Things to do in Mexico City

Mexico is a unique cultural attraction for millions of tourists annually. Among its most significant urban areas, is Mexico City. Americans make up a large part of visitors to this area every year. If you are planning to travel south of the border, there are a lot of things to see. If you head to Mexico City, don’t forget to take in these important sites while you are there.

Mexico City Attractions

Mexico’s capital is also one of the largest urban areas in the world. Influenced by centuries of overlapping cultures, it has attractions for almost any visitor. It’s full of ancient and modern sites, all offering unique perspectives about the area. Some of the places you should visit in the city include:

• Teotihuacan: A UNESCO® world heritage site, this is one of the largest ancient pyramid sites in Mexico. The site contains multiple structures dating to the pre-European history of the area. Its location outside of the city itself can provide a welcome respite from the hassles of urban life.
• Plaza de la Constitution: This is the central square of Mexico City. To many, it is the heart of the city. It contains a large Mexican flag near its center. Multiple points of interest border the area. You can also find large religious services here at Holy Week and other periods.
• Catedral Metropolitana: The national cathedral occupies a central place in the city. Both its religious services and architecture draw countless visitors.
• Palacio Nacional: Mexico’s executive branch occupies this site. However, beyond government agencies, you can also see unique architecture, murals, and fountains.
• Museo Frida Kahlo: Artist Frida Kahlo is perhaps one of Mexico’s most-recognizable and best-loved national treasures. Her former home houses a tribute to her life and art.
• Museo Nacional de Antropologia: The area around Mexico City was a population center long before Mexico itself existed. Ancient cultures, such as the Aztec, once flourished in the area. This museum contains many unique artifacts related to this period.
• Palacio de Bellas Artes: The fine arts museum is home to some of Mexico’s most priceless art and cultural creations. You’ll also find music, theatre, and dance within the complex.
• Museo Soumaya. The Museo Soumaya is a private museum in Mexico City and a non-profit cultural institution with two museum buildings in Mexico City - Plaza Carso and Plaza Loreto. It has a unique and outstanding architecture,  the 6-floor building has over 66,000 pieces of art from around the world. Free 365 days of the year. 

These are just a few of the most unique attractions in Mexico City. However, the city holds countless examples of national pride and beauty. If you decide to visit the area, you’ll likely find it extremely worthwhile.

Keeping Yourself Safe When You Venture Out

For all its wonderful attractions, Mexico City remains a large, urban zone. While crime and safety risks in different areas vary, they still exist.

As a tourist in Mexico City, you likely won’t have familiarity with what parts of the city are safer than others. Furthermore, you likely will need time to learn your way around. That increases your likelihood of experiencing a problem that you couldn’t anticipate. You need to take safety steps during your sightseeing should be at the top of your to-do list. What can you do to make yourself more secure?

• Keep water and snacks with you. Remember, it is safer to consume bottled water in Mexico than tap water. While some locations do not allow food and drink, you might be able to keep these in your bag without hassle. Furthermore, vendors usually set up near major attractions.
• Handling cash often means thinking about security. While some locations accept the U.S. dollar, most place limits on maximum dollar amounts. Generally, it is better to exchange your money for Pesos when you enter the country. However, keep a few dollars with you. Many large establishments will accept credit cards, though some establishments are cash-only. Keep in mind that foreign transaction fees might apply.
• Sometimes, you can negotiate prices with business proprietors. However, use care when doing so unless you are an expert.
• Tourists should not carry large sums of cash with them at any one time. Whatever cash you carry, keep close to your body. Generally, it’s a good idea to place it in a bag (which you keep around your shoulders or a shirt pocket. Front pockets might also suffice. Placing items in your back pocket might create a prime opportunity for pickpockets. Use your money discretely.
• Deposit all-important personal items in your hotel room. Many will provide a safe. Take only what you need with you. Leave behind things like prescription medication, passports, jewelry and other expensive items. What you do keep with you, keep close to your person.
• Stick to tourist maps and safe travel routes. Most hotels can provide recommendations on walking routes, taxi services, and safe dining establishments.
• Take a travel insurance policy out before you go. It can often help you in cases of medical emergencies, theft or other hazards you might encounter. Should you lose items, your policy might help replace them. Keep in mind that all coverage will vary.

Visit local tourist boards or the U.S. embassy for more information on safe travel in Mexico City. With attention to detail, you can keep yourself safe during your travels.

Also Read: Sanctuary of the Monarch Butterflies in Michoacan