Without a doubt Mexico is one of the most fun places that anyone can go to spend a vacation. It’s home to some of the world’s best resorts and to some of the best stretches of sand and surf that you’ll find anywhere. But, there’s a thing about the typical Mexican vacation that people take. While they find themselves enjoying all of that fun in the sun and the amenities that their hotels and resorts are offering, they seldom take the time to go out and actually explore the country.
And that’s a shame, because Mexico is home to some truly exceptional landmarks that should make the list of things to see for any world traveler worth his or her salt. So, if you’re planning a trip to Mexico in the near future, then you’ll definitely want to check out the list below. On it, we’ve pulled together our picks for 20 experience and places and things to see that should absolutely make anyone’s Mexico bucket list.
So, don’t just spend your time daydreaming about all that time you’re going to spend at your hotel and resort! Check out this list we’ve pulled together, and make a commitment to really see all of the great things that Mexico has to offer!
1. Hierve el Agua
It may not be the largest and most powerful waterfall in the world, but it’s definitely one you can swim underneath.
2. Tulum’s Clifftop Castle
Looking out over a limestone cliff, you can have your day in the sun and an enjoy some culture too when you make the trek.
3. Paricutin Volcano
As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, there’s no reason that this volcano – the youngest in the world – shouldn’t make your list.
4. Rio Secreto
A river that’s completely underground? That’s exactly what this is, and it’s even cooler than it sounds.
5. Playa Norte
Hey, you’re going to hit the beach when you’re in Mexico, so why wouldn’t you go to the country’s most picturesque?
6. The Tequila Express
Learn all about the history of tequila making, take a train ride, and maybe get a bit of a buzz going on… What’s not to love?
7. Hidden Beach
Not all beaches are on the shore, you know! Just take this beach, for example, which is at the bottom of a cave…
8. Frida Kahlo’s Home
You’ll want to make a trip to this one-of-a-kind destination as early in the day as possible so you can avoid the crowds and truly experience it.
9. Chichen Itza
No doubt, you’ve seen the pictures in history books. Well, nothing compares to seeing Chichen Itza firsthand.
10. Palacio des Bellas Artes
Located in the heart of Mexico City, this just might be the very beating heart of Mexico’s artistic culture overall.
11. Island of Dolls
The easily terrified need not apply for this one… But, this strange monument of dolls is crazy and was built by one man over a period of decades.
12. Las Pozas Surrealist Gardens
The name says it all here, and this is without a doubt one of the most Instagram-worthy items on this list!
13. Sunset at Land’s End
There are some truly breathtaking sunsets to be enjoyed in Mexico, but few if any compare to this one.
14. Cancun Underwater Museum
Once you learn how to scuba dive, you can check out the world’s deepest-under-the-ocean sculpture museum.
15. San Miguel de Allende
If you’ve never heard of this city, then that should change. It’s absolutely gorgeous and home to wonderful restaurants, bars, hotels and museums.
16. Pyramids of Monte Alban
You’ll find this incredible site near Oaxaca. It is what’s left of the ancient Zapotec civilization.
17. Playa del Carmen
Cabo may be the big name when it comes to partying in Mexico, but Playa del Carmen offers more balance (and we think more fun).
18. The Day of the Dead Festival
The Day of the Dead is a big thing in Mexico, and taking it in somewhere like Oaxaca is a thing to experience.
19. Museo Soumaya
Forget about the Louvre in Paris. You haven’t seen a unique museum from the outside until you’ve seen this!
20. Mexican Wrestling
Forget about the big-budge bore of American “professional” wrestling. Mexican wrestling is where it’s really at.