10 Epic Year-Round Things to Do in Toluca Mexico

Key Takeaways:

• Toluca blends history, high-altitude nature, and colorful cultural festivals just outside Mexico City.

• You can hike to volcanic lakes, explore local art and glasswork, or enjoy food markets and botanical gardens year-round.

• It’s a lively, walkable city with rich tradition, stunning architecture, and cool weather all year long.

Toluca, the capital of the State of Mexico, sits at over 2,600 meters above sea level and offers travelers a unique mix of cultural depth, volcanic adventure, and small-city charm. Often overlooked in favor of neighboring Mexico City, Toluca surprises visitors with its scenic highland setting, Baroque architecture, bustling markets, and proximity to the iconic Nevado de Toluca volcano. The city maintains a vibrant calendar of festivals and events, while its cool weather makes it a comfortable destination every month of the year. Whether you’re into hiking, museums, or local eats, Toluca promises authentic experiences without the big-city crowds.

Table of Contents

1. Hike to the Crater Lakes of Nevado de Toluca

2. Wander the Cosmovitral Botanical Garden and Stained Glass Gallery

3. Sample Local Flavors at Mercado Juárez

4. Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Toluca

5. Walk Through the Historic Center and Plaza de los Mártires

6. Explore the Museo del Alfeñique and Día de Muertos Traditions

7. Attend the Festival del Quinto Sol in March

8. Stroll or Bike the Parque Matlazincas (El Calvario)

9. Tour the Modern Art Museum and Colonial Buildings Nearby

10. Take a Day Trip to Metepec, Known for its Pottery and Árboles de la Vida

1. Hike to the Crater Lakes of Nevado de Toluca

Just 30 minutes from downtown Toluca, the Nevado de Toluca National Park is home to Mexico’s fourth-highest peak and a dormant volcano with twin crater lakes—Lago del Sol and Lago de la Luna. The hike to the summit is popular year-round, with snow in the winter and cool, clear views the rest of the year.

Even if you’re not summiting, you can drive partway up and hike gentle trails around the lakes. The high-altitude scenery is stunning, especially at sunrise. Guided tours are available, and the area is also popular for trail running, mountain biking, and spiritual retreats.

2. Wander the Cosmovitral Botanical Garden and Stained Glass Gallery

The Cosmovitral is one of Toluca’s most iconic landmarks—a turn-of-the-century glass building transformed into a vibrant botanical garden surrounded by more than 3,000 square meters of stained glass. The glasswork, titled “El Hombre y su Universo,” was created by artist Leopoldo Flores and glows with cosmic imagery.

Inside, the garden contains native and exotic plants arranged along peaceful paths, waterfalls, and koi ponds. It’s a serene place for reflection and a photographer’s dream. Open all year, it’s one of the city’s most breathtaking and unique attractions.

3. Sample Local Flavors at Mercado Juárez

Mercado Juárez is Toluca’s largest and most beloved market, buzzing with vendors selling everything from flowers and fresh produce to prepared meals and souvenirs. This is the best place to try Toluca’s famous chorizo verde—a green pork sausage seasoned with cilantro and chili.

You’ll also find handmade tortillas, tacos placeros, and seasonal specialties like pan de muerto or tamales depending on the time of year. The market is alive every day and serves as a great window into local life. Come hungry—you’ll leave full and smiling.

4. Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Toluca

Located in a beautifully restored Baroque convent, the Museo de Bellas Artes is a hidden gem filled with Mexican paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to the colonial era. The museum offers rotating exhibits and permanent collections in a quiet, contemplative setting.

Its architecture alone is worth the visit, with elegant arches, courtyards, and frescoed halls. Admission is affordable, and guided tours are often available in Spanish. It’s an ideal stop for lovers of history and classic art.

5. Walk Through the Historic Center and Plaza de los Mártires

Toluca’s downtown core is full of colonial charm, with wide plazas, government buildings, and walkable streets that lead to churches, markets, and museums. The Plaza de los Mártires is a large open space surrounded by striking architecture like the Palacio de Gobierno and the Toluca Cathedral.

During weekends and holidays, the plaza hosts live performances, artisan fairs, and cultural celebrations. Even on quiet weekdays, the surrounding bakeries and coffee shops are worth visiting. The crisp mountain air makes a walking tour comfortable year-round.

6. Explore the Museo del Alfeñique and Día de Muertos Traditions

The Museo del Alfeñique is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to the traditional Mexican sugar art used during Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). Housed in a colorful historic building, it showcases skulls, figurines, and altars made from sugar and other materials, exploring their cultural and religious meanings.

The museum becomes especially vibrant during late October and early November, when special exhibits and altars are built to honor the dead. However, it’s open all year and offers workshops and displays that explain the deep-rooted traditions of Toluca and central Mexico. It’s a must-see for visitors interested in folklore and holiday customs.

7. Attend the Festival del Quinto Sol in March

The Festival del Quinto Sol (Fifth Sun Festival) is one of Toluca’s most important annual celebrations, rooted in indigenous traditions and marking the spring equinox. Centered at the Teotenango archaeological site nearby, the festival includes rituals, Aztec dance, music, and talks on Toltec and Nahua cosmology.

Attendees often dress in traditional garments and participate in sunrise ceremonies to honor the earth and cosmic cycles. It’s a deeply spiritual and vibrant event that offers an unforgettable cultural immersion. Even if you’re not spiritual, the music and visuals are worth the trip.

8. Stroll or Bike the Parque Matlazincas (El Calvario)

Parque Matlazincas, also known as El Calvario, is a forested hillside park offering panoramic views of the city. Locals come here to walk, bike, or simply take in the greenery along the winding paths and tree-shaded benches.

At the top of the hill stands a white neoclassical monument that makes for a great photo op and rest point. The park is tranquil and safe, and since Toluca’s climate is cool even in summer, it’s enjoyable year-round. Bring a snack or book and spend a few hours soaking up the views.

9. Tour the Modern Art Museum and Colonial Buildings Nearby

Toluca’s Modern Art Museum (Museo de Arte Moderno) is a well-curated space that focuses on 20th- and 21st-century Mexican artists. It’s housed in a former convent, and the architecture adds gravitas to the striking exhibitions inside.

Expect rotating displays of sculpture, painting, mixed media, and video installations from national and local talent. It’s located near other historic sites, making it easy to pair with a day of exploring churches, antique buildings, and art shops. The museum is open year-round and is a great place to cool off or recharge mid-day.

10. Take a Day Trip to Metepec, Known for its Pottery and Árboles de la Vida

Just 20 minutes from Toluca, the charming artisan town of Metepec is famous for its handmade ceramics and Árboles de la Vida (Trees of Life)—ornate clay sculptures decorated with biblical, cultural, or natural themes. The town center is walkable and filled with galleries, craft shops, and colorful murals.

You can meet local artisans, shop directly from their workshops, and enjoy traditional food in a laid-back atmosphere. Metepec also hosts seasonal fairs and folk music performances, so there’s always something happening. It’s the perfect complement to Toluca’s historic and outdoor offerings.

What to do if you have kids?

Toluca is a family-friendly destination with plenty to offer kids. The Cosmovitral is visually fascinating for all ages, and parks like Matlazincas offer open space for play and safe walking trails. Kids will love the markets full of sweets, and many museums offer hands-on exhibits or workshops.

The city is also home to cultural festivals with music, costumes, and dance that captivate young audiences. With cooler weather, clean public areas, and nearby nature reserves, it’s easy to keep kids engaged without overstimulation.

Where can I find free events in Toluca Mexico taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, markets, festivals, and cultural events happening in Toluca this weekend, check out https://planmyweekend.ai. This tool shows you all the fun and free activities near you, updated weekly, so you never miss out on live music, local celebrations, or outdoor fun. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, it’s the best way to explore what’s happening without spending a peso.

Final thoughts

Toluca offers travelers a refreshing mix of highland scenery, cultural depth, and authentic local flavor year-round. With access to volcano hikes, artisan towns, and colorful traditions like Día de Muertos, there’s always something to do no matter the season. The city’s cool climate and friendly pace make it easy to explore at your leisure. Whether you’re into nature, art, or street food, Toluca stands out as a rewarding and underrated destination in central Mexico.