National Museum of Anthropology

Photo provided by Mexico Tourism Board www.visitmexico.com
Museo Nacional de Antropologia which includes a statue or sculpture and a square or plaza
Museo Nacional de Antropologia which includes a square or plaza and a statue or sculpture
Museo Nacional de Antropologia which includes a square or plaza
Museo Nacional de Antropologia which includes a statue or sculpture


One of the world's finest archaeological museums is home to thousands of artefacts, including Mayan tombstones and an Aztec calendar.

With one of the world's most comprehensive archaeological collections, Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropologia) contains remarkable artefacts from the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. Among them, you'll see reconstructed temples, tombs and headdresses spread across over 20 exhibition rooms, offering a rich insight into Mexican life long before the arrival of the Europeans.

On the ground floor alone, some 8,000 artefacts are on display, sourced from the ancient Mesoamerican civilisations of the Aztecs, Mayans and Olmecs. Marvel at the stone carvings, traditional gravestones and beautiful murals on display.

The most famous artefact you can stop and admire in the museum is the Piedra del Sol, or the “Stone of the Sun”, an Aztec stone calendar which can be traced all the way back to the 1400s. Weighing a backbreaking 21 tonnes, and measuring as much as four metres in width, this basalt stone was found right under one of the main squares in Mexico City. Marvel at the detailed patterns engraved into the stone. Close by, you’ll also be able to see the impressive statues of Aztec goddesses along with a remarkable miniature model of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, long since replaced by present-day Mexico City.

Head upstairs where you can learn about the indigenous peoples who live in Mexico to this day, and how those who descend from the Aztecs and Mayans continue to live. Among the exhibits are household tools, clothes, artworks and religious artefacts.

The museum charges for entry and is open every day except Mondays. You can hire an audio guide from the ticket office, which will tell you more about the exhibits as many are without English-language explanations. After your visit, head to the Historic Center nearby to eat out at one of the restaurants or cafés.

Situated in Chapultepec Park to the west of the city's Historic Center, the National Museum of Anthropology can easily be reached by taking the metro or bus to one of the nearby stops.

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Things to do near National Museum of Anthropology

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City offers a rich cultural experience with engaging activities such as city tours, shopping for local crafts, and enjoying live music. Visitors can immerse themselves in fine arts while exploring a carefully curated cultural itinerary. The surrounding area also features vibrant shopping options, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of education and entertainment.

Shopping

Plaza Polanco, located 3.2km from the National Museum of Anthropology, offers a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and family vibes. Medellín Market, also 3.2km away, showcases local city life, while Cereria de Jesus, 6.4km from the museum, provides unique souvenirs for your trip.

Recreation

Campo Deportivo Militar Marte offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, featuring a range of activities in a lively setting. For music lovers, the Blackberry Auditorium presents entertaining concerts that uplift the spirit. Meanwhile, the Cuernavaca Country Club provides a picturesque golf course, perfect for outdoor relaxation and recreation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Amazing World Fun Center, located 9.7km from the National Museum of Anthropology, where adventure vibes abound. Alternatively, indulge in the excitement of motor racing at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, situated 9.7km away, or enjoy karting at KBR Kartódromo Internacional, 12.9km distant.

Nightlife

The vibrant nightlife near the National Museum of Anthropology features the romantic ambiance of Teatro Metropólitan and Esperanza Iris City Theater, both offering cultural performances just 4.8km away. For thrill-seekers, Aztlán 360, an amusement ride located 1.6km away, promises an exhilarating experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near National Museum of Anthropology

Whether you're a culture enthusiast or seeking a family-friendly experience, the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City offers a wealth of attractions. Explore nearby monuments, urban parks, and art museums that enrich your visit. Don't miss the chance to delve into the fascinating exhibits at the Museo Nacional de Antropología and the history museum, ensuring a memorable cultural journey during your stay.

  • Centro Citibanamex Convention Center: Located approximately 4.8km from the National Museum of Anthropology, this modern venue hosts a variety of events and conferences. Its business-like atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for networking and professional gatherings.
  • Spanish Consulate General: Situated about 1.1km away, this contemporary civic building serves as the diplomatic hub for Spain. Its sleek design and business-oriented environment highlight the importance of international relations.
  • Los Pinos Cultural Complex: Just 1.3km from the museum, this cultural centre offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces. Engage in adventure activities and explore the rich heritage of Mexico in a relaxed setting.

Best time to go to National Museum of Anthropology

The best time to visit National Museum of Anthropology is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.7°F (14.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February61.3°F (16.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
March64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
April67.6°F (19.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May68.4°F (20.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
June65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July62.4°F (16.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August62.1°F (16.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November59.2°F (15.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
December58.5°F (14.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Museum of Anthropology

To save money during your visit to the National Museum of Anthropology, consider travelling in July or December to January when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Saturdays. Avoid Wednesdays for the highest rates. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, focusing on eco-certified options for sustainability. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights and hotel stays for significant savings. Don't forget to explore free activities around the museum, and make use of Mexico City's affordable public transport system to keep your travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Museum of Anthropology are July and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Museum of Anthropology is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around National Museum of Anthropology is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay near the National Museum of Anthropology with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.