Family events in Mexico City

What this section covers. Events and activities for families in a city that is far better equipped for children than its reputation suggests.

The permanent options. Chapultepec fills a day on its own: a free zoo, a lake with pedal boats, the castle on the hill and the Papalote Museo del Niño, built for children to touch everything. Xochimilco and a trajinera ride is the other reliable choice, hired by the boat and by the hour. The Museo del Juguete Antiguo, KidZania and the city's planetariums cover rainy afternoons.

The dated ones. Children's theatre runs on weekend mornings at venues across the city, and the big public holidays — Día de Muertos, the posadas, 30 April for Día del Niño — bring free programming to the parks and squares.

Planning notes. One main activity a day, grouped by area; the journeys eat more time than you expect. Avoid the Metro with a pushchair at peak hours. Most museums close on Mondays, and under-fives travel free on public transport.