Museo Maya de Cancun

Cancun might be famous for its beautiful beaches and glitzy hotels, but it’s also an epicenter of history.

That’s right, you can get a healthy dose of history to go with your pina colada! In fact, right in Cancun’s hotel zone is the Museo Maya de Cancun.

As you may recall from high school history, the Maya civilization spread throughout Latin America and into the heart of the Yucatan peninsula. Their culture was rich in art, literature, mathematics and science, and - most famously - architecture. Their massive pyramids and temples can still be seen and appreciated today, including at the Museo Maya de Cancun.

The Museo sits on an actual archaeological site called San Miguelito. It was inhabited by Mayans more than 800 years ago and up until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores in the 16th Century. It’s location on the coast of the Caribbean made it an ideal trading center. Today, ruins spread out over 1,000 square meters and laced with shaded walking paths. It’s so extensive you don’t have to leave your resort to enjoy these historical relics.

Along the paths you can learn not only about the Mayan culture, but also about the plants and animals indigenous to the area centuries ago. The museum itself is home to more than 300 Mayan artifacts, many of which are presented in an interactive way. The museum is relatively new, having opened in 2012, we only wished more descriptions were available in English.

Whether it’s a very hot or rainy day while in Cancun, the Museo Maya de Cancun is a great escape from the hotel room and well worth the visit. With admission at less than 70 pesos per ticket it’s very affordable too.