Ultimate Guide to Chapultepec Park: Explore Mexico City’s Iconic Oasis

A huge green space at the heart of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park (or Bosque Chapultepec) is a popular area for chilangos and visitors alike to enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions. It features important museums, a renowned zoo, monuments, fountains, and areas for cultural exhibits, alongside a variety of gardens and green spaces showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

The name “Chapultepec” stems from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, meaning “Hill of the Grasshopper” (from “chapul” – grasshopper, and “tepec” – hill). This historical significance adds to the cultural richness of the park.

Chapultepec Park’s Three Sections

The park covers an expansive area of over 1,600 acres (4 square km), divided into three distinct sections:

• Primera Seccion: Home to the zoo, Chapultepec Castle (housing the National History Museum), the National Anthropology Museum, Modern Art Museum, Tamayo Museum, and an artificial lake with boat rentals.
• Segunda Seccion: Features a large amusement park, La Feria de Chapultepec Mágico, alongside several museums, restaurants, and Mexico’s national cemetery, El Panteon Civil de Dolores.
• Tercera Seccion: A quieter area focused on natural woods and wildlife.

When to Go

The first section of the park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 am to 8 pm during Daylight Saving Time, and until 7 pm outside that period. Section 2 and 3 remain open 24/7. Though it attracts visitors throughout the week, weekends and holidays can lead to crowds, especially on Sundays. Admission to Chapultepec Park is free.

Monument to Los Niños Heroes

Chapultepec Park has a fascinating history dating back to Prehispanic times. It served as a summer residence for Aztec rulers. Notably, water from its springs was transported to the temple precincts via an aqueduct, remnants of which can still be viewed. Nezahualcoyotl, a celebrated poet-king, constructed a summer palace around 1428, now commemorated with a statue in the park.

During the Mexican-American War, the park was the site of the Battle of Chapultepec, resulting in the heroic commemoration of young cadets known as Los Niños Heroes, who perished during the conflict. This poignant monument features six marble pillars to honor each cadet and a central pedestal depicting a mother embracing a fallen hero, created by architect Enrique Aragón and sculptor Ernesto Tamariz.

Chapultepec Lake

The artificial Lago de Chapultepec is located in the first section, providing options for rowboat or pedal boat rentals to enjoy scenic views. Adjacent to this lake is the Casa del Lago, a cultural center associated with UNAM (Mexico’s National Autonomous University).

Chapultepec Castle

Positioned at the highest point of Chapultepec hill, this castle offers breathtaking views. Its construction began during the colonial period and has served various purposes, including as a military academy. Maximilian of Hapsburg made it their residence, enhancing accessibility through a wide boulevard, now known as El Paseo de La Reforma.

Today, it operates as the National Museum of History, having transformed from a presidential residence in 1941 under President Lazaro Cardenas.

Alfonso Herrera Zoo

Opened in 1927 and named after its founder, biologist Alfonso L. Herrera, Chapultepec Zoo underwent significant renovations in the 90s and is home to nearly 2,000 animals across 250 species. Most notably recognized for successful conservation programs, the zoo attracts over 5.5 million visitors yearly, making it one of the most visited zoos globally.

Shopping and Eating

Visiting Chapultepec, you will likely encounter numerous stands offering an array of snacks, from empanadas to fruit. The zoo features a food court with various quick dining options. For a more refined dining experience, you might opt for restaurants like Del Bosque Restaurant or Restaurante El Lago.

Buying Souvenirs at Chapultepec Park

Vendors throughout the park offer numerous souvenirs, including trinkets and gifts, with more refined options available at museum gift shops specializing in quality items such as books and postcards.

Getting There and Getting Around

Located approximately three miles (5 km) west of the Mexico City Zocalo, Chapultepec Park is easily accessible via public transportation or the Turibus.

By Metro

Take Line 1 to Chapultepec Station. Upon exiting the metro station, you will find a passageway leading directly to the Niños Heroes monument.

By Turibus

The main line of the Turibus (Chapultepec-Centro Historico) allows an excellent overview of the park’s various sections, with multiple stops for convenience.

In conclusion, Chapultepec Park is a significant cultural and recreational destination in Mexico City, offering extensive attractions for all visitors.