Papalote Children’s Museum

The Papalote Children’s Museum (Papalote museo del niño) is a very bright spot in the Forest of Chapultepec.  A one-of-a-kind museum, it’s a safe space for kids with the slogan “touch, play and learn.” Opened just in 1993, they’ve since expanded to cities like Cuernavaca and Monterrey with the same concept.

“Papalote” is a Nahuatl word for “kite.” In whatever language, it means this is a place for fun. The building is a massive blue castle looking out over the Chapultepec forest. It’s also a visible landmark for miles in every direction.

Covered in ceramic tiles arranged in unique geometrical towers, the building was designed by the renowned architect, Ricardo Legorreta. The museum is laid out in five sections. Kids are led through such diverse topics such as nature, biology, civics, and creativity workshops. There are also temporary exhibitions and special events. Parents needing a break should check out the the Jardin Maya, an archaeology-themed garden with a pyramid to explore

Schools and other organizations get special tours during the week. The museum also has special Thursday-night open houses for grown-ups. The museum also runs an IMAX megascreen, one of the biggest in the country for screening educational movies and documentaries.

• Tickets to the Papalote Children’s Museum can be purchased on the website or at the entrance to the museum.

Capital Bus stops here on a meandering tour through section 2 of Chapultepec. From here, buses will continue west to the Santa Fe shopping area. This stop is especially good for access to the museum, but in truth many parts of the park are easily accessible from here, including the Los Pinos Cultural Complex and the Calzada Flotante.

Museum Hours:
Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.