Monterrey
Located in the northeastern state of Nuevo Leon, this is one of Mexico’s main industrial and business centers, but as one of the country’s largest cities, it also has a wealth of attractions for all tastes, many of which can be reached by trolley.
Sightseers will want to begin their tour at Macroplaza, the 6-block city center that houses Monterrey’s Cathedral, the Government Palace and the Municipal Palace, with a grand mural depicting how the city came about. Paseo Santa Lucia, which follows the path of a fake river with motorboats and fountains, connects Macroplaza to Parque Fundidora, an impressive public park designed on the grounds of the now-defunct Monterrey Steel Foundry Company. The park still features some of the company’s industrial buildings and is home to various cultural and kids’ venues as well as Museo del Acero Horno3, which celebrates the history of steel and its impact on industrial development through interactive areas, exhibits and educational demonstrations. Many hotels, including the Sheraton Ambassador, are located within walking distance of these attractions.
The “Sultan of the North,” as the city is referred to, has established itself as an important culture hub and has more than a few museums worth a visit, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, otherwise known as MARCO, and the Monterrey Metropolitan Museum, which commemorates the region’s founding, traditions and local art.
The city’s outskirts provide some of the area’s most exciting adventure options. There’s Chipinque, with hiking and biking trails traversing tree groves; it’s part of Cumbres de Monterrey National Park, home to the area’s emblematic Cerro de la Silla or Saddle Mountain. Another beautiful stop is the Cola de Caballo waterfalls, named as such because the cascades resemble a horse’s tail, and the Grutas de Garcia caves and its ancient stalactite formations on Cerro del Fay.
