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Here's a quick guide to Mexico City, Mexico, one of the world's largest cities, where interesting museums, parks, monuments and culture await the family.

The Mexica, a branch of the Aztec people, founded México City nearly 700 years ago. At that time, the city's name was Tenochtitlan.  According to legend, the settlers associated the city's establishment with a vision of an eagle biting a serpent (visible on the Mexican flag today).  Several centuries of dramatic political, social, and religious history later, México City is a bustling world capital with an array of cultural gems, archeological treasures, and kid-friendly diversions. Keep in mind its high altitude, which may cause some discomfort, and the high pollution levels, which increase in the hot weather.

Mexican families often travel together, so expect your tourist experience to reflect this cultural emphasis. It's a wonderful destination to share with children, but plan your days carefully - this city is huge! You'll find our recommended attractions listed by neighborhood to make your sightseeing days easier; almost all are worth exploring for all ages.

Zócalo, Centro Histórico

The Zocalo or main square is the city's traditional heart, within the 680-block area known as the Centro Histórico, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a great starting point for exploration by families interested in history, culture and the 'old' México City. At 640,000-square-feet, the colorful Zócalo is the third largest public square in the world after Tiananmen Square in Beijing and Moscow's Red Square. Catedral Metropolitana, the largest cathedral in Latin America, resides over the North side of the square.  Construction began in 1567 with the rubble of Aztec buildings, and was completed 250 years later with a melding of Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical styles.

Museo del Tempo Mayor (Great Temple) is located northeast of the Cathedral.  This landmark is both an archeological site and a museum.  The site was originally the center of Aztec religious life for 300,000 people and today, visitors follow ramps and walkways through the ceremonial pyramid of an ancient city.  The adjacent, eight-hall museum displays thousands of objects found in the area, arranged by such themes as "Flora and Fauna," "Ritual and Sacrifice," and "Tlaloc" (god of rain).

Palacio Nacional stands on the East side of the Zócalo.  The main reason to visit here is to view Diego Rivera's famous murals adorning the stairwell.  Rivera led México's fresco painting revival in the first half of the 20th century and was married to Frida Kahlo, another celebrated artist.  Over a period of 20 years, he painted 4,850-square feet of the Palacio Nacional, depicting Mexican history from Pre-Conquest (by Spain) until after the revolution.

The imposingly beautiful Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes houses one of the country's most significant fine arts collections, and is well worth even a brief visit. All ages will be stunned by its gilt, art deco ornamentation, acres of marble and, of course, display of paintings.  Even those with little tolerance for art will appreciate a snack at the Cafe Terrace and a view of the stained-glass curtain designed by Tiffany, depicting the Valley of Mexico that decorates the theatre. Don't miss the twice weekly performances of Ballet Folklorico (5255/5529-9320), if you have time. Choreographed by the noted Amalia Hernandez, this musical features the traditional folk dances of each region performed in traditional costumes to wonderful, authentic live music.

The city's Historic Center is also one of its most vibrant, with two wonderful new museums that opened in 2006-2007. The Museo del Estanquillo (corner of Isabel la Católica and Madero) houses the personal collection of Mexican writer Carlos Monsivais, who has filled a 19th century jewelry shop with small toys, folk crafts, stamps and household items spanning the era of Mexico's history. The Luca Libre section with a replica wrestling ring and paper-mache wrestlers will intrigue anyone who enjoyed Jack Black's comedy "Nacho Libre."

Not far away is M.I.D.E. (Museo Interactivo de Economia) at Tacuba 17, a state-of-the-art multimedia facility in the former Convent of the Bethlemites.  Mexico's Museum of the Economy is dedicated to explaining the meaning of money. Although exhibits, videos and labeling are largely in Spanish, displays such as the comparative photo murals depicting what one family in each of the world's regions eats in one week are universally appealing and informative.

Shopping: There are plenty of markets in México City, but the Mercado de la Merced, open daily, tops them all. The energy level is intense in this vast warehouse complex selling mainly fruits, vegetables, and discount housewares, about seven blocks from the Zócalo. La Ciudadela is another market offering a great assortment of handicrafts. Fonart is a popular folk arts shop.