Best Museums In Mexico City

Explore the past by visiting the best museums in Mexico City, a city that boasts the second highest number of museums in the entire world. Known on a global platform as a center for anthropology and history, Mexico City has also gained popularity in recent years as a seat of exquisite art, architecture, and design. Explore some of the most fascinating museums ranging from the far reaching and grand to the more focused and intimate, in the Mexican capital. Get an insight into the life of exiled Russian leader at the Leon Trotsky Museum or enjoy witnessing the famous works of Frida Kahlo and her husband at the eclectic Frida Kahlo Museum. Enjoy the beautiful architecture of some of the most famous museums in the city like the Museo Nacional de Antropología, Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the Museo Nacional de Arte.

Museo Nacional de Antropología (MNA)
Museo Nacional de Antropología (MNA)

This famous museum in Mexico City is housed in a massive building in Chapultepec Park and was designed by renowned Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez. The vast and imposing structure is a must-visit when you are in Mexico especially to explore the planet’s largest collection of ancient Mexican artifacts. Walk through the 23 rooms in the building to enjoy looking at iconic Mesoamerican artifacts that have been found till date. If the history and culture of the country intrigues you, a visit to this museum is a must.

Museo del Templo Mayor
Museo del Templo Mayor

Get intrigued as you step into the ruins of this ancient temple the Aztecs that was once believed to be the very center of the universe. Located near the city center plaza, the museum is one of its most famous features where you can spent an interesting day taking a guided tour of the place. Walk through the various levels at the museum each of it dedicated to pre-historic relics and artifacts. This is a good place to visit if you wish to gain a brief understanding of the Aztecs.

Frida Kahlo Museum
Frida Kahlo Museum

Marvel at the elegant structure within which this famous museum in Mexico City is housed. The rich blue exterior is in sharp contrast to the cool interiors of the building which is where famous artist Frida Kahlo was born. Enjoy looking through some of her most famous paintings here along with those by her husband Diego Rivera as well as several other contemporary artists of their time. Enjoy looking at the beautiful way in which the interiors have been preserved with Frida’s collection of clothes, corsets, domestic materials, and other personal effects.

Leon Trotsky Museum
Leon Trotsky Museum

Wander through this pleasant house that was once the place where the exiled Russian revolutionist Leon Trotsky spent the final three years of his life. It is a great place to visit when you are in the city and particularly if you are interested in political history and the life of Socialist and Communist leaders. Learn much about the bygone era and Trotsky and his life and mission through the well explained photographs here and then venture out into the well kept gardens outside.

Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes
Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes

One of the most iconic and best museums in Mexico City, the Palace of Fine Arts is also among the grandest buildings here. Enjoy watching the spectacularly opulent façade of the structure that reflects Art Nouveau and Neoclassical influences. The multiple domes are intricately covered in a lattice of iron and Marroti crystal. Enter the magnificent structure and witness a range of beautiful murals that have been created by some of the country’s most well-known muralists.

Museo Memoria y Tolerancia
Museo Memoria y Tolerancia

Explore this important museum in Mexico that serves a specific purpose of spreading the importance of tolerance, non-violence, human rights. Enjoy going through the eye-opening exhibits here that explain in a unique manner about the impact of discrimination, indifference, and global violence. The unusual concept of this museum makes it extremely famous and among the best museums in Mexico City. The two main sections here depict the global fight between the concepts of harm and hope and are aptly named Memory and Tolerance.

Museo Universitario de Arte Contemporáneo (MUAC)
Museo Universitario de Arte Contemporáneo (MUAC)

This sprawling edifice spans almost 14,000 square feet of floor space, and is one of the most famous museums in Mexico City. Located on the grounds of the city’s largest public library, the exquisite architecture of the structure draws a huge number of visitors here. As you step inside, you will discover a comprehensive collection of art including contemporary Mexican artwork starting from the 1950s. You can see a variety of paintings, drawings as well as videos and sound installations.

Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL)
Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL)

This national art museum is located in the downtown historical center of the city and is housed in a Neoclassical building. Visit the ancient structure for a deep understanding of Mexican art through studies and exhibits that showcase Mexican works of art produced between the second half of the sixteenth century and 1954. The building itself is quite impressive with its distinct architecture that draws significant lovers of art here from all parts of the country.

Museo de Arte Popular
Museo de Arte Popular

Well known for its folk art collection, this famous museum in Mexico City is located within a white Art Deco building in the historic center of the city. Witness the beautiful manner in which Mexico’s diverse folk art and handicrafts have been showcased here. These include pieces ranging from textiles and pottery to much more. Get a deep insight into the way of life of the indigenous people of Mexico through their creative works.

Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo
Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo

Enter the hallowed interiors of one of the most loved museums in the city among contemporary art enthusiasts. The museum’s popularity primarily rests upon its spectacular collection of art work by Rufino Tamayo, donated by the artist for the creation of this museum. You can also enjoy an enviable international collection from the 1960s-70s. Do not miss out on one of the museum’s most eye-catching display, “Infinite Obsession” by Yayoi Kusama which is yet another reason for the museum’s huge popularity.

Museo del Tiempo Tlalpan A.C.
Museo del Tiempo Tlalpan A.C.

This small yet interesting museum that can be visited only with a guided tour is also considered one of the best museums in Mexico City. Gaze at the multitudes of time pieces showcased here from all ages and of various types. The museum boasts several unique pieces including an eclectic collection of radios, gramophones, analytical laboratory balances, and even a Juke Box. Get transported to the olden days as you explore the various sections of the museum featuring Art Deco items.

Museo Dolores Olmedo
Museo Dolores Olmedo

Take a tour of this beautiful museum formerly the home of the famous Mexican businesswoman Dolores Olmedo who converted her property into a museum about two decades ago. The estate offers much to see for visitors with its sprawling gardens and interesting features, the impressive hacienda-style architecture as well as the brilliant Mexican art exhibits. Explore some of Olmedo’s private collections which also includes worked by Frida Kahlo and her husband alongside Mesoamerican sculptures and figurines.

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Faq’s Of Museums In Mexico City

What is the most visited museum in Mexico City?

    The most visited museum in Mexico City is the Museo Nacional de Antropología. The museum holds an enviable and comprehensive collection of pre-Hispanic art which attracts large numbers of art lovers to this museum from all across the globe.

What is the biggest museum in Mexico?

How long does it take to tour a museum in Mexico City?

What is the best time to visit Frida Kahlo Museum?

How to reach Museo del Tiempo Tlalpan?

How to book Leon Trotsky Museum tickets online?