Parque Emilio Portes Gil Parque del Queso

Emilio Portes Gil Park, better known among locals by the colorful name "Cheese Park" (Parque del Queso), is a cozy public space in the city of Chetumal. It is a popular destination for those seeking a quiet getaway surrounded by greenery in the southeast of Mexico.

The park is named after the prominent Mexican statesman Emilio Portes Gil, but its unofficial "cheesy" name gives the place a special charm and makes it easily recognizable. For travelers, it is not just a square, but an opportunity to see the daily life of the capital of Quintana Roo away from the busy tourist thoroughfares.

The site boasts a high rating among visitors, who appreciate its well-maintained grounds and pleasant atmosphere. Located in the Gonzalo Guerrero neighborhood, it serves as a great example of urban landscaping where tropical nature harmoniously blends with leisure infrastructure.

For your convenience and precise navigation to Emilio Portes Gil Park, below is some reference information about its location.

In this park, guests can enjoy the leisurely pace of life characteristic of the Caribbean region. The main activity here is walking along the well-maintained paths in the shade of sprawling tropical trees. It is the perfect place to recharge after visiting city museums or a long journey.

Families with children often choose this park for their relaxation due to its peaceful setting and the opportunity to spend time in the fresh air. You can have a small picnic on the grass or simply sit on a bench, watching the locals and soaking up the atmosphere of an authentic Mexican town. Nature lovers can spot local flora and fauna typical of this climate zone.

The evening time in the park is a special period when the heat subsides and the space fills with cool air. During this time, the park becomes a place for social gatherings and light activities. Since the territory is open 24 hours, you can even stop by for a late-night stroll under the starry sky, enjoying the quiet and safety of this neighborhood.

The park's location in the central part of the Gonzalo Guerrero neighborhood makes it easily accessible for most tourists. If you are staying in the city center, a walk to Jesús Reyes Heroles 29 will take about 10–15 minutes. This is a great way to get a feel for the city's architecture and rhythm of life on your way to the destination.

For those arriving from outlying areas or Chetumal International Airport (CHT), a taxi is the best option. The ride from the airport takes only 10–15 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 5 kilometers. You can also use local buses that run regularly along Avenida Insurgentes and the surrounding streets.

If you prefer walking along the coast, the path from the popular Boulevard Bahía promenade is about 1.5 km. For those with rental cars, there is usually plenty of street parking available on the nearby streets.

The park's name pays tribute to Emilio Portes Gil — a prominent Mexican politician who served as the country's interim president from 1928 to 1930. His work left a significant mark on Mexico's history, and his memory is immortalized in many place names across the country.

The city of Chetumal itself has deep historical roots dating back to the Mayan era, when this territory was an important center of the Chactemal chiefdom. The city's modern appearance began to take shape at the end of the 19th century, and after the devastating Hurricane Janet in 1955, it was practically rebuilt, which explains the presence of such spacious and well-planned public spaces like this park.

Interestingly, the folk name "Cheese Park" (Parque del Queso) has become firmly established in the local vocabulary. It is believed that this playful nickname is linked to local traditions or simply resulted from the good-natured humor of the residents, turning an official site into a warm and recognizable meeting spot.

An introductory walk through the park usually takes about 30–60 minutes. This is enough time to leisurely stroll through all the paths and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the place.

If you plan to have an outdoor picnic or just want to relax with a book in the shade of the trees, you should allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit. Thanks to its 24-hour operation, a visit here can easily be fitted into any part of your travel schedule.

One of the main advantages of this location is its full accessibility. Emilio Portes Gil Park is open 24/7.

Regardless of whether you prefer early morning walks when nature is just waking up, or want to enjoy the evening cool after sunset, the park gates are always open to guests any day of the week.

Exploring the surroundings of "Cheese Park" will allow you to fully experience the atmosphere of the capital of Quintana Roo. Chetumal is rich in small but interesting sites that are within walking distance or a short drive away.

Enhance your itinerary with a visit to the waterfront, a tour of the monuments, or an introduction to marine flora and fauna in the local aquariums. Below are the nearest attractions: