Mexico City is the prime spot to take day trips from to nearby historic landmarks and towns.
Cacahuamilpa Caves
The Cacahuamilpa Caves is one of the largest systems of caves on earth and is “live,” meaning that groundwater is actively filtered through the system, and the formations inside the caverns are still growing. There are ninety large areas within the caves that natural rock walls divide, and twenty of them can be explored by visitors at Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park. These caves are found under a limestone mountain ridge called Cerro de la Corona.
One of the salons inside the caves is called “the auditorium,” and seats have been installed so that space can be rented out. Concerts and other special events have been held inside. Tours of the cave systems are offered on the hour and last for tour hours. Cacahuamilpa Caves Map
Cholula
Cholula is the oldest city in North America and has been inhabited by people since it’s inception. San Gabriel, one of the oldest Franciscan convents in the Western hemisphere, is located in Cholula, as well as Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de Los Remedios, which was constructed in the 1500s and placed over the Great Pyramid. This pyramid can also be explored, including a maze of tunnels that go underneath or the paths on the outside.
Some of the popular activities in Cholula include exploring the Cosme del Razo Market and the Container District, where brightly colored cargo transport containers have been recycled into offices, bars, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more. This urban concept was invented in Cholula by graphic design artist Gabriel Esper Caram and is now used all over the world.
Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
One of the world's largest caves systems is found in Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park, where visitors can tour the caves known for their immense caverns that range from 90 to 240 feet high. The Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caves are still active with stalactites and stalagmites still forming today.
Part of the Sierra Made del Sur, these caves originally formed under the ocean millions of years ago but have been carved out by underground rivers in recent centuries. Guests can only visit the caves by booking a tour; however, visitors can explore on their own after the tour. A bathroom has been installed in the middle of the cave, and there is also an auditorium where musicians have performed.
There is more to do in the park than visit the caves, however. Visitors can also purchase tickets to go rafting, zip-lining, rappelling, and horseback riding. Getting to the National Park from Mexico City takes less than two hours and is accessible via public transportation. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park Map
Hidalgo
Hidalgo is a state within Mexico that can be reached in just 1 ½ hours by car from Mexico City. Among the capital city Pachuca, there are many other thriving towns and cities within the state that offer unique shopping, dining, and adventure activities, among many other attractions and local culture to explore. People love to learn the history of Pachuca in a fun way at the Rehilete Children’s Museum, which is open year-round. The Mining Museum preserves Pachuca’s mining history, and the Museum of Mineralogy provides an educational experience on mining minerals in the area. Archeological sites can be found in Tollan, Pachuca, Huapalcalco, Tula, and Xihuingo that are all within the Hidalgo borders. Most of the state’s lands are mountainous, with rolling hills and valleys, ponds, lakes, rivers, and alpine forests that are perfect for any outdoor activity. Hidalgo
Izta-Popo National Park
The Izta-Popo National Park is revered as one of the most significant and beautiful in the entire world and is only a 2 ½ hour drive from Mexico City. Upon touring the park, visitors first see the great active volcano Popocatepetl, and Iztachihuatl, a dormant volcano, both of which can be explored. These two volcanoes are the second and third highest peaks in Mexico, consecutively. Hiking trails and roads lead to viewpoints and wind through the volcanoes and various mountains that are easily accessible. Near the entrance to the park sits a small museum dedicated to educating the public about the history and facts about the volcanoes and the area. One can even learn some historical facts a little folklore about the famous Hernan Cortes there. While traveling through the volcanoes, people can see the highest peak in all of Mexico, the Pico de Orizaba, which is another active volcano. Izta-Popo National Park
Malinalco
Malinalco is a picturesque city surrounded by large mountains, alpine forests, and lush flora, where many opportunities for outdoor adventures await. The city itself is quite old, and visitors love to immerse themselves in the local culture and unique experiences. The Mexica Shrine is an ancient place that memorialized warriors from years past and is open to the public year-round. There are many unique restaurants that serve the local cuisine that keeps people coming back. Cuauhtinchán is a museum that lies within the Texcaltepec Mountains that surround Malinalco. The museum provides many experiences and exhibits throughout the year, educating the public on the history of the area, along with wildlife exhibitions, as well. The downtown area is filled with cobblestone streets that take visitors to amazing eateries, shops, and other places that provide a cultural experience unlike any other. Malinalco
Teotihuacan
The ancient Teotihuacan city ruins site is just a half-hour from Mexico City and one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico. The origins of the city are unknown; however it is thought that the founders could have been peoples fleeing the Xitle volcano during the first two centuries BC. The town would have flourished between 350 AD and 650 AD. The people that lived here suddenly vanished without a trace. Some of the most important sites to see at Teotihuacan include the main avenue named Cazada de Los Muertos; La Ciudadela, a Citadel with the pyramids, and temples being the main attraction; and The Pyramid of the Moon at the most northern part of the site. Teotihuacan
Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala is only a two-hour drive from Mexico City. The area is full of natural wonders where visitors may take a hot air balloon ride to see volcanoes, mountains, and places like the Peak of Orizaba. Kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and biking are favorites among visitors who wish to explore the forested lands throughout the area. The city has many historical sites and museums to explore. Other notable locations are the Government Palace, Cathedral of the Virgen de la Asunción, Basilica of Ocotlán, Parish of San José, the Art Museum within Tlaxcala, and the Staircase of Heroes. There are many unique shopping and dining places for everyone within the city as well. Tlaxcala
Tula and the Tollan Ruins
These ancient ruins are preserved within Tula de Allende, which is an old city that was founded around the year 600. The archeological site is open to visitors and has a large museum and shop located on the grounds. The Jorge Acosta Museum features artifacts and exhibits, both permanent and others that change frequently, and rooms that tell the story of the ruins.
The tours through the ruins and the museum are self-guided. The Tula and the Tollan Ruins include many temples, pyramids, stone sculptures, statues, homes, and other pieces of the once-thriving city. These ruins are about 1 ½ hour away from Mexico City. Tula and the Tollan Ruins
Valle de Bravo
This beautiful waterfront city is only a couple of hour’s drive from Mexico City. The enormous Valle de Bravo Lake sits directly in the middle of the city, where many outdoor and water adventures await. People often go fishing, swimming, and boating, as well as hang gliding and paragliding over the picturesque landscapes. Valle de Bravo is most known for its water recreation and amazing year-round climate that is perfect for kayaking, water skiing, and sailing. There are also several golf courses and hiking trails throughout the mountainous surroundings. The Mazahua community also calls the Valle de Bravo home, and the city is full of live music, parties, and artisan vendors selling their wares and crafts street side. The Feast of Santa Maria is a great time to visit Valle de Bravo, or during Festivals of Souls during Day of the Dead. Valle de Bravo
