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Museum of the Axolotl and Amphibian Conservation Center
Located inside the zoo, but an attraction of its own, this popular facility exhibits the axolotl, Mexico City's unusual native salamander species, which reproduces without ever reaching adulthood and can re-grow almost any part of its body, but is now almost extinct in the wild. On the first floor you can see the axolotls and several related species in naturalistic enclosures, and on the second floor you can see the tanks where they're breeding them to keep the species alive. The building has a limited capacity, and on crowded days (weekends) you'll have to line up to enter.
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Chapultepec Zoo
Large, modern zoo in the same style as major ones in the U.S., famous for its pandas. Very crowded on weekends. Highlights for foreign visitors are the Anfibium axolotl center showcasing the unique endangered salamanders native to Mexico City, and the tropical forests section which is relatively uncrowded and has a large proportion of animals native to Mexico and Central America, like jaguars, spider monkeys, and tapirs. Backpacks are allowed inside, but not food or drinks (a bottle of water may or may not be allowed). It is customary to stop first at the vendors outside the entrance to buy a toy spider monkey ("changuito") to wear on your head during your visit.
Mexico's "White House", which isn't white, but is the official residence of recent presidents. Since Andres Lopez Obrador was elected president in 2018, he and his successor have chosen to live in the Capitol building (Palacio Nacional), believing Los Pinos to be too opulent for a Mexican public servant. That decision leaves the official residence and grounds open for public tours and cultural events. Los Pinos is actually referred to as a "complex" because it isn't just one building, but rather several, in a quiet, natural area of Chapultepec Park. The presidential residence is the Casa Lazaro Cardenas, a grand 2-story mansion with marble floors, a sweeping grand staircase, and huge windows creating a bright, cheery atmosphere. When heads of state would come to visit, they would be invited to stay in a separate mansionː either the Casa Miguel Aleman or the Casa Adolfo Ruiz Cortines. The complex also includeds nature trails, tennis courts, and a helicopter pad. Today, the complex hosts outdoor concerts and cultural performances, workshops in cooking and regional arts, and other cultural activities.
National Anthropological Museum
One of the top anthropology museums in the world. This enormous complex highlights the development and cultures of Mexico's many indigenous peoples from thousands of years ago to today, and is full to the brim with ancient artifacts and artwork. Also, the museum itself is famous for its architecture. It is possible to spend days here to see everything – allocate two hours at the very least, prioritize your specific interests, and be sure not to miss the Aztec sun stone in the big room at the end of the plaza. Interpretive signage is underwhelming and mostly in Spanish - you'll enjoy the museum more if you go just to enjoy the ancient artwork rather than to get a history lesson. Bags must be checked; personal photography is permitted (no flash or tripods). If possible it is best to avoid visiting on Sundays, when it is usually mobbed. There is a restaurant on-site.
Chapultepec Lake
There are actually two lakes that are connected, a bridge spanning them at mid-point. Lounge around the shore, or rent a canoe or paddleboat to explore.
Venue for performing arts and popular entertainers. Shows include family friendly events like the Nutcracker Suite, Placido Domingo, and Disney on Ice as well as popular Latin and international performers including Chayanne and Gilberto Santa Rosa. Seats 10,000. Tickets available through TicketMaster.
David Alfaro Siquerios Museum
This museum showcases the works of famed Mexican muralist David Alfaro Siquerios.