Free museums in Mexico City to visit during the World Cup

Mexico City is embracing the 2026 World Cup not just through the matches, but also by highlighting the rich history and culture surrounding the popular sport. To join the festivities, five museums are offering free admission with exhibitions that delve into history, art, culture, and even football itself.

The Museo del Estanquillo, housed in a former luxury jewelry store, boasts one of Mexico's largest collections of journalism and writing. Located in the Historic Center, it features three temporary exhibition halls dedicated to the collections of Carlos Monsiváis. Visitors can explore historical documents, paintings, photographs, drawings, prints, sheet music, caricatures, miniatures, and models, all reflecting the "estanquillos" of the 19th century, which were shops selling all kinds of merchandise. The museum is open Wednesday to Monday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

In conjunction with the World Cup, Museo Jumex presents "Futbol y arte: esa misma emoción" (Football and art: that same emotion). This exhibition explores the relationship between contemporary art and football, viewing both as cultural and social expressions. It highlights how the sport can be experienced off the field, acting as a language that strengthens community identity and global connection. Museo Jumex is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The Museo Palacio de Iturbide is showcasing "Copa de arte popular y futbol" (Folk art and football cup), featuring 145 pieces by artisans from across Mexico. These works, created using diverse techniques and materials like papier-mâché, textiles, wax, and metals, unite Mexican tradition with the passion for football. The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Additionally, Museo Yancuic dedicates three floors to football memorabilia, including jerseys, balls, shoes, pennants, newspapers, and trophies that have defined the sport's history. Visitors receive a small album at the start to collect stamps from 16 different stations throughout the exhibition.