Museo Soumaya with Kids
Just the Facts
Entry fee: Free
Must See: Largest Rodin sculpture collection outside of Paris, take the elevator to the top and work your way down
Location: Polanco Neighborhood, Plaza Carso, near Chedraui Polanco (a Wal-Mart style store that most taxi drivers are familiar with in CDMX)
The Museo Soumaya was on our must-see list for Mexico City with kids. The gleaming structure stands prominently in the upscale Polanco neighborhood and guides visitors to Plaza Carso with its impressive size. Constructed by millionaire Carlos Slim as a gift to the city and a memorial to his late wife, Soumaya, the structure is not only gorgeous, it is free to visit.
Upon entering you will see Rodin’s famous “The Thinker” sculpture. Be sure to find Diego Rivera’s incredible last mural, Rio Juchitan, located on the first floor.
Soumaya is known for having the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris. Arranged on the sun-drenched top floor, visitors can get a first class view of the marble works that made Rodin famous. This is an absolute must-see. As soon as you arrive, head to the elevators and go to the top floor. This way, you start at the top and can take your time heading down to the bottom. Note: There are no bags/backpacks allowed inside the museum, so all bags must be checked upon arrival.
After viewing the top floor, head down to the next most popular area, Level 4 (Sala 4) From Impressionism to the Avant Garde. There are rare pencil drawings from Picasso, as well as unique Dali sculptures. Here you will find rotating exhibits of popular artists including: Monet, Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh, Chagall, and Miro. Bathrooms are easily accessible on each floor.
Note:This is not the museum to see a comprehensive collection of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s works, if you are interested in seeing these popular artists you should check out the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacan or the Presidential Palace to see Rivera’s spectacular murals.
I suggest taking a look at the website before visiting to check out what is currently on display.
After your visit: Your kids will be ready to sit and enjoy a cool treat after walking around the museum. Head across the street to Plaza Carso where you will find many options for fast food and delicious ice cream options. While there, check out the Chedraui, especially if you are missing any kids items.For a more local option, there were several taco trucks parked across the street from the museum during our trip and we sat on street side stools while enjoying our tacos. Enjoy!
