Best Day Trips Near Mexico City
There are plenty of things to do in Mexico City, but it is also easy to feel overwhelmed and claustrophobic in such a large, sprawling city. Instead, plan a day or two away from the city during your vacation in Mexico. Explore nature, scenic towns, ancient ruins and more!
Desierto de los Leones
Carretera México-Toluca s/n
Cuajimalpa de Morelos, La Venta, 05020
Ciudad de Mexico, D.F., Mexico
+52 55 5814 1172
desiertodelosleones.mx
For those with a rental car, hop in and make the 70-minute drive from Mexico City to Desierto de los Leones. This is a wonderful way to get to know Mexico's flora and fauna in the more than 1,800-ectare national park. The park's small mountains make a visit to Desierto de los Leones perfect for a hiking day trip or mini weekend getaway. Make sure to bring lots of water, food and layers - the altitude causes large fluctuations in temperature, especially in the evenings. Not in the mood to pack a picnic? No problem, there are also a few small restaurants in the park that are a perfect way to end the day after a rigorous hike.
Teotihuacan Pyramids and Shrine of Guadalupe
www.viator.com
Explore Mexico's history in person with a day trip to the nearby Teotihuacan Pyramids. Built by the Aztecs, these pyramids offer a glimpse into what life was like in the area before European colonialism. There are many options for guided tours, you need just ask the staff at your hotel. Or book a day tour in advance to make sure you see everything, including the sun and moon pyramids, the Butterflies Temple and the Shrine of Guadalupe.
Adventure Hunters Hot Air Balloon Ride
Pick up at your hotel
adventurehuntersmexico.com
One of the most fun ideas for a day trip near Mexico City is a hot air balloon ride. The Adventure Hunters lead the most popular hot air balloon tours over the city so tourists can get a sky high view of the Teotihuacan Pyramids. This is a unique, unforgettable way to experience Mexico City and truly see how vast it really is. Plus, it is an activity the whole family can enjoy since most of the balloons hold between four and eight passengers.
Related: Navigating Mexico City's Public Transportation
Tlaxcala
www.visitmexico.com
A two-hour drive east of Mexico City, Tlaxcala is a great town in which to spend a day exploring. Tlaxcala isn't very touristy so it is great for those trying to escape the massive crowds at Mexico City's hectic markets, museums and restaurants. This colonial city is picturesque, safe and very walkable. Make sure to visit the main central plaza and historic churches. This is one of the most intact historic cities in the area - some buildings can be traced back to the 1500s. There are also a few museums in town which are great during the rainy season or if it is too hot outside for walking around a lot.
Estadio Azteca
Calz de Tlalpan 3465
Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, 04650
Ciudad de México, D.F., Mexico
+52 55 5487 3100
www.stadiumguide.com
A great day trip for sports fans, particularly of soccer, is to visit Estadio Azteca. Estadio Azteca is arguably the most famous soccer stadium in the world and is located just a half hour drive south of downtown Mexico City, in the suburb of Santa Ursula Coapa. Estadio Azteca is the home field of Mexico City's premiere futbol club, Club America. The massive stadium has played major roles in two World Cups and the 1968 Olympic games. The NFL even hosted a game here in 2005. The stadium is easily accessible via public transportation and tours are available, making it a fun, easy day trip for sports lovers.
Related: 48 Hours In Mexico City
Cameron Bruns is the founder of BostonGreenBlog.com and co-author of Just Us Gals Boston. She lives in Boston's North End, where her goal is to promote ethical, stylish, and sustainable lifestyle choices to all Boston residents. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
