Mexico attractions

As one of the lesser-visited Maya ruins on the Yucatán Peninsula, the archaeological site of Kabah offers an escape from the crowds at Uxmal and Chichén Itzá. It's second largest site in the Puuc region after Uxmal, and holds the ornate Palace of the Masks, which is covered in a rare repeating motif of the rain god, Chaac.

Situated on the northern banks of the Grijalva River, Chiapa de Corzo is one of the region’s oldest Spanish settlements with a rich indigenous history, which serves as a jumping-off point for excursions into the Sumidero Canyon. Highlights include the 16th-century church—among the best-preserved in Chiapas—and crown-shaped La Pila fountain.

Centered on an ornate art nouveau bandstand, threaded with leafy walkways, and backed by the 19th-century Palacio de Gobierno, Guadalajara Plaza de Armas is the historic downtown’s oldest public square. Here, admire the neighboring 16th-century cathedral, people-watch from wrought-iron benches, and catch a free musical performance after dark.

Only accessible by boat and situated deep in the Lacandón jungle, the journey to Yaxchilán is as enjoyable as the destination. At this off-the-beaten-path alternative to better-known Mexican ruins, admire decorative stone lintels, elaborate stucco detailing, and two ball courts, as well as carved hieroglyphic stairways.

Surrounded by charming provincial towns in Mexico’s picturesque state of Jalisco, Lake Chapala is a fun, easy day trip from Guadalajara. Stroll the cobblestone streets, browse the quaint boutiques, and chat with the locals and many expats.

Set in the middle of the Yucatán jungle, Xplor Park allows visitors to experience Mexico’s environmental treasures firsthand. Here, you can raft down a stalactite-filled underground river, swim in cenotes, ride in an amphibious vehicle, zipline above the canopy, or brave a five-in-one waterslide. There’s also a nighttime option, Xplor Fuego, for those who’d like to explore the park after dark.

The Diego Rivera Mural Museum (Museo Mural Diego Rivera) houses Mexico’s most famous work of art by one of the nation’s most beloved artists. Rivera painted Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central in 1947, and the mural depicts famous people and events in Mexico’s history in Alameda Central Park, which is built on the grounds of an ancient Aztec marketplace.

The Plaza Carso branch of Mexico City's Soumaya Museum houses the eclectic $700 million private art collection of one of the world’s wealthiest men. Its exhibitions of European masters and Mexican art are on par with the world’s top museums, while the towering building itself is a shimmering work of art on the Mexico City skyline.

Lush tropical foliage, hummingbird-watching hot spots, and orchid sanctuaries are just three of the attractions you’ll find at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico de Vallarta). A rich and diverse array of flora and fauna—mostly native—dominates the 20-acre (8-hectare) expanse of jungle. Follow jungle paths, wander curated gardens, and marvel at the koi pond as part of a scenic Puerto Vallarta day trip.

Chachacual Bay (Bahía Chachacual) is just half a mile (one kilometer) long, but its world-class snorkeling, impressive birdlife, and serene setting continue to attract travelers to its sunny shores. This tiny bay in Huatulco is best reached by boat and still relatively untouched, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a bit more privacy.

From circus performers swinging from the ceiling and dancers crowding the floor, to celebrity impersonators and Broadway-style musicals, Coco Bongo is a nightclub unlike any other. At the Playa del Carmen location, you’ll find extravagant stages, multiple bars, VIP table service, and a dance floor known to rock through the wee hours.

Once one of the Yucatán’s most prominent estates, the remarkably preserved Hacienda Yaxcopoil offers an in-depth insight into the region’s colonial history. Originally built in the 17th century and spread over a vast 22,000-acre (8,900-hectare) agave plantation, Hacienda Yaxcopoil is now preserved as a museum, which showcases the Yucatán’s pre-Colombian, Spanish colonial, and henequen boom years.

The Ciudadela Artisan Market (Mercado de Artesanías la Ciudadela) offers perhaps the most comprehensive range of locally made handicrafts in Mexico City. In one fixed marketplace situated in the historic center, browse for reasonably priced jewelry, textiles, homewares, leather products, and more produced by artisans across the country, before refueling at the on-site dining area.

Replete with fresh produce, grilled meats, fragrant spices, and lots of mole (a spicy sauce), the 20 de Noviembre Market (Mercado 20 de Noviembre) is a must visit for food fans and casual visitors alike in Oaxaca City. Located just outside the city’s central zócalo, the market is also a great place to grab lunch from one of the many fondas and vendors.

Cacaluta Bay is the largest and least accessible of the Huatulco bays. This heart-shaped Oaxacan inlet, which served as a stunning backdrop to the blockbuster Mexican film Y Tu Mamá También, has good snorkeling just a short swim from shore. Its serene setting offers a nice alternative to the noise and excitement of Santa Cruz Bay.

Visit this museum to see Diego Rivera's early childhood home, which has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and work. Alongside original artworks and the personal effects of Rivera—one of Mexico’s most influential muralists and artists—you may also see temporary exhibits from other artists.

Situated at the heart of Mérida’s historic center, bustling Plaza Grande is home to the city’s 16th century San Ildefonso Cathedral, one of the region’s most important contemporary art establishments, and more. Visitors can relax in this leafy plaza—popular among visitors and locals alike—or use it as a jumping-off point for further exploration of the city.

Set against the sweeping backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the 18th-century Our Lady of Pilar Church (Misión de Nuestra Señora del Pilar) is the town’s most notable religious edifice. Originally built by Spanish missionaries and characterized by a yellow facade, an altar surrounded by stained glass, and sweeping views over the ocean, Our Lady of Pilar Church is a Todos Santos must-see.

Often considered the Champs Elysees of Mexico, tree-lined Paseo de Montejo is one of the few examples of French Colonial architecture in predominantly Spanish Colonial Mérida. Developed in the late 19th century with money from the region’s henequen boom, Paseo de Montejo—one of Mérida’s longest avenues—is nowadays lined by mansions, hotels, and restaurants which retain their elaborate, original facades.

Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas, the first luxury community of Cabo San Lucas, is still one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods. It’s home to numerous 5-star resorts, restaurants, shops, and a thriving nightlife scene—but the area’s best feature is arguably its expansive views of the marina and ocean, which you’ll see at every turn.

This ancient site south of Merida is considered to be among the last of Yucatan’s great Mayan cities, having functioned as the region’s political and cultural capital for over 200 years after the fall of Chichen Itza. The sprawling site is home to some 4,000 structures, including the Temple of Kukulcan and several family dwellings.

Located on the coast of San José del Cabo, the San Jose Estuary (Estero San José) is home to hundreds of species of birds, including herons, egrets, pelicans, and ospreys. Nature lovers and birdwatchers flock to this lush, green sanctuary for relaxing walks to spot the wildlife, and it’s the ideal spot to take a break from the bustle of the nearby towns.

For a genuine glimpse of everyday life in most cities, head to the local food market. While Mexico City is packed with such spots, it’s La Merced Market that offers the most bang for your buck. With a maze of street food stalls selling goods from local produce to pinatas, this traditional spot is the city’s largest market and a major tourist draw.

Cancún is full of places to party, but the decor at the Mandala nightclub—a multilevel venue in Cancún’s hotel zone—sets it apart. Guests enjoy the wide-open dance floor, glittery lights, and impressive entryway. The club is also known for weekly pool parties, when guests dance to live DJ sets beside the pool or soak in the Jacuzzi.

In Mexico City, La Merced Market serves as the go-to spot for Mexican food items, while neighboring Sonora Market (Mercado de Sonora) is home to pretty much everything else. Vendors sell handmade and specialty goods, including pottery, religious items, and even animals. Known as the Witchcraft Market, the shopping center is filled with medicinal plants and occult items.

One of the most enigmatic yet well-preserved archaeological ruins in the state of Veracruz, El Tajín is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique architectural features. The grand centerpiece is the 7-story Pyramid of the Niches, which features 365 niches to fit the astronomical calendar. Many of its unusual buildings remain shrouded in mystery.

This eco-adventure park just outside of Tulum offers active ways to engage with the diverse landscapes of the Riviera Maya. From ziplining and nature trekking to canoeing and snorkeling, a range of thrilling activities provide an insider glimpse of the serene cenotes, deep caves, and dense jungle that cover the secluded park.

One of the largest squares in the world, Monterrey’s city center Macroplaza is populated by towering monuments, ornate fountains, and numerous historic buildings. Highlights are the Faro del Comercio, a soaring orange sculpture designed by Luis Barragán, as well as a tranquil sunken garden which offers a welcome respite from the surrounding hustle and bustle.

Straddling the Mexico-Guatemala border, the Lagunas de Montebello National Park is home to more than 50 lakes and lagoons which range in color from powder blue to deepest indigo. Take a dip in the refreshing waters, hike through the dense pine forest, or raft across the lakes at this UNESCO-recognized reserve.