Puerto Rico – Top Sites to Visit

Puerto Rico is a playground for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities. The beautiful beaches offer amazing locations for everything from sunbathing to SCUBA diving. Sports such as surfing, golfing, horseback riding and fishing are also popular. The city of San Juan offers various cultural activities and sightseeing options, with one of the more popular areas that of Old San Juan which ca be traversed easily by foot.

The Teatro Tapia

Formally referred to as Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, this is the oldest free-standing drama stage in San Juan. Named after a famous Puerto Rican poet, this building was previously the center of all cultural life in San Juan. The country’s rich musical history is tied directly to the building, with many domestic and international performers having graced its stage over its history. Built in 1824 and opened in 1832, it now serves as an arena for cultural events and ballet performances throughout the year.

Address: Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: +1 787 777 7777
Operating Hours:
– Monday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 6:00pm
– Sunday 9:00am – 6:00pm
Admission Cost:
– General Public $5
Website

Parque de las Palomas

Directly translated to Pigeon Park, this park is located in Old San Juan next to the Capilla del Cristo. It is popular amongst children who enjoy feeding the birds with corn sold by local street vendors. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the bay amongst the tree-shaped cobblestone courtyard. The park is recommended for a stop by those exploring the streets around Old San Juan, and is definitely a stop for those visiting Capilla del Cristo.

Address: Calle de Tetuan, Old San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– Monday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 5:00pm
– Sunday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website

Cuartel de Ballaja

These barracks were primarily used during the Spanish-American War, with the northeast side of the structure heavily damaged in the 1898 bombing of San Juan. Throughout World War II, the building was used as a military hospital , while today it houses various educational and cultural organizations. The main attraction located at the site is the Museo de Las Américas which houses three permanent collections including those on African Heritage, the Indian in America and Popular Arts in America. The museum is located on the second floor, with the first floor primarily used for music and dance schools.

Address: Calle Norzagaray, Old San Juan Ballajá San Juan, Puerto Rico 00926
Phone: +1 787 721 3737
Operating Hours (Museo de Las Américas):
– Monday Closed
– Tuesday Closed
– Wednesday 9:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 4pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 4pm
– Friday 9:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 4pm
– Saturday 11:00am – 4:00pm
– Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm
Admission Cost (Museo de Las Américas):
– General Public: $6
– Children under 12, Students and Seniors over 65 years old: $4
Website

Palacio de Santa Catalina

Formally called La Fortaleza, this is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. Built between 1533 and 1540, it is oldest executive mansion in use in the New World. Visitors can wander through the mansion on their own, however guided tours are available that give a more in-depth overview of the building including its many gardens. As the building is a functioning government facility, it is subject to change hours or close without warning. The location has housed 170 governors of Puerto Rico since its inception.

Address: 63 C. de la Fortaleza, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Phone: +1 787 721 7000
Operating Hours:
– Monday 8:00am – 4:30pm
– Tuesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
– Wednesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
– Thursday 8:00am – 4:30pm
– Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm
– Saturday Closed
– Sunday Closed
Admission Cost:
– Pricing for tours available via email to [email protected]
Website

Bacardi Rum Factory

More formally named Casa Bacardi, the distillery includes on-site historical tours, mixology classes, tastings and outdoor patio for events. Visitors can register for an interactive mixology class where rum experts will showcase how to make the perfect mojito or piña colada. The rum tasting tour includes a guided overview of the facility, Bacardi’s long history and ties to Puerto Rico and of course, an opportunity to taste various rums including a chocolate pairing! For visitors simply looking for rum, a bar is located at the venue’s waterfront pavilion offering various cocktails and rum infused beverages.

Address: Carretera 165 KM 6.2, Cataño, Puerto Rico 00962
Phone: +1 787 788 8400
Tour Hours:
– Monday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Tuesday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Wednesday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Thursday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Saturday 9:00am – 4:30pm
– Sunday 10:00am – 4:30pm
Admission Cost:
– Prices varies depending on tour selection. Details here
Website

Central Park

Inaugurated in 1979 for the Pan-American games, this park covered 14 hectares and is famous for jogging trails and a boardwalk that stretches along its many mangrove canals. For sports enthusiasts, the park contains 20 tennis courts, four racquetball courts and a track and field area. Those visiting with families can enjoy a children’s play area, as well as a diving and swimming arena. Be sure to look for the many iguanas that call the park home! Admission to the park is free; parking is available for $2 per car.

Address: Expreso John F. Kennedy, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907
Phone: +1 787 480 2980
Operating Hours:
– Monday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Tuesday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Wednesday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Thursday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Friday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Saturday 6:00am – 7:00pm
– Sunday 6:00am – 7:00pm
Admission Cost:
– FREE
Website