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Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico

More Things to Do in San Juan: San Juan City Information, San Juan Restaurants, Where to Stay in San Juan

Displaying 123 results.
  1. Asilo de Beneficencia
    The Asilo de Beneficencia ("Home for the Poor") was built 1840s for the indigent people. Today it houses the administrative offices of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, with several changing exhibition galleries and an interesting room filled with pre-Columbian artifacts. The galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 4:30pm, charging $1 admission.

    2. (787) 724-5949 or (787) 724-5477

  2. Asylum
    Asylum is known for its excellent College parties and its great DJs. On Fridays, the disco offers live music with some of the best bands in town.

    3. Address: 1420 Ponce de Leon Ave., Santurce, San Juan 00907
    (787) 723-3416

  3. Ateneo Puertorriqueno
    Ateneo Puertorriqueno is the oldest cultural institution in Puerto Rico, founded in 1876. The Ateneo host a collection of art works, literature, historical documents, and memorabilia. It offers literary contests, annual art competitions, and short academic courses. Open weekdays from 9am to 5pm.

    4. Address: Ponce de León Ave., San Juan
    (787) 722-4839
    Fax (787) 725-3873

  4. Barrachina, Inc.
    Located just one block from the La Fortaleza (the Governor's Mansion), Barrachina is the largest and oldest store of its kind in Puerto Rico. Barrachina has over 10,000 square feet of retail space dedicated to the sale of fine jewelry, fragrances, gifts, liquor, souvenirs, Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, serigraphs, lithographs, and hand carved santos. Open Mon through Sat, 9am - 6pm.

    5. Address: 104 Fortaleza St., San Juan 00901
    (787) 725-7912

  5. Biblioteca Carnegie
    The Carnegie Library started its construction in 1914. The governor Arthur Yager obtained a contribution of $100,000 from Andrew Carnegie for the construction of a public library in San Juan. Recently restored and refurbished (1995), this public library boasts a state-of-the-art computer room and excellent educational services. Open Monday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm., and Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00am to 9:00pm.

    6. Address: 7 Ponce de León Ave., San Juan
    (787) 722-4739, (787) 722-4754
    Fax (787) 725-0261

  6. Blue Dolphin Bar
    The Blue Dolphin Bar is a "hotspot" located right on the premises of the small, but fashionable, Empress Oceanfront hotel that is located in the Isla Verde district area. This bar offers an ocean deck, with beautiful views of the coast, and live tropical music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. They also provide an enjoyable Happy Hour from 4-6pm daily.

    7. Address: Amapola Street (Empress Oceanfront Hotel), San Juan
    (787) 791-3083

  7. Bolera Paradise
    Open hours: Mon-Wed 9am - 12am, Thurs 11am - 12am, Fri-Sat 9am - 1am, and Sun 9am - 12am.

    8. Address: Rt. 58, Matadero St., San Juan 00920
    (787) 792-6594

  8. Bosque Urbano del Nuevo Milenio
    Located on the eastern side of the Botanical Garden of the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras.

    9. Address: Roads 1 and 847, Rio Piedras 00936

  9. Botanical Garden
    Located at the University of Puerto Rico, Botanical Garden is one of the main attractions on the campus. With over 200 species of tropical and sub-tropical vegetation to color the landscape. Open daily 9am-4:30pm. Free admission. Route 1 at Route 847, Rio Piedras.

    10. Address: Roads 1 and 847, Rio Piedras 00936
    (787) 763-4408

  10. Bukamarango's
    This small club offers several pool tables as well as live music several nights a week. There are special parties scheduled every weekend and events like the annual Bukamarango's Mardi Gras make this establishment well-known among the locals. Frequented by local teenagers and young professionals alike. There is a small parking area available in front of the pub.

    11. Address: 1152 Roosevelt Ave., San Juan
    (787) 792-6423

  11. Butterfly People
    An unique store featuring of a gallery, restaurant, gift shop, and antique shop. Hundreds of butterflies literally flutter across the walls of the gallery. These unique displays of beautiful arrangements of preserved butterflies, the work of artist Attenaire Purington, are for sale. Prices range from 20 to thousands of dollars. Open Monday through Saturday.

    12. Address: 152 Fortaleza St., San Juan 00901
    (787) 723-2432

  12. Cafe Bohemio
    Occasional live music. Open daily from 11am.

    13. Address: 100 Cristo St. (El Convento Hotel), San Juan
    (787) 723-9200

  13. Cafe Matisse
    Offers live jazz and blues, classic rock and roll, and poetry readings Tuesday-Sunday.

    14. Address: Ashford Ave., Condado., San Juan
    (787) 723-7910

  14. Capilla El Cristo (Cristo Chapel)
    La Capilla del Cristo was build in the 16th century (1753). Open only on Tuesdays from 10:00am to 3:30pm.


  15. Carib Inn
    Eight tennis courts.

    16. (787) 791-3535

  16. Caribe Hilton Casino
    Located close to Fort San Jeronimo.

    17. (787) 721-0303
    Fax (787) 725-8849

  17. Caribe Hilton
    Six tennis courts.

    18. (787) 721-0303

  18. Casa Blanca
    Casa Blanca was built in 1521 by the family of Ponce de León, who lived in it for 250 years until it became the residence of the Spanish and then the US military commander-in-chief. It is now a historical museum which is well worth a visit. It houses two museums, one on the Taino Indians and one on the house's history, with emphasis on life in the 16th and 18th centuries. Open Tues-Sun, guided tours Tues-Fri by appointment, admission US$2 adults, US$1 children.

    19. Address: 1 San Sebastian St., San Juan
    (787) 724-4102

  19. Casa de los Contrafuertes
    Periodic exhibitions are held in its Museum of Latin American Prints. Open Wed-Sun 9:00am-4:30pm.

    20. (787) 724-5477

  20. Casa de los Dos Zaguanes (House of the Two Foyers)
    Open Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:00pm

    21. (787) 724-5477

  21. Casa de Ramón Power y Girault
    Headquarters for the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico. In this house, Don Ramón Power y Giralt was born on October 27, 1775, to a family of landowners. At age 34, he was elected to be the representative for Puerto Rico in the Spanish Courts. During his incumbency, he won many important economic and political reforms for his country. The house has been restored; it also serves as a conservation resource center, in which critical environmental issues can be explored through an interactive multimedia exhibition entitled OJO-ISLA. Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

    22. Address: 155 Tetuán St., San Juan
    (787) 722-5834

  22. Casa del Libro
    An 18 century house, today is a museum and library devoted to the art of printing and book-making. Home to nearly 5,000 rare works of all kinds including sketches, illustrations and ancient manuscripts, the institution boasts 350 works predating the 16th century. Among the museum’s most precious possessions are two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1493 concerning provisioning Columbus' fleet for his second voyage, during which Puerto Rico was discovered. Open Tue-Sat 11:00am - 4:30pm.

    23. Address: 255 Cristo St., San Juan
    (787) 723-0354

  23. Casa Rosada
    Built in 1812 for the Spanish army. Today houses a government tourism office where you can pick up brochures, maps and a complimentary welcome cocktail made with Puerto Rican rum. Open daily from 8:00am - 5:00pm. Admission: $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for senior citizens and children.

    24. (787) 724-1454

  24. Castillo San Cristobal
    San Cristóbal Fort was El Morro's partner in the city's defense. Built in the 18th century, was considered the Gibraltar of the West Indies. San Cristobal was supported by a massive system of outworks which provided defense in depth and is is one of the largest defenses ever built in the Americas. Guided tours show visitors through the maze Tue, Thu-Fri at 10am, 11am, 2pm and 3pm. Open daily 9am - 5pm.

    25. Address: Norzagaray Street, Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 729-6653

  25. Castillo San Felipe del Morro
    El Morro was initially fortified in 1539 and completed in 1589. Rising 140 feet above the sea, its 18-foot-thick wall proved a formidable defense. It fell only once, in 1538, to a land assault by the Earl of Cumberland's forces. The fort is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts and ramps. Many restorations and expansions contributed to the imposing structure it is today. The area was designated a National Historic Site in February, 1949 with 74 total acres. Tours, orientation, and video presentation are available in English and Spanish. Open daily 9am-5pm. Free admission.

    26. Address: Norzagaray Street, Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 729-6960

  26. Catedral de San Juan Bautista (Saint John the Baptist Cathedral)
    San Juan Cathedral was built in 1521 by the Spanish colony's first bishop, Alonso Manso. The original church on these grounds had wooden walls and a thatched roof. The thatched wooden church was blown away by a hurricane in 1526 (October 4th). A new temple, built from stone dragged by horse from inland quarries, was completed in 1529, looted in 1598, and damaged by another hurricane in 1615. The Cathedral as seen today is the result of work done in 1917, when major restorations were performed. This Cathedral is an authentic and rare New World example of medieval architecture, considered one of the most impressive religious monuments in Puerto Rico. Since 1913, the Cathedral, which features Doric columns and elliptical vaults, contains the marble tomb of the island's first governor Juan Ponce de Leon and the relic of San Pio, a Roman martyr. San Juan Cathedral still holds religious services on a regular schedule. It is also open for tours daily from 8:30am to 4pm.

    27. Address: Cristo St., San Juan
    (787) 722-0861
    (787) 722-1709

  27. Central Park
    Facilities for jogging, baseball, calisthenics and tennis.

    28. (787) 722-1646

  28. Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferre
    Puerto Rico's own performing arts center dedicated to the promotion of local and visiting opera stars, ballet and theatrical companies as well as popular singing idols from all over the world. Located in Santurce, this modern architectural masterpiece houses three theaters. The Carlos Marichal Experimental Theater, a 210-seat room designed for theater-in-the-round and intimate chamber music performances. The Rene Marques Theater is a more formal 748-seat room that permits dramatic staging without losing the intimate feeling of live performances. The Antonio Paoli Festival Room is a 1,875-seat concert hall, home of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra.

    29. Address: Ponce de Leon Ave. Stop 20, San Juan 00940
    (787) 725-7334
    Fax (787) 722-8138

  29. Centro Ecuestre Dulce Sueno
    Horseback riding.

    30. (787) 725-0937

  30. Club Gallístico de Río Piedras

    31. Address: Bo Cupey Bajo Carr 844 Km 4 Hm 2, Rio Piedras, San Juan
    (787) 763-5545

  31. Club Lazer
    The club has a roof deck overlooking San Juan and features different music on different nights; Saturday is ladies' night.

    32. Address: 251 Cruz St., San Juan
    (787)721-4479 (787)725-7581

  32. Club Millennium

    33. Address: Condado, San Juan
    (787)722-1900

  33. Complejo Deportivo Rebekah Colberg

    34. (787) 725-2110

  34. Condado Plaza Casino

    35. Address: 999 Ashford Ave., San Juan
    (787) 721-1000
    Fax (787) 724-4356

  35. Condado Plaza Hotel
    Two tennis courts.

    36. (787) 721-1000

  36. Condado Shopping Center
    An upscale mini-mall boasting exclusive shops such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier.

    37. Address: 1054 Ashford Ave., San Juan

  37. Convento de los Dominicos (Convent of the Dominican Order)
    The Dominican Convent was built by Dominican friars in 1523, this building has served alternately as a convent, as a shelter against Carib Indian raids, and as the Caribbean headquarters of the U.S. Army. The convent contains a small chapel museum. Open daily 8am-4:30pm.

    38. Address: 98 Norzagaray Street, Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 721-6866

  38. Crowne Plaza

    39. Address: Route 187, Km 1.5, San Juan
    (787) 253-2929
    Fax (787) 253-2081

  39. Cuartel de Ballajá
    The Ballajá Quarters were the last and biggest buildings built by the Spaniards in Puerto Rico. The building measures 310 feet in its north and south sides; 272 feet in its east and west sides for a total of 84,320 sq.ft. (7,716 m2). Originally conceived as a solution to the lodging needs of military personnel stationed in San Juan, the building could accommodate up to 1,000 soldiers and their relatives. It's construction began in 1854. The Cuartel de Ballajá is a three-story, quadrilateral building with ample balconies, designed with a series of arches, that look towards an interior patio which served as a plaza and covers a reservoir. Facilities included officer quarters, warehouses, kitchens, dining rooms, prison cells and stables. After the Spanish American War, the U.S. Army used Ballajá to house its Infantry division. In the 1950s, it was converted into a military medical facility. Carefully restored Ballaja now houses the Museum of the Americas (second floor) features changing exhibitions, archaeological finds of the Ballaja area and an exhibit of crafts in the Americas. Open Mon-Fri 10:00-2:00, Sat-Sun 11:00-5:00, guided tours available weekdays. Admission free.

    40. (787) 724-5052

  40. Diva's

    41. (787) 721-8270

  41. Dunbar's

    42. (787) 728-6920

  42. Stargate
    Located in Santurce is the hottest club in San Juan. Stargate delivers a wide range of musical choices.

    43. (787) 725-4675

  43. El Alcazar
    This antiques shop has a fine collection of old handmade santos figurines.

    44. Address: 103 San Jose St., Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 723-1229

  44. El Arsenal
    Center for changing art exhibitions. Open Wed-Sun 9:00am-4:30pm.

    45. (787) 724-5949

  45. El Capitolio
    The Capitol was built in the 1920's to hold the offices of senators on one wing and those of representatives on the other, with galleries, friezes, mosaics and an impressive rotunda in which Puerto Rico's constitution is exhibited. Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm.

    46. Address: Avenida Ponce de Leon, San Juan
    (787) 721-6040

  46. El Conquistador
    Four tennis courts.

    47. (787) 863-1000

  47. El Escambron Beach

    48. Address: Puerta De Tierra, San Juan
    (787) 622-5229

  48. Eros The Club
    Open Wed-Sun 10pm. - until closed.

    49. Address: 1257 Ponce de León Ave., San Juan
    (787) 722-1131

  49. Estadio Hiram Bithorn
    Maximum capacity 18,000 persons.

    50. Address: F.D. Roosevelt Ave., Hato Rey, San Juan
    (787) 725-2110

  50. Federal Building
    The Federal Building was inaugurated the 4th of July of 1914. Is the only building in Puerto Rico with heating system. It was built with American surface plan, on the beginning of the 20th Century.


  51. Francisco Oller and History Museum
    Open Mon-Fri 8:00am-noon, 1:00pm-4:00pm

    52. (787) 798-8191

  52. Ft. Buchanan Golf Club
    Built in 1941. Designed by Military Personnel. Located on a military base in the heart of San Juan. Civilians can play when accompanied by a person from the military. 9-hole Bermuda Grass course with water in play. Carts available. Open daily 6:00am-6:00pm.

    53. (787) 707-3852
    Fax (787) 273-7233

  53. Fuerte San Geronimo
    Located close to Caribe Hilton Hotel.


  54. Galeria Botello
    Housed in a colonial mansion that once was the residence of Puerto Rican sculptor Angel Botello, this gallery displays his paintings and sculptures, and also offers a cross-section of contemporary Latin American art.

    55. Address: 314 Franklin Delano Roosevelt Ave., Hato Rey, San Juan 00918
    (787) 754-7430
    Fax (787) 250-8274

  55. Galeria Coabey
    The gallery specializes in appraisals and exhibits of international art. Open Monday-Friday 11am - 4:30pm, Saturday 11am - 5pm.

    56. Address: San Jose St., Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 723-1018

  56. Galeria Glasmin

    57. (787) 292-0540

  57. Gillies & Woodward
    Sells cigars made from island's tobacco.

    58. (787) 725-5280

  58. Holly's Disco
    Live music every Friday and Saturday. On Friday, Thank God it's Friday for Executives with happy hour from 5pm to 12am and our famous Holly's Jukebox. On Saturday, the most famous local merengue bands play at our disco all night long. Ladies Happy Hour! Holiday of Ponce & Tropical Casino

    59. (787) 844-1200

  59. Hyatt Dorado Beach
    Seven tennis courts.

    60. (787) 796-1234

  60. Hyatt Regency
    Fourteen tennis court.

    61. (787) 796-1234

  61. Iglesia San José (Church of Saint Joseph)
    The Church of Saint Joseph built in 1532 by Dominican friars to serve as the monastery's church, is the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere and is an excellent example of 16th century Spanish Gothic architecture. Originally named Saint Thomas Aquinas Church, later re-dedicated to Saint Joseph when the Jesuits took over both the Convent of the Dominican Order and the church in 1865. Ponce de León, was buried here for 300 years until his body was moved to the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral Cathedral in 1913. Puerto Rican painter Jose Campeche, who contributed a great deal to the beautiful churches of his island, is buried here. Mon-Wed, Fri 8am-3pm. Cristo Street, on the San Jose Plaza, Old San Juan.

    62. (787) 725-7501.

  62. Isla Verde Tennis Club
    Four tennis courts.

    63. (787) 727-6490

  63. Isla Verde Beach

    64. Address: Route 187, San Juan
    How to get there: From Luis Munoz Marin International Airport take Road 26, turn right on 187, then left on Road 37.

  64. Krash

    65. (787) 722-1390

  65. La Casita
    Built in 1937 for the Department of Commerce and Agriculture. Today houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Company Information Center, providing brochures, walking tour maps and general information. A craft market is held on weekends at La Plaza Dársenas, the square that surrounds La Casita. Open Saturday through Wednesday from 9:00am to 8:00pm., Thursday and Friday from 9:00am to 5:30pm, and on weekends from 11am to 10pm.

    66. (787) 722-1709

  66. La Fortaleza
    The Fortaleza building, originally built in 1540 as a fortress, but soon later proved inadequate to guard the entrance to the harbor. Built by Charles V and became the official Governor's Residence. The construction began in 1533 with a circular Homage Tower on top of which boaths of courage and fidelity were sworn. Reconstruction and expansions continued throughout the centuries. In 1846, it was remodeled and a neoclassical façade replaced its plain exterior, taking on the palatial splendor it boasts today. The building is surrounded by gardens. Tours in English are available every hour. Reservations required. Open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Free admission. West end of Fortaleza Street, Old San Juan.

    67. (787) 721-7000 ext. 2211, 2288, 2366

  67. La Princesa
    Built in 1837 and was originally a jail. It was restored to house the headquarters of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. Arts exhibitions are displayed in a gallery within the building. Open M-F 9:00am-noon, 1:00pm-4:00pm.

    68. (787) 721-2400

  68. Lazers Videotheque

    69. (787) 721-4479

  69. LeLoLai Program
    A program of musical shows sponsored by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. Cards may be purchased for $10 at authorized local travel agencies and participating hotels (Condado Beach, Caribe Hilton and the Sands). Participating tour operators offer tour discounts with your LeLoLai card.

    70. (787) 723-3135 (weekdays) or (787) 791-1014 (on weekends and evenings)

  70. Mike's Cyber Golf
    Mike's Cyber Golf, the first indoor golf range in Puerto Rico. Using the latest in simulator technology and real clubs and balls, Mike's Cyber Golf grants golfers a new alternative to play or practice their game within an 'virtual' golf course environment.

    71. Address: 205 Federico Costa St., San Juan
    (787) 767-0798

  71. Museo de Antropologia, Historia e Arte
    Located on the campus of the University of Puerto Rico. The museum presents a balanced view of the history, archeology and fine arts of the island. Among their exhibits, excellent collection of paintings by Puerto Rican talents Francisco Oller and Jose Campeche.

    72. Address: Av. Ponce de León, San Juan
    (787) 764-3939

  72. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Universidad del Sagrado Corazon
    The museum has a permanent collection of works by Latin, Caribbean, and Puerto Rican artists, as well as a center for the documentation and investigation of the arts, the museum also offers educational activities.Free admission. Open Tuesday through Saturday - 10 am a 4 pm Sunday - 12 pm a 5 pm. Mondays closed. Store hours: Tuesday through Friday - 10 am a 4 pm Saturday and Sunday - 12pm a 4 pm - (787) 977-2106.

    73. Address: Baralt Bldg., 2nd floor, Rosales St., Corner, San Antonio St., San Juan
    (787) 268-0049
    Fax (787) 977-4036

  73. Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
    The Museum features Puerto Rico's most treasured works of art, among them works of Francisco Oller, Jose Campeche and Angel Botello. This 1920s neo-classical structure it is considered an artistic masterpiece in itself. The facilities include a 400-seat theater, Pikayo restaurant, gardens, and workshops rooms. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm and Wednesday from 10am to 8pm. Admission: adults $5.00, children $2.50 and senior citizens $2.50

    74. Address: 299 De Diego Ave., Santurce, San Juan
    (787) 977-6277

  74. Museo de Arte e Historia de San Juan
    Showcases contemporary Puerto Rican sculptures and clay work. The museum exhibits include: paintings, sculptures and an important collection of santos. Tours available in Spanish and English, the tour features a documentary about San Juan's history, from 1521 to the present day. Open Monday through Friday, from 8am to 4pm.

    75. Address: 150 Norzagaray Street, San Juan
    (787) 724-1875

  75. Museo de la Farmacia

    76. (787) 758-2525 ext. 5425

  76. Museo de Las Américas
    Take a crash course in the cultures of North Central and South America by walking through this museum located in Cuartel Ballajá, a series of restored buildings originally used to house Spanish troops and their families. Its permanent collection features a colorful exhibit of the popular arts in the Americas, archaeological finds of the Ballajá area and changing exhibitions. Open Tuesday through Friday, 10am to 4pm., and weekends, 11am to 5pm.

    77. (787) 724-5052, (787) 723-4481

  77. Museo de Pablo Casals
    The Pablo Casals Museum is located in San Jose Plaza in Old San Juan, next to San Jose Church. Original manuscripts of Casals music, his cello and piano are on display in the main hall. Admission $1 adult and $.50 children up to 12. Open Tue-Sat 9:30am - 5:30pm.

    78. Address: 101 San Sebastián St., San Juan
    (787) 723-9185

  78. Museo del Grabado Latinoamericano


  79. Museo del Indio
    The Museum features photographic exhibits of indigenous people and dioramas that use artifacts, tools and stone carvings to illustrate their way of life. Located on the first floor of the Institute of Puerto Rican culture. Open daily, 9am to 4:30pm.

    80. Address: Norzagary St., San Juan
    (787) 724-0700, ext. 4223

  80. Museo del Niño
    Museo del Niño is the first museum dedicated entirely to exhibits for children in Puerto Rico. Kids can talk to other countries on short wave radio, walk through the giant Human Heart exhibit, and take a stroll at La Placita, a miniature town plaza featuring a bank, city hall and other buildings constructed to kid scale. The museum also features environmental and health exhibits that illustrate how the body works and hands-on recycling demonstrations. Open Tue-Thu 9:30am - 3:30pm; Fri 10am - 5pm; Sat-Sun 12:30 - 5pm. Admission: Adults $3, children $2.50.

    81. Address: 150 Cristo St., Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 722-3791 or (787) 725-7214
    Fax (787) 723-2058

  81. Museo Felisa Rincon de Gautier
    Former home of one of San Juan's most popular mayors. The museum that honors the first woman to serve as mayor of San Juan, from 1946 to 1968, it features photographs of important moments in her colorful career, many of her honorary degrees and awards, an impressive collection of keys to American and European cities, as well as several of her dresses, elaborate wigs and elegant fans. Open Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm

    82. Address: 51 Caleta de San Juan St., San Juan
    (787) 723-1897

  82. Muñoz Marin Park
    Open Tu-Su: 9:00am-5:30pm

    83. (787) 763-0568

  83. Ole
    You will find a wide variety of crafts like gourd masks and watercolors.

    84. (787) 724-2445

  84. Parque de las Palomas (Las Palomas Park)
    Las Palomas Park, at the top of the city wall, overlooks the restored La Princesa Jail, now a government office. The park is the perfect spot from which to enjoy a magnificent view of the harbor, city and mountains.


  85. Paseo La Princesa
    An ideal point of departure for your tour of the historical district, Paseo La Princesa is a beautifully restored 19th century esplanade, where Spanish Colonial gentry once strolled and took in the balmy Caribbean air. The Paseo sweeps from the piers that welcome cruise ships past La Princesa, a restored former 19th-century prison housing the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, around the Old City walls to the entrance of the imposing El Morro Fortress.


  86. Plataforma One

    87. (787) 351-1414 or (787) 751-6820
    Fax (787) 751-4441

  87. Plaza Colón
    Originally called St. James Square was renamed in 1893 to honor Christopher Columbus on the 400th anniversary of his discovery of Puerto Rico; bronze tablets at the pedestal of the Columbus statue record important episodes in the explorer's life.


  88. Plaza de Armas
    Built in the 16th century as San Juan's "Plaza Mayor" or main square. Plaza de Armas has been an important social gathering place for locals since its inception. More importantly, it served during 200 years as the site for military drills to prepare the city inhabitants for enemy attacks, thus the name "Arms Square". The fountain, surrounded by 100-year-old statues representing the four seasons and which dominates the square.


  89. Plaza del Quinto Centenario
    Inaugurated on 12 October, 1992 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus discovery of Puerto Rico in 1493, is a modern square on several levels with steps leading to a central fountain. The monumental totemic sculpture symbolizes the earthen and clay roots of American history. Placed around the plaza are fountains, other columns and sculpted steps that represent various historic periods in Puerto Ricos 500-year heritage.


  90. Plaza Juan Ponce de León
    A pleasant market of provisions, produce, meats, fast food, medicinal plants, jewelry and crafts.

    91. (787) 284-4141, ext. 460.

  91. Plaza Las Americas
    Plaza Las Americas is the largest mall in the Caribbean. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; Sun noon-5pm Las Americas Expressway at Roosevelt, Hato Rey.


  92. Plaza San Jose
    This small square located in Old San Juan, boasts a statue of Juan Ponce de León made from cannons captured during the unsuccessful British attack on San Juan.


  93. Plazuela de la Rogativa
    A bronze sculpture by Lindsay Daen commemorates a religious procession in 1797 when a priest and women carrying torches and chanting saved San Juan by fooling British ships off-shore into thinking that reinforcements had reached the city.


  94. Popular Arts and Crafts Center
    A variety of island crafts are displayed and offered for sale. Open M-F: 9:30am-5:00pm.

    95. (787) 722-0621

  95. Puerta de San Juan
    As a fortified city, San Juan had six massive doors at different points in the surrounding walls, which were closed at sundown to protect its inhabitants. The only remaining door is located on the western side of the wall and allows you to re-enter the city when using the Paseo La Princesa promenade which borders the San Juan Bay.


  96. Puerto Rican Arts & Crafts
    Over 100 artists and artisan bring their handmade hammocks, "santos", jewelry and ceramics.

    97. Address: Fortaleza St., San Juan
    (787) 725-5596

  97. Punta Salinas Beach

    98. Address: Route 868, Toa Baja
    (787) 795-5245

  98. Radisson Ambassador

    99. Address: 1369 Ashford Avenue, San Juan
    (787) 721-7300
    Fax (787) 723-6151

  99. Rio Mar Golf Club
    Admission $75. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am - 7:00pm. Sat-Sun 10:00am - 7:00pm.


  100. San Juan Central Park
    Sixteen tennis courts.

    101. (787) 722-1646

  101. San Juan Chateau
    Enjoy the executive's Happy Hour every Friday. On Saturdays, several local bands perform on stage so you can dance the night away. The San Juan Chateau is locally known for being one of the best weekend party spots, especially for those who are really fond of dancing, dancing, and more dancing!

    102. Address: 9 Chardsn Ave., Hato Rey, San Juan
    (787) 751-2000

  102. San Juan Cinemafest
    San Juan Cinemafest features an outdoor cinema in the Plaza Las Delicias.

    103. (787) 723-2362.

  103. San Juan City Hall
    San Juan City Hall has been located at its current address since 1602 and intended by its builders to be an exact replica of Madrid's. The building has a tourism information center and a small gallery for periodic exhibitions.


  104. San Juan Hotel & Casino

    105. Address: 6063 Isla Verde Ave., San Juan
    (787) 791-1000
    Fax (787) 253-0178

  105. San Juan Marriott Casino

    106. Address: 1309 Ashford Ave., San Juan
    (787) 722-7000
    Fax (787) 722-6800

  106. San Juan Waterfun
    Parasailing, banana boat rides, wave runners, kayaks and water ski. Stand located at the beach behind ESJ Towers.

    107. (787) 531-4510

  107. San Juan Waterfun
    Watersports center at Isla Verde Beach behind Wydham El San Juan Hotel & Casino. Parasailing, banana boat rides, jet ski rental, kayak rental, water ski or knee board. Open 7 days a week, 10a-5pm.

    108. (787) 531-4510

  108. Sands Hotel Casino

    109. Address: 187 Isla Verde Road, San Juan
    (800) 443-2009 (787) 791-6100
    Fax (787) 791-8525

  109. School of Fine Arts
    Built by the Spanish colonial government in the 1800s.


  110. Shannan's Pub

    111. (787) 281-8466

  111. Spicy Caribbee
    You will find a wide selection of Caribbean spices, Puerto Rican coffee and cookbooks of local cuisine.

    112. (787) 725-4690

  112. Teatro Tapia y Rivera
    The Tapia Theater, built in 1832 (financed by subscriptions and by taxes on bread and imported liquor) and remodeled in 1949 and 1987 is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere, was named for Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, the famous Puerto Rican playwright. Still hosts a variety of entertainment in the fine arts, plays, ballets and concerts.

    113. Address: Ponce de Leon Avenue, Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 721-0169

  113. The Oyster Bar

    114. (787) 726-2161

  114. W. Labiosa Gallery
    The gallery exposes a fine and exciting artwork by local artists. Open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm.

    115. (787) 721-2848
    Fax (787) 724-3008

  115. YMCA
    Health and fitness facilities for the whole family. Swimming pool, basketball courts, 5 racquetball/handball courts, gym with Nautilus, Universal and Monarch exercise equipment.


  116. Atlas Art
    Contemporary paintings and prints, and sculptures in glass and bronze.

    117. Address: 208 Cristo St., Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 723-9987

  117. Galería San Juan at Gallery Inn
    Sculptures of artist Jan D'Esopo.

    118. Address: 204-206 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan 00901
    (787) 722-1808

  118. Isla Verde Tennis Club
    Facilities offer after school programs for childrens and adults.

    119. (787) 727-6490, (787) 642-3208

  119. African Heritage Museum

    120. Address: San Jose Plaza, San Sebastian St., San Juan 00901
    (787) 724-4294

  120. Amphiteatro Tito Puente

    121. Address: Luis Muñoz Marín Park, Hato Rey, San Juan
    (787) 751-3353

  121. Andale

    122. Address: 1024 Av. Ashford, Isla Verde, San Juan
    (787) 724-4594

  122. Casa Alcadia
    Built between 1604 and 1789. In the 1840's the building was heavily remodeled providing its present day facade intended by its builders to be an exact replica of Madrid's. The building has a tourism information center and a small gallery for periodic exhibitions. Free admissions. Open Mon-Fri 8am - 4pm, except holidays.

    123. Address: 153 Calle San Francisco, Plaza de Armas, Old San Juan, San Juan
    (787) 724-7171 Ext. 2391

  123. Sala de Exhibiciones Rafael Carrión Pacheco
    The exhibition explores the influence of money in our daily life. Money can tell something about ourselves, what we value, our history, our culture and how do we relate to the world. A family-oriented exhibition includes interactive activities, a guide to school teachers who bring their groups and access to pieces of the valuable Numismatics Collection of the Banco Popular.

    124. Address: 206 Tetuan St., Old San Juan, San Juan 00901
    (787) 725-8861, ext. 1244




Did You Know?

Puerto Rico is a very diverse region, with a mountain range, coastal plains, a desert and a rainforest.