Review: Museo Frida Kahlo

What’s this place about?
This Mexico City museum, also known as "Casa Azul" for its shocking cobalt blue exterior, is where Frida Khalo was born and raised. She lived (and eventually died) in the home, which she shared with her fellow artist/husband, Diego Rivera. While the collection of their own artwork is small, what's perhaps more impressive is the couple’s collection of folk art, pre-Hispanic artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, personal items, and more.

How's the collection?
There are only a few Khalo and Rivera paintings in addition to other contemporary artists of their era. But no matter, seeing the house itself and how she lived is why you're here. The home is carefully preserved and maintained; it's easy to imagine the spaces as they were during Kahlo's time. Check out that kitchen, for instance, heated by wood with hulking cazuelas for cooking. (There’s a recipe for Frida’s mole sauce on the wall). The collection of clothes and corsets Frida needed to support her body after the traumatic accident she suffered give an intimate look at the artist's daily struggles.

What did you make of the crowd?
The lines at Casa Azul are insane. Buy tickets ahead of time to skip most of the hassle; waiting for hours outside is a major morale-killer. If possible, go during the week so you can take time to soak it all in.

On the practical tip, how were facilities?
Once inside, there is a set route to explore the house. It's easy to mill around the space, though a bottleneck sometimes builds up on crowded weekends. Note that the house is old, so not all floors are wheelchair-accessible, and visitors are not allowed to take pictures.

Any guided tours worth trying?
Children can pick up monkey-shaped guides in each room that provide a brief explanation of what they are seeing, plus a quiz to keep them entertained.

Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it?
The gift shop is small but full of Frida-inspired goodies, from magnets and postcards to jewelry and shawls.

Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere?
The small cafe is set in the home's beautiful gardens; it's a nice place to sit and reflect on a quiet day at the museum.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?
Do it. Absolutely. The space is diverse and interesting, with indoor and outdoor elements. Ninety minutes is ideal.