What are some of the best things to do in Milpa Alta of Mexico City?
I haven't lived in Milpa Alta as of this writing in October 2022 but I have visited the area on several occasions.
Based on my visits to Milpa Alta, these are the main spots I'd recommend.
Reloj De San Antonio Tecomitl
There is a mini clock tower I recommend called Reloj De San Antonio Tecomitl.
It's not that exciting but is OK to visit and see.
Located in the area of San Antonio Tecomitl.
Agricultural Murals
While Milpa Alta doesn't have as many murals as perhaps Iztapalapa, it does have a few.
A lot of them seem to be agricultural based.
Which makes sense given how agricultural the area and how many crops it serves to Mexico City.
So keep an eye out for these murals. I enjoyed them.
Museo Cuartel Zapatista
This is a museum in San Pablo Oztoptec.
It has historical significance also for being the same building that Emiliano Zapata used at one point during the Mexican Revolution.
I've never been inside the museum as of this writing in 2022 unfortunately because, on both occasions that I went, they were closed despite saying they are open online.
At any rate, I'm sure it's cool just for the historical significance it carries by itself.
Mole
There is a town in Milpa Alta known as San Pedro Atocpan.
In my opinion, it is the best town in Milpa Alta.
It has much more of a charm to it and is nicer all around to spend time in.
It also is known for producing most of the mole that is used in Mexico City.
Give it a try.
Feria Nacional del Mole
Speaking of mole, San Pedro Atocpan also hosts the Feria Nacional del Mole every year around October time.
I was there recently.
It was OK to visit.
Not overly exciting but they have live music like the other ferias Mexico has and also, as you can guess, plenty of mole.
Plenty to buy and bring home with you.
And plenty of restaurants.
My only recommendation is to bring money because it is a little bit more expensive than meals with mole elsewhere in Mexico City.
They were not crazy expensive but you will be spending a little more.
I spent about 25 bucks for 3 beers, some rice, soup, queso fundido and a HUGE chicken covered in mole.
Museo Regional Altepepialcalli
Next, you have a little museum in Villa Milpa Alta.
You'll find some artwork and other stuff inside.
Sometimes they host events here.
All around, it's OK.
Not the best museum I have been to but it's OK.
Taxi Ride Around
One thing I like a lot about Milpa Alta is how rural it is.
Reminds me of home.
It is perfect for those who want to just get in a vehicle and ride around in the countryside.
Most of Mexico City can't offer you that for obvious reasons such as how most of the city is such an urban jungle.
This is one of my favorite things to do in Milpa Alta: just have a driver take me around the area as I enjoy the view of the countryside, agriculture, etc.
Zona Arqueologica -- Terrazas
As I wrote here when going through Milpa Alta, there was some "archeological zone" that Google Maps said existed by San Pedro Atocpan.
However, I wasn't able to find it.
There are photos of it online though.
If you like anything archeological, then I guess go check it out.
And, if you do find it, make sure to let me know in the comments below how you found it so I can find it.
Church Hunting
Similar to Xochimilco of Mexico City, you have plenty of old churches in the area that you can visit.
While taking a taxi ride around, why not check them out?
You can see some photos and learn more in this article I wrote here of my time in Milpa Alta.
Plaza San Martin
In San Pedro Atocpan, there is a nice plaza area to sit down at and relax known as Plaza San Martin.
I liked it more than any other plaza in Milpa Alta.
Alcaldia Milpa Alta
This is the main area in Milpa Alta.
I imagine they probably hold events here every so often.
And all around is a little space you can hang out with, meet up with someone or whatever else.
Teuhtli Volcano
There is a volcano that, according to Google Maps, is technically in Xochimilco but you can access the caves of it on the San Pedro Atocpan side.
It's a volcano that one can enjoy while in Milpa Alta also.
If you are into hiking in general, you'll like this one.
Including other hikes you can find in Milpa Alta area.
Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Milpa Alta
I'm sure there are other things to mention.
Perhaps other annual events similar to the Feria Nacional del Mole that could be mentioned here.
Perhaps interesting celebrations for the Grito de Independencia night, New Years, Day of the Dead, etc.
But this is all I encountered during my brief time in Milpa Alta.
In many ways, Milpa Alta is more of a humble area in Mexico City and its main appeal is in its humbleness.
If you prefer an area with nice people and a small town feel while still being technically in Mexico City, then Milpa Alta is right for you.
Anyway, if you have anything to add, drop a comment below.
And follow my Twitter here.
Thanks for reading.
Best regards,
Matt