This vast urban park has a curious diplomatic history in addition to its tree-shaded lawns, pathways, monuments and archaeology museum.
Chamizal Federal Public Park (Parque Público Federal El Chamizal) is among Ciudad Juárez’s most popular parks. It covers 306 acres (124 hectares) on the shores of the Río Grande, which is also the border of Mexico and the United States. Note that some of the land of Chamizal Federal Public Park was originally part of Mexico but became American territory when the river changed its course. A long-running diplomatic dispute was settled in 1964, with Mexico retaining the majority of the land.
Enjoy the park’s large areas of grassland intersected by paths and roads. Local residents arrive in multitudes on weekends to exercise, enjoy picnics, play soccer and ride bikes. Horse owners offer short rides for children at affordable prices. If you are in search of peace, the park is big enough to find a quiet corner.
At the El Chamizal Tourist Information Center pick up brochures, maps and event schedules for the park. The center doubles as a museum and has exhibits of handicrafts produced by the Tarahumara or Rarámuris people of Chihuahua state. Many of the items are offered for sale as souvenirs.
Be sure to visit the Chamizal Museum of Archaeology, which celebrates the many fascinating pre-Hispanic cultures of Mesoamerica. Follow an open-air trail decorated with sculptures and statues from the Aztec, Mayan, Olmec and Toltec civilizations, among others. Inside, browse exhibitions of paintings, photography and pottery. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free.
Plan your time here to coincide with cultural activities organized by the Arte Parque Asociación Civil. Attend live music performances, shop at artisanal markets and sample regional cuisine. Events take place in the garden of the Chamizal Museum of Archaeology. Check ahead to see which events are free or have an admission fee.
Chamizal Federal Public Park is a 15-minute drive from the historic center of Ciudad Juárez. Free parking is available at the museum and tourist information center.
