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5 parks for a memorable family afternoon in Mérida

In Mérida's parks it's not only children who have fun. Thanks to the safety and cleanliness around them, they'll be your favourite places for quality time with those you love.

Parks in Mérida
Parks in Mérida · Photo: Vida en Yucatán

In Mérida’s parks it’s not only children who have fun. Thanks to the safety and cleanliness around them, they’ll be your favourite places for quality time with those you love.

Life in Mérida tends to be quiet, and that sometimes means some businesses close their doors early in the evening. For some families this can be an inconvenience, especially when it comes to going out to have fun with the little ones.

In Mérida there are various open spaces specially designed for people to walk outdoors and enjoy the afternoon breeze.

One of those places is the parks. As a relatively small city, Mérida is surrounded by green areas that tend to draw young and old alike.

Parks are an excellent idea for family time, and although some of them work set hours, most keep their doors open so people can enjoy a pleasant while without worrying about the time.

The parks in Mérida that shaped the childhood of old and new generations:

Parque de las Américas

Mérida’s park par excellence. Parque de las Américas is perhaps the most visited by tourists and locals, since it offers a wide variety of amenities that are perfect for all kinds of visitors.

It’s a structure dating from 1945 which, as its name suggests, is a tribute to the countries that make up the American continent.

Parque de las Américas has 4 connected sections, among which stand out: the band shell, the play area, the fountain and the tribute to the Americas.

For the youngest, this park offers a circuit that includes a play area where they can play with other children their age while parents watch from close by.

Parque Zoológico del Centenario

The Parque Zoológico del Centenario was founded in 1910, and its construction served as a way to honour the 100th anniversary of Mexico’s independence.

parks in Mérida
parks in Mérida

At first, this space was only a botanical garden where people could spend the afternoon enjoying nature, but in 1962 the park took a new direction.

From that year it became a zoo, which to this day is one of the parks in Mérida that keeps its doors open for families from across the state to enjoy amenities such as the aviary, the herpetarium and the vast variety of animals it houses.

However, the main attraction here is the so-called “little train”, which takes visitors on a tour of the whole place. Without doubt, an experience not to be missed on your trip through Mérida.

Plaza Grande

Plaza Grande is the city’s most emblematic spot — not only for its majestic views of the Cathedral, the Government Palace or Casa Montejo, but for the natural spectacle you experience there.

This space has no children’s play equipment, but there’s no doubt fun and entertainment are guaranteed, since artistic and cultural events are almost always held in the area.

Parque de la Alemán

One of the largest and busiest parks in the city. There you’ll find everything: from zumba classes to funfair rides and foods like esquites and marquesitas.

It’s common to see people exercising, skating or cycling; it’s also perfect for kids to have fun, since it has a large esplanade where they can run freely for as long as they like.

Parque Tabentha

One of the newest parks in Mérida. Parque Tabentha is in the north of the city, within the residential area of Altabrisa.

There you’ll find a children’s play area, plus a space for adults to exercise or simply sit and enjoy a pleasant while with their loved ones.

Are you ready for the fun? Head to your favourite park and learn more about its history while you learn and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

We also recommend: The best neighbourhood to buy a house in Mérida. Top 8 to help you decide with your heart.

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