Mexico City Gay Travel
wolfyy’s Mexico City gay guide to the best hotels, things to do, gay bars, clubs, restaurants & the gay district.
The Mexico City Gay Travel Experience
Mexico City is quite well known among the travel community for being an awesome gay-friendly destination. You’ll find countless gay bars along the streets of the gay neighborhood and plenty of other LGBT travelers around.
Mexico’s capital city was everything I expected and more. Everyone I talked to before my trip mentioned the city’s lively gay nightlife. But the city’s beautiful parks and ornate castles were just as stunning.
Simply put, it felt great to travel to a city that is both accepting of LGBT tourists and historically legendary. I learned a lot about Mexico City’s gay life while experiencing some authentic central Mexican culture.
Gay Mexico City: Hotels & Where to Stay
Neighborhoods in Mexico City can have drastically different vibes. Some are very gritty, while others are beautifully charming.
Polanco Hotels
Polanco was the most beautiful neighborhood I visited in Mexico City. Streets here are lined with boutique shops, colorfully painted walls, specialty cafés, and high-end storefronts. The overall vibe is much more modern than the rest of the city.
The Camino Real Polanco is a well-known and popular hotel in the area. If you’ve ever seen Instagram photos of someone standing in front of a bright pink wall, that’s the Camino Real! Is super pretty.
Hotels in Polanco will be a great, safe bet if you don’t mind the low-key surroundings. The neighborhood is quieter, away from the bustle of Mexico City’s central neighborhoods.
If you prefer your hotel to be in the midst of the most vibrant part of the city, then I would stay closer to Chapultapec or Zona Rosa, which I’ll mention next.
Mexico City Gay District Hotels
Zona Rosa is the official Mexico City gay district. The area is mostly commercia, located about 15 minutes west of the Historic Center by car. It’s the epicenter of the gay scene in Mexico City.
Many gay travelers choose Zona Rosa/Juarez hotels for convenient access to gay nightlife. The adjacent Colonia Cuauhtémoc neighborhood is also a good choice. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops around all of these neighborhoods.
The Marquis Reforma is a highly-rated and gay-friendly hotel option in Mexico City’s Juarez area.
However, given that Uber and taxis are so cheap, don’t specifically limit yourself to staying directly in Zona Rosa, as long as you don’t mind taking a few extra rides back and forth to bars.
I stayed at Hotel Block Suites, an economy hotel on the fringe of the gay district. The location was ideal for sightseeing and the room was big, too.
More Mexico City Hotels I Recommend
Here are a few other fantastic hotels in Mexico City that are highly rated and centrally located in safe areas near the gay district.
Dangerous Neighborhoods in Mexico City
Several neighborhoods in Mexico City can be dangerous for tourists, especially at night.
Most tourists choose to stay between the Chapultapec and the Historic Center neighborhoods. While these are both great areas, there are pockets of dangerous areas between them.
As a general rule, if you’re looking to stay in the above-mentioned Zona Rosa or Juárez neighborhoods, avoid accommodations farther east than Avenida Cuauhtémoc.
East of here you’ll be closer to notoriously dangerous neighborhoods such as Tepito and Doctores.
Mexico City Historic Center Safety
Many travel websites list the Historic Center as one of Mexico City’s most dangerous neighborhoods. While crime may be high here, it’s mainly due to pickpocketing and petty offenses.
In my opinion, the Historic Center isn’t necessarily an area you need to avoid. Personally, I would have no issue and would easily stay in one of the Historic Center’s quaint hotels.
As a general safety measure though, people tend to travel by car once night falls, just as most travelers would in any large world city where safety is typically on tourists’ minds.
Mexico City Gay Travel Experiences
Mexico City is an enormous cultural haven. You’ll experience authentic mariachi bands playing in the streets, intricate ancient architecture, and even beautiful swaths of parkland.
Also, it’s the region most famous for authentic tacos!
Visit Chapultepec Castle
Castillo Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle) was an absolute pleasure to visit. I had no idea how large and beautiful the compound would be until I reached the top of the mountain path.
Chapultepec Castle is no quick visit. Leave yourself at least a couple of hours. I spent three hours walking to the top and touring the grounds.
Admission for Chapultepec Castle is 80 Pesos for foreigners. If you have a student or professor ID card, you can get a discount. Also, the security staff will not allow any food or water past the ticket booth entrance.
Parque México
A stroll through the quaint Parque México will help you reset after pounding the pavement. The park is well maintained, with plenty of adorable covered benches.
I relaxed here for at least an hour, watching some cute little ducks. Don’t miss the iconic trellis.
While walking into Parque México, I happened to meet a local gay guy named Jesse! As we chatted, he mentioned that many of the local gay guys walk their dogs in this park. Perhaps it’s truly a good spot to make a friend.
It was lovely meeting a local, learning some things they love about their city and getting an inside view of Mexico City’s gay life, even if it was only a brief encounter.
Things to Do in Mexico City's Historic Center
Walk through Templo Mayor while exploring the Historic Center of Mexico City. It’s free to enter. While the grounds outside the Templo Mayor are not the most well-kept, the interior is especially beautiful.
The fascinating structure reminded me of the mesmerizing temples in Siem Reap.
Stroll down Av Francisco I Madero while exploring the city’s heart. It’s one of the busiest tourist streets I saw found. It was enjoyable to feel the booming energy of the neighborhood here.
The stretch of Jose María Piño Suarez south of Plaza de la Constitución is another area worth seeing. On weekdays, you’ll find this area buzzing with both tourists and locals.
If you keep walking south, you’ll find a giant thrift-style market around the Piño Suarez metro station entrance.
Visit Kiosco Morisco De Santa Maria La Ribera
Kiosco Morisco is one of Mexico City’s most iconic structures. It was designed for the 1884 World’s Fair. Tourists have been visiting ever since.
While the design is stunning, intricate, and easily photographed, I was a bit disappointed to see its condition. It seems that years of children using it as a playground have worn the structure and littered the area.
If you go, choose a time when kids are still in school for a better viewing experience.
Go On A Self-Guided Walking Tour
There are so many unique and lesser-known attractions in Mexico City for gay travelers to visit. A friend and fellow gay travel blogger of mine who lives in Mexico City knows a ton of local must-see spots.
Check them out in Tracy Parker Travels’ Mexico City walking tour.
Teotihuacan Pyramids
Undeniably the grandest landmark near Mexico City, the ancient Teotihuacan Pyramids are truly a sight to see!
My fellow gay traveler David made the trip up to the pyramids during his visit the week after mine. He highly recommends the journey.
Hiring a tour guide for the Teotihuacan Pyramids will help you learn and make sense of these giant, stately structures. A guide costs about 800 Pesos. The entrance fee for the pyramids is a reasonable 75 pesos.
Since many tourists make a pyramid visit, there are plenty of restaurants nearby you can visit for lunch. No need to pack a large amount of food, but don’t forget some travel-size sunscreen and sunglasses.
My Favorites → Travel-Size Skincare Products for Men
Popular Activities
Mexico City Gay Tours
Joining a Mexico City gay tour is a fantastic and easy way to explore the most beautiful parts of the city.
Alongside a group of other gay travelers, you can make a bunch of new friends and make the most of your travel experience. Plus, transportation, logistics, and all sorts of other details are taken care of for you.
Out Adventures is a popular organizer of gay tours in Mexico City as well as other parts of Mexico. Their 4-day Aztec Adventure gay tour is epic, taking guests to the famous nearby pyramids and small towns after spending two days exploring Mexico City.
For other Mexico gay tour options, check out offers from these popular gay tour companies.
Taco Restaurants in Mexico City
Tacos are always delicious in the central region of Mexico. At such a low price, how can you resist them? I found myself eating at a taquería for lunch just about every day.
Taquería Arandas: Absolute Best Tacos in Mexico City
Taquería Arandas is definitely the best taco spot in all of Mexico City! You know it’s amazing when there is a line of locals and families outside waiting for a table.
You’ll surely find some hard-working cooks outside of Taquería Arandas. They prepare everything on the ground level, attracting customers off the streets of the Historic Center.
If there’s a line, don’t worry. It moves quickly. In the meantime, you can enjoy the taco smell wafting through the air.
Tacontento: Cheap Tacos in Zona Rosa
Tacontento is the best place for tacos in the Zona Rosa neighborhood. They are fast and the sauces are delicious.
Their restaurant name is actually a play on words in Spanish. They blend the two Spanish words “tan contento,” meaning “so happy,” so that their name begins with the word taco.
Tacontento is super cheap and open pretty much all the time. Make sure to bring cash, too. They didn’t accept credit cards when I visited.
The Best Tacos in Polanco
Taquería El Rey del Suadero was one of my favorite taco restaurants. It’s is a fantastic option if you’re in the Anzures or Polanco neighborhood.
They’re an authentic, no-frills, and absolutely delicious taco spot. The staff are attentive, the service is quick and you can’t beat the prices.
El Pescadito Seafood Tacos
Try some seafood tacos at El Pescadito if you’ve had your fill of traditional tacos. They fry good-sized chunks of fish or shrimp and slap ’em on a tortilla with delectable sauces.
I also tried their special recommended Enchilote Enchiloso. Only a little more expensive than a regular taco, it was definitely worth it.
Taco Tips: What Does “Al Pastor” Mean?
“Al Pastor” is something you will see in every Mexican restaurant. You may be more familiar with another name for it: Shawarma!
A long time ago, immigrants from Lebanon brought this flame-cooked style pork to Central America and the Mexican culture has embraced it ever since.
The phrase “al pastor” literally means “shepherd style,” from the traditional method of meat preparation. For practical purposes in Mexico, tacos “al pastor” will get you thinly sliced pork mixed with a delicious mix of chilies, pineapple, spices and vinegar.
Mexico City Gay Bars & Clubs
Mexico City has a huge selection of gay bars, each one catering to a different crowd. All these options along with tons of friendly locals make Mexico City an ideal gay destination for single travelers.
Here are all the best gay bars in Mexico City, most of which are in and around the Zona Rosa gay neighborhood.
Nicho Bear & Bar Gay Leather Bar
Bears, stocky guys and their admirers enjoy nights at Nicho Bear & Bar, Mexico City’s popular gay leather bar. My favorite part is the big neon paw print sign on the wall.
Solo gay travelers should have an easier time making friends here. I saw a good amount of guys hanging out here by themselves. Thursdays are great nights at Nicho Bear Bar too. A great option if you are not in town for the weekend.
The dancing space at Nicho is limited, as the layout is optimized for socializing. They still play great Latin music in a fun, dimly-lit setting. The cover charge is 50 Pesos.
Tom’s Leather Bar
Tom’s Leather Bar is my favorite gay bar in Mexico City! Here you’ll find all types of guys and lots to explore.
The bar has quieter areas on multiple levels without booming music where you can socialize, a big dance floor and a dark room for cruising. Wear your favorite leather gay party gear or an attention-grabbing sexy jockstrap.
The cover charge at Tom’s Leather Bar is 200 pesos, which includes a drink. The best night to visit Tom’s is definitely Saturday. If you’re in town during the week, Tuesday is also popular.
Lastly, note that you’re not allowed to take pictures while inside the bar for privacy reasons.
Estéreo Club
Estéreo is a brand new local Friday night gay club popular with Mexico City’s younger party crowd. They have several levels with one floor playing pop music, one for Reggaeton, and one playing all sorts of tracks that span various generations.
There’s a glamorous club-kid vibe at Estéreo. Many people wear extravagant outfits and accessories, or at least dress with a chic look.
Baby Club
Baby Club is a popular gay club in Mexico City for dancing. The club is pretty spacious and plays lots of Spanish hits and R&B. Toward the back, the bar has a quieter outdoor area where it’s easier to socialize.
While Baby Club is a great time, I will mention that this gay club has the most women of all the gay venues I visited in Mexico City. Some gay guys dislike when gay clubs become predominantly girls, so if this bothers you, it may be best to try a different club.
Baby charges 50 pesos for entry at the door. One or two drinks are included, depending on whether you arrive during their two-for-one special.
Blow Bar
Blow Bar is one of the most popular Mexico City gay bars. If you’re looking for an energetic bar with strippers and plenty of people to socialize with, Blow Bar is the spot.
The space is relatively new and has a modern vibe. They’re open Thursdays through Sundays starting at 8 PM. Check out one of Blow Bar’s cabaret shows, too!
Daddy Club
Daddy Club is one of the most popular Mexico City gay clubs. Looking back, I completely regret not trying it out. After talking with some other gay travelers, I learned how much better Daddy Club is compared to many other of the city’s gay clubs.
Expect drag queen performances, great dance music, and some handsome performers. Wear some fun gay party gear, too!
Also, take note that Daddy Club isn’t exactly easy to find because of neighboring construction (as of early 2020). So if you come across who looks to be an abandoned-looking building, don’t fret.
El Almacén
El Almacén always has a lively crowd. Fun lighting and a spacious area to dance make this gay bar a great option to start your night. Everyone here was very friendly.
Even though El Almacén isn’t the fanciest bar, the overall vibe was fun. I saw guys of all different ages, races and body types.
At the door, El Almacén charges a cover of 50 Pesos, which includes two drinks. This is about the best drink special you’ll find at a gay bar in Mexico City. On weekends, they have two-for-one cocktail specials for 80 Pesos.
Sic Club
Sic Club is a relatively new Saturday night gay club party. It’s a huge venue with multiple rooms, each having a different DJ and dance floor.
Branded as a “nocturnal playground for the Queer,” Sic Club plays a range of house, techno, and disco music catering to a very underground gay party scene.
Kinky Bar
Kinky Bar is popular for a large interior plus an outdoor balcony on the second level. They make quite a presence on the edge of the Zona Rosa neighborhood, especially with their six-pack-wielding bartenders.
I walked past Kinky Bar a few times and there’s always a rowdy crowd. Get a look at the dancers, too! Don’t forget enough cash for the cover charge.
¡WOOOW!
Another new gay bar in Mexico City, WOOOW is popular for dancing and has a bit of a club feel. They are open Wednesdays through Sundays. Wednesday is a great night to go if you want to see a sexy performance by their “buff boys!”
Cabaré-Tito Punto y Aparte
Cabaré-Tito, last but not least, is a smaller and lesser-known gay bar in Zona Rosa. You’ll probably hear a bunch of people singing from outside the bar as you walk down Calle Amberes. While they tend to get mixed reviews, many people enjoy the drag shows here.
Looking for Mexican gay nightlife destinations? Explore the countless gay bars in lesser-traveled Guadalajara, or in tourist-friendly Puerto Vallarta.
Gay Bars To Skip
Since Mexico City has so many gay bars, I’ll help you narrow your choices by mentioning some spots that didn’t impress me.
I checked out Gayta Pussy Bar to see what it’s like, but I can’t say I would return. The space is very run down and I didn’t feel comfortable in the crowd. There didn’t seem to be any sense of community here. The presence shown online did not at all match the reality of the bar.
Macho Dance Bar is a few steps away. While I don’t have anything specifically negative to say about this place, I wouldn’t exactly recommend it. The bar just seemed a bit rambunctious, but not in a good way.
Mexico City Gay Pride
Mexico City Pride is a huge celebration not to be missed. Surprisingly though, you might have noticed that online searches don’t show much helpful official information.
To help, you should know that the gay pride events in Mexico City are hosted by the nonprofit organization Marcha LGBT CDMX.
Experience what gay pride in Mexico City is like with all the heartwarming (and subtitled) interviews in the video above! Then check out some inexpensive and fun pride clothing & accessories.
Mexico City Travel Tips
Improve Your Spanish Skills
Want to be able to speak with the handsome gay locals even if they don’t speak English? There’s no harm in working on your Spanish, whether it’s just the basics or brushing up on what you learned previously.
Babbel subscriptions are surprisingly cheap and their app makes learning some language basics easy. The most you’ll pay is $14 per month! Plus, it gets even cheaper if you choose a multi-month package.
Will I Be Safe In Mexico City?
Mexico City is quite safe as long as you don’t pass through any bad areas at night and you follow the standard traveler safety precautions.
Personally, I never felt threatened walking alone in Mexico City, and I did pass through a few rough neighborhoods along the journey.
Unfortunately, Mexico City has a very high homeless population. There are people living on the street in just about every neighborhood. You’ll likely encounter this.
Beggars will sometimes approach you if you’re sitting in an outdoor bar or restaurant. If you notice them coming toward you, just ask the restaurant to take care of it. To avoid this, you can just take seats inside the establishment.
Using Public Transit
Trams and subways in Mexico City are cheap and easy to use. Although Uber is very cheap, I did use the metro once, since it was convenient. A ride only costs five pesos!
Avoiding public transit in Mexico City after dark is best. It’s better to be on the safe side and take an Uber home than to wander near dimly lit transit stations.
Don’t miss the lesser-traveled city of Guadalajara. Believe it or not, the gay clubs rival those in Mexico City!
Want more gay party destinations in Mexico? Puerto Vallarta is a must!
See wolfyy’s complete collection of gay travel guides for more gay destination ideas around the world.
