All about Parque Recreativo del Oriente in Mérida (2025)

Parque Recreativo del Oriente is one of the larger parks in Mérida’s east, covering nearly 11 hectares. Unlike the small city parks in the center, which usually take up just a single street block, this park offers much more space for recreation and outdoor activities.

Many residents criticize the lack of green spaces in the city center, making parks like this an important part of the community. Dog lovers will appreciate that the park is home to two dog clubs, and you'll often see people walking or training their dogs here.

If you're in the area and looking for a spacious park with good facilities, the Parque Recreativo del Oriente is worth a visit. On the western side of the park, you'll find a high school and a sports field.

Major Renovations

In 2023, the park underwent major renovations, adding several new features.

There are now covered playgrounds for children, improved pathways with better lighting, picnic areas, and newly planted greenery with an irrigation system. A jogging track was also added, making it a great spot for runners.

Flea Markets

On Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons, the parking lot at the eastern edge of the park on Calle 10 hosts a tianguis called "Tianguis de fraccionamiento del Parque" - a flea market where you can buy virtually everything and nothing.

Chen Ho Archaeological Site

Since Mérida was built on the former Mayan city of T'hó, there are still some remains from that time scattered around the city (usually just a few foundation walls).

The Parque Recreativo del Oriente houses the Chen Ho archaeological site, making it one of the 15 archaeological parks in Merida.

The foundation walls and pyramid bases are open to the public and you can climb them. If you don't have time or don't feel like visiting one of the larger Mayan sites on the Yucatan Peninsula, this park is at least one of the best ways in Merida to take in a little bit of archaeology.

While there are no major ruins to explore within the city, traces of its past can still be seen in its architecture and cultural heritage. If you're looking for Mayan archaeological sites, there are several worth visiting just outside of Mérida.

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