About Parque Bicentenario
Parque Bicentenario is a vast urban ecological park in Mexico City – the city’s second-largest green space after Chapultepec. Inaugurated in 2010 to mark Mexico’s bicentennial of Independence, it occupies 55 hectares on the site of the old “18 de Marzo” oil refinery (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (www.admagazine.com ). Three years of advanced bioremediation turned the highly polluted former plant into a safe, clean park (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). Today it features themed gardens representing Aztec elements (Sun, Water, Wind, Earth, etc.) and recreates seven distinct Mexican climates and ecosystems across its landscape (www.admagazine.com ). Large signature attractions include an orchid conservatory with over 1,000 plant species (one of Latin America’s largest), an artificial lake, a bit of Chinampa-style floating gardens, sports courts (volleyball, basketball, soccer), a 5-km running loop and even a skatepark (www.admagazine.com ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). As one journalist noted, Parque Bicentenario has become one of the most traveled spots in the city and is often called the “second lung of CDMX” (www.admagazine.com ). It’s not just a park but a multifunctional venue – hosting cultural festivals, concerts, brand events, sports and much more (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (www.admagazine.com ). The architecture and landscaping were designed by Mario Schjetnan’s team (designer of other famous Mexico City parks) to marry nature with cultural history (www.admagazine.com ) (www.admagazine.com ).
Events and Programming
Though it’s free to wander, Parque Bicentenario also opens as an event venue several times a year. It has hosted many popular music festivals and concerts across genres. For example, the AXE Ceremonia festival (an annual alt-pop/hip-hop lineup) takes place here in spring, drawing large crowds of rock, pop and rap fans. Other recurring events include the indie “Bazar de Bandas” live band fair and the M Jazz international contemporary jazz festival (often held in late winter) (www.indierocks.mx ) (www.indierocks.mx ). In late 2024 the Simi Fest pop-culture festival also debuted here. Big international acts have performed on its open-air stages: past lineups have featured stars like Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator, Charli XCX, Arca and Massive Attack, as well as rock and metal headliners (e.g. Slipknot, Babymetal in previous years). Community events and cultural shows also occur – from corporate or social gatherings to yoga classes or school sports meets. In short, anything from rock concerts to jazz fests to brand activations may be on the calendar. Ticket prices for major festivals vary widely; for instance, the 2025 Ceremonia festival had two-day general-admission wristbands around MXN 4,624, while VIP/“Club” passes reached MXN 16,600 (www.milenio.com ). Smaller local shows or weekday events are usually cheaper (often a few hundred pesos per ticket). Patrons should watch local announcements for each event’s lineup, date and pricing. In general, large music festivals here tend to take place on weekends or holiday dates, with many tickets selling out in advance. Smaller concerts or community events might pop up any day at short notice via event promoters.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for concerts and festivals at Bicentenario can be purchased through official channels. The park even operates its own on-site box office: an outdoor ticket booth is set up on the Bicentenario esplanade, accessible via the main pedestrian gate (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it possible to buy tickets in person (cash or card) on event days or beforehand. In practice, the biggest shows usually sell out through presales or early sales, so it’s wise to buy tickets as soon as they are released. Big-city bank promotions (like Citibanamex presales for festivals) are common, but one can also check with concert organizers or local authorized outlets. For last-minute plans, you might still score tickets at the park’s taquilla if not sold out. Pricing often has tiers: general admission vs. premium/VIP, and one- vs. two-day passes. As an example, for Ceremonia 2025 the general all-access two-day ticket was about MXN 4,624, whereas enhanced “Comfort” and “Club” packages were MXN 5,551 and MXN 16,600 (www.milenio.com ). In short, expect primary tickets to range from roughly a few hundred pesos (for single-day or local events) up to several thousand for multi-day festivals. There is usually no mailing fee for park box office purchases, but online sales may involve standard service fees.
Seating and Layout
The venue layout is very open-air and flexible. There are no fixed stadium seats; events typically use temporary stages and fences on the flat esplanade by the lake. Most shows are general-admission standing areas on grass or dirt. In practice, early-arriving festival-goers often spread blankets or camp chairs on the grass. Because the park has gentle berms and terraces, many attendees stake out spots on the slopes overlooking the stage. (In one report, dozens of fans watched a concert from a higher hill outside the staged area – enjoying a rooftop picnic with pizza and soda while listening (www.indierocks.mx ).) If you want to be near the action, head for the front-center area in front of the stage. There may be rope barriers or elevated platforms for media/VIP near the stage, but in general it’s all open field. The view is good from most angles – the sound stands behind the stage, so nearby spots get full-volume audio, while the outer areas on the hillside get a more blended mix. Weather can affect sightlines (for sunset or stage lighting), so many events offer colored stage lights after dark. If the stage is very large you may want binoculars for details in the back. Because it’s flat and open, portable fan or misting zones are sometimes set up at big summer concerts. Acoustically, an open polygonal stage projects sound across the lawn; feedback is rare but wind can carry sound off if you’re far off-center. There are no bad permanent seats per se, but generally the balance of proximity to stage versus exposure to sun or rain is a factor: early/mid afternoon shows can be bright and hot in front of the stage, while late-evening shows light up all around. Wear ear protection if needed for front-of-stage, and consider a hat or blanket to sit on if you claim a hillside spot. Official events may offer limited numbered seats or a VIP section near the front, but most visitors stand or sit freely. The park’s topography makes for some interesting “nosebleed” spots on the edges, but most fans stay within the main circumference. (If in doubt, look at any event map or poolside: often, fenced pathways guide people to entrances on either side of the stage.)
Getting There and Parking
Location and Address: Parque Bicentenario is at Av. 5 de Mayo #290, Col. San Lorenzo Tlaltenango, Ciudad de México, on the border of Miguel Hidalgo and Azcapotzalco boroughs (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). If using GPS or telling a taxi, the park recommends “Av. 5 de Mayo 290” as the destination (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). The main pedestrian gate is right on Av. 5 de Mayo. The park grounds are extensive (55 ha) so events often use the large esplanade beyond the orchideario building as the stage area. (parquebicentenario.com.mx )
By Metro: The nearest subway stop is Refinería station on Line 7 (the brown line). Exiting Refinería, the park entrance is about 200 meters away (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). This is probably the easiest way – the park is one block from the metro exit. Note Line 7 runs east-west from El Rosario through the city center, connecting to major transfer points.By Bus/Metrobus: Several city bus routes and Metrobus lines run along the major avenues nearby. Metrobus Line 6 (on Av. 5 de Mayo) has stations within a few blocks; also many red microbús/eco-bus lines traverse Aquiles Serdán and Marina Nacional, which are a short walk from the park entrance. For example, buses running on Circuito Interior or Legaria can drop you a few blocks away. Check local maps for routes labeled “5 de Mayo” or “Aquiles Serdán”. In practice, Metro Line 7 plus a short walk is most straightforward.By Car/Rideshare: Drivers should take the Circuito Interior expressway and exit at Marina Nacional. At the Marina–Legaria intersection, turn onto Av. Aquiles Serdán and proceed to Av. 5 de Mayo (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). A convenient drop-off point is via Calle Ferrocarriles: there’s an access gate off Ferrocarriles street that leads into the main parking area. For rideshares (Uber/Didi), set drop-off at “Parque Bicentenario main entrance” or the address above; popular pick-up locations nearby include the corner of Aquiles Serdán and 5 de Mayo. The park has sizable on-site lots. Paid parking costs roughly MXN 50 on weekdays and MXN 80 on weekends/holidays (unlimited time) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). Be aware that large events can fill the lot quickly, so arriving early or carpooling is wise. (On very busy event days, city traffic around the park can back up – consider avoiding rush-hour if possible.)
Inside the Venue
Admission: The park itself is free to enter for walking, cycling or daytime use (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). Only scheduled events require tickets. At concert times, staff will scan tickets or passes at the entrance gates. Organizers usually set up security checks: expect bag inspection and optional metal detectors for large shows. Patrons should bring only small bags or backpacks. Large umbrellas, hard coolers or weapons are prohibited at events, per typical rules. For example, a recent festival explicitly banned items like blankets for the grass, selfie sticks, and even hats on entry – so pack light and wear earplugs/sunscreen instead (mexico.as.com ) (mexico.as.com ). (Of course personal medications and an ID are okay; if you need to bring prescription medication, have the prescription ready.) Friendly officers often patrol, and there is onsite event staff to help with questions.
Facilities: The park has permanent amenities open to all visitors. Restrooms are available near the entrance areas and in the sports/recreation zones; these are clean, free of charge and include wheelchair-accessible stalls (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). Drinking fountains are scattered throughout, and there’s a small bike repair station. During concerts, extra portable toilets are added near audience areas. Food & drink vendors line the perimeter of the stage area at festivals – you’ll find booths selling water, beer, snacks, local street food and coffee. (Outside food is discouraged at paid events, so the cafe stands are convenient.) Merchandise stands for the performers usually set up when a show is on. Coat checks are not typical in the open air, but you can rent lockers (if available) or ask security where to stow gear. The park does have a main brick pavilion (“Edificio Ladrillo”) that houses changing exhibits and an environmental museum; during events this may be closed or used by organizers. Overall the vibe inside is relaxed (even at big concerts) – families picnic on lawns during the day, joggers and cyclists use the track, and at night the lights and music give a festive club atmosphere. Cellular signal usually works well here, and occasional free Wi-Fi hotspots may be available near the park center (check for “Bicentenario” network).
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants & Bars: The park sits on the western edge of the city, not far from some upscale districts. About 10–15 minutes east by taxi is Polanco, where dozens of restaurants (from taquerias to five-star dining) are clustered. Condesa and Roma Norte are about 20–25 minutes southeast by car, offering trendy cafes, bars, and nightlife. For a quick bite closer by, there are a few casual eateries along Marina Nacional and in the Anáhuac/Clavería neighborhoods (Mexican and international cuisines). If you arrive early, dinner in Polanco or Plaza Carso is a popular pre-show option. Late at night, ride-hailing services are plentiful, and Colonia Anzures has some lounges and pubs. Remember that on busy event nights, traffic can be slow, so plan extra travel time.
Hotels: There are no hotels right next to the park, but the surrounding areas have plenty of options. The closest major hub is Polanco (5–7 km away) with a wide range of hotels (luxury and mid-range) along Avenida Presidente Masaryk and Reforma. To the south, near Chapultepec/La Bolsa or D.F.’s Zona Rosa, you’ll also find international chains and boutique lodgings. Many concertgoers stay in these neighborhoods since they are convenient to nightlife and transit. Budget travelers might look near Legaria or Lindavista to the north, or even in central Roma (though that’s a longer ride). Because the park is only a short walk from the Refinería Metro station, some visitors choose cheaper flophouses near suburban metro stations if they are really on a tight budget.
Other Transit: If you plan to arrive early or stay late, note that Metro trains run roughly until midnight (and later on weekends). The metro ride from downtown areas to Refinería generally costs under MXN 6. Late-night buses (RTP and peseros) operate furtively on main arteries as well. Rideshare and taxi apps (Uber, Didi, etc.) are widely used after concerts; pick-up areas are usually set along 5 de Mayo or Aquiles Serdán. During major festivals, the park management often provides extra shuttles or signs for ride queues. Visitors often time their arrival to coincide with off-peak transit schedules to avoid crowds. If your event runs late, note there are no dedicated pedestrian bridges over Circuito Interior near the park, so use marked crosswalks and follow event staff guidance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Parque Bicentenario’s character comes from its unique history, design and cultural role. It embodies Mexico City’s transformation of industrial wasteland into public good. Visitors often marvel that a dark, contaminated refinery site is now a vibrant family-friendly oasis with flowers, birds and playgrounds. Architecturally, the park is lush and symbolic – its Peter Pan-like gardens reflect Mexican mythology, while the orquideario (orchid house) is a world-class conservatory. The site also honors national heritage: it was opened during the bicentennial celebrations and even its name reminds visitors of that 200-year milestone. Because it hosts both nature and music, you might see a hummingbird flitting past a food truck line or hear live guitar echoes across a duck pond. Its size (ten times the area of the Zócalo plaza (www.admagazine.com )) means you can hike several kilometers through varied landscapes in one visit. The modern facilities (clean services, ramps, sports courts, art installations) sit next to remnants of brick chimneys and old refinery structures repurposed as museums or picnic sites, blending past and present. Moreover, local audiences love it: artists enjoy playing in its open atmosphere rather than a stuffy hall, and fans like the informal, almost festival-ground vibe (where they can stand or picnic and roam). Over its short life it’s hosted everything from patriotic concerts on Flag Day to cutting-edge indie music nights. In effect, it’s both a cultural hub and a quiet getaway – one day you might attend a sold-out electronic music festival, the next you could be jogging under the sun in peaceful nature. That versatility and scenic charm are what really set Parque Bicentenario apart in Mexico City.
Visitor Tips and Information
• The park is free and open to the public, but it is closed on Mondays. Regular hours (for non-event visiting) are Tuesday–Sunday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). If you only want a walk or picnic, arrive well before 5 PM to enjoy most of the day. Events usually take place on weekends or holidays; check the park’s social media or local listings for any special closures or hours. parquebicentenario.com.mx ). If driving, note the parking fees (MXN 50 weekdays, 80 weekends (parquebicentenario.com.mx )) and possible traffic jams. Rideshares can drop you right at the gate. mexico.as.com ). However, sealed water bottles (empty or one liter) are usually OK. Pack minimally – leave valuables at home or in your car. parquebicentenario.com.mx ).
Is Parque Bicentenario free to enter?
Yes. The park itself is a public space with free entrance by foot or bicycle (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). You only need to buy tickets if you’re attending a paid event or concert there.
What are the park’s opening hours?
Parque Bicentenario is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). It is closed on Mondays. During those hours you can enter and enjoy the gardens and facilities for free. (Event ticketed areas, like concert zones, have their own schedules per show.)
How do I get tickets for concerts or festivals?
Tickets for events can be bought at the park’s on-site box office (“taquilla”) or through official vendors. The park’s ticket booth is located on the main esplanade (past the orchid house) and is open Tue–Sun, 10 AM–6 PM (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). For big shows it’s wise to buy in advance through presale or official outlets, but last-minute tickets (if available) can be purchased there on the day of the event.
What is the nearest Metro station?
The closest subway station is Refinería on Line 7 (the brown line). It’s only about 200 meters from the station exit to the park’s main entrance (parquebicentenario.com.mx ) (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). It’s usually the fastest and easiest way to visit without traffic.
Is there parking available and what does it cost?
Yes. Parque Bicentenario has an on-site parking lot (enter via Calle Ferrocarriles). The current rates are 50 MXN on weekdays (Tue–Fri) and 80 MXN on weekends/holidays (parquebicentenario.com.mx ), with unlimited time. Parking can fill up on big event days, so plan to arrive early. Metered street parking near the park is very limited.
Can I bring food or drinks into the park?
For general park visits (outside of concerts), you are welcome to bring snacks or have a picnic on the lawns. Bring trash bags so you can clean up after yourself. For ticketed events, rules vary: often small sealed water bottles are allowed, but outside food and large coolers are typically prohibited. Check the event’s policy in advance. Inside concerts, there will be plenty of vendors selling snacks, water and souvenirs.
What are the main items not allowed at concerts?
Large purses and backpacks are discouraged. In 2025, festival guidelines specifically banned things like blankets or towels for ground seating, hats, selfie sticks, balloons or frisbees, open containers (like thermoses), and illegal items (mexico.as.com ) (mexico.as.com ). Drugs, weapons and even cigarettes/vapes were absolutely forbidden. The safest approach is to bring only your ticket, ID, phone and a small bag or fanny pack. Check each event’s policy for specifics.
Are there restrooms and accessibility features?
Yes. Free public restrooms are located inside the park and event areas, and they include accessible (wheelchair-friendly) stalls (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). The paths and facilities were built to modern standards, so wheelchairs, strollers and visitors with mobility aids can navigate the main entrances and stages without special difficulty. Ramps and flat paths connect most areas, and disabled restrooms are clearly marked. If needed, event staff and park security can direct you to wheelchair seating/spectator areas and accessible facilities on the schedule.
What’s the capacity of the concert area?
Official capacity numbers aren’t typically publicized, but the main stage area is quite large – easily accommodating tens of thousands of people for major festivals. Concert producers often quote crowd sizes up to 25,000 or more at peak. Because the layout is open and field-style, capacity is fluid. Even with a sold-out event, you’ll have plenty of room to move unless you stand in the very front center. Local reviews note that popular festivals draw massive crowds, so assume that security and staff may enforce maximum occupancy if needed for safety.
Can I sit or bring chairs in the concert area?
It depends on the event. For most music concerts and festivals, seating is “lawn/unreserved” only – meaning you stand or sit on the ground. Occupational safety and sightline rules usually forbid bringing large folding chairs or table umbrellas. Small beach towels or low stools are sometimes allowed on the grass, but crowds tend to stand. The park’s grassy slopes double as casual seating: many attendees watch shows from blankets on the hillside just outside the fenced area (www.indierocks.mx ). As a rule, avoid big foldable chairs or objects that could block others’ view.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes?
There is no general dress code – casual or festival attire is normal. If you plan to explore the park, wear comfortable shoes for walking on grass or trails. No high heels or rollerblades on uneven surfaces. Age restrictions depend on the show: most open-air concerts are all-ages, but some nighttime events may be 18+ by promoter. Children are welcome in the park and at family-friendly shows, but adults are responsible for supervising kids on crowded lawns. If an event has a policy (e.g. all-ages versus adults-only), it will be noted on the ticket or promo materials.
What time should I arrive for an event or to use park amenities?
For general park use, arriving mid-morning is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the day before closure at 6 PM (parquebicentenario.com.mx ). For a scheduled event, doors usually open 1–2 hours before showtime. Arriving early (especially for big concerts) lets you avoid entry lines and pick a good viewing spot. If you want to combine the park visit with the event, give yourself extra time (e.g. start at 3–4 PM for a 7 PM concert) to walk the gardens or grab food before the show. For morning sports events or activities, arrive by opening time to secure parking and enjoy the cooler weather.
Can I use the park outside of concert times?
Yes – most of the park is open daily for free public use (Tuesday–Sunday). Even on days without performances, you can stroll the themed gardens, visit the orchid conservatory, relax by the lake or use the sports courts. The green areas and bike/run paths are popular for exercise and family outings. Just be aware that heavy stage equipment is usually set up only when events are scheduled; at other times the park looks like a big community park with attractions. Always follow posted park rules (no camping or unauthorized vehicles after hours) and note that the playgrounds or certain lawns might occasionally close for maintenance.
Does the park have Wi-Fi or charging stations?
Public Wi-Fi is not guaranteed. If it’s offered, it may be available only in limited areas (near the main plaza or information booths). Plan to use mobile data or download any needed info in advance. For charging your phone, stay prepared: stations or kiosks (if present during festivals) can get crowded and expensive. It’s simpler to bring a portable power bank. Note: TOGO lockers (for charging and storage) have appeared at some Mexico City park events, but they are event-specific. In general, keep devices charged before you arrive.
