Why Mexico City?

Tess visited Mexico City first and immediately fell in love with it. After we got engaged, we came back together, and it didn’t take long for Josh to understand why. The food, the culture, the architecture, the energy of the city, there is so much here that we love. As we thought about where we wanted to get married, we loved the idea of choosing somewhere new to both of us and making it part of our story together. We’re so excited to share a place we love with the people we love most.

A Little About CDMX

Mexico City sits on the site of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital founded on an island in Lake Texcoco in the 14th century. Today, it’s one of the largest cities in North America and sits more than 7,000 feet above sea level. It’s home to more than 150 museums, one of the highest concentrations of museums of any city in the world. Its streets bring together centuries of history, from Aztec ruins and Spanish colonial architecture to Art Deco, modernism, and some of the best food anywhere. It’s huge, layered, energetic, and nearly impossible to experience the same way twice.

Mexico City, Mexico

Good To Know

It’s big. Really big. Greater Mexico City is home to roughly 22 million people. Think New York, not a typical destination-wedding town. Where you stay matters, and getting between neighborhoods can take time.

Plan around traffic. Traffic can be intense, especially during rush hour. Build in extra time for dinners, events, and trips across town—even short distances can take longer than expected.

Spanish is the primary language. You’ll find English speakers at many hotels and tourist-friendly spots, but not everywhere. A few basic Spanish phrases—and Google Translate—will come in handy.

You’re at 7,350 feet. CDMX sits higher than Denver, so you may feel the altitude at first. Stay hydrated and take it easy when you arrive.

Neighborhoods matter. Each has its own personality. Our recommendations will keep you close to the festivities while giving you a great feel for the city.

Be smart about safety. As in any major city, stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and stick to trusted transportation, especially at night. Our recommendations focus on areas where we feel comfortable sending friends and family.

Tess & Josh at Museo Nacional de Antropología

Cocktails at Voraz, Tess orders the Santa Maria, Josh the Naked and Famous

Tess feeling Josh’s food baby kick after eating our hearts out at Pujol in Polanco

What To Do

Tess has been to Mexico City four times and Josh three, and we still feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface. Here are a few of our favorites, plus a few places still on our list.

Museums & Culture

  • Museo Nacional de Antropología: If you only visit one museum, make it this one. It’s huge, so we recommend focusing your time on the Mexica (Aztec) room.

  • Museo de Arte Moderno: One of Tess’s favorites, with a great collection of Mexican modern art. It’s also right in Chapultepec Park.

  • Frida Kahlo Museum: Frida Kahlo’s former home, studio, and gardens in Coyoacán. Book tickets ahead of time.

  • Museo Soumaya: Still on Tess’s list for our next trip. The building itself is worth seeing, with a huge art collection inside.

Explore

  • Parque México & Parque España: Two beautiful parks in Condesa, close to where we recommend staying. Grab a coffee and wander around.

  • Chapultepec Park & Castle: Spend a few hours exploring the park, lake, and historic castle. The castle also has some of the best views of the city.

  • Lucha Libre: Our favorite activity from our last trip. It’s loud, ridiculous, incredibly fun, and the energy is amazing.

  • Shopping: Roma Norte and Condesa are great for independent boutiques, Mexican designers, vintage, and home goods. Experimental Ceramics was one of Tess’s favorite finds.

  • If You Have More Time: The colorful trajineras of Xochimilco and the pyramids of Teotihuacán are both incredible experiences, but require a little more time and planning. If you're extending your trip beyond the wedding weekend, add them to your list.

Eat

Tess & Josh’s Favorites

  • Tacos del Valle: Our favorite tacos in the city. They’re all over social media, but not overhyped. Expect a wait, it’s worth it.

  • Voraz: Recommended by our wedding planner and an immediate favorite. Great drinks and more creative, unexpected food.

  • Cuina: A favorite for brunch.

    • Tess’s order: Poblano chilaquiles

    • Josh’s Order: Tres Leches French Toast

Still on Our List

  • Taquería Orinoco: A popular taco spot that we somehow haven’t made it to yet.

  • Mi Compa Chava: Known for seafood, aguachiles, and tostadas. High on our list for next time

  • Contramar: A Roma classic known for seafood, especially the tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla.

  • Tacos Los Caramelos: A casual Condesa taco spot known for beef-forward tacos, especially rib eye and asada.