Aerial view of Paseo de La Reforma. 
The Angel of Independence in Mexico City. Image by Cordelia Persen.
John F. Kennedy said, “Nothing compares to the simple pleasures of riding a bike.” For this reason, in Mexico city cyclists to take over a major road, Paseo de la Reforma, and officials prohibit all motor vehicles on Sundays.
Paseo de la Reforma Boulevard has a rich history. Mexico’s federal democratic republic was overthrown by Napoleon III of France and would be ruled by his relative Emperor Maximilian. The first order was to build a wide boulevard modeled after Champs-Elysees. The street cuts through the city from the imperial castle (Chapultepec Castle) to the National Palace (located in the city center), where he conducted his day-to-day business. Maximilian’s wife, Empress Carlota, was extremely jealous and would religiously watch her husband’s carriage from her balcony to ensure he came straight home.
The street has roundabouts and statue columns. The most significant is The Angel of Independence, which was built in 1910 to commemorate Mexico’s independence from Spain and the Monument to Cuauhtémoc⸺ the last ruler of the Aztec Empire.
The road ends at the city center (El Zocalo), and you can take a Zumba lesson in the middle of the large plaza. Museums are free on Sundays, and many are located in the city center.
The total distance of the road is 9.1 miles (14.7 kilometers). The avenue is closed off to cars from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Several bicycle stations are located on the street, and you need a credit card to rent.
Cyclists enjoying riding on Paseo de la Reforma. Image by Maks Karochkin. 
Sunny Sunday as cyclists travel on Paseo de La Reforma. Image by City Clock Magazine. 
EcoBici company were you can rent a bicycle. Located throughout the city. Image by Renato Quiroga. 
Urban Skyline with some sculpture in the background along Reforma.
View of Reforma from Chapultepec Castle. Picture taken by me. 
The Angel of Independence in Mexico City. 
Bicycle Day at the Zocalo Square (City Center) in Mexico City. On Sundays a stage is set up for Zumba lessons. The National Palace on the right. The National Palace is the federal executive offices and were Maximiliano would conduct his business.
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