When it comes to the variety of activities you can do, Mexico is a clear winner.
There are tons of stuff to do all over this Spanish-speaking country, from oasis-like beaches to awe-inspiring ruins.
A country with a rich and long history, Mexico is pure joy for history fans and adventure seekers.
Plus, they have lots of unique experiences that you’ll want to try.
So make sure to plan your trip well.
Here are some of the best things to do in Mexico.
1. Museum Hopping in Mexico City
Mexico City, MX
There are so many interesting museums found in Mexico’s capital alone.
From the Museo Nacional de Historia to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, museums are a must-add to your list of things to see in Mexico.
Why You Should Go
One of the must-visit museums in the capital is the Museo Frida Kahlo, also called The Blue House.
The house was turned into a museum in 1958.
Today, you’ll see many of Frida Kahlo’s personal artifacts displayed in the exhibits.
It shows the story of the most celebrated woman artist in Mexico.
What To Do
The Frida Kahlo Museum also houses Frida’s most important paintings like Long Live Life and Caesarian Operation.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fiesta Americana Reforma
2. Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca
Oaxaca, MX
Dia de Los Muertos is a highly-celebrated Mexican tradition that celebrates the people’s dead loved ones.
All over the country, festivals are held during the holiday.
Why You Should Go
If you find yourself in Oaxaca sometime in October to November, make sure to watch the Dia de Los Muertos parade.
Though one of the seasonal attractions in Mexico, it is an absolute must-see.
People will be going wearing their most colorful attire with their faces painted like beautiful skulls.
What To Do
Though most visitors choose to wait for the parades (popularized by the James Bond movie, Spectre), it’s best to visit the cemetery if you want to experience the real celebration.
Most locals and their families will be spending their day in the cemetery, singing, dancing, and drinking tequila.
Visitors are welcome to go inside the cemetery but remain courteous while you’re there.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Victoria Oaxaca
Related: Best Restaurants in Mexico
3. Cozumel
Cozumel is an island paradise just off of the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
You can either fly from Mexico or take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to reach the island.
Why You Should Go
Many of the most wonderful free things to do in Mexico can be found on the island of Cozumel.
And by wonderful and free, that means beaches.
Cozumel island is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.
Think fine white sand, lush palm trees, and crystal clear blue waters.
What To Do
Going to Cozumel this weekend?
A top activity on the island is diving.
Go on exciting diving adventures when you do Columbia Reef or the incredibly steep Santa Rosa Wall.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Park Royal Cozumel
Related: Best Beaches in Mexico
4. Teotihuacan Pyramids
San Juan Teotihuacán, MX 55800
(594) 958-2081
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city just 40 kilometers northeast of the capital, Mexico City.
The city is thought to be established sometime in 100 BCE.
Why You Should Go
Teotihuacan is well-known for its Mesoamerican pyramids.
They were built in the pre-Columbian era of the Americas.
Today, you can walk along the Avenue of the Dead and wonder at some of the pyramids.
The largest pyramid is the Pyramid of the Sun.
What To Do
Besides climbing the pyramids and taking in the beautiful views, visit the museum.
Indoors you’ll find tons of ancient sculptures, murals, and architecture that can paint you a picture of what life was like back then.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Villas Teotihuacan Hotel & Spa
5. Arena Mexico
189 Dr. Lavista
Mexico City, MX 06720
(555) 588-0266
Arena Mexico is an indoor arena in the Colonia Doctores neighborhood of Mexico City.
It opened in 1956.
Why You Should Go
One of the most exciting things to do in Mexico tonight is to watch a Lucha Libre match.
Lucha Libre is the Mexican term for professional wrestling.
Mexican wrestling is well-known for its colorful masks, quick and fast maneuvers (they even fly!), and a generally good show done by the luchadors (wrestlers).
What To Do
If you’re lucky, you might even get to watch tag team wrestling, which is becoming more and more popular in Lucha Libre.
Sometimes, luchadors even create trios or three-member teams.
Watching a match is a great way to hide when it’s raining or cold outside.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Suites Parioli
6. Chichen Itza
Yucatan, MX
(985) 851-0137
Chichen Itza is a massive Mayan city that dates back to the pre-Columbian era of the Americas.
It is one of the largest Mayan cities and is thought to be a Tollan or mythical great city.
Why You Should Go
Visit many of the ruins in this ancient city.
Some of the most popular are La Iglesia (one of the oldest buildings in Chichen Itza) and the Tomb of the High Priest.
You can also look at the Sacred Cenote, where the bones of about 200 human sacrifices were uncovered.
What To Do
Another great place to visit in Chichen Itza is the massive Temple of the Warriors.
You should also visit the famous Temple of Kukulkan or El Castillo.
It has tons of important references to the Mayan calendar.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows
7. Cenotes Dos Ojos
Tulum, MX 77780
Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the Yucatan Peninsula.
It is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Mexico.
Why You Should Go
Snorkeling on beaches is always fun.
But if you’re looking for a more unique experience, snorkel in the beautiful blue waters of the Two Eyes Cenote.
The cenote is actually two sinkholes, 70 meters in diameter, connected by a 400-meter underwater passageway.
What To Do
Advanced divers will have all the fun when they visit this cenote.
You can dive and swim through the underwater passageway to travel between the sinkholes.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hacienda Dos Ojos
Related: Restaurants: Tulum, Mexico
8. Malecon in Puerto Vallarta
Paseo Díaz Ordaz, Centro
Puerto Vallarta, MX 48300
The Malecon (boardwalk) in Puerto Vallarta is a gem in the art-filled city.
It can be found at the edge of the historic district and the start of Nuevo Vallarta.
Why You Should Go
For a cheap yet fun and relaxing experience, walk along the Malecon.
Here, you can enjoy the fresh breeze from Banderas Bay in the morning and witness beautiful sunsets at dusk.
Serial shoppers will also enjoy the many choices around Malecon.
At one point, you can access the Isla Rio Cuale, a flea market with tons of local and hand-crafted objects.
What To Do
Art can be found everywhere when you walk along the Malecon.
Every 100 feet, you’ll find a unique and beautiful sculpture.
Make sure to take a picture as you discover each work of art.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crown Paradise Golden
Related: Places to Eat in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Related: Best Things to Do in Tijuana
9. Avenida Chapultepec – Guadalajara
Chapultepec Avenue
Guadalajara, MX
Chapultepec Avenue is one of the main roads in Mexico City.
It is both known for its historical and modern importance.
Why You Should Go
If you want to stay in one place yet experience tons of activities, a good choice would be to stay in Avenida Chapultepec.
This main avenue is littered with great accommodations, historic sites, shopping choices, and more.
What To Do
By the time night rolls in, Avenida Chapultepec becomes a hotspot.
Some of the places you can go to for fabulous drinks and groovy music are El Grillo and Bar Americas.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hard Rock Hotel Guadalajara
10. Puerto Escondido
Oaxaca, MX
Puerto Escondido is a small port locatedin San Pedro Mixtepec Distrito 22 in Oaxaca.
Why You Should Go
Avid surfers cannot miss the waves in Puerto Escondido.
Lauded by some as one of the best surfing beaches globally, you definitely have to visit the beach here.
Get atop waves that can reach as high as 20 feet when you’re in this 3.5-km golden-sand beach.
What To Do
End your day with a bang in Zicatela, where you can join some of the wildest parties in Oaxaca.
You can eat beachside, grab tacos, or get a delicious drink…or five!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Surf Olas Altas
11. Plaza Garibaldi – Mexico City
43 Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, Col. Centro
Mexico City, MX 06000
Plaza Garibaldi is located in the historic downtown of Mexico City.
Its former name, Plaza Santa Cecilia, was changed in the 1920s to honor Lt. Col. Peppino Garibaldi after the Mexican Revolution.
Why You Should Go
Plaza Garibaldi is popularly known as the home of mariachi music.
When you take a stroll in the plaza, you’ll be able to hear and see mariachi bands playing their tunes.
Day or night, they’ll be there.
What To Do
If you’re looking to drink mezcal, tequila, or pulque, never fear.
There are excellent choices around Plaza Garibaldi, including Salon Tenampa and Guadalajara de Noche.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Emporio Reforma
12. San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a principal city located in Guanajuato in the Bajo region of Mexico.
One part of the old town is now considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why You Should Go
Make sure to visit the Sanctuary of Jesus de Nazareno de Atotonilco when you’re in town.
Built in the 18th century, this church complex has a rich history and incredible architecture.
Not to mention that there are tons of Mexican Baroque murals in the chapels.
What To Do
Another unique must-see place is the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel.
It has incredible pink pinnacles that tower over the town plaza.
The neo-Gothic design of the church’s facade will also be a hit with architecture fans.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Real de Minas San Miguel de Allende
Also See:
Top Things to Do in Cancun
Fun Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas
13. Museum of Fine Arts
AAv. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México,
Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
(558) 647-5430
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is located in the hisotric center of Mexico CIty.
It was inaugurated in 1934.
Why You Should Go
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is a fantastic place to go for art lovers.
It has an extensive collection of Mexican art.
You can even go looking for works made by famous Mexican artists, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
What To Do
Even the exterior of the museum is a work of art in itself.
The architecture style is a mix of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical.
Make sure to take lots of photos while you’re still outside.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Eurostars Zona Rosa Suites
14. Carnaval in Mazatlan
Mazatlan, MX
Party people will adore joining one of Mexico’s biggest parties, the Carnaval in Mazatlan.
Why You Should Go
Out of the many carnivals celebrated in Mexico today, the one in Mazatlan is one of the oldest and largest celebrations.
The modern Carnaval began in 1898.
What To Do
If you can, take the time to see the major parades that go by the Malecon during Carnaval.
You’ll be able to see incredible floats, join the people dancing, and enjoy the free-flowing beer.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa – All Inclusive
Related: Best All Inclusive Family Resorts in Mexico
15. Tequila Express
4095 Vallarta Avenue, corner Niño Obrero
Guadalajara, MX 45020
(333) 880-9013
One of the most exciting things to do in Mexico for couples or groups of friends is to ride the Tequila Express.
Why You Should Go
Owned by the famous tequila brand, Jose Cuervo, this train features a vintage style and will make you feel like you’re in the past.
Hop aboard and discover more about Tequila.
You’ll be visiting the La Rojena Distillery, the oldest distillery in Latin America, frolic around agave fields, and more.
What To Do
Of course, who could forget the fantastic tasting experience when you hop aboard the Tequila Express.
Guided by an expert, you’ll be able to check out different alcohols, including tequilas like Tradicional and Jose Cuervo Especial.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
16. Sierra Norte Mountains
Oaxaca, MX
The Sierra Norte Mountains in Oaxaca are composed of the Sierra Juarez mounts range and the Sierra de Villa Alta.
The mountains are part of the La Sierra Norte de Oaxaca region, including 68 other municipalities.
Why You Should Go
Time to lace up your hiking boots and head over to the southwestern region of Mexico.
The Sierra Norte mountains provide an excellent opportunity to be one with nature while walking on foot.
You’ll be able to see a variety of flora and fauna endemic to the region, as well as wildlife.
What To Do
If you’re feeling more adventurous, hiking isn’t the only activity for nature lovers who visit the Sierra Norte mountains.
You can also trek around on a mountain bike.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Hacienda
17. Taste Mezcal in Oaxaca
Oaxaca, MX
Mezcal is a distilled Mexican alcoholic beverage made from agave.
Tequila is an example of a mezcal.
Why You Should Go
When in Mexico, you should take the opportunity to taste the local cuisine.
In this case, that includes local alcohol.
There are many places in Oaxaca (and all over Mexico) to get a taste of mezcal.
It’s up to you to discover how creative bartenders and mixologists in the country create their own twist to this Mexican classic.
What To Do
Locals in Oaxaca have a saying about mezcal that roughly translates to ‘For everything bad, mezcal, and for everything good, mezcal as well.’
So you know, you’ll easily find incredible places to try the drink out.
Some favorites in the area are In Situ, Mezcalogica, and El Cortijo.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quinta Real Oaxaca
Also See:
Fun Things to Do in Los Cabos
Activities in Cozumel
18. Iglesia de San Juan Chamula
Plaza Central, San Pedro
Chamula, MX 29320
(967) 150-9459
Iglesia de San Juan is a centuries-old church located in Chamula.
It is known for its unique take on Christianism.
Why You Should Go
When you look at the pristine white building with simple, green trims, you’d imagine an innocent and uplifting scene.
But many people who are not from this parish can scarcely believe that worshippers in this church do rituals that involve animal sacrifice and a lot of moonshine.
What To Do
As much as you want to take photos inside this church, avoid doing so.
It is considered disrespectful by the worshippers inside.
There have been some cases that people caught taking pictures have had their cameras smashed.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Casa Santa Lucia
19. Uxmal
Yucatan, MX
Uxmal is an ancient Mayan city and is considered one of the most important Mayan archeological sites today.
Why You Should Go
The most well-known structure in Uxmal is also its tallest.
The Pyramid of the Magician stands at 35 meters tall and is unique.
This pyramid has rounded sides with very steep steps that lead to the top.
What To Do
Another fantastic place to visit is the Governor’s Palace.
You’ll love looking at its impressive mosaic facade.
What’s more, you can even climb up to the top.
Other ruins in Uxmal are the Nunnery Quadrangle, the Ball Court, the Great Pyramid, and the House of Turtles.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hacienda Uxmal Plantation & Museum
20. Hierve el Agua
Oaxaca de Juárez
Oaxaca, MX
Hierve El Agua is a natural mineral spring and rock formation about 65 kilometers from Oaxaca.
It’s a unique and beautiful waterfall that all nature lovers should see in person.
Why You Should Go
If you love infinity pools, then you’ll adore the natural mineral springs of Hierve El Agua.
One of its springs up top the mountain looks just like an infinity pool from the right angle.
Plus, the mineral springs’ waters are said to have medicinal properties, so don’t forget to take a dip.
What To Do
One reason why Hierve El Agua is so popular is because of its deceptive beauty.
You’d think that it is a frozen waterfall at the edge of a cliff from a distance.
Once you get nearer, you’ll realize that the gushing white waters are actually limestone deposits that look like waterfalls.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Hacienda Don Cenobio
21. Museo Nacional de Antropologia
Paseo de la Reforma Avenue and Gandhi Street
Mexico City, MX 11560
(555) 553-6266
The National Museum of Anthropology is the largest and most visited museum in Mexico.
It was established in 1964.
Why You Should Go
The museum holds some of the most significant and important artifacts in Mexican history.
Some of its archeological and anthropological finds come from a collection from the pre-Columbian period.
You’ll be able to see the Stone of the Sun (Aztec calendar) and the Aztec Xochipilli statue.
What To Do
Make sure to make the most of the exhibits in the museum.
Many permanent exhibitions showcase artifacts and collections with classifications like Maya, Teotihuacan, Toltec, and more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Fiesta Americana Chapultepec
Also See:
Fun Things to Do in Tulum
22. Playa Delfines
335 Punta Nizuc
Cancun, Zona Hotelera
Cancun, MX 77500
Playa Delfines is a massive undeveloped beach in Cancun, best known for its bare and almost all-natural look.
Why You Should Go
One of the top things to do in Mexico with kids is to go to a beach.
When you really want to immerse yourself in nature, the best beach to go to is Playa Delfines.
Your kids can play in the sand, unobstructed, to their heart’s desire.
There’ll be no crowds to contend with when you’re here.
What To Do
Swimming can be done on Playa Delfines.
But make sure to keep a careful eye on children and novice swimmers.
Playa Delfines is known for its heavy currents and rough waters.
So always keep that in mind.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hard Rock Hotel Cancun – All Inclusive
Related: Best Hotels in Mexico
23. El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas, MX
The arch is a rock formation at the southern tip of Cabo San Lucas.
Its distinct shape has become an icon in the area.
Why You Should Go
El Arco is usually accessed by water.
You’ll be having a grand time kayaking or riding a paddleboard to reach the arch.
Plus, it’s always a good spot to take amazing vacation photos.
What To Do
If you have tons of time, make an effort to reach El Arco by foot.
Not many people do it, so it’s going to be a unique experience.
You can start at Finisterra’s beach and climb a few big rocks before reaching El Arco.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Playa Grande Resort
24. Xcaret
Carretera Chetúmal Puerto Juárez Km 282, Solidaridad
Playa del Carmen, MX 77710
(855) 326-0682
Xcaret is a nature adventure park in Playa del Carmen, with over 50 attractions that visitors can choose to do.
A visit to this park is definitely one of the fun things to do in Mexico for solo travelers, couples, and the whole family.
Why You Should Go
Go on fantastic adventures like exploring underwater rivers and living life in a Mayan village when you visit Xcaret.
Children who love swimming and getting wet will also enjoy a day in the park’s Children’s World.
What To Do
If you don’t want to get wet, there are tons of other fabulous attractions to do.
Learn more about Mexican ruins in Xcaret’s archeological sites, visit Hacienda Henequenera to experience life in a 19th-century mansion, and more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Xcaret Mexico – All Parks & Tours / All Inclusive
Related: Best All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
25. Tulum Archeological Site
Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307
Tulum, MX 77780
(984) 802 5405
The Tulum Archeological Site is located in a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city in Quintana Roo.
It’s one of the best things to do in Mexico for lovers of history and culture.
Why You Should Go
When in Tulum, you need to visit its main pyramid, El Castillo.
It used to be an ancient lighthouse back in the day.
Directly in front of the pyramid is the Temple of Frescoes.
A look inside will let you see an ancient colored mural.
What To Do
Besides going around the ancient city’s ruins, take a dip in the cool waters of Tulum’s hidden beach.
Just below El Castillo is a beach that the public can swim at while visiting.
Just remember to get there early as it can get crowded.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Maka Hotel Boutique
Map of Things to Do in Mexico
Mexico Things to Do: The 25 Best Activities for 2023
- Museum Hopping in Mexico City
- Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca
- Cozumel
- Teotihuacan Pyramids
- Arena Mexico
- Chichen Itza
- Cenotes Dos Ojos
- Malecon in Puerto Vallarta
- Avenida Chapultepec – Guadalajara
- Puerto Escondido
- Plaza Garibaldi – Mexico City
- San Miguel de Allende
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Carnaval in Mazatlan
- Tequila Express
- Sierra Norte Mountains
- Taste Mezcal in Oaxaca
- Iglesia de San Juan Chamula
- Uxmal
- Hierve el Agua
- Museo Nacional de Antropologia
- Playa Delfines
- El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
- Xcaret
- Tulum Archeological Site
