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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.
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David Alfaro Siquerios Museum
This museum showcases the works of famed Mexican muralist David Alfaro Siquerios.
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.
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.
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.
The original collection of this modern art museum was donated by the late Oaxacan-Zapoteca artist Rufino Tamayo and his wife, and includes works by Picasso, Rothko, and Miró, Georgia O'Keefe and many others. The collection also includes works from pre-Hispanic civilizations and works by Tamayo himself. Tamayo was heavily influenced by pre-Hispanic cultures, as were other modern artists in Mexico during the 20th century. The museum is handicap accessible with elevators, ramps, and loaner wheelchairs available. An upscale on-site restaurant includes an outdoor garden dining area. An on-site museum store has a good variety of books, prints, and contemporary art objects.
Botanical Garden
5.3 hectare garden showcasing more than 300 species of native Mexican plant life.