Dancing in the Square

Zocalo and City Hall

Street Dancing

Governors Place

Merida is the capitol of the state of Yucatan. Founded in January of 1542, Merida is a charming combination of old colonial architecture and modern 21 st century buildings. Most of the attractions of the city are within walking distance of the downtown area, however, one can see a greater portion of the city by taking one of the city bus tours which operates several times during the day and early evening.

The city provides entertainment every day, most of which is free. Each Sunday, the main plaza and part of Calle 60 between the Zocalo (main plaza) and Parque Santa Lucia are closed off to vehicle traffic. Here, you will find the citizens of Merida with their families in tow - young parents proudly showing off their new addition to the family, all decked in ribbons and frilly lace; grandmothers lovingly attended to by grandchildren, everyone dressed in their Sunday best. You will find street vendors offering their artists' ware, food stalls, music and dance.

On Saturday evenings, enjoy Noche Mexicana at the foot of the Paseo de Montejo. The event provides some top notch entertainment, as well as amateurs who are not at all inhibited to strut their stuff in front of a live audience. A number of artesanias have little booths set up displaying their crafts for sale. As well, sample some of the antojitos from the various food vendors.

Shopping? Take your pick between sophisticated modern department stores, shopping plazas and boutiques; or from hundreds of fascinating "hole in the wall" shops, where, if you are lucky, you will pick up a treasure for a song.

Dining? Your only problem will be deciding whether to have sea food, Continental, Oriental, North American or native Mexican and Yucatan cuisine. There are dozens of first class restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.

During June to Sept, city life expands to include visits to the beautiful, soft, sandy beaches at Puerto Progreso, 20 miles (30 km) north of the city, where Meridianos and other Mexicans gather to enjoy the summer warmth and cool waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Activity in Progreso slows down in the "winter" months but the beach and restaurants are popular all year round.