Marimba Park (Parque de la Marimba)
Av Central Pte S/N, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico
A busy, leafy town square tucked into Tuxtla Gutiérrez’s central Guadalupe barrio, or neighborhood, this pint-sized park takes its name from the wooden percussion instrument native to Mexico, Guatemala, and many parts of Africa. Parque de la Marimba is one of the best places in the Chiapas capital to catch an evening marimba performance, while during the day, it provides a refuge from the city’s bustle.
The park is compact, so anyone looking for a short stroll won’t need longer than 30 minutes to an hour to explore the vicinity. Parque de la Marimba is an excellent spot to laze around with a book during the day or people-watch. During the evening hours, street food and balloon vendors give the area a carnival-like atmosphere, while the square comes alive with the distinctive soft melodies of marimba instruments.
There is no charge to catch a musical performance or to partake in the dancing. You can quench your thirst afterward at one of the numerous food stalls and ice cream carts.
If you visit Parque de la Marimba on a weekend evening, come by 6pm to catch a seat. Performance timings vary, but that’s typically when you can count on a marimba show getting started.
Multiple restaurants and cafés are within walking distance of Parque de la Marimba. Consider strolling through the park before your meal or enjoying a post-dinner walk.
Parque de la Marimba is an excellent option for families with kids. While the mood is festive, the atmosphere is family-friendly, and children will surely enjoy the toys and souvenirs for sale—not to mention the sweet treats.
Since it has its own airport, Tuxtla Gutiérrez can be easily reached by plane from almost anywhere in Mexico (including direct flights from Cancun). Getting into the city is a short taxi ride away. The Parque de la Marimba is centrally located, within walking distance of other city parks like Jardín Botánico Faustino Miranda or Niño De Atocha.
Typically, Tuxtla Gutiérrez is best during Mexico’s dry season, lasting roughly from November to April, when the skies stay clear and daytime temperatures are mild. The rainy season (June to November) is another option if you don’t mind the balmy weather and occasional afternoon downpours. The evening is the best time to appreciate Parque de la Marimba’s festive ambiance.
Adjacent to the Parque de la Marimba, this small museum explains the history of the marina instrument (many speculate that it came to Mexico via Africa) and offers live musical demonstrations. There are workshops where visitors can learn how to play the marimba. Even better, admission to the museum is free, so visit the namesake park next door.
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