10 best things to do in Mexico with kids
Xcaret
Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park located in Playa del Carmen. There is so much to do here! You can stay at the hotel, swim in a cenote, enjoy some water activities, or just relax. It really is fun for everyone in the family.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is on the Yucutan Peninsula and is one of Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders. There are 9 different ecosystems in this one reserve. This means that you can see wild dolphins, turtles, rays, and manatees all in this one place. You need to take a tour to see this amazing area, and the tours often fill up. So book your spots ahead of time!
Mayan Ruins
The ancient Mayan civilization spread from southeast Mexico into Central America. They are known for their beautiful temples and stone sculptures. Palenque in Chiapas and Chichen Itza in the Yucatan are two famous Mayan pyramids that you can visit.
Oaxaca
The state of Oaxaca (pronounces wah-hah-kah) is located on the southwestern Mexican coast. It is known for its arts and craft scene, savory food, indigenous culture, and beautiful surroundings. The tropical coast is full of dolphins and sea turtles (you can see them nest on Playa Escobilla). Inland, you can visit Sierra Norte, where you can hike, bike, or ride horses through the green mountainside. There is also a cloud forest that you can visit in Pueblos Mancomunados. Or just walk around the historic Oaxaca city center to see churches, art galleries, museums, and parks! If you visit this area, a must-try is their world-famous mole. There are many varieties of mole, but the most famous is the mole negro (black mole). It is smoky and has a hint of chocolate!
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is off of the Mexican coast in the Caribbean ocean. It is easy to reach by boat from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. It is known for it’s beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and resort hotels. At the southern tip is Punta Sur. Here you will find a lighthouse, remains of a Mayan temple, and a sea turtle sanctuary.
Mexico City
There is so much to do, see, and eat with kids in Mexico City! There is KidZania, Museo Interactivo de Economia, and Papalote Museo Del Nino. There are also so many parks and plazas to play in. The Bosque de Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks on the continent. It contains the Papalote Museo del Niño, and several lakes with rowboat rentals. You can also visit a great aquarium (Acuario Inbursa), take a gondola ride to see the floating gardens in Xochimilco, or see peacocks and children’s shows at the Museo Dolores Olmedo. Or just wander around beautiful neighborhoods, eating good food and looking for street art.
Aztec Ruins
The Aztecs ruled over much of central Mexico, and had their capital in present-day Mexico City. Templo Mayor in Mexico City is a well-known Aztec site in Mexico. Teotihuacan is another famous site. This was once a great Aztec city, and is the most well-known Aztec site standing today. You can see the Piramide del Sol and Piramide de la Luna rising above the ancient city.
Swim in a cenote
A cenote is a natural freshwater spring that occurs when the ground rock collapses, and underground water is exposed. The water is usually very clear and clean. There are many cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula. Many were once used by ancient Mayans during rituals. Today you can swim in many of them! Some people even scuba dive in them and explore the hidden caves under the water’s surface!
Visit a cloud forest
A cloud forest is a special kind of rain forest. Cloud forests are very unique and sensitive ecosystems. They are found in mountainous areas and contain evergreen trees, colorful orchids, mosses, and lots of animals. They are so unique because they are located on the border of different climates. The forest exists on the edge of climates that are too hot or too cold, too high or too low. It allows species from these different habitats and the northern and southern hemispheres to live together. They are referred to as “cloud” or “fog” forests because there is always clouds and mist hanging over the trees. Veracruz is one place where you can find a cloud forest in Mexico.
Baja California
Baja California is the second longest peninsula in the world and is located south of California. It has forested mountains, canyons, and beaches. People love to come here to surf, eat amazing fish tacos, and see the beautiful sights. Most of Baja is quiet with small villages. Here you can visit one of Latin America’s largest natural protected areas at the Reserva de la Biosfera El Vizcaino. There is also a gray whale calving area (where they have their babies) and pre-Hispanic rock art.