Alameda Central

Alameda Central is just w. of the Palace of Fine Arts between avs. Juárez and Hidalgo. Two Metro stations are close by: Hidalgo (lines 2 and 3) is at the intersection of Hidalgo and Paseo de la Reforma, a block off the park's northwest corner; Bellas Artes (lines 2 and 8) is at the park's northeast corner. Smack in the middle of Mexico City's concrete jungle, this rectangular, centrally located green space—an Aztec market prior to the Conquest and during most of the 19th century a retreat reserved for the wealthy—is surrounded by museums, theaters, hotels and restaurants.

The park is large, clean and well maintained, landscaped with poplar, ash and willow trees. There are benches, fountains, French sculptures and a Moorish kiosk. It's lively every day, but weekends bring the best people watching; food and drink stands set up and vendors peddle their wares to the assembled crowd of families, couples and roving packs of teenagers.

Facing Avenida Juárez along the park's southern boundary is the Juárez Monument (Hemiciclo de Juárez), which has a semicircular design. It honors Benito Juárez, president of Mexico from 1858 to 1872; his marble likeness stands atop a pedestal surrounded by columns. A celebration on Mar. 21 honors Juárez's birthday.

Public restrooms are available, and there are plenty of police (who patrol on horseback on weekends).