THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO CITY DURING A LAYOVER

Mexico Connect Forum Discussion Threads

Posted by JackS on Mayo 06, 2000

Mexicana has scheduled me for a 5 hour layover, around noon, on Saturday, 6/10. How far out is the airport, and can anyone suggest something worthwhile, or fun, during that time span. Thanks, Jack

Posted by mitch on Mayo 09, 2000

The MC airport is not very far out of town...15 to 20 minutes from the center depending on traffic. In my opinion you should choose from one of two things to do: either visit the zocalo, or the Archeological Museum. Don't try to do both. You will need to be back to the AP an hour before your plane leaves, so you basically have 3 hours to hit one of these sites. The museum is world class; located next to Chapultepec Park. The most impressive items found from the many pre-Columbian sites are all here. The zocalo is charming. Next to Red Square in Moscow it is the largest public square in the world. The Cathedral, the National Palace and the Templo Mayor are all right there. Also step inside the Gran Hotel for a quick view of its ceiling. Next to the Gran is the Majestic Hotel. Go to its rooftop restaurant for a drink or a bite to eat. A perfect view of the zocalo from there.

Posted by Jeff Pearson on Mayo 06, 2000

As I recall, the airport is about fifteen minutes by cab to the zocalo. There you can visit a number of interesting sites. On the east side of the plaza is Palacio Nacional with an incredible group of frescos by Diego Rivera depicting the history of Mexico. To the north are the Catedral Metropolitana and the Templo Mayor. I think that the Templo Mayor and its museum are particularly worthwhile. Several blocks to the west on Avenida Cinco de Mayo is the Palacio de Bellas Artes, with art exhibitions and murals by the three major Mexican muralists, Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros. West and across the street from Bellas Artes is the Alameda, a pleasant park where you can walk, people watch, or enjoy a snack. West of the Alameda is a small museum dedicated to a single mural by Rivera, "Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda." It's a fantastic painting depicting an enormous collection of Mexican historic and cultural figures. If you aren't into murals, the nearby Torre Latinoamericana provides a great view of the city. Or you can get a good meal at Restaurante Viejo Mexico, across the street from the cathedral, just north of the zocalo. That ought to fill five hours!

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