In addition to its urban landscape, Mexico City is home to a variety of parks and natural sites that provide a relaxing break from city life.
Parque La Mexicana:
Located in the heart of Santa Fe, La Mexicana Park is a beautiful natural refuge surrounded by modernity. The relatively new park, designed by architects Mario Schjetnan and Victor Marquez, was built in only 13 months. In addition to the stunning main walkway, the park features a skatepark, an expansive dog garden, a gourmet terrace, a small amphitheater, and a few gardens for children to play. This is massive, with more than 2,500 trees and 70,000 square meters of grass designated for picnics and other activities. This park is the perfect spot to grab a tasty breakfast with your friends and enjoy a stroll around its many green areas.
Bosque de Chapultepec Park:
The Bosque de Chapultepec is one of Mexico's largest city parks, measuring just over 1,700 acres. Located on Chapultepec Hill, the park serves as an ecological space in Mexico City, and it is often called Mexico City’s “lungs.” Here, visitors can spend a day visiting the park’s attractions, including the zoo and museums, while enjoying some beautiful views and a breath of fresh air.
Fun fact: During the pre-Columbian era, the area surrounding present-day Chapultepec served as a retreat for Aztec rulers.
Ajusco National Park See snow in Mexico City at the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park! One of the many national parks surrounding the city, this is a great getaway into forests and meadows of Mexico City. Hike to your heart’s content, or go with a guide!
Get outside the city:
Desierto de Leones National Park
Located within city limits, but a ride away to the Sierra de las Cruces mountain range. This park is even known as the “oldest protected biosphere” in Mexico with beautiful forests, streams, and meadows. It is a lovely spot to come for a hike or picnic, though beware trails are not clearly marked with directions.
Nevado de Toluca
About a two-and-a-half to three-hour journey from CDMX, take a day trip away from the city to see the fourth-tallest mountain in Mexico. Enjoy a lovely hike and sights that may take your breath away!