Dorado, Puerto Rico
(do-RAH-do)
Dorado is known as "La Ciudad Ejemplar". Dorado was founded on November 22, 1842 by Jacinto López Martínez. In 1902, Dorado was appended to Toa Baja. However, in 1905 it regained its status as a separate town.
The Casa Alegria Museum, built in 1913 and former residence of master painter Marco Juan Alegria, features an exhibit hall with art school and memorabilia from past decades. Located on 192 Mendez Vigo St. Open Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm, (787) 796-1030.
The Casa del Rey Museum (King's House), originally built in 1823 to house Spanish government personnel, it is believed to be the oldest building in the city. This Spanish military neoclassical building houses the local history museum, features exhibits about Puerto RicoÕs early history, from the Taino culture to the Spanish conquest. In 1978, the Puerto Rican Institute of Culture restored the building and in 1989, the museum was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Located on 292 Mendez Vigo St. Open Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm, (787) 796-1030.
The Cerro Gordo Beach is a very attractive beach just a short ride from San Juan on route 690 off Route 22 or Route 2. (787) 883-2730.
The Dorado Del Mar Golf Club was designed under the expertise of world-renowned Puerto Rican golfer, Chi Chi Rodriguez in 1998. This 18-hole course is located in Dorado, just 20 miles west of San Juan. The course is characterized by its narrow fairways and magnificently shaped greens. It features 4 sets of tees, water on 12 holes and numerous bunkers. The signature hole is #10, a 525-yard, par 5, featuring stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The tropical trade winds will test even the best players. At night, the course is lighted up for a night game. Located on 200 Dorado del Mar. Green fees: 9 holes $85 and 18 holes $95.00. Driving range hours: Tuesday-Thursday 6:00am to 9:00pm and Friday-Saturday from 6:00am to 10:00pm, (787)796-3070.
The Hyatt Regency Cerromar Beach Resort Golf features 36 holes of championship golf spread over two courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. back in 1970. Located on Route 693. Admission $75-110. Open Mon-Sun 7:30am - 5:30pm, (787) 796-8915.
Economy
Dorado is the home of several clothing and medical equipment manufacturers, among them: Boston Scientific, Pfizer and Heraeus.
Geography
Dorado is located in the northern region of the island, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, north of Toa Alta, east of Vega Alta, and west of Toa Baja.
Dorado is made up of 6 barrios (wards/districts):
- Espinosa
- Higuillar
- Maguayo
- Mameyal
- Pueblo
- Río Lajas
Climate
Dorado annual precipitation is 68 inches, and its average temperature is 78°F.
Notable People
There are many well-known "doradeños", among them: José A. Alegría.
Restaurants
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Accommodations
The town is a touristic centre with many residential resort communities and prestigious hotels.
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Festivals and Events
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Symbols
Flag
The flag is composed of three stripes of equal width: the upper and lower stripes are golden, and the center one is brown.
Education
There are 13 public schools in Dorado, education is handled by the Puerto Rico Department of Education.
Anthem: Por fin, en las riberas...
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