Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 291 listings.
Captain Hook Pirate Ship
There are dozens of ways to see Cancun but one of the most entertaining is aboard the Captain Hook Pirate Ship. Spend an evening enjoying dinner served by salty sea men followed by dancing on the deck and an all-night open bar.
The cannon’s fire signals the departure of this famous ship. As the night progresses visitors can enjoy tales from the high sea, as well as a live enemy attack complete with swords and pistols. A ride aboard the Captain Hook Pirate Ship is the perfect way to experience life on the sea without the fear of being forced to walk the plank.
Practical Info
An evening aboard the Capital Hook Pirate Ship includes dinner, an open bar and a live performance. Roundtrip transportation from most hotels is available for an extra cost.
Address: Playa Linda km 4, Cancun, Mexico
Admission: See website for prices
From $ 70
Diego Rivera-Anahuacalli Museum
The Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, commonly just referred to as the Anahuacalli Museum, can be tricky to find in Mexico City, but it is worth the extra effort to visit. Diego Rivera was a famous painter who was known for his cubist style and murals. He lived in Mexico City for most of his life and was married to the artist Frida Kahlo. The Anahuacalli Museum is designed by him and houses ancient artifacts he amassed during his lifetime as well as some of his own works of art.
The museum was opened in 1964, after Rivera’s death, though the layout and design of Anahuacalli was planned out by the artist prior to his passing. The pyramid-shaped building made of volcanic stone is impressive in and of itself to see, but the real allure of the museum is inside where 2,000 artifacts from his massive Pre-Columbian art collection is housed. A tour through the museum will teach you about the history of Mexico’s ancient civilizations, a subject Rivera was especially passionate about.
Practical Info
Anahuacalli Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours start every half hour and generally last 45 to 60 minutes. Your ticket to Anahuacalli Museum also gets you admittance to the Frida Kahlo Museum, which is also in Mexico City. Anahuacalli Museum is located in the Coyoacan neighborhood of Mexico City at Calle Museo 150 San Pablo Tepetlapa.
Address: Museo 150, San Pablo Tepetlapa, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: $60 pesos
From $ 7
Azteca Stadium
Soccer—or fútbol as it’s called in Spanish—is an integral part of Mexican culture. For the country’s people, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca), which is the largest stadium in Mexico, is the heart of the sport. Home to the professional soccer team Club América and the Mexican national team, the 84,000-seat stadium is the first venue to host two FIFA World Cup finals, and it will welcome a third in 2026.
The Basics
Its name a tribute to Mexico City’s Aztec heritage, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca) opened its doors in 1966 and continues to draw throngs of fans every year. In addition to the World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the stadium hosted the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, where both the memorable “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” were scored.
Besides scoring tickets to a match, die-hard soccer fans can get their fix with a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, which usually includes a look at the inner workings, such as a visit to the locker rooms, press room, and bench area, plus a walk onto the legendary field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
How to Get There
In the Santa Ursula neighborhood of Mexico City and about nine miles (15 kilometers) from the historic center, the stadium is accessible via the Azteca station on the Xochimilco Light Rail line, which connects to the city’s metro system at the Tasqueña station. (The light rail and metro require two different tickets.) It’s also about a 30- to 40-minute car ride from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
The Mexican football league system (Club América is part of the Liga MX division) divides its season into two: Apertura (opening season) and Clausura (closing season), each with its own tournament and champion. If you want to catch a match, visit Azteca Stadium from July to December (Apertura) and from January to May (Clausura).
Tips for Attending a Match at Azteca Stadium
Like with most sporting events, you’ll have to contend with traffic, security, and unruly football fans on match day. Some things to keep in mind
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Address: Calz de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, D.F. Mexico 04650, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Avenida Kukulkan
Avenida Kukulkan, also known as Cancun’s Hotel Zone, is a pulsing thoroughfare lined with oceanfront resorts that separate the Caribbean Sea from the Nichupte Lagoon. This long, flat strip is home to some of Cancun’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife. From Avenida Kukulkan, various paths lead out to a limitless stretch of white sand.
The Basics
If you’re vacationing in Cancun, chances are you’ll end up at one of the resorts along Avenida Kukulkan. There’s lots to see and do here, including shopping, surfing, and more. After dark, visitors flock to Party Center, right in the middle of the Hotel Zone, to drink and dance the night away at Cancun’s hottest clubs.
Party-goers who want to avoid the hassle of planning transport can opt for a skip-the-line nightlife tour that includes unlimited drinks plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the tourist areas.
- Paths leading out to the beach are easy to spot from Avenida Kukulkan.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water, as the strip and beaches offer little shade.
- Get a taste of Maya culture at the Cancun Maya Museum and San Miguelito.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Avenida Kukulkan, located just minutes from downtown. Most visitors arrive by airport transfer, taxi, or public transport—the R1 or R2 buses travel the length of the Hotel Zone. If you’re driving, head eastbound on Avenida Coba and continue straight through the intersection with Avenida Bonampak.
When to Get There
Cancun can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, and the weeks before and after Easter are also some of the busiest. Other times of year are less crowded. From May to October, expect higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.
Cancun Maya Museum
While it may not be the most authentic corner of the Yucatan Peninsula, Avenida Kukulkan does offer pockets of culture. At Km 16.5, the Maya Museum showcases centuries-old artifacts from ancient Maya sites throughout the Yucatan region. The museum sits alongside a patch of jungle with a small group of well-preserved Maya ruins known as San Miguelito.
Address: Blvd. Kukulcán, Cancún, Q.R. Mexico 77500, Mexico
From $ 39
Cancun Underwater Museum
Helping to define Cancun as more than just a tourism spot for dedicated beach lovers, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an attraction unlike any other in the world. While almost all of us have, invariably, at one point or another, been to a museum, few if any of us have been to an underwater museum. Until now, that is.
Essentially a bountiful series of sunken sculptures, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an ongoing project aimed at inspiring a love of art as well as Cancun’s magnificent coral reefs. Soon over 400 original sculptures will lie between depths of 9 to 20 feet, and so make for excellent viewing when either snorkeling or diving.
How does something this wonderful and unique come about? By simple artistic inspiration. Jason deCaires Taylor was the artistic brains behind the operation, and people have responded well to the idea. Eerie, beautiful, and spectacular are all words used to describe this underwater phenomenon that successfully promotes Cancun as an artistic residence, as well as an excellent diving opportunity.
Don’t miss this fantastic Cancun attraction.
Essentially a bountiful series of sunken sculptures, the Cancun Underwater Museum is an ongoing project aimed at inspiring a love of art as well as Cancun’s magnificent coral reefs. Soon over 400 original sculptures will lie between depths of 9 to 20 feet, and so make for excellent viewing when either snorkeling or diving.
How does something this wonderful and unique come about? By simple artistic inspiration. Jason deCaires Taylor was the artistic brains behind the operation, and people have responded well to the idea. Eerie, beautiful, and spectacular are all words used to describe this underwater phenomenon that successfully promotes Cancun as an artistic residence, as well as an excellent diving opportunity.
Don’t miss this fantastic Cancun attraction.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
From $ 45
Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port
Cabo San Lucas finds itself on all cruise lines, making their way along the Mexican Rivera and Sea of Cortez. It has also garnered a reputation for being an American ex-pat party hot spot. This is THE place to do your duty-free shopping and pick up vacation trinkets and souvenirs. Outside of downtown’s party atmosphere, Los Cabos offers tranquil scenery and exotic adventure opportunities.
How to Get to Cabo San Lucas
Downtown Cabo is a pleasant ten-minute beachside walk from the marina. The town itself is very walkable, however taxis are readily available by the terminal. Several international car rental agencies have offices in town, if you feel like getting out and exploring beyond the coast.
One Day in Los Cabos
Los Cabos is known as a great locale to get your water sport on! Try the Sailing and snorkeling cruise through the famous rock formations and see some remote beaches. Or, get up close with the abundant and diverse tropical ocean ecosystem in a Two-tank scuba dive.
Hydrophobes can take in the equally distinctive dry-land scenery from atop a new equine friend on the Horseback Riding Adventure, or tear through the rocky desert terrain on an ATV. At the end of the day, kick back with a daiquiri at the Hard Rock Cafe in true Cabo Wabo style!
Port Information
The official language is Spanish, but owing to the bustling tourism industry and the concentration of American ex-pats in the area, most locals also speak English. US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere, as are credit cards. Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, so allow extra time for getting off and on your ship.
Address: Marina, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 49
Cancun Interactive Aquarium
As one of the top family-friendly attractions in the resort town, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium offers visitors a peek into the Caribbean and the chance to touch, feed, and interact with a variety of marine life. Home to schools of colorful tropical fish, seahorses, jellyfish, stingrays, tiger and bull sharks, sea turtles, and more, the aquarium provides the chance to learn about the animals’ natural habitats and their role in the underwater ecosystem.
The Basics
Conveniently located along Boulevard Kukulcán at Plaza La Isla in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium offers many exhibits, including various touch tanks where kids and adults can feed stingrays and sea turtles, touch starfish, pet a shark, or even dive into a shark tank inside a safety cage to feed bull sharks. There’s also a dolphin habitat where you can see at show and even swim with the creatures, plus dolphin-focused education and therapy programs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A walk through the aquarium takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much you interact with the exhibits.
- The hands-on dolphin experience offers different packages in a range of price points and are designed for couples, groups, and families.
- The aquarium offers on-site bathroom facilities, showers, changing areas, towels, and secure lockers.
How to Get There
Located inside La Isla Shopping Mall Cancun in the hotel zone, the Cancun Interactive Aquarium is easily accessible via taxi or rental car from most accommodations in Cancun. For example, from Hotel Riu Cancun at the northern tip, it’s a 6-minute drive. From Playa del Carmen, it’s about an hour drive north along Highway 307.
When to Get There
The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is open every day, but, as with most attractions, weekends and holiday periods are the busiest. To avoid the crowds, aim to visit during a weekday. The marine presentation (which is the only dolphin show in Cancun and Riviera Maya) takes place at 7pm daily, so plan to arrive in the late afternoon or evening if you want to catch the show.
Visit Ventura Park
If you’re looking for more family fun, visit Ventura Park, an amusement park made up of seven worlds including Dolphinaris, Underworld, Grand Prix, Fun World, Aaaahventura, and Wet n' Wild with rides such as waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Other activities include a roller coaster, ziplines, go-karts, and more. Various packages are available, and all include unlimited food and beverages. The park is open from 10am to 5:30pm and is located about 15 minutes south of the interactive aquarium.
Address: La Isla Shopping Mall, Blvd. Kukulcan, 12.5 Zona, Hotelera, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Cancun Wax Museum
Marvel at more than 100 famous faces (and bodies!) at Cancun's only wax museum. Wax figures from the world of entertainment (music, television, movies, sport and politics included) cover the 7,500-square-foot (700-square-meter) museum, providing visitors with some surreal photo opportunities. Each wax figure has been carefully and meticulously crafted, with everyone from Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth to David Beckham and Amy Winehouse on display.
With a collection of well-known children's characters as well, the Cancun Wax Museum is especially popular with kids, and is therefore the ideal attraction for families. For maximum convenience and to avoid disappointment, it's best to book a Cancun Wax Museum admission ticket in advance.
Insider's Tip: A visit to the Cancun Wax Museum makes the ideal start or end to a day of shopping; the museum is located inside the La Isla Plaza shopping village in the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Practical Info
Public buses and private shuttles will deliver you to the La Isla Plaza to visit the wax museum, which is open daily from 10am to 10pm.
Address: La Isla Plaza, Boulevard Kukulcan, Cancun, Mexico
Hours: 10am-10pm
Admission: $27
From $ 27
Degollado Theater (Teatro Degollado)
Across from the Guadalajara Cathedral, the Teatro Degollado looms in stony, neoclassical glory. Corinthian columns form a massive portico topped with a marble relief of Apollo and the nine muses. The length of the building’s rear wall is adorned with a stylish sculptural depiction of Guadalajara’s history; a fountain runs along the base.
The inside is even more over-the- top, with five tiers of gilded balconies and a ceiling frescoed with scenes from Dante’s Divine Comedy. A red-and-gold color scheme is augmented with frippery, including a fearsome golden eagle above the stage. The eagle holds a chain in its beak: as legend has it, the theater will stand until the day the golden eagle drops its chain.
The theater was completed in 1866, at the height of Mexico’s great theatrical renaissance. Today the lavishly appointed building is home to classically Guadalajaran institutions, including International Mariachi competitions, the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco, the Ballet Folklorico of the University of Guadalajara, and the Guadalajara City Ballet, as well as traveling performances and limited run shows.
The inside is even more over-the- top, with five tiers of gilded balconies and a ceiling frescoed with scenes from Dante’s Divine Comedy. A red-and-gold color scheme is augmented with frippery, including a fearsome golden eagle above the stage. The eagle holds a chain in its beak: as legend has it, the theater will stand until the day the golden eagle drops its chain.
The theater was completed in 1866, at the height of Mexico’s great theatrical renaissance. Today the lavishly appointed building is home to classically Guadalajaran institutions, including International Mariachi competitions, the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco, the Ballet Folklorico of the University of Guadalajara, and the Guadalajara City Ballet, as well as traveling performances and limited run shows.
Practical Info
Open for walk-in visitors Tuesday to Sunday 10am-2pm. Admission is free for viewing interior, varies for shows.
Address: Belén s/n esq. Morelos, Centro Histórico, Guadalajara, Jalisco CP 44100, Mexico
Admission: Prices vary per event
From $ 40
Cuzama
The Cuzama area of the Yucatan peninsula is known for its cluster of cenotes, or underwater sinkholes, which are unique in their methods of access. The three main cenotes of Cuzama are named Chelentun, Chacsinicche, and Bolonchojol. They can be traveled to via traditional horse-drawn cart. The trip from Cuzama’s town square to the cenotes leads you through the surrounding wild forests of tall jungle trees and native wildlife.
Cenotes are often bright blue in color with characteristically clear waters, and are a great way to cool off with a swim, snorkel, or dive on a hot day. A refreshing dip in the calm water grants views of the rock formations of these underwater caverns and rivers. Upon arrival, simply step down a small wooden ladder to enter the water for a swim.
Practical Info
Cuzama is located southeast of Merida, about a 45 minute journey by car. Be sure to negotiate with the horse cart driver you hire to take you around. There is also a unique Gothic style church in the town of nearby town of Eknakan that’s worth a visit.
Address: Cuzama, Mexico
From $ 80
Cacaluta Bay
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.
The Basics
Two distinctly different beaches make up this scenic bay in Huatulco. Cacaluta Beach is the larger of the two, with soft white sand and blue-green water that stretches around a secluded cove. The bay’s smaller, pebbly Arroyo Beach is just as pretty, but with gentler waves. Visit Cacaluta Bay independently or on a Huatulco Bays sightseeing cruise. Tours typically visit five or seven of the nine bays and include stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Huatulco’s Cacaluta Bay is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Plan to carry enough food, water, and supplies for a day at the beach, as there are no amenities here.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Cacaluta Bay is by boat. You can also hike for about 20 minutes along a well-marked trail that leads from the main road to the beach. Taxis can drop you at the entrance to Cacaluta, but you’ll need to walk to the taxi stand at Maguey Beach, about half a mile (1 kilometer) away, to get a ride back into town.
When to Get There
Cacaluta Bay is lovely year-round; mornings offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling. The rough, unpaved road that connects Cacaluta Bay with Huatulco’s other bays can be difficult to navigate during rainy season (May to October).
Cacaluta Bay Wildlife
Cacaluta Bay is home to an impressive array of wildlife and lots of indigenous birds, including several different kinds of sea birds. Many of the birds and other small animals make their home in the jungle surrounding the bay. In addition to bird-watching, the bay’s clear waters and ease of snorkeling from shore make it one of the best spots to see tropical fish and rays.
Address: Cacaluta Bay, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 55
Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Located just outside Cancun, Garrafon Natural Reef Park is a natural amusement park that offers recreational activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, ziplining, and biking. With colorful coral reefs, tropical hills, and rugged coastal cliffs, Garrafon Natural Reef Park allows you to experience some of the best of Mexico’s outdoor treasures.
The Basics
Garrafon Natural Reef Park offers more than 20 land- and water-based activities. Strap yourself into a harness and glide through the air on a zipline, explore the island by bike, hike to an ancient Maya temple, or relax in a lounge chair by the beach. Or take a dip in the clear Caribbean Sea, kayak, snorkel, or swim with dolphins.
Most tours of Garrafon Natural Reef Park leave from Cancun and include pickup and drop-off from local hotels. Basic ticket packages include buffet lunch, snorkel equipment, life jackets, kayaks, hammocks, pool entry, and ziplining. Upgraded packages include add-ons such as an open bar, VIP lounge access, and gourmet meals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Garrafon Natural Reef Park is ideal for nature lovers and thrill seekers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and a swimsuit.
- Visitor facilities include lockers, restrooms, restaurants, and a bar.
- Reservations for activities at the park are highly recommended.
How to Get There
Garrafon Natural Reef Park is located on the southern point of Isla Mujeres, an island roughly 30 minutes by ferry from Cancun on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Some tours include roundtrip transportation, but you can also travel by taxi or rental car.
When to Get There
The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Must-do Experiences at Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Ideal for nature lovers and families with kids, Dolphin Discovery allows you to swim with these friendly marine mammals, as well as sea lions, manatees, sharks, and stingrays. For a more laid-back experience, the park’s infinity pool offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Cancun bay. The park’s zipline which, allows you to cruise through the air at almost 100 feet (30.5 meters) above sea level, is another must-do.
Address: Camino Sac Bajo, Lote 26 Fraccionamiento Paraíso Laguna Mar, Isla Mujeres, QROO Mexico 77400, Mexico
From $ 69
Discover Mexico Park
Discover Mexico Park showcases Mexican history, culture, and art through several indoor and outdoor exhibitions. Outside, miniature models depict famous sites and a botanical garden showcases Mexico’s rich wildlife. Inside, you can peruse artisanal crafts and taste traditional Mexican foods and beverages at the snack bar.
The Basics
Stroll through the park, listen to traditional Mexican music, and peruse cultural highlights of Mexico’s past and present. An admission ticket grants you entry to the park, while more in-depth experiences can be added on. For example, you can learn about Mexico’s chocolate-making traditions at a hands-on cacao workshop or sample local spirits during a Jose Cuervo tequila tasting. Some combination tours also visit other nearby attractions, such as Chankanaab National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Discover Mexico Park is a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture lovers.
- The park takes roughly two hours to explore.
- On-site visitor facilities include a gift shop and snack bar.
- A large portion of the park is located outside; remember to bring sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes.
How to Get There
Located in Cozumel, Discover Mexico Park lies about seven minutes by road from the island’s downtown area. There is no public transportation on the island, but you can get there via taxi, rental car, scooter, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Highlights of Discover Mexico Park
Don’t miss the Museum of Popular Arts, which houses local crafts. Take photos in front of the park’s many miniature structures, which all depict popular examples of Mexican architecture. You can also watch a video about the country’s culture and history, create alebrijes (Mexican handcrafts from Oaxaca), or peruse the souvenir store. If you have time, watch a ritual performance by the Papantla Flyers.
Address: Carretera Costera sur km. 5,5, Zona Hotelera Sur, Cozumel, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Cabo San Lucas
Love it, hate it, or can’t remember it, there’s no denying that Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas is a town fueled by fun and firewater. From deep-sea fishing to fishbowl sipping, Cabo always delivers on its reputation as the Baja Peninsula’s favorite resort town thanks to its combination of kid-friendly water sports, whale-watching opportunities, world-class beaches, and raging nightlife.
The Basics
The best way to experience Cabo San Lucas is out on the waters that make the town famous. To the west, the Pacific Ocean offers a quiet beach and big waves for surfing (swimming here is not recommended), and to the east, the Sea of Cortez features abundant water sports and the popular Medano and Solmar beaches. Take a speedboat tour, luxury cruise, or kayaking trip to snorkel alongside tropical fish, or go deeper and scuba dive at remote coral reef sites such as Playa Santa Maria and Chileno Bay. Those who’d rather be on the water rather than under it can opt for a fishing charter, sunset cruise, whale-watching trip, or stand-up paddleboard class for good views of top sites such as Lover’s Beach and El Arco, a distinctive arch-shaped rock formation at Land’s End.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo San Lucas can be crowded with uninhibited nighttime (and daytime) revelers, especially during spring break.
- Cruise ship passengers stopping in Cabo can take shore excursions that operate on a time-sensitive schedule.
- For an essential photo op of the dramatic sea cliffs, stop at Land’s End.
- Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the dolphins and sea lions—and, in December through mid-April, whales—that hang out in Cabo’s waters.
How to Get There
Cabo San Lucas is a 40-minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport. Book a transfer from the airport in advance, or take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car upon arrival.
When to Get There
Winter is the most popular season for visitors, as the summertime heat can be intense. January through March is the best season for whale watching; all other activities are available year-round.
Exploring San Jose del Cabo
The quieter town of San Jose del Cabo, just a 20-minute ride away, makes an ideal day trip for those interested in colonial history or just an escape from the crowds.
Address: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 50
Bahia de Cabo San Lucas
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas is the cape’s hub for water sports and beach activities.
Rent jet skis and kayaks at Medano Beach, or hang out at the resorts lining the long stretch of sand overlooking the bay.
Take an underwater snorkel tour of the bay and nearby Sea of Cortez, or go diving off the Chileno reef or Cabo Pulmo Marine Park.
There are charter boats for sports fishing in the world’s marlin capital, or more gentle cruising in a glass-bottom boat on the bay at sunset. For youngsters, what could be better than a cruise aboard a pirate buccaneer’s cruise, me hearties.
Practical Info
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas washes east of the marina and north along Cabo San Lucas’ many swimming beaches.
Address: Lazaro Cardenas, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Cuilapam Convent
Tucked away into the hillside of Culipam, this former Dominican convent offers travelers a bit of Mixtec, Spanish and Zapotec history, as well as some spectacular views. Once home to praying monks, today this tranquil destination draws travelers in search of a quiet respite from the hustle of city life. It showcases black and white mural paintings, as well as artifacts from the Anthropology and History National Institute, which is housed on the convent’s second floor. The nearby open-air chapel, which was built without a ceiling due to ancient fears of closed spaces, is another convent site worth checking out.
Practical Info
The convent is dedicated to Santiago Apostle and a celebration takes place every year on July 25.
Address: Cuilapam de Guerrero, Mexico
From $ 51
Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo)
Known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) for its bold blue façade, the Frida Kahlo Museum (Museo Frida Kahlo) was the birthplace and childhood home of the well-known Mexican artist. Inside, the fascinating collection of personal items, furnishings, sketches, and paintings offer insight into both the life and art of Frida Kahlo.
The Basics
The Frida Kahlo Museum is one of Mexico City’s most visited attractions and prebooking your admission tickets can potentially save hours of waiting in line, especially during peak times (weekends and holidays). Visitors can explore independently or on a guided tour, visit as part of a Mexico City tour, or combine a visit with other top attractions, such as the Xochimilco canals or the National University of Mexico.
After exploring the Casa Azul, it’s just a short walk to the former home of Kahlo's husband, artist Diego Rivera, now the Diego Rivera Mural Museum (Museo Diego Rivera), or that of her lover, communist revolutionary Leon Trotsky, now the Leon Trotsky House Museum (Museo Casa de Leon Trotsky).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is closed on Mondays and opens late on Wednesdays.
- Visitors are required to pass security checks to enter the museum, and large bags, suitcases, and sharp objects are prohibited.
- To protect the artworks, video and flash photography is prohibited inside the museum, although special permits are available.
How to Get There
The Frida Kahlo Museum is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City and is a short walk from Plaza Coyoacán. The closest metro stations are General Anaya (Line 2), Coyoacán (Line 3), and Metro Viveros (Line 3).
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round, but it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season (July and August). Admission tickets are cheaper on weekdays, and it’s generally the quietest time to visit, especially if you make an early start.
Highlights of the Frida Kahlo Museum
Casa Azul, with the rooms and gardens still in much the same state as Kahlo left them, offers insight into many facets of her life. Admire her Mexican folk art collection, see the bedroom where Leon Trotsky stayed during his exile in Mexico, and view some of her lesser-known artworks and rare self-portraits. A large collection of personal items, including the prosthetic leg she wore in the months before her death, is also on display.
Address: Londres 247 Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Tues: 10am - 5:45pm. Wednesday: 11am -5:45pm. Friday - Sunday: 10am - 5:45pm.
Admission: 200 pesos
From $ 26
Cancun Airport VIP Lounge
The Cancun International Airport is the second-largest in the country and handles a majority of international flights coming in and out of Mexico. The VIP Lounges — located in both terminals 2 and 3 — give travelers a quiet, comfortable place to relax away from the bustle of the main terminal while waiting for a flight.
Admission to the lounge includes an open bar, snacks, coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices. Lounge guests enjoy free WiFi, TVs showing news and sports channels, a variety of newspapers and magazines and a kids area.
Practical Info
Traveling with kids? Children under 2 can enter the VIP Lounge for free.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
Hours: Daily 8am to 9pm
From $ 38
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park contains the oldest living reef on North America’s Pacific coast, home to corals, colorful fish, and larger species such as whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this marine park is a rich destination for reef snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Basics
Most tours of the marine park leave from Cabo San Lucas and include snorkeling or scuba diving excursions to the coral reef, allowing you to experience the area’s robust wildlife and varied coral structures. Scuba divings tours are available for beginners without PADI certification, as well as seasoned pros. Some tours also visit above-sea attractions such as Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and a resident sea lion colony.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is an ideal destination 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.
- Advanced dives require evidence of dive certification.
How to Get There
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park stretches from Pulmo Point to Los Frailes Cape on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Most tours include round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas, about a 2.5-hour drive away. Rental cars are a good option for independent visitors.
When to Get There
Diving and snorkeling conditions are best in October and November, when the Sea of Cortez is at its warmest. During summer (April through July), seas are rougher and temperatures are hot and humid, although you might find fewer crowds. Winter is the best season to see humpback and sperm whales, and fall is the best time for spotting whale sharks.
Biodiversity at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
This national park is one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Los Cabos area, with a rich array of marine life and an underwater world of hard coral reefs. A variety of tropical fish species such as pufferfish, yellow snapper, manta rays, and sharks can be found here, plus large marine mammals such as whales and dolphins.
Address: Highway 1, San José del Cabo 23400, Mexico
From $ 110
Gringo Gulch
Antique, charming, historic—all of these have been used to describe this quaint little neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Known as the site where the first settlers decided to live, Gringo Gulch offers spectacular views of downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Rio Cuale. A steep, staircase-slung hillside dotted with white-washed villas, this is one of the most romantic and captivating neighborhoods in this 500-year-old town, and it also served as the site of Richard Burton’s film Night of the Iguana, starring Elizabeth Taylor. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this neighborhood, see its numerous beautiful mansions and experience some of the best views in Puerto Vallarta.
Practical Info
Gringo Gulch was named after the affluent North Americans who settled there in the early 1960s. To get there, head up the stone-lined pathway uphill, north of the Rio Cuale bridge. Once you’re at the corner of Zaragoza and Miramar, you’ve reached the beginning of Gringo Gulch.
Address: Zaragoza and Miramar, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 30