One of the largest and most prosperous cities in Mexico, Monterrey offers plenty of attractions for the curious traveler. Natural wonders are many in the region, and the city is a bustling crossroads of historic architecture and modernity. There’s enough excitement in and around Monterrey that visitors may find themselves returning to discover more.
Walking the streets of Monterrey to discover its history is a fascinating way to spend a day, especially when the roads and buildings are part of the attraction. The paving stones and 18th-century building facades tell their own stories, and there are numerous monuments and statues to visit on a tour of downtown. Monterrey’s industrial history comes to life at the Steel Museum located within Fundidora park. The museum’s Oven 3, opened as a foundry nearly a century ago, is a living landmark in the development of steel milling. Once visitors are done at the museum, Fundidora Park is a fine place for a relaxing walk and also contains an amusement park.
For an informative take on the city’s culture, visitors can stop by the Museum of Contemporary Art. The building is an architectural wonder designed by architect Ricardo Legorreta, and guests will encounter Juan Soriano’s impressive dove sculpture on their way in. The museum’s collections span from celebrated local artists to well-known names based elsewhere in Mexico and around the world.
The city is home to a resurgent and exciting nightlife scene, which Lonely Planet characterized as “urban hipster” in style. Visiting restaurants and bars near the Macroplaza is a fine way to end a day in Monterrey after exploring the museums, historic neighborhoods or outdoor attractions. One fascinating daytime destination is Conarte bookstore – considered a must-visit stop and one of the world’s most striking book shops.
The hills and mountains around Monterrey are perfect for lovers of the outdoors, with ample trails to hike and bike. In La Huasteca Ecological Park, visitors can drive ATVs into the canyons, spend days climbing the limestone cliffs or discover the Cave of the Virgin, a natural wonder with a shape that recalls icons of the Virgin Mary.
More than one protected natural area sits near Monterrey, and visitors can also discover Chipinque Ecological Park. This mountainous space contains bike paths that lead through pine forests to an impressive peak. From the summit, cyclists can look down on the sprawling outline of Monterrey and marvel at their ability to make the climb. Then, the fun descent begins.
Monterrey’s combination of urban excitement and natural wonders should prove irresistible to visitors.