You know those places that instantly make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world? That’s what Biblioteca Vasconcelos felt like for me—a massive, futuristic library in the middle of Mexico City that took my breath away the moment I walked in.
I didn’t really know what to expect before I got there. I’d read a little about its design and seen some photos, but nothing prepared me for how calm this place would feel. In a city as vibrant (and, let’s be honest, chaotic) as Mexico City, Vasconcelos was like finding a secret spot where time slows down.
Finding My Way to the Floating Bookshelves
So, I took the Buenavista Metro, and it was super easy to get to from where I was staying. As soon as I walked into the building, I couldn’t stop looking up. The floating bookshelves—like, literally floating—made me feel like I was in a dream. Architect Alberto Kalach seriously created a masterpiece here. The whole structure is this incredible mix of glass and steel, and the light just pours in from every angle, bouncing off the shelves and filling the space with this surreal glow.
I’m telling you, I stood there for a solid ten minutes just staring.
But it’s not just the shelves that are cool. There’s this giant whale skeleton hanging in the middle of the library by artist Gabriel Orozco, and it’s just… wow. I couldn’t stop snapping photos of it. It felt so strange but so perfect in the space—like it was always meant to be there.
Losing Track of Time
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t really in a rush. I found a corner in the garden to sit and just breathe. The gardens surrounding the library are beautiful and peaceful, and I spent a lot of time there just watching the world pass by. It’s one of those places where you feel like you’re part of something bigger, even if you’re just sitting on a bench.
Inside, I wandered from floor to floor, watching locals and travelers alike. Students were studying, a couple of artists were sketching, and there were even some small groups deep in conversation. It was like a hub of quiet creativity, and I kind of didn’t want to leave.
What You Should Know Before You Go
If you’re in Mexico City, I highly recommend stopping by Biblioteca Vasconcelos. You don’t even have to be a book lover to appreciate the beauty of the space. Trust me, it’s worth the trip just for the design alone. Here’s what I learned:
- Plan some time: I thought I’d spend an hour here, but two hours flew by without me even realizing it. There’s just so much to see—and not just books!
- Don’t skip the gardens: Seriously, they’re the perfect spot to chill out, especially if you’ve been running around the city all day.
- Bring a camera: This place is so photogenic, you’ll want to capture it. From the floating shelves to the whale skeleton, there’s something worth snapping at every turn.
Details for Your Trip
- Location: Eje 1 Norte Mosqueta, Buenavista, Mexico City
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 9:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Cost: Free!
- Getting there: The Buenavista Metro Station is your best bet, and it’s a short walk from there.
I’m all about those hidden gems that make you feel like you’ve uncovered something magical, and Biblioteca Vasconcelos is exactly that. Next time you find yourself wandering through Mexico City, do yourself a favor and experience it. Who knows, you might just lose yourself for a few hours like I did.
Until our next adventure, keep exploring, keep dreaming—Nomadic Corazón out!
