8 things to do outdoors in Mexico City on a sunny day
Mexico City, the largest city in the Americas, is a blend of Aztec and Spanish heritage. Its favorable weather makes it a fantastic place to visit year-round. Here are 8 things to do outdoors in Mexico City on a sunny day, whether you are interested in picturesque parks or want to partake in a thrilling excursion.
Besides visiting cute cafes and trying local cuisine, spend your time outside in Mexico City to enjoy its natural delights. If you are itching for an adventure, venture out of the city center to tour ancient pyramids or relax in a collection of natural hot springs. This itinerary of outdoor activities in Mexico City will not disappoint.
1. Visit the Chapultepec Castle
The Chapultepec Castle is one of the only palaces in North America used by royals. It sits atop the highest hill in Chapultepec Park. It was built in 1785 for a viceroy of New Spain and housed European royals and Mexican presidents. It is now the home of the Natural History Museum.
Highlights:
Marvel at ornate grand staircases and an extensive terrace overlooking CDMX
See important artifacts and art from the Aztec’s reign, Spanish conquest, and modern-day Mexico
Walk through the Chapultepec Castle before and after your visit, as it is the second largest city park in Latin America
Address and opening hours:
Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Mexico City, Mexico. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; closed Monday.
2. Walk around the Zócalo, the historic city square
The Zócalo, also known as the Plaza de la Constitución, has been the main square in Mexico City since the reign of the Aztecs. Learn more about the Aztecs' history at the Museo del Templo Mayor or visit the Catedral Metropolitana, a Catholic church built over the ruins of the Aztec temple.
Best time to go:
Visit the Zócalo early in the morning or late in the evening on weekdays to avoid the large crowds.
Address and opening hours:
Historic center of Mexico City, Centro, Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico. Open 24/7 daily.
3. Tour the Frida Kahlo Museum
Frida Kahlo, arguably one of Mexico’s most famous artists, was raised in the Coyoacán neighborhood in Mexico City. She and her husband lived in her family house until she died in 1954. The blue house, Casa Azul, was transformed into the Frida Kahlo Museum in 1958 to give visitors a closer look into her home life and how her Mexican heritage and personal struggles influenced her art.
Highlights:
Tour most rooms in Frida Kahlo’s house and learn about her tragic childhood
See displays of her colorful clothing, inspired by the traditional dress of Zapotec women from Oaxaca
See some of Frida’s artwork, including “Viva la Vida” and her first self-portrait
Address and opening hours:
Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Open Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM; Closed Monday.
4. Try local food and shop at the Coyoacán Market
Coyoacán is a popular neighborhood in Mexico City, and its 2-story marketplace is an excellent place for visitors to try local foods and buy traditional Mexican clothing. Opened in 1921, Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera frequented this market to shop for their infamous parties.
Insider tip:
The marketplace sells decorations and items for every major holiday, so re-visit throughout the year to better connect with Mexico’s rich heritage. Popular festivals include Dia de los Muertos and Día de Reyes.
Address and opening hours:
Ignacio Allende s/n, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Open daily, 7:00 AM-6:00 PM.
5. Take a stroll through Alameda Central
Alameda Central is the city’s oldest public park, known for its flourishing tree-lined paths and picturesque fountains. It’s close to the historic downtown district and borders popular attractions like the Palacio de Bellas Artes and Museo de Arte Popular.
Highlights:
See the Hemiciclo a Juarez, a marble monument dedicated to a former president
Look for events happening at the Kiosko Alameda Central, like dancing or a show
Take pictures in front of several fountains, such as the Fuente de las Náyades and Fuente Mujer Con Flores
Address and opening hours:
Av. Hidalgo s/n, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Open 24/7 daily.
6. Float along river canals in Xochimilco
Venture to Xochimilco, a town 14 miles southwest of Mexico City. It’s known as the town of “floating gardens” and has the only canals left from a vast lake system covering Mexico City. Board a colorful trajinera, or wooden boat, and let a local guide you along the canals.
Insider tip:
Sunday is the busiest day, so visit any other day for less crowds. Mention the Island of the Dolls to your driver to glide down a deserted island filled with baby dolls hanging from the trees.
Address and opening hours:
Av. Nuevo León S/N, Caltongo, Xochimilco, 16090 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico. Open daily, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
7. Explore Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city
Teotihuacan, meaning “birthplace of the gods,” is located approximately one hour north of Mexico City. The city's municipality has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, and it is the most visited archaeological site in Mexico.
Highlights:
Visit the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and Temple of the Feathered Serpent
Stroll along the Avenue of the Dead
Check out the Jaguar Palace, featuring red-painted murals of jaguars and other sacred creatures
Address and opening hours:
55825 San Martín de las Pirámides, State of Mexico, Mexico. Open daily, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM.
8. Take a day trip to the Tolantongo hot springs
The Tolantongo hot springs are located four hours outside the city, so prepare for a full-day excursion. They are worth the adventure, however, since the radiant turquoise waters hypnotize the eyes, and the thermal waters rejuvenate the spirit.
Best time to visit:
Arrive early to take stunning Instagram pictures without other tourists.
Address and opening hours:
A Grutas, 42374 Tolantongo, Hgo., Mexico. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.
