Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
Mural Diego Rivera
Formerly known as Exekatlkalli (the "House of the Winds") the Mural Diego Rivera was once the home of Dolores Olmedo, the final lover of Mexican master artist Diego Rivera. He spent the last years of his life with her here, and in 1956 created his final mural.
It is an outstanding piece, made of mosaic tiles, and depicts at its center Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent of the Aztec religious pantheon. Other figures include a frog (a reference to Dolores' pet name for him) and a hammer and sickle, symbolizing his continued commitment to communist ideals.
There were plans to turn the Mural Diego Rivera into a museum, and for several years the interior was conserved, including several sketches and paintings by Rivera. However, the house was recently sold, though the Mural Diego Rivera, outside, remains in public view, the cultural pride of Acapulco.
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Casa Olmedo is located on Cerro La Pinzona, the cross-topped hill just west of town past the Terminal Maratima, close to the Hotel Casablanca. It's a 15-minute walk, or take a cab.
Papantla
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Valladolid
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Paradise Reef
- Paradise Reef is a must-see attraction for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water. It’s also a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard to protect your skin from rough coral and jellyfish.
- Evidence of scuba diving certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
Palancar Reef
- Palancar Reef is a must-see attraction for wildlife lovers, families with kids, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard while diving or snorkeling to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral surfaces.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
- Evidence of dive certification is required to participate in certified dives.
Isla Mujeres
- Isla Mujeres is a must-see destination for beach and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring a towel, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (pesos) for gratuities or other purchases.
Los Arcos
- Los Arcos is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers, and first-time visitors to Puerto Vallarta.
- Bring sunblock and a hat or sunglasses, as there’s little shade out on the bay. Also wear comfortable clothing, and tote a bathing suit, towel, and change of clothes.
- Snorkeling gear is provided on most Puerto Vallarta boat tours; bring your own if visiting independently.
Riviera Maya
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Uxmal
- Avoid the long ticket lines when you prebook your Uxmal ruins admission.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there is little shade at the ruins.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario)
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Palmilla Beach (Playa Palmilla)
For the best paddling and swimming beach north of Medano, head to Los Cabo San José and Playa Palmilla.
Known for its family-friendly, calm swimming waters, Palmilla Beach - or Playa Palmilla - stretches in front of the exclusive One & Only resort.
Thatched huts provide shade, and the long stretch of sand is ideal for strolling and beachcombing. Dive into the water to snorkel offshore, or find a secluded stretch of sand to call your own.
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Palmilla Beach is 5 miles (8 km) south of Los Cabo San José, 15 miles (24 km) from Cabo San Lucas along Highway 1.
Jamaica Market (Mercado de Jamaica)
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Izamal Ruins
- Izamal is a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (usd or pesos) for tips and shopping.
Llano Grande Waterfall
- The Llano Grande Waterfall is a must-see for adventurous nature lovers.
- Choose a tour that includes round-trip transport from Huatulco, as the waterfall is difficult to find on your own.
- Wear waterproof shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Bring a dry change of clothes and other necessities like a hat, bug spray, and sunblock.
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
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Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres
Statues of Jaliscan movers and shakers encircle the monument. Wander the park to gaze upon the great muralist José Clemente Orozco, the architect Luis Barragán, the governor Ignacio Vallarta (of Puerto Vallarta fame), and the writer, philosopher, avant-garde landscape painter and Nazi sympathizer, Dr. Atl.
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University of Guadalajara Museum of the Arts (MUSA)
The museum also houses a rotation of traveling exhibits and a fine permanent collection with works by important Jaliscan artists such as Martha Pacheco, Javier Arévalo, and Carmen Bordes.
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Iztaccihuatl Volcano
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Murales de Diego Rivera
Measuring 15 meters by four meters, Rivera’s well-known mural depicts epic moments in Mexico’s history and includes famous political leaders as well as commonplace citizens. A nearby sketch identifies the multiple historic figures represented in Rivera’s masterpiece, and while it’s possible to see the fresco in a matter of minutes, visitors should allow at least an hour to truly enjoy the rich details this great work has to offer.
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Pantaleón Panduro Museum (Museo Pantaleón Panduro)
The Museo Pantaleon Panduro in Tlaquepaque houses over three decades of winning entries, and the collection is a true testament to Mexican ingenuity. Centered around a courtyard, vaulted hallways branch out into 27 galleries, where visitors can view everything from avant-garde crucifixes to the finest examples of traditional pots and dishes. Highlights include elaborate nativity scenes, skeleton figurines wearing hand-tailored clothing, delicate lattice work pots, a selection of miniature churches, and amazingly detailed candelabra, including one covered in ceramic figurines that depict scenes from Moby Dick, Romeo and Juliet, Le Miserable and other classics of literature.
The museum is named after Pantaleon Panduro, a 19th century artist who created playful clay busts and figurines that cemented Tlaquepaque’s reputation for true artistry.