Parque Morelos is the largest public park in Tijuana, an ecological reserve opened in 1987 on Avenida de los Insurgentes in the east of the city. Entry is free. Inside are a small zoo with a white tiger, monkeys and ostriches, a lake with boats, a desert garden, playgrounds, go-karts and a land train. Wide paths and picnic areas make it an easy place to walk for a few hours, and many families stay for the whole day.
A reserve at the east edge of Tijuana
Parque Morelos opened in 1987 as an ecological reserve and is the largest public park in Tijuana. The address is Avenida de los Insurgentes 16000, in the east of the city. The grounds are large: visitors report that a few hours is often not enough to see every area.
The park mixes green space with leisure facilities. There are tree-lined paths, grassy areas, a lake, barbecue grills and picnic tables, so many local families bring their own food and blankets and spend the day here. Birthday parties are also held in the park.
For walkers and runners there are marked paths, and a loop of about 4 km goes around the park. The amenities also include a dog park, cycling lanes, a skateboarding area, and baseball, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts.
Zoo, gardens and the lake
The zoo is small and compact. Animals reported here include a white tiger, monkeys, ostriches, peacocks, turtles, deer, camels and several kinds of birds. A land train runs through the zoological reserve and gives children a short safari ride past the enclosures.
The park also has a desert garden, where Mexican cacti and nopales grow, and a plant nursery that visitors describe as quiet and educational. A botanical garden with native plants and flowers is part of the grounds as well.
On the lake, boats and paddle boats can be rented. In hot weather there is an Aquatic Area with large slides and swimming pools.
Rides, shows and rentals
The attractions are closer to a village fair than a theme park. Go-karts, zip lines, trampolines, mechanical rides for small children and an old-fashioned train ride are all in the park. There are playgrounds with slides and swings, a puppet theater, and clown shows. Paintball is also available.
Getting around is easier with a rental. A pedal bike with two sets of pedals takes two adults and two small children, who sit in front. Golf carts can be rented to circle the park, and strollers are available if you left yours at home.
The park is accessible to wheelchair users at the entrance and in the parking lot. Dogs are allowed.
El Trompo museum
Within the park grounds is El Trompo Interactive Museum, designed by the architect Francisco López Guerra and inaugurated on December 9, 2008. The building has four levels with a 3D movie theater, an auditorium and exhibition rooms. Its approach is based on free learning and meaningful learning, so it is aimed at hands-on visits rather than quiet viewing.
Food and picnics
Food stands are spread through the park, and prices are described as low. The menu runs from pizza, chicken, enchiladas and hamburgers to nieve and tostilocos. Near the entrance by the large parking area, a vendor sells tacos dorados de papa, which are a good first stop.
If you prefer to bring your own meal, use the picnic tables or the barbecue grills. Bottled water and snacks are sold in the park, so you do not need to carry much.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee at Parque Morelos?
Entry to the park is free. Parking in the paid lot costs a small fee, and rides and rentals are charged separately.
How long do you need at Parque Morelos?
Plan on 2 to 4 hours for a walk, the zoo and a ride or two. Families with children often stay most of the day.
Is Parque Morelos good for kids?
Yes. It has a small zoo, a land train, go-karts, zip lines, trampolines, playgrounds and a puppet theater, and food stands are close by.
How can you get around the park?
On foot, or by renting a pedal bike or a golf cart. Strollers can also be rented.
Is the park open every day?
The park is closed on Wednesdays and opens early on the other days. Check ahead if you want to visit the zoo, since it may not open daily.
Are dogs allowed in Parque Morelos?
Dogs are allowed, and the park has a dog park.
