25+ Best Museums in Mexico City You’ll Want to Visit

Mexico City is home to over 150 museums, ranking it as one of the cities with the highest number of museums in the world. 

So how do you know which are the best museums in Mexico City to visit?

You’ve come to the right place. While I’ve included more museums than you could possibly fit in on your first visit to CDMX, I’ve organized this list by type so that you can focus on your interests. 

And believe me when I say I’ve included a number of unique Mexico City museums you won’t find anywhere else. Their themes range from indigenous culture to modern events in CDMX and allow you to delve deeper into the culture and history of Mexico.

But first we’ll start with one of the most requested categories – the best art museums in Mexico City. They are world-class, featuring international and Mexican artists of popular, modern, and contemporary art. 

Then there are a variety of archeological and history museums in Mexico City. From ancient to modern, these museums allow you to get lost in the stories of the past that have shaped the Mexico you see today. 

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And here’s the really cool part – Mexico City museums aren’t just stuffy old buildings filled with art and ancient artifacts. 

They are often located in some of the most beautiful buildings I’ve seen in the country. Plus the museums in Mexico City are so well curated that some of the exhibits will blow your mind.

So, let’s dive in and discover the museums that make Mexico City a must-see destination for travelers.

Bonus: At the end I’ve included a handy list of Mexico City museums open Monday so that you can make the most of your time in CDMX!

10 Best Museums in Mexico City

If you’re looking for a shorter list, here are my picks for the top 10 museums in Mexico City among all categories. When you click on the link, it will take you to the full description later in this article.

• Anthropology Museum
• Templo Mayor Museum
• Popular Art Museum
• Rufino Tamayo Museum
• Jumex Contemporary Art Museum
• Modern Art Museum
• Tequila and Mezcal Museum
• Diego Rivera Mural Museum
• Frida Kahlo Museum Casa Azul
• Museo del Cárcamo de Dolores

Top Art Museums Mexico City

This list starts with the best art museums in Mexico City because it’s one of the most requested among travelers to the city.

The first group includes the most popular modern and contemporary art museums as well as the popular art museum which features artisans from regions throughout Mexico.

But you’ll want to continue reading the second section of art museums in Mexico City to discover some lesser known art and photography museums.

1. Modern Art Museum Mexico City

Located on the edge of Chapultepec Park near Polanco, this Mexico City museum features a garden of modern sculptures that winds its way between the two museum buildings which are filled with mostly temporary modern art exhibits.

The design of the main building is a nod to the modern art exhibited inside and I found myself enjoying its beautiful aesthetic as much as the pieces hanging on the walls. There are several rooms to browse that showcase the temporary exhibits of modern art which are announced on their website.

It includes examples by renowned artists from the second half of the 20th century, such as Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Isamu Noguchi, Franz Kline, Helen Frankenthaler, Jesús Rafael Soto, and others.

Contemporary art pieces have continued to be added to the original collection which now comprises more than 980 works. The museum also curates temporary exhibits a few times per year which is listed on their website.

Tip: Make sure to browse the beautiful museum shop while you are there.

3. Popular Art Museum Mexico City

This is one of my favorite museums in Mexico City. If you enjoy Mexican folk art, you’ll find it fascinating as well.

If you really want to delve into an exploration of Mexico, I recommend you book this Mexican food and art tour.

Your guide will give you details about the exhibits at the Popular Art Museum before taking a walking food tour of the city to taste the food from various regions of Mexico. It’s like taking a mini-tour of Mexico without leaving the city!

The exhibits feature finely crafted popular art from areas throughout Mexico with a heavy emphasis on Michoacán, Oaxaca, and Hidalgo. Which makes sense as those states are known for artisans and produce some of my favorite styles of art.

The collection, which is organized by type (pottery, clothes, etc), is clearly labeled with the city, state, and artist when applicable.

The store, located across from the ticket booth, also has high quality artisan products for sale. I appreciate that each piece in the store is also labeled with the region and artist’s name.

4. Diego Rivera Mural Museum Mexico City

The main exhibit at this museum is “Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in Alameda Central,” one of the most famous Diego Rivera murals in Mexico City. In fact, it’s the only reason this museum exists!

Measuring more than 50 feet (15 m) long, the mural fills the space with its depictions of more than one hundred characters of Mexican history such as Benito Juarez and Hernán Cortés.

Of these characters, seventy-six have been identified with a short description in both English and Spanish that follows an outline drawing of the mural.

At the center is La Catrina linking arms with the Mexican graphic artist who first envisioned her, José Guadalupe Posada. On the other she holds the hand of a 9 year old Diego Rivera who stands with Frida Kahlo behind him, her hand resting on his shoulder.

When I visited the Diego Rivera Mural Museum, they also had a temporary exhibit of items made from sugar, such as skulls and other objects associated with holidays such as Mexico’s Day of the Dead.

5. Jumex Museum (Contemporary Art)

📍 Location: Polanco Map
📆 Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10 am-7 pm, Sunday, 10 am-5 pm
💵 Cost: Free Entry. Free guided tours in Spanish. English tours are 500 pesos/pp (5 minimum) and need to be reserved in advance.
➡️ To Know: Arrive early and avoid the weekends to minimize wait time. Alternatively you can buy an immediate access pass online.

Museo Jumex features a contemporary art exhibit that changes every few months. Mediums range from paintings and drawings to light and video installations. Check their website for the current exhibition.

This is another Mexico City museum where the building is as distinctive as the art. The 15,000 square-foot concrete cube, designed by British architect, David Chipperfield, features a striking sawtooth design.

Plus when I visited Museo Jumex, there was an impressive, larger than life statue of a pregnant woman as seen in the image above. I immediately sent it to my midwife friend who was in awe.

Tip: When you enter the building you’ll find a museum store on the bottom level as well as one of the biggest elevators I’ve ever seen in my life.

When I visited Museo Jumex, I was instructed to take the elevator to the third floor and use the stairs to get to the floors below. Keep in mind, video is not allowed.

6. Soumaya Museum

Soumaya Museum is a private art museum in Mexico City that showcases the Carlos Slim family collection. Admission is free under the belief that art should be accessible to everyone. 

It contains the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic and colonial era coins, as well as European works from the 15th to 20th centuries.

The building is really cool but to be honest, this is not my favorite museum. Although, it’s wildly popular with others and if you like older European art pieces you’ll enjoy it.

Plus, if you’re visiting Museo Jumex next door the entrance to the Soumaya Museum is free. And if nothing else you should admire the interestingly shaped building from the outside.

Tip: The best way to view this museum is to take the elevator to the top floor. Start there and walk down the ramps to each floor until you reach the first floor.

7. Foro Valparaiso

Foro Valparaiso is located in a historic building featuring Baroque architecture and a gorgeous circular staircase and dome.

When I visited, I was instructed to go upstairs, and start with the early artworks. But honestly it wasn’t my cup of tea, so I moved rather quickly. 

Then I got to the rooms with pieces by artists like Diego Rivera, Jose María Velasco, Jorge Gonzalez Camarena, Rufino Tamayo, and other Mexican artists.

The museum also has interactive temporary exhibits, all of which are free.

8. Museo Kaluz

Located in a restored historical building, the Kaluz Museum features the private art collection of Antonio del Valle Ruiz as well as temporary exhibits from Mexican artists. 

I absolutely loved the temporary exhibits, so I suggest checking the current exhibits on their website if you’re deciding whether or not you should visit this art museum. They also regularly host activities, some of which are led by one of the artists.

In addition, the exterior of the building features a stone mural by Vicente Rojo titled “Urban Garden.” And you don’t want to miss the rooftop which includes a cafe and panoramic view of Alameda Park as well as several Mexico City landmarks in centro.

9. Contemporary Art Museum at UNAM (MUAC)

This contemporary art museum in Mexico City is part of UNAM, the largest university in Mexico. I highly recommend art lovers visit the UNAM campus to see the murals on site and then take the free campus bus (PUMA) to this museum.

You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the incredibly modern building whose architecture and decor continue on the inside. Large spaces filled with contemporary art and accents characterize the space.

The collection includes both national and international contemporary artists. And some of the exhibits (all of which are temporary) include visual and audio elements.

10. Watercolor Art Museum

When I asked my artist friend in Oaxaca about his favorite art museum in Mexico City, he quickly answered with, Museo Nacional de la Acuarela “Alfredo Guati Rojo”. Actually he probably just said the museum in Coyoacán with watercolor paintings.

While it was created by the watercolorist, Alfredo Guati Rojo, the truth is that the mission is to promote all artistic works through exhibitions and classes.

Other Art Museums in Mexico City

11. Palacio de Bellas Artes

Initially you may not think of Palacio de Bellas Artes as a museum. But not only is there a small museum inside, it is also home to a collection of incredible murals in Mexico City.

The murals are works of art created by famous artists of the Mexican muralism movement such as José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Diego Rivera.

Palacio de Bellas Artes also regularly hosts musical and theatrical performances which you can view on their website. 

A fan favorite is the Mexican Folkloric Ballet, which was one of my mother’s favorite things to do in Mexico City on our trip.

12. Centro de la Imagen – Photography Museum

This is a great photography museum in Mexico City with permanent and temporary collections displayed in various rooms of the old building.

It features both old and new photographs of varied subjects, including images of Mexico City from the 20th century. It’s located on the edge of downtown, between La Ciudadela Market and The Library of Mexico.

One of my favorite parts about this museum are the beautiful gardens filled with plants, colorful flowers, and sculptures made by Guati Rojo. It’s fitting really for an art museum with a focus on watercolors.

While this is technically a Coyoacán museum, it’s on the southwest corner of the neighborhood so it might be best combined with a trip to see the incredible murals at UNAM. Plus it will most likely be of interest to art enthusiasts.

13. National Print Museum of Graphic Art

The foundation of the National Print Museum (Museo Nacional de la Estampa) has a collection of more than 12,000 graphic artworks created by both Mexican and foreign artists. It’s one of the most important collections of graphic art in Mexico.

However, only a few of the pieces are available to view in the museum at any given time (with plans to expand in the future). You can check the current exhibit on their website.

One of my favorite things about this Mexico City  museum is the printmaking workshop. You can choose to carve your own print or simply print a premade design of your choice using the paint color available that day.

It‘s a fun way to take a part of your travels home and makes it a great museum in Mexico City for kids.

14. Palacio de Cultura Citibanamex

Palacio de Iturbide is a 16th century palace designed by Mexican baroque architect Francisco Guerrero y Torres.

When I visited this Mexico City museum, I found myself marveling at the building as much as the art inside.

It’s free to enter the museum so I recommend checking it out, especially if you’re interested in the current exhibits listed on the museum website.

The exhibits are relatively small, spaced out over two floors. As a bonus, there are nice bathrooms available inside. 

15. Jose Luis Cuevas Museum

Inside the courtyard of the Jose Luis Cuevas Museum is a striking bronze sculpture that weighs 8 tons and measures 8 meters high, fittingly known as The Giant. 

According to Cuevas he was inspired by two poems, The Giantess by Baudelaire and The Giantess by the Veracruz native Salvador Díaz Mirón.

On the second level, are several rooms that house artworks from Cuevas and other Latin American artists in his collection. I found it a unique and diverse collection, although my eyes kept coming back to the sculpture.

The space also hosts concerts and other events.

History Museums in Mexico City

When you think of the history museums in Mexico City, you probably imagine the Archeological Museum and others that showcase a collection of ancient artifacts.

But the truth is, this category is wide ranging. Several are quite unique, including the museum of indigenous culture and one dedicated to the protests of 1968 in which hundreds of people went missing.

16. Indigenous Cultures of Mexico Museum

This Mexico City museum is was created with the purpose to contribute to the conservation and promotion of Mexico’s indigenous cultural heritage. The semi-permanent exhibitions include clothing and everyday items from different indigenous cultures in Mexico.

In addition to the exhibitions they organize workshops, musical and dance events, and other activities that allow the public to interact with modern indigenous peoples and their cultural heritage.

I’ve lived in Oaxaca for the last 3 years. It’s one of the most diverse states in Mexico which is one of the reasons I fell in love with the area. So I was particularly excited to find and support this Mexico City museum.

You can find a similar places highlighting the indigenous cultures of Mexico among the museums in Queretaro and in Uruapan Michoacan.

17. Templo Mayor Museum

Did you know the center of Mexico City is one big archeological site?

Sadly when the Spanish arrived, they built the Zocalo, National Palace, and Cathedral directly on top of the ancient city of Tenochtitlan. Today only a small section is preserved.

I’ll be honest. I’ve walked by Templo Mayor numerous times without going in. The first time the line was too long (don’t worry, these days it’s not unless you visit on a Sunday).

And after that I never saw the point since you can see most of the site from outside. But then I visited Mexico City with friends that also hadn’t been, so off we went.

The site itself is nice and there’s definitely more to see than from the street. But it wasn’t until I ducked into the museum to escape the rain that I was taken aback. The vast collection of archeological pieces at the Templo Mayor Museum is the star of the show in my opinion.

It consists of 8 exhibition rooms, each with a different theme and some of the most interesting pieces I’ve ever seen. The entrance to the museum is at the far end of the archeological site so make sure you save time to visit.

18. Anthropology Museum Mexico City

With 22 rooms spanning more than 45,000 sq meters, the Anthropology Museum is the biggest museum in Mexico. It’s also home to one of the most impressive archeological collections in the world.

The collection takes visitors through Mesoamerican history with archeological and cultural pieces from a variety of indigenous groups on display. The museum is centered around a courtyard with rooms organized by time period and cultural group.

Tip: Depending on your level of interest, this museum can take 3-5+ hours or even multiple days to fully visit. If you’re an anthropology enthusiast, you should book this Mexico City Anthropology Museum Tour which includes the entrance fee and a bilingual guide.

The ground floor begins with an introduction to anthropology and history of the early hunter gatherers. But the majority of the rooms display pieces from Teotihuacan, the Mexica, Oaxaca, the Gulf Coast, the Mayans, and more.

On the second level the theme continues with exhibitions from other indigenous groups such as the Purépecha, Otomí, Nahua, and more. You can find a pdf map on the museum website.

You can also download an app (look for the QR code on the desk to the left of the ticket booth). Although I couldn’t figure out how to connect to their free wifi using the other QR code and found the map on their website about as useful.

Highlights of the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City include:

• La Piedra del Sol (Aztec Sun Stone) – This is the most famous artifact in the Anthropology Museum. It depicts the time created and destroyed by the gods, essentially the origins of the universe according to Aztec mythology.
• El Paragua (The Umbrella) – A stone column with an 84-meter-long stone piece at the top. It is the world’s largest concrete structure supported by a single pillar.
• Disco de la Muerte (Disk of Death) – Depicts the Aztec God of Death and ruler of the underworld, Mictlāntēcutli.
• Tlaloc Statue (Rain God) – Located at the back of the property, this statue depicts the rain god, Tlaloc.

Each section of the anthropology museum also includes an outdoor garden area with replicas of the archeological sites from that region. I thought this was a really cool addition and a way to break up this giant museum.

Tip: The grounds of the museum include a restaurant called The Gastronomic Room (reservations recommended). The menu is inspired by six regions of the country, telling unique stories in each dish. In addition there is a special menu that highlights corn, one of the most important ingredients in Mexican food.

19. Teotihuacan Museum

If you already plan on visiting Teotihuacan from Mexico City, make sure to leave time to visit this museum which is included with the entrance fee to the archeological site.

The museum displays archeological pieces from Teotihuacan which are really cool to see up close. While it would make sense to visit the museum first, I recommend visiting the archeological site first so that you can be inside the museum during the hottest part of the day.

For archeological lovers, I recommend you book this tour of Teotihuacan led by an archeologist who can explain the pieces you’re seeing. While the museum has some descriptions about the pieces, the site itself is lacking. 

Or for a bucket list experience, book one of these Teotihuacan hot air balloon rides. It’s an amazing way to see the ruins. There’s even an option for a hot air balloon ride and a tour with an archeologist – the best of both!

20. Revolution Museum

If I’m being honest, the reason I wanted to visit this Mexico City landmark is for the incredible views from the top. Although history lovers will likely be interested in the museum dedicated to the Mexican Revolution.

And the good news is, you can choose to visit one or both. Similar to going to the top of the Mirador Torre Latino, the entry fee to access the top of the building is a hefty 140 pesos per person.

The monument doesn’t close until 8 pm during the week and 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s another great place to watch the sunset and lights of Mexico City at night.

The Revolution Museum on the other hand closes a bit earlier (hours above). It tells the story of the Mexican Revolution through historical displays, interactive exhibits, and short films.

21. Photography Archive of Mexico City

This overlooked Mexico City museum exhibits various photographic collections documenting historical events that occurred during the 20th century.

The collections are vary from an event or location within Mexico City to a collection of images of an indigenous group from a different area.

It’s a small, free museum in Mexico City that will take you 15-30 minutes. If you like photography, I highly recommend popping in when you’re exploring Mexico City centro.

22. Museo Casa de la Memoria Indómita

I will admit, I had to look up the definition of the word indómita (indominable in English). It’s an adjective that best describes something or someone that cannot be subdued or overcome such as persons, will, or courage. An indomitable warrior.

And it’s a great word to use for this museum which brings to light the 1968 Movement in Mexico and the fight that followed while honoring its dead and missing persons.

Just before the city was to host the 1968 Olympic games, students from leading universities led a social movement for political change in Mexico. It gained widespread public support from teachers, intellectuals, artists, and other citizens.

The movement demanded greater political freedoms and an end to the PRI regime which by that point had been in power for nearly 40 years (and remained in power until the year 2000).

The political movement was violently suppressed by the government following a series of demonstrations. The movement was characterized as an attempt to overthrow the government and establish a communist regime.

Then a peaceful demonstration on October 2, 1968 turned into a tragic event known as the Tlatelolco massacre. It’s estimated that 300-400 people died with the official count much lower. More than 1,000 people were arrested.

The museum was created by activist and social fighter Rosario Ibarra whose son disappeared in 1975. She later created a committee with 100 other women to find the missing. As a result, 148 political prisoners on her lists were freed.

23. Memory and Tolerance Museum

Keeping along the same subject but moving from Mexican history to worldwide history takes us to the Museo Memoria y Tolerancia (Memory and Tolerance Museum).

The mission is to spread the importance of tolerance, non-violence, memory and human rights through their elaborate multimedia exhibitions that surround you as you travel from room to room.

The permanent exhibitions include a Memory Room and Hall of Tolerance. The first is country specific, teaching visitors about tragic events in Rwanda, Cambodia, Guatemala, and others. The second teaches general principles of tolerance and acceptance.

You can check the temporary exhibition on their website. When I visited the Memory and Tolerance Museum it was titled Anne Frank but focused more on the Holocaust in general.

When you arrive you are offered an audio headset in English or Spanish (included) that allows you to go through the museum at your own pace. Alternatively you can take a guided tour in Spanish.

24. San Carlos National Museum

This is another Mexico City museum that I think you should see for its building as much as its art. The neoclassical building features a circular interior courtyard with impressive double story columns.

Inside the museum houses a collection of European art pieces dating from the 14th to the 20th century. It’s considered one of the most important collections of European artwork in Latin America.

The museum also includes a variety of temporary exhibitions which are announced on their website.

25. Guillermo Tovar de Teresa Museum

Guillermo Tovar de Teresa was a historian and art collector who lived in CDMX in the last half of the 20th century. He was also a self-taught Mexican scholar which fueled his desire to defend the historical and artistic heritage of Mexico.

His house turned museum displays his collection which focused on paintings. However, he was also a fan of literature which inspired his collection of rare and antique books.

I wouldn’t say this museum is a must visit, but if you’re in Roma Norte, one of my favorite areas to stay in Mexico City, then I’d say it’s worth popping in.

26. Tequila and Mezcal Museum

The Tequila and Mezcal Museum in Mexico City is a must for anyone interested in learning more about the production and history of two of the most iconic spirits of Mexico. 

The museum highlights the intricate process of growing, harvesting, and farming the agave plant to make mezcal and tequila. You’ll discover how these spirits have been crafted for centuries, from the traditional methods to modern techniques.

I highly recommend you purchase tickets online to unlock a more immersive experience. Your English speaking guide will explain the production process and answers any questions you have.

Other than a bilingual guide, it also includes a more extensive mezcal and tequila tasting which is not available to request upon arrival. You’ll sample various types of both spirits, guided by tasting experts who can help you appreciate the subtle differences and unique qualities of each.

Located in the heart of Garibaldi Square, the museum’s location is perfect for continuing your night in true Mexican style. It’s one of the best places to see live mariachi music in Mexico City.

27. Museo del Pulque y las Pulquerías

Pulque is a low-alcohol fermented drink made from the maguey (agave) plant. Its origins date to the Aztecs more than 2,000 years ago. And in the last several hundred years of documentation, the extraction and fermentation processes have not changed.

While the consumption of pulque declined at the end of the 19th century, it has been experiencing a resurgence in central Mexico.

This small museum in Mexico City traces the history of pulque, including the several times governments tried to control and tax it. 

The first two rooms educate visitors about the history, production process, and tools used to make pulque. The third room is interactive with stories and anecdotes from pulquerías in Mexico City.

The museum is located above a pulque bar, allowing you to try this drink before or after visiting the museum. In the pulquería, they make pulques of various flavors from maguey plants grown in the states of Hidalgo and Tlaxacala.

28. Museo del Chocolate

If you love chocolate and want to learn its history and how to make it, this Mexico City museum is for you.

Upon entering the Chocolate Museum, I was greeted with a cacao bean to nibble on and led upstairs to several rooms of an old house.

The museum walks you through the history of chocolate as if you’re reading a story. Some of the displays are interactive with images and words in both English and Spanish.

There is also a room with items used to make and serve chocolate on display. And when you get to the last room with a large chocolate block sitting in the middle, the smell of rich cacao takes over.

There is also an option to participate in a chocolate making workshop in which you grind cacao on a metate and mold the chocolate. And the best part is, you go home with your chocolate creation.

If you’ve learned about the chocolate making process before, I wouldn’t say it’s a must visit but with the workshop, it’s a great museum for kids. It’s also one of the few Mexico City museums open on Monday.

29. Cencalli – Corn and Food Culture

Cencalli, the house of corn and food culture, is a modern museum space located on several floors within the Los Pinos Cultural Complex inside of Chapultepec Park. 

The museum is dedicated to the 68 indigenous cultures of Mexico and their food culture as it developed over generations. In its simplest form, the Nahuatl word Cencalli translates to family.

Corn and the process of nixtamalization to make masa (corn dough) which is then used to make tamales, tortillas, and other Mexican food is the star of the show.

Cencalli’s objectives include public education on issues of food biodiversity as well as the art and culture that revolves around ancestral culinary tradition.

Unique Mexico City Museums

I decided to distinguish a few Mexico City museums that didn’t fit into a specific category. Part history, part art museums, and part weird they open you up to a unique world that you’d only find in a capital city like this.

30. Museo del Cárcamo de Dolores

The Museo del Cárcamo de Dolores is one of Mexico City’s hidden gems, especially if you’re a fan of Diego Rivera.

Located in Chapultepec Park, this museum is an old hydraulic structure that Rivera transformed into a stunning work of art.

As you approach the building you’re greeted by an incredible 3D mosaic of Tlaloc, the God of Rain, laying on his back in a shallow pool of water. Look closer and you’ll discover several symbolic items Rivera included in his masterpiece, including ears of corn and a serpent.

Inside, you’ll find one of Rivera’s most unique murals which depict the life-giving force of water and its importance to Mexican civilization. The murals blend Rivera’s vibrant style with the industrial setting in a way that’s both powerful and unexpected.

But the museum takes it a step further with flutes hanging on the wall that emit the sound of the water passing through. It’s an incredible multimedia experience.

31. Museo Palacio Postal

One of my favorite buildings in Mexico City is the Museo Palacio Postal for its ornate golden details. Incredibly, this museum still functions as a post office.

You have two choices to visit the Postal Museum. If you don’t want to plan in advance, you can arrive to see the first floor with its impressive staircases and intricate details. If you wish to see more of the museum, you can request a guided visit online.

The upper floors have several rooms that showcase the history of mail service in Mexico and throughout the world, including pre-Hispanic times. There is also a room dedicated to the collecting of postage stamps (philately).

32. Toy Museum Mexico City

This quirky museum exhibits more than 50,000 old toys from Mexico over more than 4 floors in a building in the Doctores neighborhood of Mexico City.

They include lucha libre memorabilia, robots, transformers, vintage Barbie dolls, a handmade spaceship, a collection of stone aliens, and other old toys and games. Most of these pieces have been rescued from swap meets and flea markets by collector Roberto Y. Shimizu since 1955.

It’s an incredible collection and likely one of the largest toy collections in the world. Plus, I loved that some of the spaces are curated with fun graphic art that I in my opinion is some of the best street art in Mexico City.

Tip: This Mexico City museum is located in the Doctores neighborhood which isn’t considered the safest, although you shouldn’t have any issue visiting during the day. I took public transportation to get there.

33. MODO Museo del Objeto

Have you ever looked at an object, wondered where it’s been and about the lives of those who used it?

Museo del Objeto (MODO) has a collection of more than 150,000 objects that document everyday life in Mexico, from the beginning of the 19th century to the present day. 

The themed temporary exhibits they create from these objects allow the viewer to connect with them on a level that is rooted in their own experience.

It’s a fun museum that’s worth exploring if you’re in the area.

34. Casa del Poeta

This quirky museum was created in memory of Mexican poet, Ramón López Velarde whose poetic expression of a purely Mexican subject matter gained such popularity that he was considered the national poet of Mexico.

The museum was created by Hugo Hiriart, a Mexican fiction writer. After I entered and paid the 10 peso entrance, I was given a short explanation in the bedroom before being sent through a secret passage to a fantasy world created by Hiriart.

It is a wild, homemade creation with large sculptures, mirrors at crazy angles, small art prints, and of course many poetry excerpts pasted on the walls.

While I wouldn’t go out of your way to visit this museum, if you’re in the Roma Norte neighborhood it’s a fun way to spend 20-30 minutes.

35. Museo del Perfume

Did I mention there’s a museum in Mexico City for everyone?

The Perfume Museum displays a private collection that illustrates the history, uses, and importance of perfume.

The museum is located in a lovely building with a remarkable staircase and stained glass details that compliment the collection. Honestly, I would recommend this museum for the building alone.

The collection is made up of a variety of objects related to perfumery, including original vessels from some of the oldest and most renowned perfume brands.

My favorite was the colorful collection of glass perfume bottles. But I also enjoyed the room with the 3D video of plants and flowers illustrating was goes into the perfumes.

Museums in Coyoacán

Many of the museums in Coyoacán focus on the lives and art of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo who called the Mexico City neighborhood home.

Because of this overarching theme and its remote location, I decided to group the Coyoacán museums together.

36. Frida Kahlo Museum – Casa Azul

Without a doubt, one of the most popular museums in Mexico City is Casa Azul – the home where Frida Kahlo grew up and lived most of her life.

Exploring the Frida Kahlo Museum is like stepping into her world. The walls are filled with her vibrant, emotional artwork, along with her personal belongings, including her dresses, sketches, and even her wheelchair.

Visitors are invited to walk through her home and garden at their own pace. I recommend first viewing the film of short video clips and images to get insight into her relationship with Diego Rivera and the intense life she led among the challenges she faced.

Tip: You have to reserve tickets online, sometimes weeks in advance. But if you find Frida Kahlo Museum tickets are sold out, read this guide to discover other ways you can secure tickets.

37. Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum

Designed by Diego Rivera himself, the Anahuacalli Museum is a striking structure made from volcanic stone set in the middle of a quiet area of Coyoacán.

The museum is filled with thousands of Mesoamerican artifacts that Rivera collected over his lifetime, from intricate pottery to carved stone figures.

The translucent alabaster windows and pebble mosaic ceilings create an incredible atmosphere that allow the architecture and collection to compliment each other.

Tip: Make sure you climb up to the spectacular 2nd floor which features enormous windows and murals. It leads to the rooftop for incredible views of Coyoacán and the surrounding area.

38. Museo Nacional de Culturas Populares

The Popular Cultures Museum in Coyoacán allows visitors to really immerse themselves in the cultural traditions of Mexico. The museum is dedicated to showcasing a few temporary exhibits at a time which embody the richness of Mexican folk culture.

Beyond the exhibits, there’s also a courtyard in the back where you’ll find a high-end artisan market. It’s a great spot to discover unique, handmade pieces from different regions of the country.

39. Museo Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

The Museo Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo is a fascinating glimpse into the lives and creative spaces of two of Mexico’s most iconic artists.

What makes this place so special is how it reflects both their personalities and the unique dynamic of their relationship.

The museum actually consists of two separate buildings—one for Diego and one for Frida—connected by a small bridge.

Each building has its own character, with Diego’s side being more expansive and filled with his art supplies, sketches, and unfinished works. Frida’s space is more intimate and offers a sense of the quiet strength that defined her life and work.

The architecture itself is worth noting. Designed by Juan O’Gorman, the buildings have a modern, almost industrial feel, with large windows that flood the studio with natural light. Outside, there’s a cactus garden that adds a touch of nature to the urban setting.

Technically this museum is located in the San Ángel neighborhood, adjacent to Coyoacán.

40. Leon Trotsky Museum in Coyoacán

The Leon Trotsky Museum in Coyoacán is a place where history feels incredibly personal and real.

This Mexico City museum is the former home of Leon Trotsky, the place where he lived in Mexico and was also assassinated.

Trotsky’s time in Mexico City was complicated. He was a Russian revolutionary, friend of Diego Rivera, and at time, the lover of Frida Kahlo.

As a result, the museum gives an interesting perspective into his life.

Kids Museums Mexico City

If you’re traveling to Mexico City with kids, they’ve provably been bored since about the third historical attraction on your itinerary. These children’s museums in Mexico City

41. Papalote Children’s Museum

Papalote is a children’s museum in Mexico City located at the edge of Chapultepec Park. It includes interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.

The themes of the exhibits include the human body, plants and animals of Mexico, and others. There’s also an Idea Laboratory where visitors use their creativity to create objects using different tools and materials.

The Papalote Children’s Museum is best for children over 5 years old, although it does include an infant area for children under 5.

While guided visits are not offered, each area has helpers, called Cuates, that are available to help visitors with the interactive exhibits. You can check the IMAX schedule and purchase tickets on their website.

42. Museo del Axolotl

This is a unique museum dedicated to the preservation of the axolotl, a rare amphibian that was sacred to the Aztecs.

While you can visit an Axolotl Sanctuary on one of these Xochimilco tours, this Mexico City children’s museum is an opportunity to learn about this unique animal closer to the city.

Visitors of the museums are given an opportunity to learn more about the anatomy, history, ecological and social importance of the axolotl, an emblematic species of Mexico.

And adults will likely be impressed too. Axolotls are capable of regenerating an amputated limb and making it functional in just 60 days. They are give us bioindicators that allow us to learn about the health of the ecosystem where it lives.

43. Universum Science Museum

Universum is a place where science comes to life, and it’s a great museum for families looking to inspire their kids with the wonders of the natural world and beyond.

The interactive exhibits at this science museum encourage hands-on exploration so that kids can dive into the world of science. Whether they’re interested in the ocean, dinosaurs, space, or the environment, the aim is to spark their curiosity and imagination.

Museo de las Ciencias is a great Mexico City museum for kids, especially middle to high school aged children or those particularly interested in science.

Economics Museums Mexico City

It makes sense that the capital of Mexico would have three museums dedicated to money and economics.

One is housed the former Bank of Mexico, the other is inside the Mexican stock exchange, and the third is an interactive, educational finance museum for kids.

44. Interactive Museum of Economics (MIDE)

The Interactive Museum of Economics (MIDE) offers an engaging and educational experience that makes learning about finance both fun and accessible.

This unique museum uses interactive exhibits to break down complex economic concepts, allowing visitors of all ages to explore topics like inflation, trade, and financial planning through hands-on activities.

From virtual simulations to interactive games, each exhibit encourages active participation, making this a great museum in Mexico City for kids.

45. Bank of Mexico Museum

The Bank of Mexico Museum delves into the world of finance and monetary history in Mexico.

Located in a historic building in the heart of Mexico City, the museum takes visitors through the history of how money in Mexico has evolved, from ancient trade systems to the modern economy.

The exhibits feature everything from rare coins and banknotes to the technological advancements that have shaped Mexico’s financial landscape.

The museum also highlights the artistry involved in currency design, showcasing beautifully crafted bills and coins that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Tip: While you’re required to enter the museum in a small group, it’s not a guided tour. But you’ll be instructed to meet back in the center of the museum to see a cool visual video show inside the bank vault.

46. MUBO – Museo de la Bolsa Mexicana de Valores (Mexican Stock Market)

If your financial interests lean more towards the stock market, you’ll want to visit MUBO, the Museo de la Bolsa Mexicana de Valores.

This museum provides an in-depth exploration of Mexican financial markets, illustrating how the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) has evolved and influenced the nation’s economy.

Plus at the end, you’ll be able to view the trading floor from a platform just above. While it’s fairly calm compared to Wall Street, the glass dome ceiling is pretty cool.

Mexico City Museums Open Monday

With so many museums only open Tuesday – Sunday, I compiled a list of museums in Mexico City open on Mondays. When you click on the link, it will take you to the full details within this article.

• Teotihuacan Cultural Museum
• Indigenous Cultures of Mexico Museum
• Museo del Chocolate
• Toy Museum México City
• Museo Kaluz
• Tequila and Mezcal Museum
• Soumaya Museum
• National Watercolor Museum
• Guillermo Tovar de Teresa Museum
• KidZania (not really a museum, but something to do with kids on a Monday)

Final Thoughts About Mexico City Museums

Wrapping up this journey through the museums of Mexico City reveals just how much this city has to offer.

From museums that feature ancient artifacts and celebrate indigenous culture to those that highlight modern day history, many of these Mexico City museums tell a different part of the country’s story.

The diversity of museums in Mexico City also reflects its unique blend of tradition and innovation. Visitors can explore the artistry behind iconic foods and drinks, delve into the history of finance, or experience the intersection of various art forms.

The city’s museums aren’t just repositories of the past; they are living spaces where history, culture, and creativity continue to evolve.