Family Attractions

Travelling with kids is never dull — and in Mérida, it’s never short on adventure either. Whether you’re raising toddlers, tweens, or teens (or just trying to keep everyone fed and hydrated in 35-degree heat), the White City and its surroundings are bursting with activities that are fun, affordable, and totally unforgettable. From swimming in ancient cenotes to chowing down at bustling markets, Mérida makes it easy to trade screen time for sunshine — even if someone does have a meltdown in the middle of Plaza Grande.

Here are our top 10 family-friendly things to do in and around Mérida — packed with culture, nature, and just enough chaos to keep it real.

1. Cool Off in a Cenote – Nature’s Most Magical Swimming Hole

There’s nothing quite like the look on your kids’ faces the first time they swim in a cenote. These natural sinkholes, formed by collapsed limestone and filled with crystal-clear groundwater, are scattered throughout the Yucatán. Some, like Cenote X’batun or Cenote San Ignacio, are shallow and safe enough for young swimmers (bring floaties just in case). It’s like a real-life jungle adventure — minus the wild animals and with a snack stand nearby. Plus, it gives you the ultimate “cool parent” points for skipping the hotel pool in favour of an underground lagoon.

2. Wander the Sunday Market in Plaza Grande – Bikes, Balloons & Bites

Every Sunday, Mérida’s city centre transforms into a giant pedestrian-friendly playground during “Domingos en Mérida.” Streets close to traffic, vendors pop up with handmade crafts and local treats, and there’s often live music, clowns, and traditional dancers in the square. Rent a four-person bike cart and cruise down Paseo de Montejo or let the kids pick out a colourful toy or balloon (and watch them beg for another five). Parents, don’t forget to grab a marquesita – the crispy, cheesy crepe you didn’t know you needed.

3. Visit the Animaya Zoo – With a Safari Twist

Mérida’s Animaya Zoo isn’t your typical walk-around-the-petting-pen affair. It features a safari-style bus that takes you through large animal enclosures where zebras, ostriches, and antelope roam. There’s a panoramic tower, playgrounds, paddle boats, and a surprisingly solid museum inside. Best of all? It’s free. Your wallet will be just as happy as your kids, which is a rare and magical combo.

4. Take a Day Trip to Progreso – Beach, Paletas, and Pelicans

A short 20-30-minute drive north lands you at Progreso Beach, where the shallow, warm waters of the Gulf make it ideal for kids who want to splash without worrying about big waves. You can rent lounge chairs, grab a coconut or paleta (frozen fruit popsicle), and even watch the pelicans do their version of cannonballs off the pier. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot flamingos on the way in, especially if you drive through the salt flats near Las Coloradas. Pro tip: bring a change of clothes. The beach and popsicles are a messy but delightful combo.

5. Explore Mayan Ruins – With Space to Run Wild

You might not think “ancient ruins” screams “kid-friendly,” but Yucatán’s archaeological sites are surprisingly fun for families. Uxmal is a standout — the pyramids are grand, the grounds are spacious, and there’s enough shade to keep everyone from melting. Bonus: you can still climb a few of the structures, so the kids can feel like mini-explorers. Bring water, snacks, and your best Indiana Jones voice.

6. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride – Old-School Mérida Style

For a quiet evening activity, hop into one of the city’s traditional “calezas” — charming horse-drawn carriages that clip-clop through the streets of Mérida’s historic centre. It’s a gentle, slow-paced way to take in the sights, hear the local history, and rest those little legs that might be dragging after a full day of walking. Younger kids will be delighted by the novelty of riding in a “princess carriage,” while you’ll appreciate not having to carry anyone.

7. Run Wild at Parque de la Plancha – Mérida’s Mega Urban Playground

This massive new park in the heart of the city is a total game-changer for families. Think of it as Mérida’s version of Central Park — with a Yucatecan twist. Parque de la Plancha is packed with bike paths, skate parks, splash pads, shaded play structures, grassy fields, food stands, and even a little train that loops around the grounds. It’s the perfect spot to let the kids burn off some energy (preferably before a long dinner) while parents kick back with an agua fresca under the trees. Best of all, it’s free, clean, and safe — and feels like it was made with families in mind. Bring a picnic, rent bikes, or just follow wherever your kids bolt to first. There’s something here for everyone — including your sanity.

8. Discover Interactive Fun at the Great Museum of the Mayan World

When you need an air-conditioned day (and you will), El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a fantastic choice. It’s modern, interactive, and packed with exhibits that bring ancient Mayan culture to life. There are digital displays, life-sized statues, and even a few touch-and-learn stations. It’s engaging enough for adults and kids alike — especially if you’ve just seen ruins in person and want to tie it all together. Plus, the architecture of the museum alone is worth the visit.

9. Visit a Working Hacienda – History Meets Hammocks

Take a family-friendly tour of a restored hacienda, like Sotuta de Peón, where kids can ride a horse-pulled cart (called a “truck”) through the henequén fields, see how fibre is processed, and splash in a private cenote. The whole experience feels like stepping back in time, but with the added comforts of hammocks, cold drinks, and a restaurant on-site. It’s educational, outdoorsy, and just adventurous enough for the whole crew.

10. Join a Local Festival – Because Yucatán Knows How to Party

If you’re lucky enough to visit during a holiday or festival, don’t miss out. Whether it’s Carnaval, Hanal Pixán (the Yucatecan Day of the Dead), or a local saint’s feast day, these events are filled with parades, costumes, street food, and music. Your kids will be mesmerized by the colours, dancing, and fireworks (even if bedtime gets bumped a little later). It’s a beautiful way to experience local culture together — and maybe shake off some Canadian winter seriousness while you’re at it.