10 Best Things to Do in Merida for Fun and Culture
Merida in Mexico has been our home for nearly four years. In that time, we have come to know the best things (and worst) to do in Merida.
As residents, we know Merida well and always like to share our list of the best things to do in Merida with friends and family.
What makes Merida unique? It’s a vibrant and culturally rich city, in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. That alone makes it a special place to visit. But this enchanting destination offers such a wide range of experiences. You can explore historic sites, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine, delve into museums, or shop till you drop – there are endless ways to spend your vacation days in Merida.
Merida is a blend of Yucatan and Spanish heritage, which makes for fascinating city to explore. It is a thriving modern city, with a backdrop of the genteel culture of old. It is also the safest place in all of North America, so far as crime is concerned.
Join us as we share what we consider some of the best things to do in Merida!
1. Visit Centro – the vibrant heart of the City
As the pulsating heart of Merida, the Centro Historico – or just Centro to the locals – is a neighborhood that effortlessly blends history and modernity. It’s always the first place to take any visitors to the city. And after 4 years in Merida, it’s the place we often tend to find ourselves in at the weekend!
One of the highlights of Centro is Plaza Grande (Grand Plaza), a bustling square surrounded by stunning colonial buildings. Here, you can admire the iconic Palacio de Gobierno with its beautiful murals depicting Mexico’s history.
The streets coming off the Grand Plaza are lined with colorful colonial buildings adorned with intricate architectural details that transport you back in time. It’s abuzz with activity and there are restaurants and shops everywhere. These streets are great for picking up souvenirs. It’s a also a great place to ‘people watch’.
Two museums are easily accessed from the Grand Plaza. These are MACAY (Museum of Contemporary Art Ateneo de Yucatán) and the Museo Casa Montejo. More details on both are shown under museums below.
The square itself is always busy with tourists but also people from Merida enjoying their city. At night, the square comes alive with food stalls along the road across from the Cathedral of San Ildefonso.
Cathedral of San Ildefonso – a must-visit for tourists and art lovers.
Merida Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Merida’s historic center. This magnificent cathedral dates back to the 16th century and showcases a unique blend of Spanish Colonial and Mayan influences.
The imposing facade features intricately carved stone details and massive wooden doors that open up to reveal a breathtaking interior. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by soaring vaulted ceilings adorned with beautiful frescoes.
The cathedral houses an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts, including ornate altarpieces, statues, and paintings.
If you’ve got the energy, don’t miss climbing up to the rooftop for panoramic views of Merida’s cityscape. From here, you can admire not only the beauty of the cathedral itself but also get a glimpse into everyday life in this vibrant city.
The cathedral is also the backdrop to the video mapping shows screened at night. Rows of seats are put out for the show but it’s best to arrive early as they get filled quickly once the show starts.
Don’t miss the fun in Centro at Night
The streets are filled with tourists and fun lovers. The many restaurants and bars are soon packed with merry-makers. The sound of laughter, live bands, and Mariachi music fills the air. This is Centro at night! It’s worth the trip just for the buzz.
Down the streets coming off the main square are numerous souvenirs shops and restaurants. Many of the restaurants have courtyards, which adds to the ambiance of the meal. The dishes might be a selection of Yucatan food or international.
On the square, on the furthest side away from the cathedral, regular free folk dance exhibitions are performed to an enthusiastic crowd outside the Palacio de Gobierno. Most nights, the evening is rounded off by the police band marching through the square and lowering the enormous Mexican flag that flies above the square.
From Centro, you can start strolling towards the Paseo de Montejo. It’s free walking tour of about a 20-minute walk if you move quickly but there are many art galleries, more restaurants, and several parks to take in on the way.
2. 4 Best Parks on Calle 60 when walking to Paseo de Montejo
Let’s explore the parks you’ll see on your way to Paseo de Montejo along Calle 60. The road is occasionally blocked to traffic but the sidewalks are wide so you don’t need to worry about cars.
Parque Hidalgo – a cool spot to rest under shade
The first park is close to the Grand Plaza. It is a cool space surrounded by almond trees and is a favorite place for passers-by who like to enjoy the shade of its trees. The park is dominated by a statue of Manuel Cepeda Peraza, the founder of the State’s Literary Institute.
The Church ‘Rectoría Jesús de la Tercera Órden’, with its two towers, sits at the back of the park.
Parque de la Madre – live shows and Yucatan culture
Just one block further along Calle 60 from Hidalgo Park is Parque de la Madre, also known as Mothers Park. The main feature is a marble statue honoring motherhood, which is a reproduction of a work by the French sculptor André Lenoir.
Some of the restaurants that line the park offer live shows during the week, while on Sundays, this and several of the other parks along Calle 60 take part in the Mérida en Domingo program. This highlights various Yucatecan traditions, such as dancing, music, and handicrafts.
Parque de Santa Lucia – Merida’s best park for music
This park had its origins when in 1804 when an attractive square was formed with characteristic arches. In the center of the park, there is an obelisk dedicated to General Sebastián Molas, known for his role in the Yucatan Caste Wars. (His role has changed from ‘hero’ to ‘martyr’ in the inscription.)
In the middle of the park sits a giant “confidente” chair, which has become a popular photo spot for locals and tourists alike.
Parque de Santa Lucia is known for its restaurants and, every Thursday, its music and dance shows. A stage in one corner of the park provides the basis for a series of entertaining shows featuring local artists.
Parque Santa Ana – relax or shop and listen to concerts
The last park on your walk to Paseo de Montejo is the Parque Santa Ana (also known as Plaza de Santa Ana). The Santa Ana church is made entirely of stone, with two elongated pyramid-shaped bell towers.
The park is home to a market and rows of shops in the Mercado de Santa Ana. At night there are often open-air concerts or singing competitions held in the park, which can be entertaining and a chance to sit and relax with a drink from one of the nearby stalls.
In the center of the park is a statue of Andrés Quintana Roo, one of the co-signers of Mexico’s Act of Independence.
From the park, turn along Calle 43, which runs along the Mercado de Santa Ana, and you’ll find yourself at the start of the Paseo de Montejo.
3. Paseo de Montejo – the Grand Boulevard Everyone will Love
Paseo de Montejo is the second most-visited destination we take people to when exploring Merida. This grand boulevard stretches for several kilometers and is lined with stunning colonial mansions, reminiscent of the city’s wealthy past. As you walk along the avenue, you’ll be captivated by the architectural beauty that surrounds you.
It’s fun to watch the open-top bus tours as they creep along the Paseo de Montejo, as the passengers on the top deck all swing their phones from one to the next, desperate to capture the images of each building!
The wide sidewalks, lined with trees, invite leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to take in the grandeur of these historic buildings at their own pace, which is better than a bus tour! Each mansion tells a story of wealth and opulence from a bygone era.
Make sure to stop by some of the notable landmarks along Paseo de Montejo, such as the Museo de Antropología e Historia / Palacio Cantón (the Regional Museum of the Yucatan). This is a grand building that now houses a museum which is well worth a visit (see details below under Museums) and is located about a third of the way along the Paseo.
Toward the far end of the Paseo is Casa Montes Molina (or Quinta Montes Molina), a beautifully preserved mansion. Rather than being a museum, they offer guided tours that provide glimpses into the lavish lifestyles enjoyed by Yucatan’s elite in years gone by.
Take the Time to ‘People Watch’ on the Paseo de Montejo
While exploring all that Paseo de Montejo has to offer, take a break at one of the charming cafes or restaurants dotted along the street. Enjoy a refreshing drink or indulge in some delicious Yucatecan cuisine while taking in the vibrant atmosphere around you.
Marago Café is always on our list of stops. This café is a good place to stop for a break and a drink. Sitting outside watching the passersby is a relaxing way to spend an hour. If it’s hot, the air-conditioned inside is very welcome.
La Exquina restaurant is a pleasant outdoor place to eat and probably where we’ve eaten most along the Paseo. The food is very reasonably priced, given its central location on the Paseo. It’s opposite the Hotel El Conquistador (about which we have had very good reports).
Surprisingly, there are some fascinating birds to be seen along Paso Montejo. Among the most noteworthy are the Golden Fronted Woodpeckers and White Fronted Parrots.
4. The Best Museums to glimpse into Merida’s Past
Museums in Merida offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Yucatan region. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, art, or local traditions, there’s a museum for everyone to explore.
One must-visit museum is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya. This modern and interactive museum takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing the ancient Mayan civilization with its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits. The museum is on the main dual carriageway through the city, not far from Costco. You should have no trouble finding an Uber or taxi to take you.
Museo de Antropología e Historia / Palacio Cantón (the Regional Museum of the Yucatan) along the Paseo de Montejo houses a collection of Mayan artifacts and other pieces from the history of the Yucatan. It’s free on Sundays for tourists.
For art enthusiasts, the MACAY (Museum of Contemporary Art Ateneo de Yucatán), located on the Grand Plaza in Centro, showcases works by renowned Mexican artists as well as contemporary pieces from local talent. The beautifully restored 19th-century building itself is worth visiting!
If you want to delve deeper into the city’s history, head to the Museo Casa Montejo, also located on the Grand Plaza in Centro. Housed in an elegant colonial mansion that once belonged to Francisco de Montejo, it offers a glimpse into Merida’s past through its furniture and decorative arts.
Although the best museums in Merida are in the Centro area, the city also boasts several smaller museums dedicated to specific topics such as photography or regional crafts. These hidden gems are perfect for those seeking unique cultural experiences off-the-beaten-path.
5. The Best of Merida’s Theaters for Culture and Entertainment
Theaters in Merida offer a rich cultural experience for locals and visitors alike. From traditional performances to contemporary plays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most renowned theaters in the city is the Teatro Peon Contreras, located in the heart of Centro. This stunning historic building dates back to 1908 and showcases beautiful architectural details. Inside, you can catch a variety of shows, including ballets, operas, and theatrical productions.
For those interested in more avant-garde performances, La Casa de la Cultura del Mayab is worth a visit. This cultural center hosts experimental theater events that push boundaries and challenge traditional norms. It’s a few blocks from the Grand Plaza in Centro.
If you’re looking for a smaller and more intimate setting, head over to Teatro Armando Manzanero, located very close to the Grand Plaza in Centro. Named after the famous Yucatecan composer, this cozy venue often features local musicians performing live music concerts.
6. Shop ’til you drop in Merida
Shopping in Merida is a delightful experience for both locals and tourists alike. The city offers a wide range of options, from traditional markets to modern malls, ensuring that every shopper’s needs are met.
Some consider the best shops in Merida can be found in the Centro area. (To me, unless you’re looking for souvenirs, there are better places!) Here you’ll find numerous boutique shops selling unique clothing, accessories, and home decor items. These small independent stores often showcase the work of local artisans, allowing you to support the community while finding one-of-a-kind treasures.
For those looking for a more upscale shopping experience, Paseo de Montejo is the place to be. This grand boulevard is lined with luxurious boutiques featuring high-end fashion brands and designer labels. Explore these elegant stores and indulge in some retail therapy.
The Best Shopping Malls in Merida – Modern and Fun
After browsing the shops of Centro and the Paseo de Montejo, you wish to indulge in luxury brand shopping at Merida’s shopping malls – air-con! The city has excellent, modern malls.
These malls include Gran Plaza, Plaza Altabrisa, or Galerias Mall – the Harbor and La Isla, Merida has it all! From trendy fashion outlets to electronics stores offering all the latest gadgets – there’s something here for everyone.
One popular shopping mall in Merida is Plaza Altabrisa, located in the northern part of the city. This modern shopping center is known for its wide range of stores and amenities. With over 200 shops, including popular clothing brands like Zara and H&M, you’ll find something to suit your style.
Another must-visit mall is Galerias Mérida, about 4 miles (6km) from Paseo de Montejo. This spacious mall boasts a variety of stores catering to different tastes and budgets. From high-end fashion boutiques to affordable department stores like Liverpool and Sears, there’s something for everyone here – including an ice skating rink!
If you’re interested in local crafts and souvenirs, head to Gran Plaza, less than a mile (1.6 km) from Galerias. This mall not only offers a great selection of stores but also hosts regular events showcasing traditional Yucatecan artistry.
Two other malls merit mention – the Harbor and La Isla. Both are slightly further from Centro but both are more than simple malls. They have multiplex cinemas, lakes, and other activities. La Isla even has a theme park.
When it comes to dining options at malls in Merida, you won’t be disappointed. Most malls feature food courts that offer international fast-food chains and local eateries serving up delicious Mexican dishes. All have various well-known restaurant chains represented.
Merida has Markets for Everyone – from Handicrafts to Food
If you’ve had your fill of modern shopping malls and you want a more authentic shopping experience, head to the markets scattered throughout Merida, like Barrio de Santa Ana, Garcia Rejon Market, and San Benito Market. These bustling hubs offer an array of goods such as fresh produce, handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
These nice markets but may be limited in what they sell. Here are some other suggestions:
Located about 500 yards from the Grand Plaza in Centro, the Mercado Lucas de Galvez is a must-visit for those looking for an authentic local experience. Here you will find rows upon rows of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, spices, and more. The sights and smells alone are enough to make your mouth water. This is also the place to try out Yucatan street food!
Another must-visit market is the Mercado Santiago, known for its delicious street food options. From mouthwatering tacos to refreshing aguas frescas, this market offers a variety of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.
Don’t miss the Slow Food Market!
If you’re looking for a different kind of shopping experience, head over to the Slow Food Market at Garcia Gineres on the corner of Avenue Reforma and Calle 33B. This organic market focuses on sustainable farming practices and offers a wide variety of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, dairy products, Artisanal breads baked to perfection, homemade jams, baked goods, and more. It’s held every Saturday morning but by 1 pm most stalls have closed. It is very popular with locals, tourists and ex-pats in Merida. The Platos Rotos restaurant along Calle 33B serves good-value local food.
There’s another Slow Food Market (called near Slow Food Market Norte) Gran Plaza. It’s smaller but often has live music.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through colorful stalls filled with authentic Mexican products.
7. Where to find the Best Food and Drink in Merida
Where to eat and drink in Merida? What are the best restaurants in Merida? These are almost impossible questions to answer. The range is from cheap street food to outrageously priced nouvelle cuisine. Surprisingly, some of the best food in Merida is also among the cheapest.
You won’t be disappointed with the incredible culinary scene this vibrant city has to offer. From traditional Yucatan foods to international cuisine, there’s something for every palate and wallet. You’ll soon make your own choice about which is the best restaurant in Merida!
In Centro, you’ll find numerous restaurants serving up delicious local dishes, burgers, and other international fare. Here you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Merida.
You may decide to sit outside and absorb the vibrant atmosphere or choose to relax while eating in one of the restaurants with a serene courtyard.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, head over to Paseo de Montejo. Here, you can indulge in gourmet Mexican fare while enjoying the elegant surroundings of beautifully restored mansions.
For those craving international flavors, Merida boasts an array of global cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, Italian pasta, or juicy burgers, there are plenty of options available throughout the city.
No trip to Merida would be complete without sampling some refreshing beverages. Sip on a classic margarita made from fresh lime juice and tequila or cool off with a frosty michelada – beer mixed with lime juice and spices.
With its diverse culinary offerings ranging from traditional Yucatan dishes to international delights, Merida is sure to satisfy even the most discerning foodies’ cravings! But if you want to try Yucatan traditional food, look no further:
8. Yucatan Food Favorites to Suit all Tastes in Merida
There are many Yucatecan dishes to try in Merida, some with confusing names. Here is a list of our favorites:
- Cochinita pibil, a traditional Mayan slow-roasted pork dish marinated with aromatic spices and wrapped in banana leaves before being slow-cooked to perfection.
- Another must-try dish is poc chuc, which features grilled pork loin marinated in sour orange juice. It’s served with black beans, rice, and warm tortillas.
- Sopa de lima is a lime and chicken soup – this Yucatecan dish ranked among the top 5 best soups in the world in the 2023 edition of the culinary guide Taste Atlas.
- You can indulge in panuchos – crispy tortillas topped with black beans, shredded turkey or chicken, pickled onions, and avocado; or try salbutes – fried corn tortillas piled high with shredded meat, lettuce, tomato salsa, and tangy habanero sauce.
- For seafood lovers, there are plenty of fresh seafood options available. From ceviche to grilled fish tacos, you’ll find an array of mouth watering dishes from the region’s bountiful waters.
- Or you could try the tikin xic fish. This traditional Yucatan food preparation consists of fish fillets marinated in annatto paste (achiote) which are then wrapped in banana leaves before being grilled to perfection.
- Two traditional Yucatecan drinks you can’t miss are horchata or jamaica (pronounced ham -ike-ah). Both are refreshing beverages made from rice or hibiscus flowers respectively.
Whether you’re exploring street food stalls or dining at upscale restaurants specializing in Yucatecan food, be prepared to have your taste buds amazed by the variety and richness of flavors this region has to offer. So go ahead – let your culinary adventure begin!
9. Don’t miss these Exciting and Vibrant Festivals in Merida
Festivals in Merida are a vibrant celebration of its rich cultural heritage. From traditional events steeped in Mayan traditions to modern music and art festivals, there is always something exciting happening in this city.
Another important festival is Hanal Pixán, also known as the Day of the Dead. The festival is a combination of Mayan rituals and Catholic customs to celebrate the dead. This ancient tradition honors departed loved ones with colorful altars filled with their favorite foods and drinks. Families gather together to remember their ancestors and celebrate life through music and dance.
Music lovers should not miss Mérida Fest – an annual event that celebrates the city’s founding anniversary with concerts featuring renowned national and international musicians across different genres including rock, jazz, salsa, and classical music.
La Noche Blanca is a festival organized by the Mérida City Council. The timing varies from year to year, with some years having it twice. If you’re in Merida at the right time, this is a festival you must not miss! Centro and the surrounding area come alive – more than normal.
Restaurants vie with each other to attract patrons. Some offer great deals on local foods, while others arrange for live music or dancing such as flamenco. Free concerts are given in the parks between Centro and Paseo de Montejo.
One year, we watched an impromptu screening of a Charlie Chaplin film displayed on the wall of a house along Calle 60, with rows of chairs set in the road and sidewalk. (Calle 60 is closed during La Noche Blanca.)
Every street seems to have its own attraction. It’s a brilliant night out (or nights as it runs for several nights with different events each night).
10. Animaya, a Great Treat for your Kids in Merida
If you want to give your kids (or yourself) a break from museums or shops, Animaya is a must-visit attraction in Merida. It offers endless fun and excitement for people of all ages. This modern amusement park has something to offer everyone.
For us, the two biggest draws were the Bicentennial Zoological Park and the Botanic Gardens, which boasts over 900 species of flora.
If you’re with kids, you may enjoy the safari ride, aboard a small truck, which takes away the need to walk in the heat. Or you can tour the monkey islands while enjoying a ride on a catamaran. There’s also a water park for the family, which such delights as the water net, water slides, synchronized jets, and a tunnel.
The kids also have a playground and various interactive exhibits.
The zoo has animals from around the world, as well as Yucatecan fauna. There’s a Reptile room, in a rustic Mayan house, which has a range of lizards, as well as poisonous and non-poisonous snakes on show. There is an aviary and a nocturnal house so you can see animals that would normally only venture out at night, such as ferrets, owls, bats, and others.
11. La Plancha Park, a great place for families and visitors
Yes, the title says 10 attractions, but this is Merida. New things open all the time!
La Plancha Park was opened on 17th November 2023 by the President of Mexico.
It is part of an ambitious plan to make Merida a tourist magnet, given the newly opened Mayan Train.
La Plancha Park is ideally situated in the center of Merida. It is a short walk from the Paseo de Montejo, and linked by the newly opened Gastronomic Corridor.
We enjoyed a full day at the park, walking, eating, and admiring all the activities – we were too tired after walking the entire park to enjoy any of the collection of gym equipment.
The park is 22 hectares in size and was designed as Merida’s answer to Central Park in New York. The park is in four main parts, which include a dazzling array of:
- Kid’s playgrounds
- Outdoor gyms for children and adults
- Cycle paths
- Lakes
- Dog parks
- Skateparks
- Interactive fountains
- Museum of Light
- Train Museum
- An enormous food court, with stalls and restaurants
- The IE Tram to connect to the Teye Mayan Train station
- And much more.
It’s an impressive project, which has been finished in a remarkably short time due to efforts by the builders and military.
Merida is famous for its safety, but the park has 129 CCTV cameras to further ensure the safety of anyone who visits.
If you want to relax in the peace of a quiet park in the middle of the city of Merida, just a stone’s throw from Paseo de Montejo – this is the place. Over three thousand trees have been planted to give shade and encourage birdlife. Cost – MXN 0 / free!
To find out more about the La Plancha Park, click here: La Plancha Park – the City’s Green Lungs
Getting about in Merida
The city of Merida can be thought of as being in two parts inside and outside the Periferico. The Periferico is a highway that encircles the city.
Inside the Periferico are Centro, the museums, the majority of the larger malls, La Plancha, and the various food markets. The architecture you will want to photograph is within the Periferica.
Outside the Periferico as the newly built housing areas, like Las Americas and Gran Santa Fe. There are also some nice places to visit like Animaya.
Public transport in Merida is pretty good – depending on where you are. Inside the Periferico, you should find buses running almost everywhere. Outside, not so much.
Even if there are buses, I favor taxis. It’s a personal choice but queueing for a bus in mid-summer is way too hot!
For taxis, read Ubers. Although Ubers are quite cheap compared to many countries, they can be difficult to find at peak times or when it rains. Although we have our own car, sometimes we need to use a taxi.
If you are outside the Periferico, you can have difficulty getting an Uber, especially at peak times.
If Uber is being troublesome, we fall back on InDriver. It’s an easy app to download. The one downside is you offer your price. My advice would be to go on Uber to find out the current going rate and then knock MXN10 to 50 off the price and see what happens. Don’t be too quick! The first few prices will often be way above your offer. But you may find someone who wants the fare.
InDriver, a cheaper alternative to Uber
Unlike Uber whose drivers cancel the moment they see a better option, InDriver is strict about driver cancellation. If a driver accepts your offer, you can be fairly certain he’ll turn up. InDriver is cash only.
Before we bought our car, we used a rental car. If you use a rental, you’ll have a lot more flexibility. But don’t rely 100% on your GPS (Google Maps or Waze). On at least one occasion, they have sent me the wrong way down a one-way street!
With so Much To Do in Merida – You have Choices to Make!
This is our list of the 10 best things to do in Merida when you visit. These are the best things in Merida to enjoy if you’re only here for a few days. If you are using a car rental in Merida, you can go further afield within the city and explore the back streets. There are many small plazas, shops, and parks away from the Centro district.
If you visited a different restaurant every night for a year, you would have barely scratched the surface. The same is true if you visited a different café every day for a year, but more so!
Have fun and travel safely!
Don’t miss the exciting places to visit:
If you want to go further to explore afield and enjoy exciting day trips look no further. Find the best Mayan ruins, nearby cenotes, amazing cities, haciendas, and much more by clicking one of these links:
The Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan
David H
After spending months in places like Playa del Carmen and Ajijic (near Lake Chapala, Guadalajara), my family and I have been living for the past four years in the Yucatan and enjoying this fabulous part of Mexico.
I've written many travel blogs for other travel sites over the years before starting Wonky Compass. I have three books published on Amazon.
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