Organize a family-friendly adventure in Mexico City

Mexico City is a vibrant destination suitable for families with children of all ages. The Mexican culture emphasizes family, making it common to see families enjoying brunch or spending time in parks and museums on weekends.

In Mexico, the saying 'it takes a village to raise a child' remains relevant, with grandparents, aunts, and uncles actively involved in children's daily lives. The city also offers free cultural and social activities in places like Centro Histórico and Chapultepec, warmly welcoming children of all ages.

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Mexico City with kids – the Day of the Dead parade occurs in early November, providing a fun and culturally enriching experience for families.

Is Mexico City suitable for children?

In Mexico City, children are generally expected to integrate into adult environments and behave properly at the dining table. The city is rich in cultural activities for families, and adventurous kids can savor local delights like tacos and quesadillas.

Many restaurants feature children's menus or designated kid-friendly zones. Exploring local markets with kids can also be a cultural experience, with an abundance of fresh produce, seasonal fruits, and local sweets that are both accessible and budget-friendly.

Families are welcomed everywhere, but exercise common sense and politeness in public. Keep in mind that this is a densely populated area. It's common for local toddlers to use backpack harnesses, and some parts of the city can be overwhelming for families not accustomed to large crowds.

Chapultepec Park in Mexico City features a public zoo, a lake, a botanical garden, and a children’s fair. Remember that museums offer free entry for kids with a valid student ID. The Turibus is an excellent way to discover central and touristy neighborhoods with the family; check the website for various routes and what’s included with the daily pass.

Top activities for families in Mexico City

'Keep in mind that Mexico City's weather can change rapidly,' advises Fernanda Castro, a mom with a toddler and culinary guide for Club Tengo Hambre. 'Make sure to pack a small umbrella and a light jacket for the kids.

Each neighborhood offers a unique atmosphere for children. Opt for areas with family-friendly parks, such as Polanco, Roma, and Condesa. While Centro Histórico may be a bit crowded, it’s still a worthwhile stop.'

Most neighborhoods feature public playgrounds where kids and families can enjoy the outdoors. For instance, Parque España in Condesa boasts a large playground and is quite popular on weekends and early afternoons.

Explore contemporary art at Museo Tamayo

The Tamayo contemporary art museum, situated in Polanco, is compact enough for toddlers and young children to explore easily.

Discover Xochimilco's unique farming methods

Exploring the ecological area of Xochimilco is an enjoyable experience for kids, featuring beautiful canals adorned with vibrant boats and a chance to learn about chinampas (floating gardens), Mexico City's ancient agricultural system. You can find a suitable tour on Airbnb or plan a visit with your family independently.

Explore the Teotihuacán pyramids

A visit to the Teotihuacán pyramids will likely consume the whole morning, and everyone may return weary from walking through the archaeological site. Don't forget to pack sunscreen for the family and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Join a cooking class

Engaging with the vibrant atmosphere of a market, gathering ingredients, and preparing Mexican cuisine is a fantastic sensory experience for the whole family: it's educational for kids and enjoyable for adults.

Reserve a private class with Casa Jacaranda and discover the Juárez neighborhood and its local market.

Get hands-on at Papalote Children's Museum

Papalote Museo del Niño, situated in Chapultepec Park, provides interactive experiences for toddlers and children, featuring exhibits that explore the natural world, city life, family dynamics, science projects, and physical phenomena. Papalote also includes a giant IMAX screen showcasing educational films suitable for all ages.

Top activities in Mexico City for teenagers and tweens

Cycle through Coyoacán and explore the Frida Kahlo house

The tranquil neighborhood of Coyoacán is ideal for a family bike ride, allowing you to discover the area's history and architecture while visiting the renowned Frida Kahlo house. Numerous tour companies offer this experience, but booking a private tour is the best option to ride at your teens' pace.

Savor the finest tacos in the city while exploring Centro Histórico

Adventurous teens and tweens will love wandering through Centro Histórico to sample some of the city's best tacos. Club Tengo Hambre offers private -hour walking tours that highlight Mexico City's top street food while providing insight into the local culinary scene.

Enjoy a lucha libre show

Lucha libre – Mexican wrestling – is a fun family experience in Mexico City. The shows are exciting and lively, providing a unique opportunity for bonding across generations. Arena Mexico is the city's largest wrestling venue, conveniently located near neighborhoods like Roma, Juarez, and Condesa.

Shows take place every Tuesday and Saturday night; Sunday afternoons are particularly family-friendly, with performances starting at 5pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. Bring cash in local currency for souvenirs and snacks.

Planning tips for your trip

Opt for accommodation in central neighborhoods such as Roma, Condesa, or Polanco, where restaurants, museums, and parks are easily accessible on foot. Most sidewalks in these areas are stroller-friendly, making it convenient to get around.

Lastly, selecting a hotel with a swimming pool is always beneficial. Kids of all ages will enjoy time in the water, while adults can unwind poolside.

The indoor pool at Sofitel Mexico City is located on the 38th floor, featuring large windows that provide stunning views of the city.