Similar to Manhattan’s Central Park, Mexico City’s large Chapultepec Park is a much-loved green space for residents and visitors in this highly populated city. The official name, Bosque de Chapultepec, means Forest of Chapultepec. Appreciate the many green trees and the healthful effect they have on the city’s air quality, acting as a giant lung to help clean the air.
Follow the tree-lined walkways of the park to take a break from exploring the historical sites of the city. In addition, visit the special attractions within the park itself.
Chapultepec Castle is a huge structure atop a small hill that was sacred to the Aztecs. The giant castle served as a residence for Mexico’s national leaders and became the home of the Museo Nacional de Historia in 1944. Climb the hill to enjoy excellent views of the city. Enter the castle to appreciate the country’s history from the time of the conquest of the Aztecs captured in artwork, coins, documents, technology, clothing and furniture.
Nearby, the Museo de Arte Moderno has works by Mexican artists of the 20th century, including Bravo, Costa, Kahlo, Orozco, Rivera and Tamayo. It is particularly known for the quality of its frequently changing temporary exhibits. Stop in to review whatever is showing and stay for lunch in the pleasant museum café.
The Museo Nacional de Antropologio in the park is one of Mexico City’s most popular attractions. See its extensive exhibits of archaeology and ethnography which include important pre-Columbian artifacts such as an Aztec Sunstone as well as other items from Olmec, Teotihuacan and Mayan cultures.
The Parque Zoologico de Chapultepec has nearly 2,000 animals in habitats with seven different climates and vegetation types. See the zoo highlights, giant pandas born on-site, some of the first bred outside their natural environment in the wilds of China.
Reach the Bosque de Chapultepec or Chapultepec Park via the metro, arriving at the Auditorio or Chapultepec stops. Admire the Monument a Los Niños Heroes near the latter entrance. Combine your visit with a Sunday walk up Paseo de la Reforma when the avenue is closed to auto traffic.
