All about Parque Centenario Ejército Mexicano in Mérida

The Parque Centenario del Ejército Mexicano has something unique to offer, but due to its location, most people probably never get to see it.

The park sits in an industrial area on the southwestern outskirts of Mérida, making it a bit off the beaten path. However, if you're interested in military history or just want to see something different, it's worth a visit.

Covering around 30,000 square meters, it's a spacious open area with several decommissioned military vehicles on display. You'll find

• fighter jets (like a Lockheed T-33 "Shooting Star"),

• armored personnel carriers (like a DN-V Buffalo),

• tanks,

• and other armored vehicles,

all mounted on pedestals.

The park is divided into two sections. One half is an open space showcasing only military equipment, while the other half has a mix of military displays, trees, park benches, and even a playground for children.

It was inaugurated on December 5, 2013, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mexican Army. If you're coming by car, there are plenty of parking spaces available nearby.

Military Displays in the Park

If you're visiting Parque Centenario del Ejército Mexicano in Mérida, one of the most striking displays is the Lockheed T-33 "Shooting Star", a jet trainer used by the Mexican Air Force.

This aircraft, originally developed in the United States, played a crucial role in training military pilots for decades. The jet in the park is painted in a green camouflage scheme with an eagle motif on the nose, reflecting its Mexican service history.

Nearby, you'll also find a DN-V Buffalo, a locally produced armored personnel carrier. Designed for the Mexican military, this vehicle was built for troop transport and reconnaissance missions, offering protection in rugged terrain.

Both exhibits give you a closer look at Mexico’s military history, and you can even climb up to explore them, just like the other vehicles in the park, making it an interesting stop if you're curious about military equipment.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

One thing to keep in mind is that half of the park has no shade at all. If you come in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak, it can get extremely hot. That said, it's still best to visit during daylight hours, as there isn't much lighting in the evening.

At times, the park has not been well maintained, and you might find some trash inside the vehicles. This is something that tends to change quickly in Mexico, so the level of cleanliness can vary.

Unfortunately, you never know exactly what to expect until you're there...

Mérida’s Military Presence

The park is located in the southwest of Mérida, near the airport and right in front of the Mérida Army Base. This base is home to a significant number of military personnel, with over 1,000 soldiers stationed there permanently.

It houses different specialized units, including infantry, artillery, and logistical support teams. The base itself consists of barracks, administrative offices, training grounds, maintenance workshops, and storage facilities for military equipment.