All about Museo Palacio de la Musica in Mérida (2025 Guide)

I own four guitars but can barely play, and I’ve got two keyboards even though I don’t really know how to use them. Does that qualify me to have an opinion on a music museum? That’s for you to decide…

Museo Interactivo del Palacio de la Música (Interactive Museum of the Palace of Music) is part of the National Center for Mexican Music in Mérida, Yucatán and has the mission of promoting and preserving popular and traditional Mexican music.

It is a comparatively newer museum, which opened on June 25, 2018, but the house in which the museum is located was already built in the late 19th century. In contrast to most other buildings, it is a very modern structure.

Covering an area of around 800 square meters, the museum houses eight interactive rooms in which the musical history of the entire country is presented.

Furthermore there is a concert hall for 450 people and the classrooms where the bachelor's degree program in traditional and popular Mexican music is taught.

The collection extends from the pagan music of pre-Hispanic cultures to the popular music of various countries of the Republic. All rooms have different options for playing music and some of the interactions take place via touch screens and headphones.

What’s Waiting to Be Discovered...

As you enter the museum, you're guided by a ramp into the underground exhibition spaces. The journey begins with touchscreens and headphones that introduce you to the basics of sound, instruments, and music.

The next section delves into the music of pre-Columbian cultures, showcasing interactive displays of ancient instruments and their sounds. I liked this area best, perhaps also because it was something different and unexpected.

A highlight of the museum is also the recreated courtyard of a traditional Yucatecan mansion, immersing you in the world of Yucatecan Trova and Jarana music. Here, you can experience the sounds and dances of the region firsthand.

The museum also features areas dedicated to the impact of radio and cinema on Mexico's music history. In a recreated vintage theater with traditional seating and a holographic ticket seller, stories of Mexican film legends come to life.

Staggered Admission Prices

The Palacio de la Música is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The admission fees are staggered (as usual) and are as follows:

• General admission: 200 MXN

• National visitors: 100 MXN

• Yucatán residents: 50 MXN

• Teenagers aged 13–17: 50 MXN

• Children aged 4–12: 25 MXN

Admission is free for all children under 4 years of age.

Fun for Families at the Music Museum

For families, the museum offers an experience with interactive stations where children can mix their own music, design album covers, and participate in music quizzes.

These activities are designed to be both educational and fun, allowing kids to learn about Mexico's musical heritage while exploring their creativity in a hands-on environment.

Let's face it: Teenagers aren't exactly famous for their overwhelming enthusiasm when it comes to museum visits. But I honestly think this place might surprise them.

After all, there's a huge difference between passively staring at things behind glass and actively getting your hands busy!

Educational Programs and Events

The Music Museum in Mérida also offers a variety of educational programs for schools and community groups. These programs include workshops, lectures and guided tours aimed at fostering an understanding and appreciation of music.

In addition, the museum regularly organizes events such as

• concerts,

• lectures,

• and special exhibitions.

Official Links & Social Media

You will find more information on a government website of Mexico (SIC México).

The Music Museum is also active on social media:

• Museo Palacio de la Música on Facebook

• Museo Palacio de la Música on Instagram

Architectural Recognition & Awards

As already written, it is an extraordinary building and the Palacio de la Música has received several awards. In 2019, it was named "Obra del Año" (Work of the Year) by Obras magazine, which annually honors Mexico’s best architectural projects.

Additionally, it earned second place in the "Best Museum Building" category at the "Lo Mejor de Yucatán 2024" awards. These awards acknowledge the building's architectural and cultural value.