Mexico City, or CDMX, is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, and it’s surprisingly family-friendly. From world-class museums and historic plazas to parks and food markets, the city offers experiences that kids and parents can enjoy together.
On our recent December trip, we explored some of the best attractions for families, mixing iconic landmarks with fun food stops and outdoor adventures. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Mexico City with kids.
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Visit National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City with kids
The Museo Nacional de Antropología is one of the best things to do in Mexico City with kids. We arrived right at 9:30 AM and walked straight in, skipping the long lines that built up by noon.
Start at the museum’s courtyard with its striking umbrella fountain, kids love running around here while you get a first glimpse of the building’s modern design.
Inside, you’ll find highlights like the giant Aztec Sun Stone, the massive Olmec stone heads, and beautifully detailed Mayan carvings. There are also exhibits with ancient jewelry, traditional clothing, and model temples that bring history to life.
We ended our visit with a relaxed lunch outside at the museum café, they offered a great menu and the girls had pankaces (which were surpisingly huge). There’s also a gift shop with fun souvenirs.
Pro tip: plan at least 2–3 hours in National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City and arrive early.
Explore Zócalo and the Historic Center of Mexico City
The Zócalo in Mexico City, officially known as the Plaza de la Constitución, is the historic and cultural heart of the city, and a must-visit with kids.
This massive square buzzes with energy, from street performers and local vendors to seasonal decorations. When we visited in December, the Zócalo was glowing with festive lights and a holiday market that instantly drew the kids in.
On one side of the square, you’ll find the Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Latin America. Its architecture is breathtaking, blending Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, and it took more than 250 years to complete.
Step inside to explore ornate chapels and towering altars that even children can appreciate for their sheer scale and detail.
Just a short walk away is the House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos), an 18th-century building covered entirely in blue-and-white tiles. Today it houses a Sanborns café and restaurant, making it a convenient stop for coffee or a snack.
Visit Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City with kids
Just a short walk from the Zócalo, the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and a spot that both adults and kids will love.
Its striking orange and yellow tiled dome stands out against the skyline, while the Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture make it one of the most photographed buildings in the city.
If you do step inside, the Palacio de Bellas Artes is home to world-class murals by Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco, as well as stained-glass details that are stunning to see up close.
Families with older kids may enjoy catching a performance by the Ballet Folklórico de México, which brings Mexico’s history and culture to life with music and dance.
Dining in Mexico City with kids
Mexico City is one of the world’s great foodie destinations, and eating here is half the adventure. From Michelin-recognized taco stands to elegant Polanco dining rooms, there’s something for every taste and every age.
For families, street food is often the easiest entry point. Kids love snacking on esquites (corn in a cup with lime and cheese), tacos al pastor, or warm churros with hot chocolate. It’s quick, affordable, and fun to try small bites while exploring.
When you’re ready to sit down, the city offers excellent family-friendly restaurants. In Polanco, favorites include Saks Polanco (fusion dishes with plenty of options kids enjoy), Nonsolo or Parole for comforting Italian classics, and Campomar Masaryk for fresh seafood. For a special evening, Blanco Castelar, La Buena Barra, and Puerto Madero deliver upscale dining in stunning settings.
If you’re looking for Mexican flavors in a family-friendly setting, Azul Histórico in the Historic Center is a beautiful option with traditional dishes, while Cuerno Masaryk serves elevated Mexican food in Polanco. For something casual, El Turix is a local favorite for cochinita pibil tacos, and El Califa is a reliable choice for simple, delicious tacos.
Pro tip: Make reservations for Polanco’s upscale spots, especially if dining with kids — it saves long waits. And don’t skip the city’s lively markets like Mercado de Coyoacán, where everyone can choose their own snacks in a colorful, relaxed atmosphere.
Visit Chapultepec Park in Mexico City
Bosque de Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world and a must-visit for families in Mexico City. Kids will love the free zoo, paddleboats on the lake, and playgrounds, while parents can explore world-class museums or sample street food along the paths.
With so much space to run and explore, it’s one of the best family-friendly spots in the city.
Xochimilco Boat Ride: a family activity in Mexico City
Head to Xochimilco, located in the southern part of Mexico City, for a vibrant and unforgettable experience. Here, you can rent a trajinera, a brightly painted flat-bottomed boat, and float along the historic canals. Boats are available for hourly rentals, and it’s best to go on weekends or holidays when the atmosphere is liveliest, though weekdays are calmer and better for young kids.
During your ride, enjoy the floating food vendors selling tacos, elotes (corn on the cob), fresh fruit, and snacks, while live mariachi bands often hop from boat to boat to serenade passengers. Many families also bring their own picnic, making it a perfect outdoor lunch on the water. Kids especially love spotting other colorful trajineras, watching families and friends celebrate birthdays, and feeding the ducks along the canals.
To get there, take a taxi or Uber to the main docks in Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas or Embarcadero Cuemanco. Tickets and boat rentals are paid per hour, and prices can usually be negotiated, especially if you go early in the day.
Things to know about Mexico City before your first visit
Planning your first family trip? Here are a few things we learned:
- High Altitude – At over 7,000 feet, CDMX can leave you short of breath. Take it slow and drink lots of water.
- Traffic Is Intense – Build in extra time for drives, or focus on walkable neighborhoods.
- Uber Is Your Best Friend – Affordable, safe, and hassle-free compared to taxis.
- Foodie’s Paradise – From Pujol to street tacos, the food scene is unmatched.
- Museum Central – With 150+ museums, CDMX offers endless options, from Anthropology to quirky gems like the Toy Museum.
If you’re combining Mexico City with San Miguel de Allende, there are several ways to get there: flights, buses, or private car service. After weighing the options, we booked a private car through our hotel in SMA. It was expensive (around $440 one way) but convenient with kids and luggage, especially since we traveled on points and miles for our hotels.
Bottom line
Mexico City, or CDMX, is a surprisingly family-friendly destination with something for everyone. From interactive museums like the National Museum of Anthropology to colorful experiences like a Xochimilco boat ride, and from historic landmarks in the Zócalo to lush green spaces like Chapultepec Park, families can easily fill several days with fun, educational, and memorable activities.
Whether you’re exploring cultural attractions, indulging in local cuisine, Mexico City offers a mix of indoor and outdoor adventures that make it one of the best cities to visit with kids. Planning ahead for transportation, weather, and timing will help your family get the most out of your trip to Mexico City with children.
