Paseo de Montejo is a remnant from Mérida’s golden age. Wander past impressive colonial mansions, stop at the city’s most famous attractions and browse some of the trendy stalls and markets.
Start your outing where the avenue begins on Calle 49. Enjoy the leafy shade over the sidewalks as you walk north along this 19th-century thoroughfare, designed to imitate a Parisian boulevard.
Admire grand old houses that once belonged to some of the city’s most prosperous merchants and nobles. These mansions now contain businesses or cultural attractions, but still retain the architectural beauty of the era. Gaze at Las Casas Gemelas and the Casa Peón de Regil from the outside or take a scheduled tour inside the stunning La Quinta Montes Molina residence. Stop along the way to visit the Anthropology and History Museum that is housed in the Palacio Cantón.
Taste the famous ice cream at Sorbetería Colón or sip coffee and watch the world go by at local favorite, Cafetería Impala. Linger over a more substantial meal at the cluster of bustling restaurants near Calle 41. Shop at some of the trendy clothing boutiques or pick up a few gifts at one of the quality artisan stores.
Read some history before arriving and you’ll appreciate your stroll a bit more. The avenue was officially opened in 1888. Merchants in the profitable henequen trade used their profits to construct luxurious haciendas and villas. The Mayans were the first to process henequen, a type of agave plant that yielded a durable fiber. The Spanish soon took over the production of this “green gold,” and a lucrative global market developed for henequen ropes, carpets and bags. The Paseo de Montejo lingers on as a testament to this economic success.
Finish your walk at the roundabout that hosts the Monumento a la Patria, an interesting monument dedicated to the rich cultural history of Mexico. If this walk seems a little long, purchase a ride by traditional horse and cart and see the streetscape in style.
Paseo de Montejo is truly one of the crowning jewels of this beautiful city.
