What this section covers. Places that work with children, from parks and planetariums to interactive museums and the sort of afternoon that burns off energy.
Where to start. The Bosque de Chapultepec is the single best answer: free zoo, lake with pedal boats, the castle on top of the hill and the Papalote Museo del Niño designed around touching things. A whole day, in one place, reachable by Metro.
The reliable alternatives. Xochimilco and a trajinera ride — hired by the boat and by the hour, not per person, so a family costs the same as a couple. The Planetario Luis Enrique Erro in the north, with reclining seats under the dome. The Acuario Inbursa, an underground aquarium in Polanco. The Museo del Juguete Antiguo. And the public deportivos, sports centres that charge token fees and are where local families actually go.
When it rains. From June to September it rains most afternoons, which is an argument for doing the outdoor thing in the morning and keeping an indoor option in reserve.
Practical notes. Under-fives travel free. Most museums close on Mondays and are free for residents on Sundays, which means crowds — a Tuesday morning is far more comfortable with small children. Carry water, a cap and sunscreen.
