Otomis, Zapotecos, etc. But there is a great mystery surrounding Teotihuacan, there are theories about who built this city and why it was abandoned buy no one knows for sure.

Teotihuacan is an hour and a half drive north of Mexico City and I recommend you devote a full day to visiting. Leave early in the morning in order to avoid traffic and spend as much time as you can exploring this magnificent  @font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; } archaeological site.

There are two main pyramids, the Sun and the Moon, the first one is larger and taller and you can climb both of them. The sun is a bit difficult but once you get to the top you will have an incredibly beautiful view of the valley.

You can also walk around what was once the main avenue called Calzada de los Muertos (Avenue of the Dead) and see many small buildings and new discoveries from on-going excavations. You will be approached by locals selling figurines that resemble originals that are housed in the Anthropology museum, they make great souvenirs. There are many places to stop and eat, nothing fancy, mostly food stands on the side of the road that offer tacos, quesadillas, beer and soft drinks.

If its a hot and sunny day, you would be advised to take comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Walking all the way up to the Pyramid of the Sun is taxing, but if you just walk around the site you will still appreciate the grandeur of Teotihuacan.

Description:

La Gruta ("The Cave" in Spanish) is just that, a massiveand very impressive underground cave decorated with candles, protruding rocks, a few natural water drips, and a centre stage where various regional Mexican dances are performed. This cave has been a restaurant since 1906 when then president Porfirio Diaz, supervising the progress of the Teotihuacan Pyramid restoration, would ask locals to cook him banquents and serve them at this cave. Although La Gruta is, for obvious reasons, a tourist mecca, the food here is still recommendable and a much safer option than trying many of the other nearby, tourist-hungry establishments. Generous portions of bread and nachos accompanied by great salsas and guacamole are given as appetizers. The rest of the meals are equally massive and full of that Mexican, fresh zest. All tables are colourfully decorated to contrast the dark gray of the stone walls around you. This place is very lively, both with the shows happening in the centre stage as well as with the hundreds of dinners constantly here. La Gruta is walking distance from the exit of the Teotihuacan pyramids so ask your guide or the locals to point you in the right direction.

Our Local Expert Says:

Undoubtedly the best place to learn about the life of this iconic and world renowned artist.

Description:

No visit to Mexico City is complete without making pilgrimages to the holy sites of two Mexican goddesses: the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Frida Kahlo's home, the Casa Azul. Known for disturbingly intimate self-portraits, Frida lived 47 years of pain and passion. Her turbulent marriage to Mexican muralist Diego Rivera has been the fodder for books and movies – they were the art world's radical power couple in the 1930s. The Casa Azul in Coyoacán, where Frida was born, lived, and died, remains untouched by time. "Blue House" visitors pass through galleries, kitchen, and dining room, but most fascinating are Frida's bedrooms, one each for day and night. Her doll collection, clothing, paintbrushes, and easel illustrate the storied life of México's Communist queen. After visiting Museo Frida Kahlo, stroll up to the Museo Casa de León Trotsky or down to Plaza Central and the Museo de Culturas Populares.

How to Get There: Métro: Line 3, Viveros and Coyoacán Stations. From Plaza Central, walk north on Calle Allende and turn right on Londres.
Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
Admission: General: MX$55/US$5.50. Students and teachers: MX$20/US$2. Admission also includes entrance to Anahuacalli Museum, which displays Diego Rivera's collection of pre-Hispanic art
Parking: Limited street parking
Services: Restrooms, cafeteria, gift shop, photograph exhibition, documentary films shown every hour. Guided Tours: MX$350/US$35, with advance reservation
Additional information: The museum is closed on January 1, February 5, March 21, May 1, September 16, November 20, December 1 every six years due to change of government, December 24 in the afternoon, December 25, December 31 in the afternoon. Backpacks and large bags must be checked.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Description:

The Chapultepec forest was the vacationing estate for the Aztec nobility and hence is dotted with trees, brooks, two large lakes where visitors can row, ruins, a theatre for children, a music garden, majestic marble water fountains, a lakeside art gallery, Latin America's largest zoo, and a sumptuous castle overlooking this leisure paradise. It is a perfect place to get lost hiking, take a picnic, or rent a bike. Chapultepec is Mexico City's favorite Sunday spot so if you wish to avoid the crowds visit it from 9am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday.

Description:

Second only to the zoo in Beijing, China the Chapultepec Zoo receives the most visitors worldwide. The pre-Hispanic origins of this zoo date back to when the Aztec Nezahualcóyotl created this area for the population to enjoy the flora and fauna. It was meant not only for entertainment but also for medicinal, artistry, food provision and religious purposes. Today, around 2,000 animals of some 260 species—half of which are autochthonous—consider these 17 hectares their natural habitat. Different biospheres have been recreated to make these guests feel more at home. Temperate woods of conifer trees shield the bears, deer and wolves; there are pastures for herbivores and deserts of arid and semiarid regions for other creatures; the Arctic tundra for the polar bears and even a coastal shore for sea lions. This is also the home of the Russian pandas, which were the first to produce offspring in captivity. Admission: Free

Description:

The Papalote Museo del Nino opened it's dors in 1993 in Chapultepec park. If you are travelling with children, this is one place they will absolutely enjoy visiting. It is privately funded and is continuously expanding having added an IMAX theatre, a digital dome and galleries with exhibits chosen with the idea of teaching children about the world they live in.

Children will have an opportunity to learn about science, art, sports, technology, the environment, history, etc. through interactive and fun expertly designed exhibits. You can easily spend three or four hours or more if you go and see one of the films at the theatre, sometimes 3D but always fun and informative. I have seen films about underwater exploration, butterflies, Arabia and the history of Mexico.

One of my favorite times was a temporary exhibit that allowed you to experience what it means to be blind and depend on your other senses to live a normal life. The emphasis of this museum is on having children interact so that they learn by doing. I have been to many children's museums in different parts of the world and this is without a doubt one of the best I've seen.

Description:

The Feria (Fair) is undoubtedly one of the most popular and famous places for kids in the city. It has a total of 56 rides, including the legendary Montana Rusa (rollercoaster), which dates back to the '60s. The admission price varies according to the package you choose. The Pase Magico (Magic Pass) gives you access to 30 selected rides. The Pase Ecolim (Ecolim Pass), gives you access to 53 rides , and the Super Ecolim allows you to ride on all of the attractions, and includes lunch. Don't miss out on this, even if you're no kid anymore.

Description:

Deemed a little culinary hidden treasure, Casa Merlos is like going to an aunt's house… but an aunt who has been cooking professionally for over 30 years. The meals are traditional and with an emphasis on the food from Puebla (where the 30 + ingredients "mole" sauce comes from). Some of the most popular dishes include the rare entree "chalupas" which are small tortillas spread with various ingredients and deep fried. Also try the the lightly fried chile with chipotle sauce, stuffed with goat cheese, stewed pork, nuts, and raisins. It is also said that this is one of the best places in the city to tray the intricate Mole Poblano, a complicated sauce made with dozens of ingredients (including cocoa) and poured generously over chicken. The decor here is traditional, small townish and with a focus on Talavera, mud cermaics, wooden chairs, and handcrafts from small town Mexico. This is the sort of hidden restaurant that only locals know about, and is has been frequented by families for generations.

Description:

This is one of the best-known pizzerias in Mexico. Apart from the pizzas, a wide variety of international dishes, mainly Mexican and Italian, are on offer. It also has great cakes and pastries. The decor is simple and it's a popular hangout for young people. Don't forget to try the Sesame and Barbeque Sauce Pizza.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Description:

Nature lovers delight in this national reserve belonging to the community of Magdalena Contreras. The picturesque river Magdalena cuts through a ravine. Easily accessed by public transportation or private means, it is ideal for picnics, horseback riding, cycling and trekking besides offering the best rock climbing available in the Distrito Federal. There are four groups of boulders and walls reaching up to 60 metres high, complete with chimneys, crevices, knobs and other topographical requisites for a good climb and most routes are well equipped. Admission: Free

Description:

Not everything is virtual nowadays. If you believe that only video games can offer stimuli, come and discover through your very own senses, the infinite amount of sensations that the body creates and perceives. Here people are blindfolded and then guided through a collection of scenes designed to awaken the senses. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing, and to be willing to be fully receptive.

Description:

The largest amusement park in Latin America has become part of a well-known US amusement conglomerate. Now known as Six Flags Mexico, it has incorporated the rides and themes of its northern domain, including an Adventure Kingdom and dizzying roller coasters. There are dining facilities available on the premises.

Description:

El Bajío is an award-winning restaurant which specializes on food from Veracruz, Michoacán, Hidalgo, Oaxaca, Yucatán, and Puebla. One of their specialties is the 30-ingredient mole de Xico, their platains stuffed with bean sauce, carnitas, etc. El Bajio is well known as a traditional restaurant, focusing on food they way "granmas" used to make it. Fittingly, the restaurant has been run by the same family since its opening in 1972. The decor is also awe inspairing and collects some of the best handcrafts from various regions of Mexico. This restaurant, although award winning, is best known by locals than the tourists, therefore prices have remained low. This is a colourful, delightful place for families or large groups and its service is friendly and accomodating.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Our Local Expert Says:

With its hundreds of kilometers of water canals this is Mexico’s equivalent of Venice. A great day out on the water.

Description:

400 Kilometers of water canals make of Xochimilco Mexico's version of Venice. The best way to see this wonder of the ancient world is to arrive at the Nativitas boarding area and jump onto a "trajinera" – large wooden boats beautifully decorated with colorful paintings and flower arrangements. The boat trip (which can last one to five hours depending on what you choose) takes you past floating gardens, a vast array of bird life and "tinampas" which were islets made by the Aztecs by compacting mud and straw and building them around roots of aquatic trees. Weekends are very hectic here with a variety of floating mariachi bands, corn sales people, and partiers. For a more relaxed time visit on a weekday.

Description:

This restaurant has enjoyed a long tradition in the area of San Angel in the south of the city. It is situated in a Colonial hacienda, and its varied menu continues to make it a choice spot for dining. It is ideal for both families and businesspersons. House specialties include Crepas de Huitlacoche (crepes filled with corn truffle), Chiles Rellenos (poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and ground beef, Robalo a la Veracruzana (filet of sea bass with green olives, tomatoes and vegetables). Wandering musical trios add to the ambiance. This restaurant was the winner of a Dirona Award.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Description:

The present era demands more and more fun options for the children of today, who dont settle for a simple visit to the park. Picolo Mondo offers a good option so that they can spend an excellent day. There have a party area with excellent packages which include pizza, cake and games at low prices, educational games, an area for babies, karaoke, go-karts, bumper boats, sand boxes, climbing structures, workshops to make things with 'leggos', plus a cafeteria and soda fountain. . There are branches in the Centro Santa Fe, Loreto, and Polanco.

Description:

Professional pop-wrestling as you have never seen it before. This highly theatrical and incredibly acrobatic sport has achieved somewhat of a cult status around the world. Wrestlers are not just sportsmen but fighters for equality and goodness, and the audience cheers with more enthusiasm than one will see even at the most heated soccer game. This is a very intense and incredibly colorful spectacle well worth watching. Arena Mexico has twice weekly (Sunday and Wednesday) battles and a variety of ticket prices.

Description:

The concept-restaurant that has spread through New York, Las Vegas and Miami also has a home in Mexico City's Camino Real Hotel in Polanco. From the same team that created London's infamous Asia de Cuba, China Grill is, like it's dishes, large and easy on the eye. Regardless of the name China Grill is not Chinese food but a highly sophisticated fusion of Asian flavours served in massive portions (the idea is to share them with the rest of your table). Highlights include their duck salad or any of the duck mains, the various dumplings, and their dessert menu. The service is traditional and very formal and you can have at points, up to 6 wait-staff looking after you. The decor at China Grill alludes to Marco Polo and various objects obtained in his many trips through the Asian continent.

Description:

W is one of the most popular hotels in Mexico City because it combines a friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated look, it is centrally located in Polanco overlooking Chapultepec park and although it caters mostly to business people, it is perfectly suited for a romantic weekend or a vacation getaway.

Talk about details! The rooms are equipped with a Bose sound system, showers have rain forest water jets, there is a hammock in your bathroom, a CD and DVD library (in your room!) and featherbed down duvet.

The Terrace, the lounge located in the lobby is a popular local nightspot catered mostly by a young crowd, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the mood is relaxing. There is also a formal restaurant called Solea featuring international cousine and like everything I saw at W, it is elegant and sophisticated.

Berenice, the hotel's head concierge is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. She will go out of your way and spend as much time as necessary to help you solve a problem, answer a question or anything else you need during your stay.  

Our Local Expert Says:

The hike through the pine forest leading to the monastery requires a good level of fitness and is very popular track for dog owners and their furry friends. The monastery also offers weekend live classical music. Check with venue for times.

Description:

This national park provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Located in the Delegación Cuajimalpa reached by the freeway to Toluca, there are signposts to the park surrounding a seventeenth century former Carmelite monastery known as the "Desert of the Lions." Arriving in the 1600s, the Carmelites named this area with reference to the biblical Elijah, who lived in the wilderness and the Leones (lions) are a reference to the family León, who were the monastery's legal representatives. Walk the dark tunnels and explore the cabins. You can enjoy a comfortable day in the countryside. Food vendors offer delicacies representative of the region. Admission: Free

Description:

Located in the Chapultepec Forest, this activities centre has been running for the last 26 years and is highly popular among the local youth. Here children have plenty of wide green spaces to play on, and a small zoo, with all sorts of infant animals and an aviary, which they can visit. It is also possible to rent a bicycle or tricycle and ride around the scaled-down railroad (depending on age and size): apart from being quite good fun, this also offers young people important driving experience for the future.