Hoping to explore Mexico City off the beaten path? CDMX is North America’s largest city and has surprises around every corner!
Mexico City hidden gems can be found all around—some are right in the center of the most touristy neighbors, and others are tucked far away.
I’ve had the privilege of visiting vibrant Mexico City five times now and I’ve discovered a handful of hidden gems along the way.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Mexico City, you’ve come to the right place! This CDMX hidden gems guide includes all my favorite lesser-known things to do as well as some offbeat neighborhoods to explore and hidden gem day trips.
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🇲🇽 My Mexico City Favorites 🇲🇽
🌚 Hot Air Ballon Ride over the Sun and Moon Temples: Watch the sunrise over ancient Aztec temples at Teotithuacan from a hot air balloon (or stay grounded on a Teotihuacan walking tour).
🛶 Xochimilco and Frida Kahlo Day Trip: Join a floating fiesta boat ride through the ancient canals of Xochimilco then a visit Frida Kahlo’s iconic ‘Blue House’ on this brilliant guided day trip.
🚠 Discover Mexico City’s best hidden gems: Choose from my 21 favorite Mexico City hidden gems and explore lesser known parts of the city!
👟 Wander through Mexico City’s most vibrant neighborhoods: Head to Coyoacan (colorful part of town that Frida Kahlo called home), Roma Norte (lowkey greenery-filled neighborhood), and/or Condesa (a small but lively neighborhood).
🌿 Where to Stay: One-of-a-kind boutique luxury room at La Valise in Roma, a high end yet affordable room beside Parque Mexico at Casa Mannach in Coyoacan, or a charming budget-friendly room at NaNa Vida in Roma.
Find more of my Mexico City favorites and CDMX travel tips at the bottom of this article!
Mexico City Hidden Gems
These hidden gems of Mexico City are not necessarily in order—be sure to read them all to figure out which ones are best to add to your trip!
1. Parque México
Located in the heart of the Condesa neighborhood, this vibrant park is what made me fall in love with Mexico City.
Although Parque México instantly attracts anyone who walks by, it still feels like a Mexico City hidden gem as it is rarely mentioned in travel guides. The park has dozens of covered wooden benches where you can catch your breath, read, or eat lunch during a day of exploring.
Pictured below is Foro Lindbergh, a plaza in Parque México that fills up with activity every single evening (it is quite rare to find it empty as it is in the photo). This place is where community happens, and it is so beautiful to witness.
Sitting along the edge of Foro Lindbergh and watching the nightly activities unfold is something I do every time I visit Mexico City.
Regardless of the day dance groups gather practicing everything from hip hop to waltz, kids learn to ride bikes, teenagers practice roller skating and play soccer, dogs play fetch, and friends laugh while eating street food.
And it all happens at the same time—dancers dodging soccer balls, dogs roaming freely, and everyone decompresses from the workday.
2. Mueso Anahuacalli
The Anahuacalli Museum features Diego Rivera’s private collection of over 2000 pre-hispanic artifacts, housed striking building modeled after Aztec and Mayan temples.
However, Museo Anahuacalli is anything but a typical history or anthropology museum. If you’ve read my full guide to the Anahuacalli Museum, you know that I think of it as an art museum, despite the thousands of ancient artifacts on display.
Walking through the museum is an encapsulating experience, and that is exactly how Rivera intended it to be. You won’t find much—if any—information about the artifacts on display, instead, Rivera invites you to draw creative inspiration from this ancient art gallery of figurines and carvings from the Nahuas, Zapotecs, Olmecs, Toltecs, and other indigenous groups.
Wandering through the Anahuacalli Museum is truly one of the most unique things to do in Mexico City, but I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone. Read my Anahuacalli Museum travel guide to get a sense of whether this Mexico City hidden gem is for you.
3. CableBús
Very few visitors realize that Mexico City is home to the two longest cable car lines in the world—and you can ride them for only a few pesos!
Riding the CableBús is one of the most unique things to do in Mexico City. It gives you a look into the everyday life of chilangos (Mexico City locals) in more secluded parts of the city.
A ride on the 10.6 kilometer-long CableBús line through the Iztapalapa district takes about 40 minutes. As you fly above the city, you can watch for rooftop murals below and get a glimpse of mountains in the distance.
Mexico City’s two CableBús lines opened to the public in 2021 to shorten the commute time for locals who live far from the city center. A third line is currently being built as well.
If you’re considering riding the cable car, be sure to check out my full Mexico City CableBus guide. I share more details about safety on the CableBus, exact directions on how to get to the embarkment point, and recommendations for an excellent tour that includes a ride with a local guide.
4. UNAM Campus
Did you know that Mexico City’s main university is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Well, now you do!
Anyone who loves art, architecture, and design should consider adding Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) to their CDMX itinerary.
The university’s main attraction for visitors is the Biblioteca Central (Central Library), which features a striking facade designed by famed painted and architect Juan O’Gorman. Inspired by indigenous art, the 4000-square meter facade makes UNAM worth a visit.
Visiting UNAM, one of the best non-touristy things to do in Mexico City
But the library facade isn’t the only sight to see at UNAM. You can also find Diego Rivera murals, and murals from a handful of other Mexican artists.
UNAM is located near the southern edge of Mexico City, just southwest of Coyoacan.
If you want to visit UNAM, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco all in one day, be sure to check out my recommended tours that include visits to all these spots.
5. The Speakeasies of Zona Rosa
Mexico City’s speakeasies are literal hidden gems that you have to go looking for! The best ones are located in the tiny Zona Rosa neighborhood between Roma Norte and Reforma.
The experience of searching for these secret bars is part of the fun, and some of them are ranked among the top 50 bars in the world, so they are certainly worth the challenge!
Hanky Panky actually started out as a true speakeasy that was used only by the founder and his friends, but eventually they opened it up to the public. Nearby Xaman Bar has a more elevated feel and features cocktails made with indigenous ingredients.
But you can’t go wrong choosing between these two hidden Mexico City bars. Both have appeared on the list of the world’s top 50 bars.
Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time for either Mexico City speakeasy, and if you have any trouble finding them you can get a few hints online!
6. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Ancient Ruins
Watching the sun rise over an ancient city on a hot air balloon ride is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Mexico City, yet few visitors realize they can do this!
There are lots of Teotihuacan hot air balloon experiences to choose from, but my recommendation is this guided tour, which includes:
★ Roundtrip transportation from your Mexico City hotel
★ A breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan
★ A guided tour on foot through the Teotihuacan archaeological site
★ A bike (or walking tour) of the surrounding neighborhood (most tours don’t offer this!)
★ Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and tastings
Another highly recommended tour is this one, which includes breakfast in a cave restaurant near Teotihuacan. Whichever tour you choose, you cannot go wrong with this bucket list experience!
Teotihuacan is home to some of the most stunning pyramids in Central Mexico—don’t miss them on your trip to Mexico City!
7. Events and Markets at Huerto Roma Verde
One of my favorite non-touristy things to do in Mexico City is to visit Huerto Roma Verde in Roma Sur.
This unique garden and community space frequently hosts vibrant markets and other events, and supports dozens of innovative environmental initiatives.
You’ll want to check their website to see what events are coming up. On our first trip to Mexico City my husband and I stumbled upon this place when they were hosting a market with dozens of local vendors selling natural, organic, and handmade goods.
The next time we were in town Huerto Roma Verde was hosting Mexico City’s vegan festival, which was packed full with locals and almost no tourists other than us.
8. Pulquerias
If you haven’t tried pulque before, make sure to add a pulquerias to your Mexico City itinerary.
This traditional fermented alcoholic drink used to be drink of Mexico before Coca-Cola. It is made by fermenting the sap from the Maguey plant and resembles a thick, viscous kombucha with a higher alcohol content.
I’ve had the privilege of trying pulque in several parts of Mexico and it is always a little different—but my favorite has to be pulque with fresh mango juice!
Although you can find pulquerias in most major cities in Mexico, few tourists ever get to try it. One of the best places to drink pulque in Mexico City is Pulqueria los Insurgentes, which is located near the Fuente de Cibeles in Roma Norte.
9. Terraza Catedral
Terraza Catedral is my favorite rooftop bar in Mexico City. Situated in the heart of the historical center, right next to the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace, this gorgeous rooftop is easy to miss despite its central location.
Terraza Catedral is the perfect place to enjoy happy hour or watch the sunset in Centro Historico
Terraza Catedral is on top of the Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral, and you have to walk into the hostel to access it. However, you don’t need to stay at the hostel to visit the bar.
To visit, just ask the doorman at the Mundo Joven Catedral hostel for Terraza Catedral. You can say “puedo visitar Terraza Catedral?” and he will unlock a glass door that leads to an elevator. Take the elevator up a few floors, then walk up a set of stairs where you’ll arrive at one of the best rooftop bars in Mexico City.
10. Reforma Sunday Bike Rides
Every Sunday from 8am-2pm Paseo de la Reforma, one of the main roads in CDMX, closes to car traffic. The scenic street fills with bicycles and runners.
This is the perfect time to explore sites along the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, which connects the Centro Historico to Chapultepec Park.
This weekly event is hosted by the Muévete en Bici initiative, and you can check the organization’s Facebook page for weekly updates and information.
You can find bikes to rent along Paseo de la Reforma, or book a guided bike tour.
Also See: The Ultimate Mexico City Packing List
11. The Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Studio
It is difficult to visit Mexico City without hearing a bit about the tumultuous relationship between Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
And while the Frida Kahlo museum in Coyoacan is certainly worth visiting, some of the lesser known Kahlo and Rivera attractions are perhaps even more interesting.
For less than three dollars you can explore the split home that Diego and Frida once ‘shared’. It is actually two separate houses with a bridge connecting them.
A visit to Museo Studio not only gives you a glimpse into Frida and Diego’s lives, but also into their art and the work of the renowned architects who built these homes.
You can visit this small museum by yourself, but for a fuller experience, join this tour, which includes a visit to the three most significant Rivera and Kahlo sites all in one day: Casa Azul, Museo Studio, and Museo Anahuacalli.
12. The Folkloric Ballet
Another hidden gem of Mexico City is the folkloric ballet. For over sixty years the Ballet Folklórico de México has been preformed in Mexico City.
While the ballet is world renowned, many visitors to Mexico City miss the opportunity to experience it since it is rarely mentioned in travel guides.
The ballet happens several times a week at iconic venues through Mexico City, such as Chapultepec Castle and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
13. Tlatelolco
Tlatelolco is an Aztec archaeological site in Mexico City that is often missed. But it is also the site of a violent massacre that happened not long ago—in 1968.
Tlatelolco is an easily accessible archeological site hidden outside the main tourist areas of CDMX
On my first trip to Mexico City I joined a Tlatelolco tour with MasterPeace and learned about the events that took place in pre-hispanic times and then through the 20th cenutry.
Unfortunately, this exact tour isn’t offered anymore, but there are plenty of tours on Viator that include a stop at Tlatelolco as well as the more popular Teotihuacan.
Also See: Mexico City Lucha Libre and Mezcal Tasting Experience
14. Mirador Torre Latino
Located at the top of Torre Latinoamericana, Mirador Torre Latino is a popular attraction for Mexican travelers, but foreigners tends to miss it.
The tower is right across the street from Palacio de Bellas Artes, and offers 360-views of the Mexico City skyline.
It costs $200 pesos to visit, and you have to ride a shaky elevator, but it is totally worth it for the view up top of the observation deck!
I have a full guide to visiting Mirador Torre Latino if you’re curious to learn more about this Mexico City hidden gem.
15. Barrio Xochimilco
Although the riding a tranjera down the Xochimilco canals is a wildly popular water activity in Mexico City, few visitors take the time to explore the charming neighborhood of Xochimilco beyond the canals.
Xochimilco is one of Mexico City’s barrio magicos (magical neighborhoods), and it is easy to see why if you spend some time here. On our last visit to Xochimilco, my husband and I loved wandering through the tiny windy color-filled streets and alleyways of this neighborhood.
Explore Mexico City off the beaten path in the cheerful neighborhood of Xochimilco
Of course, if you’ve read my other Mexico City guides you know that I think a boat tour through the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco is completely worth doing. So even though it isn’t a Mexico City hidden gem, be sure to add it to your list if you’re visiting Xochimilco.
Also See: Oaxaca’s Jalatlaco Neighborhood (A Mexico Hidden Gem)
16. The Pedestrian Walkways of Roma and Condesa
There are greenery-filled medians and walkways sprinkled throughout Mexico City, especially in the Roma and La Condesa neighborhoods.
I highly recommend roaming through Roma and Condesa on a sunny day—I highlight some of my favorite spots in the area in my Roma Norte guide.
You’ll spot sculptures, cute cafes, colonial architecture, and so many little hidden gems as you explore this part of Mexico City. If you’re someone who doesn’t like having a strict itinerary but still wants plenty of options for things to do, Roma is a lovely area to base yourself. I’m sure you’ll discover handfuls of hidden gems I’ve never found!
17. Street Art Bike Tours
Traverse lesser known Mexico City neighborhoods on bike, discovering street art along the way.
This highly-rated tour is an unmissable activity for active art lovers looking for to explore off the beaten path Mexico City. You’ll get to learn about the rich history of Mexico through the lens of local artists, while being led by a guide who knows these neighborhoods inside and out.
Since it is a small group tour, too, it is a great way to meet other likeminded travelers, whether you’re visiting CDMX solo or with a small group. The tour lasts three hours and includes a bike rental and helmet, plus insights from an excellent local guide.
18. Chinatown
It took me several trips to Mexico City before I even realized that there is a Chinatown (Barrio Chino) right in the historical center!
Though it is only a few blocks from the iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City’s Chinatown is hidden in plain sight!
To be honest, there isn’t a ton to do in Chinatown as it only takes up about two blocks, but it is definitely a great place to wander through if you’re looking for hidden gems in the historic center of Mexico City.
19. Xochimilco Ecological Reserve
Charming Xochimilco gets another shoutout in this hidden gems Mexico City guide!
As I mentioned before, Xochimilco is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico City for the typical trajineras rides through the canals. But did you know that there is more to Xochimilco than touristy (but fun) rainbow-colored boats, floating fiestas, and mariachis?
On this unique Mexico City tour you’ll get to experience the canals on a fun, colorful boat, but you’ll also get to traverse deep into the countryside and meet a local farmer. Instead of partying on the canals, you’ll get to learn about their history and significance today.
By the end of the tour, you’ll understand how unique agricultural systems pioneered by the Aztecs continue to feed Mexico City today, you’ll learn about the flora and fauna that call these canals home, and you’ll make a few new friends.
20. Mariachi Square
Every day Plaza Garibaldi (also called Mariachi Square) fills with mariachis, dressed festively as they play traditional music. Truth be told, Plaza Garibaldi is quite a touristy spot, some would even say its a tourist trap.
Yet I still think its worth mentioning here because even though the mariachis come here to entertain tourists, few international visitors ever make the trek to this square.
Plaza Garibaldi is several blocks north of Palacio de Bellas Artes. If you do visit, expect to be asked to ‘pay’ for a song, or two, or three.
21. Coyoacán
The vibrant historical neighborhood of Coyoacán is home to one the most sought-after attractions in Mexico City—Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul.
Although the Frida Kahlo Museum sells out every single day (quick tip: book last-minute Frida Kahlo tickets here), most travelers don’t explore any more of Coyoacan.
Coyoacan is teeming with brightly-colored historical buildings, stunning art museums, bustling traditional markets, trendy eateries, and other hidden gems.
Like with Roma, Condesa, Xochimilco, and many other CDMX barrios, Coyoacan is one of those neighborhoods where the best thing to do is simply wander and see what you discover.
Hidden Gems Mexico City FAQs
What are the best off the beaten path Mexico City neighborhoods?
Mexico City is has dozens of neighborhoods and each are different. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that is safe, lively, but less touristy that Centro Hisotrico or Roma, consider checking out Coyoacan, which is about thirty minutes south but full of unique things to do. I also recommend Navarte, which is south of Roma, so it is close to all the main CMDX attractions but has a more local feel.
What ‘touristy’ Mexico City activities are worth it?
Most of the classic touristy things to do in Mexico City are totally worth doing! My favorites include:
★ The National Museum of Anthropology: The largest museum in Mexico, filled with indigenous artifacts. It is a must-visit if you have any interest in history or anthropology!
★ Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle): A striking historical building that is actually the only ‘true castle’ in Latin America. Worth visiting for the art, architecture, and views of the CDMX skyline.
★ The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco: My favorite Mexico City day trip! I recommend booking a combo tour that includes the floating gardens and Frida Kahlo’s Blue House.
What are the best Mexico City hidden gem day trips?
If you want to explore more of Central Mexico, check out these non-touristy day trips from Mexico City:
★ Summit the Nevado de Toluca Volcano Near Mexico City: Climb to the top of a breathtaking volcano on this highly-rated Mexico City day trip. Book here.
★ Private Tour to Tepotzotlan and Tula: Get a taste of Mexico’s history as you explore a Toltec archeological site and a Jesuit convent near Mexico City. Book here.
★ Hang Gliding Through Valle de Bravo: If hang gliding is on your bucket list, be sure to check out this unique experience in the countryside of Mexico. Book here.
★ Horseback Riding and Mexican Cuisine: Experience a completely different side of Mexico as you ride horseback through the mountains, and enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local ranch. Book here.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
🌿 Casa Mannach: My top choice. Situated on the edge of Mexico City’s most beautiful park, this boutique hotel is a vibrant oasis centrally located near Condesa’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes.
🛁 La Valise Mexico City: A perfect blend of luxury and quirk, La Valise is one of the highest-rated hotels in Mexico City. Each of the four rooms are unique, and they sell out quickly, so book now!
💐 NaNa Vida CDMX: A highly-rated but budget-friendly boutique hotel located in the heart of Mexico City’s Roma Norte neighborhood.
Transportation in Mexico City
🚕 Uber, Didi and Taxi: Uber is perfect for traveling to and from the airport, or between CDMX neighborhoods. You can also use Didi (another ride share app, typically cheaper than Uber) or local taxis.
👟 Walking: Walking is a great way to see the city. I love wandering through neighborhoods like Condesa, Roma Norte, and Coyoacan on foot.
🚠 Public Transportation: Mexico City’s Metro can be very convenient and affordable! There is a car reserved for women and children only, which is a nice perk for female travelers. I also recommend taking the Mexico City CableBus for fun!
🚲 Bike: There are lots of bike rental stations around the city. The iconic Reforma road even shuts down to cars once a week so locals and tourists can bike and walk.
🚙 Renting a Car: You can compare Mexico City rental car prices here.
Best Things to do in Mexico City
🌮 Centro Historico: A trip to Mexico City is not complete without exploring the historical downtown! See it all with a trusty guide or on your own.
🛶 Xochimilco and Frida Kahlo Day Trip: This unmissable combo tour includes two my favorite things: a floating fiesta boat ride through ancient canals of Xochimilco then a visit Frida Kahlo’s famous Casa Azul.
🌿 Roam Through Roma and Condesa: Dedicate a day to exploring the vibrant Roma and Condesa neighborhoods with a private guide or by yourself.
🌚 Witness the Sun and Moon Temples at Teotihuacan: Don’t miss a day trip to the nearby Aztec ruins! Ride a hot air balloon over the ancient temples (or stay grounded on a Teotihuacan walking tour).
🚠 Dare to Explore Off the Beaten Path: Take the local CableBus above unexplored parts of Mexico City.
🏰 Museum Hopping at Chapultepec Park: Wander though Mexico City’s version of Central Park, and don’t miss Chapultepec Castle and the Anthropology Museum!
🏙 Catch One of the Best Views in Mexico City: Check out my guide to the best rooftop bars and views in CDMX to choose the perfect spot with a view.
More Mexico City Travel Guides
💎 Mexico City Off The Beaten Path: 21 Hidden Gems
🚠 How to Ride the Mexico City CableBus As a Tourist
👙 The Best Water Activities in Mexico City and Nearby
🏺 Worth It? Diego Rivera’s Anahuacalli Museum in Mexico City
🌮 39 Best Mexico City Vegan Restaurants by Neighborhood
✈️ How to Prepare for Your First Time in Mexico City
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