All about Parque de Santiago in Mérida (2025 Guide)

If you’ve checked out our story, you probably saw that we almost bought a house in the Santiago neighborhood (yep, there’s even a video of it). Santiago is super central – just steps from downtown – but it also has a vibe all its own.

Parque de Santiago is a quiet and charming park, just four blocks from Plaza Grande on Calle 59 between Calle 70 and Calle 72. The Santiago Park is a classic downtown square with plenty of benches where you can sit, relax, and watch everyday life go by.

Around the park, you’ll find restaurants, bistros, bars, and grocery stores, making it a great spot to take a break. On weekends, vendor stalls set up around the area.

This is one of Mérida’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods. After the city's founding in 1542, Santiago became home to much of the indigenous Mayan population, giving it a strong historical identity.

The park itself is shaded by large trees and features a water fountain at its center, creating a peaceful setting for visitors. Like many public spaces in Mérida, free Wi-Fi is available, provided by the city.

Musical Remembrances

Live music is a big part of Mérida’s charm, and Santiago Park is no exception.

Every Tuesday at 8:30 pm, the park comes alive with "Musical Remembrances," a weekly event where the Municipal Orchestra plays classic Latin and American big-band music from the 1940s.

The dancers are mostly older locals, but the atmosphere is friendly, and everyone is welcome to join in. It’s a great way to experience the city’s love for music and dance.

The Santiago Neighborhood

Barrio de Santiago is one of the most beautiful districts in Mérida’s city center. It has a relaxed vibe with a mix of colonial architecture, local businesses, and everyday city life.

Around the park, you’ll find great restaurants, bistros, bars, and shops, making it a nice place to explore. Directly across from the park is a school, and on the north side of the block, you’ll find a Cinemex movie theater.

Shopping and Parking

If you need to grab a few things, there’s a small Akí Express supermarket on Calle 72 right across from the park, and an Oxxo store is located next door.

If you’re arriving by car, a parking lot and a taxi stand are conveniently located nearby. You’ll find more parking spaces here than in many other parts of the city center, which makes it a practical stop during your exploration of Mérida.

The Santiago Market

Like most neighborhoods in Mérida, Santiago has its own market. The Santiago Market, officially called Mercado Municipal No. 2 Santos Degollado, is a local gem with a history dating back to the 19th century.

The market is open daily, and I recommend starting your morning there, soaking in the lively atmosphere. If you prefer a more relaxed start to the day, grabbing breakfast at one of the cafés on Santiago Square is a great alternative.

You can sit back, enjoy a fresh juice or coffee, and watch the neighborhood wake up.

Don't miss Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol

Of course, no traditional neighborhood in Mérida would be complete without a historic church – a quiet centerpiece of daily life and a reminder of the city’s rich colonial past.

The Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol, built in the 17th century, is one of the city’s oldest churches. It’s located right next to the park, and if you have an interest in history and architecture, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Situated next to the park, this historic church is a great place to step inside and experience a piece of Mérida’s colonial past.

It has a simple yet beautiful design and carries centuries of history within its walls. If you’re already in the area, it’s worth taking a few moments to explore.

Image Source (church): ©Mario Morales Rubí, flickr, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

The picture was modified (image improvements, size)