
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO)
Discover contemporary Mexican art in a stunning 1700s colonial house in the heart of Oaxaca.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover contemporary Mexican art in a stunning 1700s colonial house in the heart of Oaxaca.
"A surprising and beautiful cultural center in an old colonial building with wonderful architecture."

Verify Opening Hours
Due to past disputes, confirm MACO's current operating status before visiting. Check local news or social media.
Explore Both Floors
The upper floor often features more accessible art. Don't miss the architectural details of the colonial building.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Oaxacan Art
Discover vibrant and thought-provoking works by emerging and established Mexican artists, showcasing diverse perspectives.

Colonial Architecture
The entire building
Explore the beautiful 1700s colonial house that serves as the museum's stunning backdrop, with hidden architectural details.

Rotating Exhibitions
Experience fresh perspectives with regularly changing displays that highlight current trends in Mexican contemporary art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating MACO's Current Status
Embrace the Art & Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Verify Opening Hours
Due to past disputes, confirm MACO's current operating status before visiting. Check local news or social media.
Explore Both Floors
The upper floor often features more accessible art. Don't miss the architectural details of the colonial building.
Mosquito Alert!
Be aware of mosquitoes, especially in the bathrooms. Consider bringing repellent.
Entry Fee
Entry is typically around $50 MXN, though some visitors reported free entry on certain days.
Tips
from all over the internet
Verify Opening Hours
Due to past disputes, confirm MACO's current operating status before visiting. Check local news or social media.
Explore Both Floors
The upper floor often features more accessible art. Don't miss the architectural details of the colonial building.
Mosquito Alert!
Be aware of mosquitoes, especially in the bathrooms. Consider bringing repellent.
Entry Fee
Entry is typically around $50 MXN, though some visitors reported free entry on certain days.
Art World Insights
Even if some exhibits feel 'over your head,' appreciate the context and the building's history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MACO offers a blend of contemporary Oaxacan art within a historically significant colonial building. While some visitors find the first-floor exhibitions conceptually challenging, the upper floors and the architecture itself are frequently praised. Practical concerns like restroom facilities have been noted, but the museum remains a worthwhile cultural stop for its unique artistic offerings and stunning setting.
"The first floor has some of the most unimpressive, least exciting exhibitions - and I have been working in the artworld for over 20 years. I’m glad the entry was free that day. The upper floor had some vaguely more interesting artwork."
Sébastien Aurillon
"A surprising and beautiful cultural center in an old colonial building with wonderful architecture and both anciant and modern art. We enjoyed wandering through this awesome structure and were lucky to find out about a free concert there that we attended that evening. Only one block east of the Zocalo."
Paul B.
"A nice escapism of interesting Oaxacan artistes and amazing visions of their work.
Over two floors.
An interesting video highlighting about a drug smuggler.
$50 MX Pesos
Toilet had no toilet tissue and lock for cubicle does not lock correctly. So, anybody could have barge in."
Andrew G. T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MACO is conveniently located just one block east of the Zócalo in Oaxaca City. You can easily walk there from the city center. Taxis are also readily available throughout Oaxaca.
While there isn't direct public transport to the museum's doorstep, its central location makes it accessible via local buses that stop near the Zócalo, followed by a short walk.
From Oaxaca International Airport (Xoxocotlán), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to the city center, and then it's a short walk to MACO.
Street parking can be challenging in this central area. It's advisable to use public transport, walk, or a taxi. If driving, look for paid parking lots in the vicinity of the Zócalo.
Absolutely! MACO's proximity to the Zócalo, the Oaxaca Cathedral, and the ethnobotanical garden makes it easy to plan a day of sightseeing in the historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is typically around $50 MXN. However, some visitors have reported experiencing free entry on certain days, so it's worth checking upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter upon your visit for any potential concessions.
Due to past operational issues and disputes, it's essential to verify the current opening hours before your visit. Check MACO's official social media or local news outlets for the most up-to-date information.
Currently, online ticket purchasing options for MACO are not widely advertised. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the museum.
The museum is housed in a historic building, which may present some accessibility challenges. While the first floor might be more accessible, the upper floors may have stairs. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
MACO features contemporary Mexican art, with both permanent and rotating exhibitions. While some exhibits, particularly on the first floor, can be conceptual or video-based, the upper floors often showcase more traditional painting and sculpture.
A visit to MACO can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in contemporary art and the current exhibitions. Some visitors may spend more time if they engage deeply with the video installations.
Information on regular guided tours is not readily available. However, the museum may occasionally host special events or talks. It's best to check their schedule or inquire at the information desk.
Some visitors have noted issues with restroom facilities, including a lack of toilet paper and malfunctioning locks. Be prepared for basic amenities.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but flash photography and professional videography might be restricted. It's always a good idea to check for signage or ask museum staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
MACO does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, its central location means numerous dining options are available in the surrounding streets and near the Zócalo.
You'll find a wide array of restaurants and street food vendors near MACO, offering everything from traditional Oaxacan cuisine to international fare. Explore the streets around the Zócalo for diverse culinary experiences.
It's generally not permitted to bring food and drinks into museum exhibition spaces. There are no designated areas within the museum for consumption.
Oaxaca is known for its rich culinary scene, and you'll easily find vegetarian and vegan options at many restaurants in the vicinity of MACO. Look for establishments offering traditional Oaxacan dishes with plant-based alternatives.
Dining options near MACO range from budget-friendly street food to mid-range and upscale restaurants. You can find delicious meals to suit various budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's colonial architecture itself is a photographic highlight, especially the courtyards and staircases. Many visitors also capture details of the contemporary artworks.
Personal photography is generally allowed, but it's wise to check for specific signage regarding restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Avoid flash photography.
A versatile camera, such as a mirrorless or DSLR with a good all-around lens, is ideal. For capturing architectural details, a wide-angle lens can be useful. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for casual shots.
This varies greatly with rotating exhibitions. Look for pieces with strong colors, interesting textures, or unique forms that resonate with you. The video installations can also be visually striking.
Weekday afternoons can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed photography experience. The natural light filtering into the colonial courtyards can be beautiful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the more visually engaging pieces on the upper floors, and consider it an opportunity to introduce children to different forms of artistic expression. Be prepared for potential restroom issues and the possibility of mosquitoes, so pack accordingly. The museum's central location makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Oaxaca.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the historical architecture of the building, as it provides a unique context for the displayed art. The rotating nature of the exhibitions means there's always something new to discover, making repeat visits potentially rewarding.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
While the art is contemporary, the building itself tells a story. Take your time to admire the courtyards, the arches, and the overall structure. It's a beautiful example of Oaxaca's rich architectural heritage, offering a different kind of visual feast alongside the art exhibitions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding MACO's Recent History
These situations have led to protests and calls for support from the artistic community. The government's involvement in reclaiming the building, which was previously managed by the 'Amigos del MACO' association, has also been a significant factor. This history means that visitors should always verify the museum's current operational status and exhibition schedule before planning their visit.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of MACO, originally founded with the vision of promoting contemporary art, continues to be a point of discussion and advocacy. Travelers interested in the Oaxacan art scene should stay informed about MACO's developments, as it remains a significant cultural institution.
The Art and Architecture Blend
The museum's layout, spread over two floors, presents a diverse range of artistic expressions. While some visitors find the first-floor exhibitions, which can include video installations and conceptual pieces, to be less immediately engaging or requiring deeper cultural context, the upper floor often features more interesting artwork. This contrast allows for a multifaceted experience, where the historical ambiance of the building complements the modern artistic statements.
When visiting MACO, it's recommended to approach the experience with an open mind, appreciating both the vibrant Oaxacan artists and their amazing visions, as well as the enduring charm of the colonial structure that houses them. The blend of old and new creates a distinctive atmosphere for art lovers.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
Practical aspects, such as the toilet facilities, have been mentioned as needing improvement, with reports of missing toilet paper and faulty locks. Additionally, some visitors have encountered mosquitoes in the bathrooms, suggesting a need for preparedness.
Despite these points, many visitors enjoy the stunning building and find the collection to be a nice escapism. The museum's location, just a block east of the Zócalo, makes it an easily accessible cultural stop. The entry fee is generally modest, around $50 MXN, though occasional free entry days have been noted.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit