Chapultepec Park Mexico City: Things to Do, Tours, + Tips

Visiting Chapultepec Park in Mexico City is a must! As the largest urban park in Latin America, it’s an oasis of culture and nature in the heart of the sprawling metropolis.

Chapultepec Park offers countless attractions, including a castle, museums, multiple lakes, impressive fountains, and a small botanical garden.

But if you don’t know where to go, wandering aimlessly through the nearly 1,700 acres of Bosque de Chapultepec can feel overwhelming. 

I’ve explored the park more times than I can count—walking and biking through its shaded areas, discovering its hidden gems, and visiting the museums of Chapultepec Park. 

In this guide, I walk you through each section including a map of the park, highlight the top attractions, and share some of my favorite things to do in Chapultepec Park.

Whether you’re interested in exploring on your own or booking one of the Chapultepec Park tours, I also share tips on getting around so you can make the most of your visit to this incredible urban oasis.

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Layout and Map of Chapultepec Park

Bosque de Chapultepec is divided into four sections (yes the 4th is slowly opening after undergoing a transformation). But most visitors stick to the first section, where the majority of the popular attractions are located. 

That said, the second section is home to one of my favorite Diego Rivera murals in the city and worth a visit if you have the time (it’s not that far).

I’ve also included a map of Chapultepec Park that includes every attraction mentioned in this article.

• First Section: This is the most visited part of Chapultepec Park. Here, you’ll find some of the park’s most iconic attractions, including Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology.
• Second Section: Home to two lakes, sculptures, fountains, a small amusement park, the children’s museum, and the Museo Cárcamo de Dolores, which features the previously mentioned Rivera mural.
• Third Section: The largest section of Bosque de Chapultepec is mainly dedicated to a wildlife reserve and large cemetery, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier sections of the park. While it’s less crowded than the other areas of the park, visitors are welcome.
• Fourth Section: Historically, this area was used by the Mexican military, but today it’s undergoing an exciting transformation. Plans are in motion to create “the world’s largest cultural center,” with attractions like a new national cinema and an addition to the Cablebús of Mexico City. Though it’s still being developed, this section has promise to be a major cultural and recreational hub in the future.

Chapultepec Park Hours

Chapultepec Park is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 5 am to 6 pm, making it a great early morning escape from the city. If you’re planning on multiple things to do during your visit, it’s best to arrive in the morning to give yourself plenty of time to explore this vast park. And keep in mind, some attractions close early.

Chapultepec Park Tours

Exploring the vast Chapultepec Park on your own can feel overwhelming, especially with so many landmarks and hidden gems to discover. 

For travelers who want to dive deeper into the history of Chapultepec Castle and the Anthropology Museum, or those looking for a guided way to navigate the park, taking a tour is the perfect solution. 

Below are some of the best Chapultepec Park tours to help you get the most out of your visit.

• Bike Tour of Chapultepec Park – This 2-hour guided bike tour takes you past the park’s most popular attractions. It’s an active and fun way to quickly get familiar with the park and decide what you’d like to explore on your own afterward.
• Chapultepec Castle and Anthropology Museum Tour – A 5-hour guided tour of two of Chapultepec’s most important sites. Led by Rick, a knowledgeable guide who makes Mexico City’s history easy to understand.
• Chapultepec Park Tour and Picnic by the Lake – A relaxing tour that starts with a visit to Chapultepec Castle, followed by a peaceful picnic by the lake, combining history and leisure for a perfect day out in the park.

1. Explore Chapultepec Castle

Chapultepec Castle’s blend of history, stunning architecture, and awesome city views makes it one of the best things to do in Chapultepec Park. 

Visitors can freely explore its small history museum and peek inside the preserved rooms filled with antique furniture. Although if you want to learn more about its history, you should book this Chapultepec tour with a local guide.

One of my favorite attractions is the hallway lined with intricate stained glass windows that cover an entire wall—a gorgeous masterpiece that’s hard to miss. Another highlight is stepping out onto the black-and-white checkered patio with sweeping views of Mexico City.

Even though it was my second visit to Chapultepec Castle, my mom and I almost missed the upstairs terrace and beautifully manicured garden with the Mexican flag flying proudly at its center. If I were one of the castle’s former residents, it’s where I’d spend most of my time.

Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:

• 🕒 Visit on a weekday to avoid long lines.
• 🎟️ Buy your tickets at the booth located at the base of the hill.
• 💳 Use the card-only kiosks on the right side of the ticket booth which are usually faster than the cash-only booths with a person inside.
• 🚶 Walk up the hill – It’s a 15-minute walk with a gentle incline and great views overlooking Chapultepec Park, Mexico City, and distant mountains as you ascend.

Tip: If you’re visiting in December or January, check the schedule for the Folkloric Ballet. The performance is usually held at Bellas Artes, but around the holidays it moves to the outside patio of Chapultepec Castle. In my opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Mexico City.

2. Ride Bikes in Bosque de Chapultepec

One of the most popular ways to get around Mexico City is by bike. But my favorite place to ride bikes is inside Chapultepec Park because you can enjoy the freedom of biking without the hassle of navigating. 

There’s two ways you can do this. You can book a bike tour of Chapultepec Park with a local guide to show you around. The benefit of this is that you get a quick guided tour and then can decide what parts to explore more on your own. Alternatively there is this electric bike tour which visit some of the more unique attractions.

The other option is to rent an Eco-Bici from one of the kiosks on the street. If you go with this option, I recommend finding a bike rental stand near one of the park’s entrances. Keep in mind that there’s drop off points inside the park, so if you plan to stop and explore, it’s best to stay nearby so that you can ride for a bit and then return the bike.

3. Relax in the Audiorama Sound Bath

Tucked away in Section I of Bosque de Chapultepec, the Audiorama is a peaceful, circular space surrounded by lush greenery, offering a quiet retreat from the city’s energy.

When my mom and I visited, we took a seat on one of the benches, closed our eyes, and let the music flowing from hidden speakers carry us away. I noticed other visitors quietly reading, sketching, and simply enjoying the tranquil environment. 

The music varies depending on the day, with everything from traditional Mexican rhythms to jazz and classical tunes. With its strict no-noise policy, it’s the perfect spot to escape and recharge.

Visit the Museums in Chapultepec Park

There are nearly a dozen museums in Chapultepec Park that span interests from ancient civilizations to modern art and more.

Below are some of the top museums in Chapultepec Park to explore, although you should also read my guide to museums in Mexico City.

4. Anthropology Museum

This world-class museum showcases artifacts from Mexico’s ancient civilizations, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone. You could spend an entire day or two trying to see everything. Before you go, I recommend checking out this map to decide what rooms to prioritize. Or book this affordable guided tour to make the most of your visit.

5. Modern Art Museum

Featuring rotating exhibits of modern Mexican art in a beautiful modern building. It also includes an outdoor sculpture garden and cafe.

6. Rufino Tamayo Museum

This museum features some unusual rotating modern art exhibits and houses works collected by one of my favorite Mexican artists, Rufino Tamayo.

7. Museo Cárcamo de Dolores

A public water tank turned museum that is home to an incredible mural and a sculpture of the rain god, Tlaloc, both created by Diego Rivera.

8. Axolotl Museum

Located inside the Chapultepec Zoo, this museum is dedicated to the endangered axolotl. While I’m not one to typically promote animals in captivity, I do think more people should be aware of this unique amphibian that is native to the floating gardens of Xochimilco.

9. Cenalli Corn and Food Museum

A museum dedicated to celebrating corn and its profound influence on Mexican food and culture. I wouldn’t say this is a must visit museum in Chapultepec, but after living in Mexico for five years and understanding the importance of corn, I found it interesting.

10. Papalote Children’s Museum

Known for its interactive approach, this children’s museum features five sections covering topics like nature, biology, civics, and creativity.

11. Enjoy the Chapultepec Park Lakes

There are several lakes in Bosque de Chapultepec which provide another tranquil spot in the park to rest or walk around.

At the two large lakes – Lago de Chapultepec (Section I) and Lago Mayor (Section II) – you can rent paddle boats – a fun thing to do in Chapultepec Park with kids. 

There are also several restaurants and food stands near the lakes. Some of the smaller stands are only open on weekends and some only accept cash.

Tip: The restoration efforts in recent years have helped bring back water birds, so keep your eyes out during your visit. I’ve always seen large white birds when I visit the lakes in Chapultepec Park.

12. Wander Through the Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Garden in Chapultepec Park may be small, but it’s home to over 300 varieties of plants that thrive in different environments.

The garden includes a diverse collection of mostly native flora from pollinator-friendly plants to edible varieties, succulents, cacti, wild dahlias, and agave. There’s also a greenhouse of orchids and bromeliads.

One of the best things about Jardín Botánico del Bosque de Chapultepec is that it’s rarely crowded, making it an ideal place to enjoy the quiet surroundings.

13. Ride the Train Around the Park

Looking for a fun way to explore Bosque de Chapultepec? Riding the train is one of the more popular things to do in Chapultepec Park with kids. But it doesn’t mean it’s only for kids!

Hop on the eco-friendly electric train for a park tour that takes you past more than a dozen landmarks in Section I. It’s a good way to see a lot of the park and get from one side to the other without walking. Although it may not necessarily be quicker unless the departure time lines up with your schedule.

To buy tickets, visit the Museo de Sitio, a small Chapultepec Park museum that showcases the history of the park. 

Keep in mind, there are two drop off locations:

• Los Pinos Cultural Center (map) – Nearby points of interests are the Children’s Museum, the Playground at Parque La Hormiga, the museum with Diego Rivera murals, and the Amusement Park.
• Fountain of the Frogs (map) – Nearby points of interests are Lago de Chapultepec, the Chapultepec Zoo, and Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl.

14. Explore Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl

Fuente de Nezahualcóyotl is not just another fountain in Chapultepec Park. Inaugurated in 1956, this striking sculpture spans 1250 square meters (more than 13,000 sq ft!) 

It was created by Mexican sculptor Luis Ortíz Monasterio who is best known for the Monumento a la Madre, one of my favorite Mexico City landmarks. The fountain is dedicated to Nezahualcóyotl, the 15th-century Aztec ruler of Texcoco, in honor of his innovative hydraulic system that shaped the region.

The carved stone reliefs blend classical and geometric elements with pre-Hispanic influences, drawing inspiration from Aztec and Mayan cultures. The result is a monumental piece that stands as a testament to both Nezahualcóyotl’s legacy and Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.

15. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Parque Aztlán

For more sweeping views of Mexico City, check out the 85 meter (more than 275 ft.) high ferris wheel at the newly renovated Parque Aztlán. 

Reopened in 2024, the amusement park features various rides and activities, although not everything has opened yet. Entrance to the park itself is free and you’ll pay separately for each attraction within the park.

Other Chapultepec Park Attractions to Visit

While Chapultepec Park is known for its major landmarks and museums, there are several smaller attractions worth noting as you explore. These monuments, fountains, and historical sites also offer insight into Mexico’s rich history and culture. 

• Monumento Niños Heroes – Officially called the Altar a la Patria, this striking monument made entirely of Carrara marble honors the six young cadets who sacrificed their lives during the 1847 Battle of Chapultepec. Each column contains an urn with the remains of one of the heroes, who threw themselves down the hill rather than surrender to U.S. forces.
• Fountain of Temperance – This semi-elliptical fountain is located on the important Calzada del Rey walkway, directly across from the famous El Sargento tree. I love this area of Bosque de Chapultepec because the thick trees make it feel like a true forest.

• El Sargento – Planted by Nezahualcóyotl and sacred to the indigenous people, this giant ahuehuete was more than 500 years old before it died. Though only its stump remains, El Sargento is still one of the most beloved trees in Mexico City.
• Moctezuma Baths – While there isn’t much to see, history buffs may appreciate these reconstructed baths, where pre-Hispanic civilizations once swam and bathed.

• Calzada de los Poetas – A tranquil, tree-lined walkway in the first section of Chapultepec Park, honoring poets of Spanish literature such as Manuel Acuña, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, and Rafael Delgado, with busts and brief descriptions of their work.
• Myth of the Water Fountain – At 295 meters (more than 900 ft) long, this impressive fountain features 10 mammoth sculptural heads representing an ancient Olmec water god. The desi, which includes fish sculptures and glyphs along the back wall, reflects Mexico’s fascination with its ancient past.
• Fuente de las Ranas – This charming fountain features eight frogs perched around its edge, spouting water toward the center. Crafted in 1921, it’s an exact replica of a fountain from Seville, Spain.
• Casa de Lago Cultural Center – Situated on Chapultepec Lake, this cultural center, run by UNAM – Mexico’s largest university, promotes creativity and collaboration through workshops, exhibitions, and performances in various artistic disciplines such as music, theater, and visual arts.

Tips for Visiting Bosque de Chapultepec

• Arrive early – To enjoy the quieter morning hours before the crowds arrive, especially on weekends.
• Visit on a weekday – Weekends are busy, especially around the more popular attractions like the castle and museums where you may need to wait in line to enter.
• Wear comfortable shoes – With over 1,700 acres to explore, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear shoes that can handle the terrain.
• Bring water and snacks – While there are food stands and restaurants around the park, it’s a good idea to carry your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on exploring for several hours.
• Check museum hours – Many of the museums in Chapultepec Park are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Bring cash – While card payments are accepted at some places, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller vendors and food stalls. You’ll also need coins for the bathrooms inside Chapultepec Park.

FAQ About Bosque del Chapultepec

Final Thought on Visiting Chapultepec Park

You can’t come to Mexico City without visiting Chapultepec Park! 

This expansive urban oasis, known as Bosque de Chapultepec, offers a wide range of things to do, from exploring historic landmarks like Chapultepec Castle to enjoying the peaceful lakes and gardens.

With so much to see and do, planning ahead will help you navigate the park’s vast size and make the most of your visit whether you’re interested in culture, history, or simply relaxing.

Are you planning a trip to Mexico? Join my Facebook group—Mexico Travel Network, a community where you can ask questions, share tips, and learn more about traveling in Mexico.