Since undergoing a tourism rebirth in recent years, Mexico’s popularity with travelers just keeps growing. From city cathedrals to cenotes, visitors keep coming to explore all Mexico has to offer.
In an attempt to keep up with demand, Mexico has been expanding its tourist offerings all over the map. Today there is an increasingly vast number of ways to spend your time in this country of complex history, ancient marvels, and stunning beaches. No matter what you are looking for, it’s likely Mexico has you covered.
Mexican authorities have recently announced three new attractions scheduled to open this year, giving travelers yet another reason to visit this beautiful county.
Mazatlán: Sea of Cortéz Aquarium
Commonly referred to as “The Pearl of the Pacific”, the resort town of Mazatlán has recently been growing in popularity among travelers, both short-term and long-term. This cruise port along the Pacific is known for its beautiful beaches and year-round sunny weather.
There is no shortage of things to do in Mazatlán, a favorite pastime is a simple stroll along the 13km seawall known as the Malecon. This seawall/boardwalk is one of the longest of its kind in the world. After a seaside walk in the morning, you can explore the beautifully preserved historic center, starting in the Plaza Machado.
As of March 2023, one more thing to do in Mazatlan is to discover the new Aquarium. The Aquarium Mazatlan is designed to increase the city’s notoriety as a leader in marine biology. Named the Sea of Cortéz Aquarium, it will be Latin America’s largest and one of the top 10 biggest aquariums in the world. The space honors both the nearby Sea of Cortez, as well as the world-famous Jacques Cousteau in both its namesake and its exhibits. At the time of writing, admission for adults is $5 USD and $3 USD for children.
Mexico City: Anfibium, The Axolotl Museum
Another new Mexican attraction dedicated to animals has recently opened in Mexico City. It’s no secret that Mexico’s capital already has a vast list of impressive museums worth visiting, and one more has just been added to the list.
Named Anfibium, this museum focuses on the beloved endangered Mexican salamander, the axolotl. Located in the popular Chapultepec Park, this FREE museum is comprised of laboratories, wetlands, and a conservation center. The museum’s interactive nature aims to help deepen the public appreciation and understanding of these elusive animals.
The conservation and protection of the axolotl can therefore be better achieved with more public education on the declining species. In addition to featuring various axolotls, the museum also houses more than 30 other amphibian species for the public to enjoy.
Yucatan Peninsula: The Maya Train
A long-awaited project is finally scheduled to open later this year, offering tourists a new way to explore the famous Yucatan peninsula. The Maya Train has been rumored for years among those hoping to explore some of the region’s 200+ ancient Mayan ruins.
While the development of the Maya train has been delayed and contested for years, it looks as if this is the year its engines will finally get started. The construction of this project’s tracks led to many new discoveries. As they unearthed numerous new Mayan ruins and historical sites, locals and conservation groups grew increasingly concerned about the preservation of these sites.
Construction controversy aside, the connectivity that the Maya train will bring cannot be disputed. The Maya train will operate on a loop, covering approximately 1,500km, crossing five states, and stopping at 21 stations. By making connections among Cancun, Tulum, Merida, Playa del Carmen, and other lesser-known cities, authorities have stated their hopes for the Maya train to be used by both tourists and locals alike. It should also be noted that the train will be patrolled by dedicated security and police, helping ease passengers’ minds as to any security issues that might arise.
