Bicentennial Park

Bicentenario Park (Parque Bicentenario) is a large-scale public park located within Mexico City, the capital of Mexico. It is a vast green oasis covering about 55 hectares, making it one of the most popular vacation spots in the metropolis. The park was opened in 2010 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Mexican independence and the 100th anniversary of the Mexican Revolution.

A striking feature of this place is its past: the park was created as part of a project to reclaim industrial land where a large oil refinery was formerly located. Today, it is a shining example of the successful transformation of a polluted area into a thriving public space that attracts both locals and tourists.

Bicentenario Park features numerous gardens designed with references to Aztec cosmogony, as well as ponds, sports fields, and quiet relaxation areas. One of the main attractions is the huge greenhouse, which houses about 1,300 species of orchids. Thanks to its developed infrastructure and beautiful landscapes, the park often competes with the famous Chapultepec Park for the title of the most visited in Mexico City.

Since Bicentenario Park is a public space, it does not have a single contact center for general inquiries. Public sources do not provide information regarding a phone number or email address for the park. Nevertheless, finding it and getting there is quite simple using publicly available data.

At Bicentenario Park, every visitor will find something to their liking, as this place perfectly combines areas for active recreation and corners for peaceful leisure. You can take a leisurely stroll or go for a run along the well-maintained footpaths, enjoying views of the large ponds with koi carp. For nature lovers, the famous greenhouse will be a real discovery, where more than 7,000 orchids of nearly 1,300 different species are grown.

If you prefer active recreation, the park offers many opportunities. It is equipped with modern courts for basketball, football, and volleyball. There is also a bicycle rental service on-site, allowing you to comfortably explore every corner of this huge green space. For extreme sports fans, there is a skate park, and for those who want to stay fit in the fresh air, there are outdoor exercise machines.

Bicentenario Park is a wonderful place for family leisure. Numerous lawns are perfect for picnics, where you can relax and have a snack in nature. If you didn't bring food with you, there is a restaurant and stalls selling drinks and snacks within the park. Additionally, various festivals and events are held here regularly, making each visit to the park unique in its own way.

Getting to Bicentenario Park is quite easy, especially if you use public transport. The most convenient and fastest way for most tourists is the metro. You need the "Refinería" station, from which the main entrance to the park is just a few minutes' walk away. This option is not only economical but also convenient, as the park's surroundings are considered safe to visit.

If you plan to travel by private or rental car, there is a parking lot located directly at the park. However, it is worth noting that a fee is charged for parking. Alternatively, you can use taxi services or popular ride-hailing apps—this is a comfortable way to get to the location from anywhere in the city without having to look for a parking space.

The history of Bicentenario Park is inextricably linked to the modern history of Mexico City and the city's commitment to ecological revival. The park was built and officially opened on November 7, 2010, by then-President Felipe Calderón. Its creation coincided with a landmark date—the celebration of the 200th anniversary of Mexico's independence, which is reflected in its name: "Bicentenario" translates to "Bicentennial." This large-scale project became a symbol of renewal and a major step in improving the urban environment.

The uniqueness of the park lies in its origin. It was built on reclaimed industrial land that served as the site of the large "18 de Marzo" oil refinery for nearly 60 years. After its closure in 1991 due to serious environmental problems, the territory remained abandoned for a long time. Transforming a polluted site into a thriving green oasis became one of the most ambitious environmental restoration projects in the capital and a shining example of successful urban transformation.

There have also been notable moments in the park's management history. Initially under federal authority, in 2018, the park was granted as a 25-year concession to a private company. This decision was made during the presidency of Enrique Peña Nieto. The change in management brought about some changes for visitors, such as the introduction of parking fees and the periodic closure of certain areas for private events, which sparked public discussion.

To fully enjoy all the charms of Bicentenario Park, it is recommended to set aside at least 2–3 hours for your visit. This time will be enough for a leisurely stroll through the main areas, seeing the thematic gardens, and relaxing by the picturesque fish ponds. Due to the park's impressive size, even a short introductory tour will take at least an hour.

If you plan not only to walk but also to take advantage of all the recreational opportunities, you should factor half a day into your schedule. This will allow you to explore the various ecosystems represented in the park without rushing, visit the famous orchid greenhouse, have a picnic on one of the many lawns, or even play sports at the equipped courts. Thus, the duration of your visit directly depends on how deeply you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this green oasis.

Bicentenario Park is a public space open to visitors, but its operating hours can be irregular. Accurate and up-to-date information regarding opening and closing times is often missing from public sources or may change depending on the season, weather conditions, or private events. Therefore, before planning a visit, it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule on the park's official website or its social media pages.

For a regular walk, sports, or a picnic in the park, tickets or prior registration are generally not required. However, it is worth remembering that Bicentenario Park often hosts concerts, festivals, and temporary exhibitions. To attend such events, a separate ticket may be needed, and their hours will differ from the park's general operating hours. Information about such events should also be clarified in advance.

Visiting Bicentenario Park is a wonderful opportunity to explore not only the park itself but also its surroundings. Its location in a metropolis like Mexico City provides access to many other interesting places within a few kilometers. This makes it easy to combine outdoor relaxation with a cultural program.

Exploring nearby attractions will give you a fuller picture of the city's cultural and entertainment diversity. From world-famous museums to modern aquariums and sports arenas, there is something for everyone in this area. Below is a list of some popular spots located near the park.