Enjoy a day of recreation and relaxation at Central Park (Parque Central Hermanos Escobar). Discover large areas of greenery, a manmade lake, tame animals and a family-friendly science center. Central Park was established in memory of the brothers Numa and Rómulo Escobar, who were pioneers in agronomy education. The park sits on the site of a former agricultural college founded by the brothers in 1906.
Central Park features a large artificial lake surrounded by tree-shaded lawns. In the northeast corner is a boathouse, from where you can rent paddleboats. A walkway extends across the water from the boathouse to one of many sections of parkland. Bring a picnic to have on the lawn. Save some bread to feed the ducks that waddle along the lakeshore.
Watch the underbrush for the park’s other resident animals. Among these are golden pheasants, guinea fowl and peacocks. There’s also an enclosure that is home to a giraffe, two ostriches and a white-tailed deer. Purchase corn from the machines, reach out your arm and let them eat straight from your hand.
Get an insight into the vegetation of the Chihuahuan Desert at the Profr. Agr. Alberto Caravallo Arlandiz Botanical Garden. Find examples of acacias, agave, cactus and yuccas. These plants are representative of one of the world’s driest desert regions.
Visit La Rodadora Interactive Space. This hands-on museum has over 120 exhibits that combine art, science and technology and investigate the natural and social environment of Ciudad Juárez. See dinosaur fossils, learn about indigenous groups and watch 3-D movies. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee.
Drive southeast to Central Park in about 15 minutes from Ciudad Juárez’s city center. The easiest way to get here is to take a taxi. The park is open daily and admission to it and the botanical garden is free.
