Alameda Central is Mexico City’s oldest public park, established in 1592 on the orders of Viceroy Luis de Velasco II and named for the alamo (poplar) trees planted throughout its grounds.
The park sits in the historic center between Avenida Juarez and Avenida Hidalgo, right next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, and is easily reached via the Bellas Artes metro station.
Its paved paths, fountains, and statues have hosted centuries of public life, from Inquisition-era gatherings on part of the site to independence celebrations in 1821. Today it remains a popular spot for a stroll between visits to nearby museums.