Jardín Morelos (Parque Escandón)

The Jardín Morelos is named for José María Morelos, hero of the Independence movement. It’s also commonly referred to as Parque Escandón, for the neighborhood. A small neighborhood park, it’s just north of the Escandón Market.

The park dates from the early 20th century when the colonia Escandón was laid out. Today it has a dog park, skateboard area and exercise equipment. There’s also lots of open space for kids.

The park is also home to the Faro del Saber, a cultural and arts center. Neighborhood residents take classes in music, languages, martial arts, exercise, and chess. The center also runs a small neighborhood library.

Like much of Escandón, the park lies somewhat in the shadow of thriving Condesa just to the north across the Avenida Patriotismo. But as a neighborhood that largely came of age in the mid-20th century, surrounding buildings show a remarkable horizontal disposition. And that, along with the many neighborhood eateries, have made it into a center-city favorite.

The park is just a few blocks south of the Metro Patriotismo. But many international visitors will arrive from nearby Condesa or Roma. Escandón won’t get the massive walking tours that may be better justified in nearby Tacubaya. But it is a remarkably comfortable and pleasant neighborhood nonetheless.