Mexico City, also known as CDMX, is a beautiful and bustling metropolis that boasts a rich culture, a fascinating history, delicious food, and warm and friendly locals. While most visitors flock to the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path activities that are beloved by locals and that travelers should definitely consider adding to their itinerary.
Authentic Street Food Tour
One of the best ways to experience the flavors and culinary traditions of Mexico City is to sign up for a street food tour with a women-run tour company. These tours will take you to some of the city’s best spots for tacos, tortas, tamales, and other local favorites, while also providing fascinating insight into the history and culture behind each dish.
Pop-up Markets Around Town
For those who love to shop, Mexico City is a paradise. There are countless markets and bazaars throughout the city, but some of the best deals and most unique finds can be found at the pop-up markets that take over parks, plazas, and other public spaces on the weekends. These markets feature local artisans, designers, and vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to art and furniture.
Lucha Libre Wrestling Show
Mexican wrestling, or lucha libre, is a wildly entertaining and uniquely Mexican spectacle that is not to be missed. The wrestlers wear colorful masks and costumes and perform high-flying acrobatics and dramatic moves in over-the-top matches that are equal parts sport and theater.
Mezcalerías
While tequila is undoubtedly Mexico’s most famous liquor, locals in Mexico City prefer to sip on mezcal, a smoky and complex spirit made from agave. There are many mezcalerías throughout the city where you can sample different types of mezcal and learn about the various regions and processes that produce this beloved drink.
Coyoacán Neighborhood
Located south of the city center, the Coyoacán neighborhood is a charming and vibrant area that is home to many of Mexico City’s most famous intellectuals, artists, and writers. The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings are great for exploring on foot, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to check out along the way.
Cine Tonalá and Cineteca Nacional
For film-lovers, CDMX offers a wealth of options beyond the mainstream movie theaters. Cine Tonalá is a hip and trendy cinema that screens independent and international films, while Cineteca Nacional is a massive cultural complex that houses several theaters, a film library, and a museum.
Jilotzingo Forest
If you’re looking for a truly unique and immersive dining experience, consider a visit to the Jilotzingo forest, located just outside the city. Here, a group of passionate foodies have created a pop-up restaurant that uses locally-sourced ingredients to create multi-course meals that take place in a beautiful and tranquil outdoor setting.
Chapultepec Castle
Located in the middle of Chapultepec Park, the hilltop Chapultepec Castle is a stunning and historic landmark that houses a museum dedicated to Mexico’s history and culture. The castle also offers stunning views of the city and the park below.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Teotihuacán
While most visitors to Teotihuacán opt for exploring the ancient pyramids on foot, a hot air balloon ride provides a truly breathtaking and unforgettable view of this iconic site. This experience will allow you to see the surrounding landscape from a unique perspective and appreciate the grandeur and scale of the pyramids like never before.
Mixquic Cemetery for Day of the Dead
While the Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico are well-known, visiting the Mixquic Cemetery is an experience that is often overlooked by visitors. This small town just outside of Mexico City holds one of the most beautiful and elaborate celebrations of the holiday, where families decorate and visit their loved ones’ graves with flowers, candles, and offerings.
Mexico City is a vibrant and endlessly fascinating city that offers something new and exciting at every turn. By exploring some of these hidden gems and local favorites, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city’s culture and history, while also enjoying unique and unforgettable experiences that you won’t find in any guidebook. So, step off the beaten path and discover all that CDMX has to offer!
