Alameda Central is a prominent and historic public park that offers paved paths and a variety of public art installations you can enjoy. The pattern of walking paths is laid out completely symmetrically, which makes it easy to keep track of where you are among the park's large acreage. Fountains and statues can be found throughout the park, adding character and historical value to its already impressive design.
The whole family can enjoy a trip to Alameda Central, and many local families do so quite regularly. When you visit, don't be surprised to see an array of kids and adults alike enjoying the park's offerings, taking walks, or racing around on scooters. Most people spend about an hour or 2 here, but if you really enjoy relaxing outside on a beautiful day, you could easily turn your visit into an adventure that lasts all afternoon.
Alameda Central in Mexico City - one of the highlights of 11 Best Things to Do in Mexico City (Read all about Mexico City here)
What are the highlights of Alameda Central in Mexico City
When you visit Alameda Central, you won't want to miss out on highlights like the central fountain, one of the most iconic aspects of this part, which is located directly in the middle where all the walking paths converge. Massive in size, this fountain features a central layered fountain as well as surrounding streams of water that shoot up from the edge and fall in the middle. You'll find 3 other fountains at this park as well.
In addition to the fountains, you can also see several statues around Alameda Central. The Benito Juarez Hemicycle is particularly impressive, thanks to the imposing statue flanked by marble Doric columns. Most of the statues around the park are crafted from bronze, giving them a historic look that's seemingly ancient despite not being anywhere near that old.
A brief history of Alameda Central in Mexico City
Alameda Central was initially founded in 1592, but it didn't quite look like it does today. In fact, this green space had a dark history, having been the site of some heinous acts during the Spanish Inquisition in Mexico. After that was over, however, the public green space was expanded to cover up the inquisitor's plaza. Royalty took hold of the park afterward, but once Mexican independence was achieved in 1821, the park became the center for public celebrations.
In more recent history, Alameda Central underwent a massive rehabilitation in 2012 to repair a lot of damaged pavement, plant new trees, and rework the benches and fountains back to top quality condition. One of the most impactful changes was the banning of street vendors from the park, so when you visit, don't expect to be able to buy anything within the borders of the park itself.
What else is good to know about Alameda Central in Mexico City?
When you're looking for a budget-friendly attraction to enjoy in Mexico City, Alameda Central is one of your best options. Access is completely free, and you don't even have to be tempted by street vendors anymore since they've been banned from the park. While it's designed to be pedestrian friendly, scooters are allowed here if you're looking for a faster way to get around.
Visiting Alameda Central will put you close to some other attractions you may be interested in. Located in the Centro district, the park is within walking distance of several other parks as well as historic sites and museums. Museo Franz Mayer is just to the north of the park, while Museo de la Tortura, a local oddity, is a short walk to the east.
Alameda Central in Mexico City
Location: Av. Hidalgo s/n, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06010 Hervidero y Plancha, CDMX, Mexico
Open: 24/7
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