Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan) is the historic colonial district of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and one of the most iconic areas of the island. Its charming streets, vibrant architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Puerto Rico. History Old San Juan was founded in 1521 by Spanish …
Castillo San Felipe del Morro, commonly known as El Morro, is a historic fortress located in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Commissioned by King Charles I of Spain in 1539, its construction continued over nearly 250 years, with the fort reaching its current form in 1787. Strategically positioned on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, …
Castillo San Cristóbal is a historic fortress located in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Constructed by the Spanish between 1634 and 1790, it stands as the largest fortification built by Spain in the New World. The fort was designed to protect the city from land-based attacks, complementing the seaward defenses provided by Castillo San Felipe …
Catedral de San Juan Bautista, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, is a historic Roman Catholic cathedral located in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Founded in 1521, it is the second-oldest cathedral in the Americas and the oldest in the United States. The current structure was completed in 1802, following …
La Fortaleza, also known as Palacio de Santa Catalina, is the official residence and workplace of the Governor of Puerto Rico. Located in Old San Juan, it is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the Americas, having served as the governor’s residence since 1544. Built between 1533 and 1540, La Fortaleza was the …
Paseo de la Princesa is a historic and scenic promenade in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Constructed between 1852 and 1854, it was named in honor of Queen Isabella II of Spain’s first-born, Princess of Asturias Infanta Isabel. The promenade runs parallel to the southwestern section of the city’s defensive walls and offers picturesque views …
Museo de las Américas is a multidisciplinary museum located in the historic Cuartel de Ballajá in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Established in 1992, it serves as a cultural hub dedicated to preserving and promoting the arts, folklore, architecture, and broader history of the Americas, with a particular emphasis on Puerto Rico and its relationship …
Condado Beach (Spanish: Playa del Condado) is a vibrant public beach located in the Condado district of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Stretching along the Atlantic coast from La Ventana al Mar Park to Punta Piedrita, it is one of the most popular beaches in the San Juan metropolitan area. Beach Overview Location: Condado, Santurce, San …
Ocean Park Beach (Spanish: Playa de Ocean Park) is a spacious public beach located in the Ocean Park neighborhood of Santurce, San Juan, Puerto Rico. Stretching nearly 2 miles from Punta Piedrita to Punta Las Marías, it is the largest beach in San Juan and a favorite among locals. Beach Overview Location: Ocean Park, Santurce, …
Casa Bacardí Puerto Rico is the world’s largest premium rum distillery, located in Cataño, just across the bay from Old San Juan. Often referred to as the “Cathedral of Rum,” it stands as a testament to Bacardí’s rich heritage and its significant role in Puerto Rico’s economy. Overview Established: Founded in Cuba in 1862, Bacardí …
AcuaExpreso – Lanchas de Cataño is a historic and essential ferry service connecting the town of Cataño with Old San Juan across the scenic San Juan Bay. Known locally as La Lancha de Cataño, this ferry has been a staple of Puerto Rican transportation since its inception in 1853. Overview Route: Cataño ⇄ Old San …
Parque Recreativo La Esperanza is a community park located in Cataño, Puerto Rico. While specific details about the park are limited, it serves as a local recreational area for residents and visitors. Overview Parque Recreativo La Esperanza provides open spaces suitable for various outdoor activities. Such parks often feature amenities like walking paths, playgrounds, and …
La Ciénaga Las Cucharillas Natural Reserve, located in Cataño, Puerto Rico, is a vital urban wetland that plays a significant role in the ecological and environmental landscape of the San Juan Bay Estuary. Overview Spanning approximately 3.96 km², this reserve is one of the largest protected natural areas within the metropolitan region. It encompasses a …