Mercado 28, also known as Market 28, is an open-air commercial center situated in downtown Cancún within the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It serves as a prominent local cultural landmark that draws both residents and international travelers searching for traditional Mexican crafts.
Positioned in the downtown area, the market sits roughly two kilometers away from Cancún's coastal Hotel Zone. It is located near other regional points of interest, including the ADO bus station and Parque Las Palapas.
The site was first established in the 1980s as a conventional neighborhood market. During its early years, vendors supplied an array of everyday items, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, regional Yucatecan food, and handcrafted items. Following an economic crisis in the mid-1990s, the venue shifted its primary focus toward the sale of artisan crafts. In 2024, local efforts were launched to revitalize the space and increase public interest, at a time when daily attendance ranged between 3,000 and 3,500 visitors.
Today, guests visiting Mercado 28 can browse a vast collection of artisan handicrafts while experiencing a traditional Mexican market atmosphere. In addition to shopping for handcrafted goods, visitors can sample authentic regional Yucatecan cuisine at the various food stalls situated throughout the outdoor venue.
The market is easily reachable via several modes of transportation. Travelers staying in the Hotel Zone can ride the R2 public bus directly into downtown Cancún. Alternatively, the market can be accessed by taking a local taxi or by walking from adjacent downtown landmarks.
See the full Cancún travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.