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Manacar

Torre Manacar Mexico City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Torre Manacar rises at the bustling intersection of Avenida Insurgentes Sur and Río Mixcoac, representing the fusion of Mexico City’s vibrant history and its aspirations for a sustainable urban future. Completed in 2017 on the site of the iconic Cine Manacar, this skyscraper is a testament to modern architectural innovation while honoring cultural heritage. Designed by Teodoro González de León in collaboration with Hatumi Hirano Beltrán and José Arce Gargollo, Torre Manacar offers a dynamic blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and art within an environmentally conscious, mixed-use development. Featuring preserved artworks like Carlos Mérida’s “Los Danzantes” mural, Mexico’s first 360-degree giant screen, and a striking glass dome, the complex stands as a destination for architecture enthusiasts, culture seekers, and sustainability advocates alike.

This guide delivers all the essential details for planning your visit, including historical context, architectural highlights, visitor information, accessibility, tickets, and nearby attractions. For the latest updates and more in-depth resources, consult the official Manacar website, Skyscraper Center, and Archello.

Aerial view of Mexico City with urban landscape and mountains in the background

Aerial view of Mexico City skyline under clear blue sky

Historical Evolution of the Manacar Site
Architectural Vision and Design
Sustainability and Environmental Leadership
Urban Impact and Mixed-Use Functionality
- Accessibility and Connectivity
Visiting Torre Manacar: Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information
Notable Architectural Accolades
Visitor Experience: Architectural Highlights
Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Explore More
References

Historical Evolution of the Manacar Site

The current site of Torre Manacar is deeply rooted in Mexico City’s collective memory. For decades, it was home to Cine Manacar, a mid-20th-century cinema and cultural landmark. The cinema, inaugurated in 1965, was a focal point for entertainment and the arts, notably featuring Carlos Mérida’s mural “Los Danzantes,” which has been preserved in the new complex (Manacar MX). As urban renewal gained momentum in the 2010s, the original cinema was replaced with a vision for a mixed-use skyscraper that would respect the site’s cultural significance while meeting the demands of a modern city (Skyscraper Center).

Architectural Vision and Design

Concept and Lead Architects

Torre Manacar’s design is the result of a collaboration between Teodoro González de León, Hatumi Hirano Beltrán, and José Arce Gargollo (Manacar MX). The building’s geometric dynamism is expressed through its triangular form, which projects toward the roundabout and creates a bold urban presence. González de León’s modernist sensibilities are evident in the interplay of light, structure, and context.

Structural and Spatial Features

Standing 144 meters tall, Torre Manacar features 30 above-ground floors and 12 subterranean levels, covering approximately 185,779 square meters (Skyscraper Center). Its glass façade offers shifting tonalities throughout the day, creating a living sculpture on the skyline. The oval glass dome, imported from Manchester, England, crowns the shopping center, illuminating six levels with abundant daylight and housing Mexico’s first 360-degree giant screen (Manacar MX).

Integration of Public and Green Spaces

At street level, Torre Manacar welcomes visitors with a 1,000-square-meter public plaza, featuring a dramatic water mirror and a 30-meter-high cascading waterfall that glides along an inclined glass surface (Manacar MX). These features not only enhance the urban landscape but also contribute to the building’s microclimate and biodiversity.

Interior Art and Cultural Heritage

A defining element of the new Torre Manacar is the preservation of the “Los Danzantes” mural by Carlos Mérida, a rare artifact from the original cinema that now serves as a bridge between the site’s past and present (Manacar MX).

Sustainability and Environmental Leadership

Torre Manacar is a benchmark for sustainable urban architecture, earning LEED Gold certification for its commitment to energy efficiency, resource conservation, and occupant wellbeing (Skyscraper Center). Notable sustainability features include:

Optimized Daylighting: The expansive glass and central dome maximize natural light, reducing artificial lighting needs (Archello).
Energy Efficiency: Smart HVAC and lighting systems, along with intelligent building management, deliver reduced energy consumption.
Healthy Materials and Air Quality: Low-emission materials and advanced ventilation enhance indoor air quality.
Water Conservation: Water features and efficient plumbing minimize water usage in alignment with environmental goals.

These features position Torre Manacar among the most sustainable mixed-use developments in Latin America.

Urban Impact and Mixed-Use Functionality

Torre Manacar exemplifies vertical urbanism by integrating retail, offices, public spaces, and dining within a single complex. The six-level shopping center coexists with corporate offices and diverse entertainment venues (Archello). The building’s design fosters a lively environment, supporting economic activity and community engagement.

Accessibility and Connectivity

Located on Avenida Insurgentes Sur, one of the city’s main arteries, Torre Manacar is easily reached via Metro and Metrobús lines. The building offers 2,476 parking spaces and 28 high-speed elevators (Skyscraper Center). Bicycle parking and proximity to Ecobici bike-share stations further support sustainable mobility.

Visiting Torre Manacar: Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Shopping Center: Typically open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. Hours for individual stores and restaurants may vary; verify on the official directory.
Office Areas: Generally open 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays.
Special Events and Holidays: Check the official website for updates.

Tickets and Entry

General Access: Free entry to public, retail, and dining areas.
Cinema and Events: Cinemex Premium and special events require separate tickets; see respective websites or venue counters for details.

Guided Tours and Events

Tours: While regular guided tours are not standard, cultural and architectural events are occasionally scheduled. Inquire at the information desk or check the website for current offerings.

Accessibility

Facilities: Ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and tactile paving support visitors with mobility challenges.
Transportation: Metro (Mixcoac station—Line 12), Metrobús, and multiple bus routes provide easy access. Rideshare drop-off and ample parking are also available.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Mixcoac Neighborhood: Explore local markets, colonial churches, and cultural venues.
Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes: 27-minute walk.
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): Short taxi or public transit ride.
Other Shopping Centers: Galerías Insurgentes is nearby.
Travel Tips: Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, use public transport or bike to minimize your carbon footprint, and check weather forecasts during the rainy season.

Notable Architectural Accolades

Torre Manacar has been recognized internationally for its innovative design and sustainability, featured on platforms like Architizer and Archello.

Visitor Experience: Architectural Highlights

Triangular Façade: Observe the building’s shifting geometry from multiple vantage points.
Glass Dome Atrium: Enjoy natural light and panoramic views in the shopping center.
“Los Danzantes” Mural: Seek out this unique artwork, a rare relic from the original Cine Manacar.
Public Plaza and Waterfall: Relax in the tranquil urban oasis created by water features and landscaping.

Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

Retail

Torre Manacar hosts over 70 stores, ranging from international brands (H&M, Tommy Hilfiger, Sephora) to local boutiques. Specialty shops and technology outlets offer unique finds and gifts.

Dining

With seven full-service restaurants and more than 20 food kiosks, the culinary options include international, Mexican, and casual fare. Popular chains and specialty cafés are available, and vegetarian/vegan options are offered at select venues.

Entertainment

Cinemex Premium: Luxury moviegoing with reclining seats and in-theater dining, continuing the legacy of Cine Manacar.
Seasonal Events: Pop-up markets, art installations, and cultural performances are regularly hosted.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Payment: Mexican pesos are standard; credit/debit cards widely accepted.
Wi-Fi and Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and baby-changing facilities are available.
Safety: The area is secure with visible security and surveillance.
Dress Code: Casual-smart attire and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Sustainability: Support green practices by using recycling bins and minimizing single-use plastics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Torre Manacar’s visiting hours?
A: The shopping center is generally open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily; office hours and individual venues may vary.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Entry to public and retail spaces is free; special events and cinema require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasional tours and cultural events are offered; check the official website or information desk.

Q: How do I get there via public transport?
A: Use Metro (Mixcoac station—Line 12), Metrobús, or nearby bus routes. Rideshare and ample parking are available.

Q: Is Torre Manacar wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the building provides elevators, ramps, and accessible facilities.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Torre Manacar has a pet-friendly policy in public areas.

Plan Your Visit and Explore More

Make the most of your visit to Torre Manacar by checking the official website and directory for updated hours, store listings, and events. Download the Audiala app for self-guided tours, interactive maps, and real-time updates. For more on Mexico City’s best destinations, explore our related travel guides and follow us on social media.

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Summary and Recommendations

Torre Manacar is a shining example of Mexico City’s evolution—honoring its cultural roots while embracing architectural innovation and ecological responsibility. With LEED Gold certification, a blend of public and private spaces, and a vibrant calendar of cultural events, it is an inclusive and enriching destination. Whether you visit for shopping, dining, art, or simply to admire the design, Torre Manacar stands out as a must-see landmark. Stay informed by consulting the official website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for a personalized experience.