79 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico (By a Local)

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As a local, I can tell you firsthand that there are some awesome things to do in Puerto Rico.

I’ve created this list of 79 unique things to do across the best of Puerto Rico’s destinations with historical, natural, gastronomic, and cultural attractions so you don’t miss out on a single thing.

I share even more things to do in my epic Puerto Rico travel ebook, so make sure to check that out! Now, let’s dive into my top local picks!

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Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Visit the most iconic landmark of Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 729-6960 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $10, adults, Free under 15 | 👉 Guide to Visiting El Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro (aka “El Morro”) is probably San Juan’s most famous attraction and one of the locals’ favorite spots for spending a day outdoors with the family.

The Spanish military fort was built in stages, and the oldest structures date back to the 16th century, when it protected Puerto Rico from incoming sea attacks.

The fort hides six floors of barracks, dungeons, a lighthouse, and an interior courtyard. I wrote an entire guide to San Felipe del Morro to help you navigate it all without getting lost.

👉 Local Tip: After exploring El Morro, head over to El Morro’s esplanade and buy a kite from the nearby kiosks to spend the afternoon flying kites.

Old San Juan

Walk the streets of a 500-year-old Spanish colonial city.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Old San Juan Walking Tours 

Old San Juan is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico to learn about the archipelago’s Spanish heritage.

The historical neighborhood houses colorful colonial houses, historical forts, cobblestone streets, and Spanish-colonial-style buildings that take visitors back 500 years of history.

Besides its impressive history, Old San Juan gathers great museums, beaches, and some of the best places to eat in San Juan.

Whether you choose to stay in Old San Juan or elsewhere in the city, wandering these streets is an experience not to be missed!

El Yunque National Rainforest

Hike in the only tropical rainforest in the United States.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 888-1880 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Viator´s Top El Yunque Rainforest Tours

El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the National Forest System of the United States.

It offers nature lovers exciting hikes, a breathtaking view of the north coast, and multiple waterfalls and rivers to swim in, which is why it’s one of my favorite day trips from San Juan.

You can visit as part of one of these group tours to El Yunque, or you rent a car using Discover Cars and visit independently.

If you plan on spending a few days exploring the rainforest, you can stay in Rio Grande, where you’ll find some of the best Puerto Rico hotels.

👉Local Tip: Entry is first-come, first-served. Booking tickets is no longer necessary, but the gate to PR 191 closes after the facilities reach their capacity. So, you might have to wait in line or visit nearby attractions until a spot opens up.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 851-1025 ext. 4700 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5:30 Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: Free

Los Morrillos Lighthouse itself may not be the most impressive lighthouse in Puerto Rico (and it’s also temporarily closed), but for me, it has the best and most mesmerizing location among the 15 lighthouses in Puerto Rico.

Los Morrillos Lighthouse, also known as the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse and built in 1882, sits on top of limestone cliffs on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico.

It’s said the lighthouse is located exactly over the union of the Caribbean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean in the Mona Passage.

👉 Want More Local Travel Tips? See my full list of things to know before visiting Puerto Rico!

T-Mobile District

Talk, dance, or eat in an open plaza with giant LED screens.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 998-2000 | Website | Hours: Hours: 11:30 am – 11 pm Sun-Wed, 11:30 am – 12 am Thurs, 11:30 am – 1 am Fri-Sat | Entrance: Free 

The latest hot trend in Puerto Rico is the T-Mobile District in San Juan, a massive venue with a mission to bring people together.

The space offers visitors exquisite Puerto Rican cuisine, modern concert halls, ziplining, a VIP cinema hall, and a big plaza with LED screens where people can socialize.

You’ll often catch free concerts and parties at the plaza, during festivities like New Year’s Eve.

Piñones

Taste the best of street food in the fritter capital.

📍 Google Maps

Piñones is an unmissable stop in Puerto Rico if you’re a foodie.

This beachside neighborhood has dozens of food kiosks selling the best of local cuisine in Puerto Rico, like alcapurrias, pastelillos, and my favorite, bacalaitos.

Besides eating, Piñones is great for hiking, cycling, and surfing. You’ll also find La Pocita nearby, a natural beach cove where you can take a dip after enjoying good food.

Taking a bomba and a salsa class is a great way to complete the cultural experience Piñones has to offer.

Condado Lagoon

Kayak or paddleboard in a calm lagoon in San Juan.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Viator’s Kayak Tours on Condado Lagoon

Practicing water sports in the Condado Lagoon is just what you need if you’re looking for adventure in this popular place to stay in Puerto Rico.

Considered a beginner-friendly spot to go kayaking in Puerto Rico, you’ll find tour operators and SUP rentals in Condado and Miramar.

The lagoon is also great for kayaking at night, when the calm waves and San Juan’s night skyline set a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

Cueva del Indio

Admire one of the best Taino archeological sites in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

Cueva del Indio is a nature reserve right by Arecibo’s coast and one of my favorite spots in Puerto Rico.

Although the Taino petroglyph-filled cave is the main attraction of the site (and an important landmark in Puerto Rico’s Indigenous history), I also love the beautiful coastal views you can see from these coastal cliffs.

The area has other seven similar rock formations known as the Seven Arches and a small cove known as La Poza de Matos. You can access the cave for free if you hike from the beach.

The area is also great for adventurers who like diving or cliff jumping, but you should only do this guided by a local.

👉 Local Tip: La Cueva del Indio is a nature reserve, and it’s FREE to access (and yes, legally). The GPS will guide you to a private parking lot where you’ll pay $10 per person. I recommend this access only if you have mobility issues. Otherwise, access through the coast and don’t miss out on the views.

The Pork Highway in Guavate

Taste the best of Puerto Rico’s roast pork.

📍 Google Maps

La Ruta del Lechón, or “The Pork Highway,” is a gastronomic route filled with restaurants known for selling the infamous Puerto Rican roasted pork.

Known as lechoneras, these restaurants offer a fun cultural (and very local!) experience.

On the weekends you’ll come across heavy traffic to access the area and find live entertainment and lots of dancing at almost every lechonera.

I recommended jumping between lechoneras to try a sample of the best local Puerto Rican food.

Los Amigos, El Nuevo Rancho, and El Rancho Original are some of the favorites in the area but are also more traditional. I recommend Casita Guavate to try roasted pork with a twist.

👉 Did You Know? There is more than one Pork Highway (La Ruta del Lechon) in Puerto Rico, as well as a dozen other gastronomic routes that foodies will love!

Toro Verde Adventure Park

Ride the second-longest zipline in the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 867-7100 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm Thurs-Mon, Closed Tues-Wed | 👉 Browse Viator’s Toro Verde Adventure Park Tours

One of the things adventure seekers must do in Puerto Rico is take a ride on one of the longest ziplines in the world.

Known as The Monster, this zipline extends for 2.5 kilometers over the mountainous region with mesmerizing views of Orocovis you’ll love while flying Superman style.

Besides offering some of the best zipline tours in Puerto Rico, you can also find climbing towers, zipline bikes, and rope courses at Toro Verde Adventure Park.

Charco Azul in Vega Baja

Swim, explore caves, and dive in this river in Vega Baja.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: $5 parking | 👉 Book a Tour to Charco Azul

Vega Baja is considered the ecotourism capital of Puerto Rico, and my favorite place in the city is Charco Azul (not to be confused with the one in Patillas). The perfect outdoor adventure, Charco Azul has everything from swimming holes, water springs, waterfalls, and caves.

Most people head straight to Cueva Arenales when they visit Charco Azul, which makes it one of the more crowded spots. Instead, my favorite spot is in the opposite direction, taking the trail next to the turquoise concrete structure. 

Down a slippery karst hill, you’ll find a blue spring, and if you keep going, you’ll find the waterfall that flows from this spring over Cueva Larga (Long Cave).

Although it’s harder to get to, it’s totally worth it as the waterfall over the cave is magical. Make sure to always check the weather before visiting or book a tour to Charco Azul to visit with a local expert.

Beaches, Rivers & Waterfalls

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Flamenco Beach

Relax on this paradisiacal Culebra beach.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily (parking lot) | Entrance: $2 per person + $5 parking

Flamenco Beach is the most popular tourist attraction in Culebra and it’s easy to see why as soon as you visit.

Located on the north coast of Culebra, Flamenco Beach is a paradise-looking beach with a picturesque landscape of white sand and turquoise waters. It’s also popular for snorkeling and kayaking.

Another unique thing about this beach is the military tank sitting on the west side of the beach. I personally loved this spot and had it all to myself while visiting on Wednesday in summer.

Although you need a ferry to get to Culebra, the trip is worth it and it’s one of my recommended day trips in Puerto Rico.

Playa Sucia

Escape to a remote beach within a nature reserve.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: Hours: 9 am – 5:30 Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues (main gate to the refuge) | Entrance: Free

Often confused with its neighbor, La Playuela, this beach in Cabo Rojo is one of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful beaches, exquisite for a getaway on the island’s west side.

Although the road to the beach is bumpy and there aren’t any facilities, you will fall in love with the scenery. From the beach, you can hike to Faro Los Morillos, caves, and over limestone cliffs.

Keep in mind that if the gate to the refuge is closed (located before the historical bridge), you’ll need to hike to the beach.

👉 Local Tip: Puerto Rico has a seasonal seaweed problem on its beaches. Use the CARICOOS Sargassum Tracker to know which beaches to avoid.

La Pared Beach

Surf on a beach with high surf all year round.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a surfing class in La Pared Beach

La Pared Beach in Luquillo is every surfer’s dream and one of Puerto Rico’s most popular surf spots. This beach has the ideal conditions for surfing all year round.

Don’t worry if you can’t bring your surfboard with you, you can rent one at any of the local surf shops. And, if you are a beginner, I recommend taking a surf class on the beach.

If surfing isn’t for you, I guarantee you’ll still enjoy a relaxing stroll on this beach.

Mar Chiquita

Walk into a natural cove formed by limestone rocks.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

Mar Chiquita, as in “little sea” in Spanish, is a cove in Manatí that offers great scenery with soft golden sand, blue turquoise waters, and a spectacle of waves crashing against sandy rock formations.

I easily consider this one of the best attractions in Manatí, and I recommend visiting in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset at the beach. Climb the rock formations to get beautiful landscape shots.

There aren’t any amenities here besides porta potties and food trucks on the weekend, but its a great spot for camping in Puerto Rico.

Charco Azul

Hike to a swimming pool in the Carite State Forest.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

Charco Azul is a natural swimming pool located within the Carite State Forest in Patillas.

It’s the perfect stop to relax after touring and eating at the lechoneras on the Pork Highway in Guavate. It’s called Charco Azul because of its blue color, and it’s a popular stop for families.

Best of all, it’s only a 15-minute hike from the entrance, making it one of the easiest hiking trails in Puerto Rico!

Steps Beach

Snorkel on a beach full of scenery and marine life.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 455-6614

If Sandy Beach in Rincón is too crowded for you, head over to Steps Beach.

Steps Beach is part of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, and it’s a top spot for snorkeling during the summer and low tide season, so don’t forget to bring your beach gear.

Besides elkhorn corals, you can find an amazing array of tropical fish in the reserve, including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish.

The beach gets its name from the concrete steps on the shore, which you can climb to take a picture.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re a snorkeling newbie, I recommend visiting this spot with a guide. This Guided Coral Reef Snorkeling Tour will help you explore the reserve safely.

Crash Boat Beach

Dive from the pier on this famous beach.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: $6 Parking

Crash Boat Beach enchants visitors every year with its bright blue waters and colorful pier from where locals jump into the water.

This same pier is also a popular snorkeling spot home to lots of tropical fish.

You can expect a mix of local and tourist crowds and a family-friendly atmosphere. You can also find watersport rentals and food kiosks on-site.

👉 Pro Tip: Keep in mind that bathrooms and other facilities might be closed during the low season from September to March. 

Seven Seas Beach

Swim on a beach within a beautiful nature reserve.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 863-8180 | Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $5 parking 

Seven Seas is so much more than a beach, it’s a paradise of trails, hidden natural pools, and historical sites which is why it’s one of the top things to do in Fajardo.

Seven Seas Beach is located within the Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo.

Right in front of the beach, you will find spots for camping and trailers available for rent. You can also rent snorkeling gear on-site and buy food from the local food kiosks.

The beach has trails that connect to other beaches, including Playa Colora’, and the refuge’s mangroves.

🛎️ Don’t Miss: Seven Seas is one of my favorite spots in Fajardo. If you love it as much as I do, book a night at El Conquistador Resort and stay a few days in town.

Coamo Thermal Hot Springs

Bathe in the most popular thermal hot springs in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 825-6668 | Hours: 6 am – 9 pm daily| Entrance: $3.35, adults, $1.12, under 11

The Coamo Thermal Hot Springs were the attraction that kickstarted tourism in Puerto Rico, and nowadays they stand as the only thermal springs open to the public in the archipelago.

Coamo Thermal Hot Springs features two pools with different water temperatures. The smallest pool has the highest temperature and it emanates directly from the ground.

The second pool is colder and both are said to be filled with minerals that help heal many illnesses. You can also get a massage at the location for a low price.

Las Pailas

Slide through a natural waterslide next to El Yunque.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 8 am – 5:30 pm daily | Entrance: $10 per car for parking + $1 per person to access the trail to the river

Luquillo is famous for its beautiful beaches, but if you’re looking for something more to do in this town, don’t miss Las Pailas, one of the best Puerto Rico waterfalls you’ll find!

Las Pailas refers to a natural waterslide created by the Phitaya River. The waterfall is one of the easiest waterfalls to access in Puerto Rico, but you’ll find plenty of mud on the trail after rainy days.

If you have knee problems or poor balance, I don’t recommend visiting. Otherwise, Las Pailas is a great family day trip and fun for all ages.

Culebrita

Snorkel side by side with the marine life of the east coast.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Viator’s Boat Tours to Culebrita

Snorkeling and diving in Culebrita is something every beach lover must do in Puerto Rico!

Culebrita is one of the best islands in Puerto Rico for swimming side by side with sea turtles and enjoying the colorful aquatic life.

Located off the east coast, Culebrita belongs to the municipality of Culebra, but to visit you need a boat tour or water taxi.

Although it will be hard to step away from the water, I suggest hiking to the Culebrita lighthouse too, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Puerto Rico!

📍 Did You Know? Puerto Rico is an archipelago with more than 100 islands, cays, and islets.

Food & Drinks

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🍴 Want to Taste Your Way Around Puerto Rico? Be sure to bookmark my list of 47 foods & dishes to try in Puerto Rico!

Casa Bacardí

Tour the largest rum distillery in the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 788-8400 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 Mon-Wed, 10 am -9 pm Thurs-Sun | Entrance: $40-$90 depending on the tour

Fans of a good drink need to make a stop at Casa Bacardí, the world’s largest premium rum distillery located in the town of Cataño.

Take a Puerto Rico rum-tasting tour or opt for a mixology class for a more interactive experience.

If instead of touring the factory, you want to relax in the Bacardí surroundings with a good drink and snack, you can visit the Casa Bacardí Bar.

Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route

If you’ve already explored the Pork Highway, don’t miss Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route.

📍 Google Maps | Website

The Pork Highway, Piñones, and La Ruta de la Longaniza are three of the routes for foodies visiting Puerto Rico. But, even locals often miss out on Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route. 

Located in the Puerto Rico mountains, this route is home to bakeries, coffee shops, and bars. It starts out at PR-5 in El Atirantado Bar and Grill and extends all over to PR-152.

If you’re looking for the famous roasted pork, you will find this popular Puerto Rico dish in Lechonera Cedro Abajo.

On your way to Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route, make sure to admire the cable bridge of Naranjito.

Heladería Lares

Refresh yourself with unusually flavored ice cream.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 378-4288 | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Tues-Thurs, 10 am – 8 pm Fri, 9 am – 6 pm Sat-Sun

One of the best ways to cool off the Puerto Rico heat is by eating ice cream in Heladería Lares.

The ice cream shop in the small town of Lares is famous for its exotic ice cream flavors like rice and garlic. Don’t worry though, there are also traditional flavors for the little ones.

Although it’s off the beaten path, this ice cream shop deserves a visit on your trip if you’re a foodie looking for new flavors and experiences!

Calle Loiza

Find international gastronomy on this San Juan street.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a tour through Calle Loíza food spots

Calle Loíza is a famous San Juan street where you’ll find street art, coffee shops, pubs, bars, and a great number of restaurants.

Foodies can pick between local and international cuisine like sushi, tacos, Korean BBQ, and more. Most restaurants are open until late on weekends, making it a great spot for experiencing Puerto Rico’s nightlife.

The street is a youngster hotspot, and it’s a good option to meet new people. Just make sure to park in well-lit and safe areas.

Lote 23 Food Truck Park

Sample all the delicious food at this food truck park in San Juan.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 12 – 10 pm Wed-Sat, 12 – 8 pm Sun, Closed Mon-Tues

If you suddenly crave a night snack while you’re in your hotel in San Juan, head over to Lote 23 in Santurce. This food truck park is ideal to satisfy your night cravings and chill in a casual bohemian environment.

Visit on the weekends to enjoy live entertainment. The food trucks change every now on then, so you can always find something new to eat.

👉 Local Tip: When you visit locations in Santurce at night, park in a bright place or pay for private parking instead if you aren’t familiar with the area.

Ron del Barrilito

Taste the oldest rum-making company in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 415-8601 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: $45-$90 depending on the tour | 👉 Browse Ron del Barrilito Tours on Viator

Ron del Barrilito is not only a local artisanal and high-class rum esteemed as one of the best local drinks in Puerto Rico, but it’s also the oldest rum in the archipelago.

The Ron del Barrilito factory in Bayamón was founded in 1880, and nowadays it produces quality rum through a specialized process that takes years of confection.

You can visit the visitor’s center to enjoy a drink, take a tour, or participate in a mixology class.

Luquillo Food Kiosks

Enjoy the best of gastronomy while looking at the sea.

📍 Google Maps

Nothing makes you more hungry than a beach day trip! That is why Luquillo’s Food Kiosks are perfect both for beach bummers and foodies.

The Luquillo Food Kiosks are right in front of Luquillo Beach and they offer a variety of fritters, seafood, and traditional foods like mofongo. You can also find souvenir shops and bars among the side-by-side shops.

Although I do recommend adding this stop to your itinerary, keep in mind it gets really crowded on the weekends.

Vaca Negra

Make your own aged cheese in an artisanal and traditional way.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 262-5656 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 3 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Tour: $145-$185

Hatillo is a small town in the northwest that has more cows than residents. So, it’s not a surprise that you can also find some of the best cheese-making factories in this Puerto Rico town.

Vaca Negra is a local company that produces artisanal cheese inspired by traditional European methods. I loved the chill and hands-on cheese-making tour. 

You will learn the behind-the-scenes of cheese making, taste the local cheese, and finish by making your own cheese. As an alternative to the tour, visit La Ubre Cheese and Coffee Shop to taste their products.

Sites & Attractions

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Yaucromatic

Snap a picture in the most colorful neighborhood of Yauco.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 429-7530 | Website 

Yaucromatic is a huge street art mural that covers multiple buildings and houses in Calle Sanchez E Lopez in Yauco.

It features colorful houses and different murals that will bring a smile to your face. While visiting, make sure to take a picture holding the flag, and buy a “limber” from one of the houses on the hill.

If you’re in good shape, I recommend climbing the stairs a the top of the street to enjoy a panoramic view of Yauco.

Punta Tuna Wetlands Nature Reserve

Stroll calmly along a beachside nature reserve in Maunabo.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (939) 304-8765 | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free 

While the southeast side of Puerto Rico might not be as popular as the northeast, Punta Tuna Nature Reserve in Maunabo is a gem loved by local hiking and outdoor enthusiasts like myself.

This nature reserve includes a beach, wetlands, and a lagoon. As you walk the multiple trails, open your eyes and ears to spot local flora and fauna. 

The highlight of the Punta Tuna Nature Reserve is a lighthouse built in the 1890s, which makes a great photo background.

Bahía Viva Cataño

Take your best photos in the picture-perfect spots of this promenade.

📍 Google Maps

Bahía Viva Cataño, also known as El Malecón de Cataño is a beachfront promenade where you can hang out with friends and family at any hour.

The area has food kiosks, a kid’s playground, wooden-themed docks, and a jets fountain where kids can escape the heat.

What makes Bahía Viva Cataño so popular is the multiple spots it features for taking pictures, with murals, sculptures, and El Morro as a background.

It’s also near popular restaurants and almost every weekend you can find a festival taking place at the promenade’s stage. It’s one of the areas I frequent the most on Sunday afternoons.

El Paseo de la Princesa

Stroll through a promenade with historical significance.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Viator’s Top San Juan’s Walking Tours

Walking along El Paseo La Princesa is one of San Juan’s top attractions not only for its historical significance and views but also because you can often find food kiosks and local artisans in the area.

El Paseo La Princesa features popular landmarks like the Raices Fountain and the San Juan Gate, which is one of the original gates to the fortified city. The area is family-friendly and safe even at night.

La Cara del Indio

Stop at the roadside sculpture with an indigenous history.

📍 Google Maps

One of the main attractions in Isabela is La Cara del Indio. This sculpture is carved at the entrance of Isabela and it’s visible from PR-2.

Although younger than it looks, (it was actually carved in 2001), the sculpture is in honor of Cacique Mabodamaca, a Taino chief who lived in Puerto Rico and opposed the Spanish invasion.  

There are multiple kiosks across the sculpture where you can buy local souvenirs.

Guánica Sunflower Field

Walk in a colorful and dreamy field of sunflowers.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (939) 402-7967 | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm Sat-Sun, 10 am – 4 pm Mon and Fri | Entrance: $2

If you’re always hunting for mesmerizing spots, I recommend visiting the beautiful sunflower field in Finca El Girasol.

This Guánica site is perfect for photoshoots, strolling, or proposing to your loved one. Besides admiring them, you can also buy sunflowers to go. I suggest visiting in the early morning to enjoy the field in fresher weather.

👉Local Tip:  Before you visit the Finca El Girasol, call ahead or check their social media to see if the sunflowers have bloomed and the farm is open.

Parque de Bombas in Ponce

Enter the first firehouse in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 840-1045 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Viator’s Ponce Walking Tours

Ponce is a bustling city with multiple famous landmarks. One of them is Parque de Bombas, the first fire station in Puerto Rico now turned into a museum.

The red and black building stands out in Plaza Las Delicias as one of Ponce’s top attractions. Both children and history enthusiasts will enjoy the exhibition on the second floor.

Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center

Be a caregiver of manatees for a day.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 400-2782 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm Tue-Sat, Closed Sundays | Entrance: $16- $98

Animal lovers need to add the Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center, one of the best things to do in Bayamon, to their vacation to-do list. 

This organization is dedicated to rescuing and nursing manatees, but it also works for the conservation of dolphins, whales, turtles, and pelicans.

You can visit the Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center on a guided tour to learn about their manatee conservation and rehabilitation efforts. 

Or, if you’re looking for a more immersive experience, opt for a caregiver tour, during which you can prepare food and feed manatees yourself.

Jayuya’s Aerostatic Balloon

Elevate 3,700 feet above sea level and enjoy a 360 view of Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 304-1976 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Wed-Fri, 9 am – 6 pm Sat-Sun, Closed Mon-Tue | Entrance: $30, adults, $20 under 12 per ride + $5 entrance fee

The Jayuya’s Aerostatic Balloon is one of its kind in Puerto Rico. It rises 500 feet off the ground to reach an impressive altitude of 3,700 feet above sea level. 

It allows visitors to enjoy a 360-degree of the island’s beauty, and on clear days, you can even see San Juan in the distance.

In the area surrounding Jayuya’s Aerostatic Balloon, you’ll also find multiple attractions like the highest zipline in Puerto Rico, a restaurant, a museum, and a coffee shop.

Call ahead before visiting to make sure the aerostatic balloon is operating.

San Juan Artisan Distillers

Visit the sugarcane state and the aging room of Ron Pepón and Tres Clavos rums.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 222-1633 | Website | Hours: Mon-Sat by reservation only | 👉 San Juan Artisan Distillers Tour

San Juan Artisan Distillers is one of the best distilleries in Puerto Rico. Located in Vega Alta, rum enthusiasts can visit the actual plantation that provides the sugar cane for the distillery’s rums in what’s considered a top Puerto Rico rum tour.

You’ll also see the aging room, the sugarcane mill, and the French Cognac Pot Stills in the distillation room. To top it all off, finish your day with a tasting of San Juan Artisan Distillers rums, including Ron Pepón and Tres Clavos.

Caguas Botanical Garden

Stroll through a botanical garden with historical ruins, artificial lakes, and museums.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 653-0470 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 3 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mondays and Tuesdays | Entrance: $8, adults, $3, under 12

The William Miranda Marin Botanical Garden in Caguas is an outdoor recreation space for all families visiting Puerto Rico. 

Besides hiking through this unique Caguas site to admire nature, you can learn about the city’s pre-Columbian history through a small museum, ruins, and archeological sites within the garden. 

The Caguas Botanical Garden also has Spanish plantation ruins, which is great for understanding the lifestyle in Puerto Rico during the 19th century. You can book a tour to learn about the garden’s history and ruins.

Outdoor Activities

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Beaches & Rivers | Food & Drinks | Sites & Attractions | Outdoor Activities | Fun & Family | Museums & Culture

Tropical Trail Rides

Go horseback riding on Puerto Rico’s north coast.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 872 – 9256 | Website |  Hours: 8 am – 6 pm daily | 👉 Book a horseback riding tour

Exploring Puerto Rico’s beaches from horseback is an experience I can’t recommend enough.

On the coast of Isabela, Tropical Trail Rides offers guided horseback riding tours through the beach and surrounding coastal forests. I highly recommend the morning tour if you’re visiting in the summer, as the sun is warm but comfortable. The afternoon tour, however, paints the coastal landscape in a beautiful golden light, perfect for photos. 

This is hands-down one of my favorite tours in Puerto Rico. Best of all, you don’t need any experience to ride. Your tour guides will take care of everything from the basic riding crash course to snapping some memorable photos of you.

Las Cavernas del Rio Camuy National Park

Discover an underworld of stalagmites and stalactites.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 898-3136 | Hours: 8 am – 3 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $18, adults, $13 under 12 + $4 Parking | Temporarily Closed

The Camuy Caves refer to a cave system that covers more than 16 km of land and has over a dozen entrances between the towns of Camuy, Lares, and Hatillo. 

The caves were carved by the third-largest underground river in the world, the Camuy River. If you’re an outdoorsy type, then I definitely recommend visiting on your trip.

The commercial entrance to the caves is located in Camuy, where you can visit the mesmerizing Cueva Clara, filled with impressive stalagmites and stalactites as well as picture-perfect sinkholes. Get your camera ready!

👉 Local Tip: Reservations are recommended. Tickets at the box office are first-come first first-served, and many take the trip to caves only to be unable to get in. As of April 2025, the caves are temporarily closed.

Rio Bayamon Golf Club

Practice your golf skills even as a beginner.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 740-1419 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 10 pm Wed-Sat, 7 am – 7 pm Sun, 12 pm – 10 pm Mon-Tue | Entrance: $40-$75 depending on the hour

There are plenty of golf courses around Puerto Rico, but not all of them are budget-friendly or open to amateur golfers.

The Rio Bayamón Golf Club offers a course of 18 holes and a Drive Range with 58 stations. It’s also open until late at night, in case you rather practice without the daylight’s heat.

If your family isn’t in the mood for golfing, take a break in Campo Bravo and La Terraza, the on-site restaurants with a view of the course, where you can also find live music during the weekends.

Best of all, you don’t need a membership to access the place.

Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

Explore all the hidden paths and trails of a unique wildlife refuge.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 741-2138 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 7:30 pm March – August, 7 am – 6:30 pm September – February

I already mentioned Mosquito Bio Bay, but nature and outdoor fans can’t leave Vieques without exploring all the trails, viewpoints, and remote beaches of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

The refuge is home to dozens of the best beaches in Vieques, including Caracas and La Chiva Beaches. But I personally love Pata Prieta Beach. 

You’ll also find plenty of trails like the Puerto Mosquito National Natural Landmark Trail, diving destinations, and fishing spots.

Photographers should visit Puerto Ferro Lighthouse, where they can capture the best views of the island.

Antonio Neri Juarbe Airport

Go skydiving from an airport in Arecibo.

📍 Google Maps

Thrill-seekers looking for a skydive in Puerto Rico should set Antonio Neri Juarbe Airport in Arecibo as their destination.

Here, you can skydive from a 14,000 or 10,000 feet and free fall for 30-40 seconds. Both Skydive Puerto Rico and Xtreme Divers offer skydiving tours at this Arecibo airport.

👉 Local Tip: Book your appointment before coming to Puerto Rico and call the day before to confirm it. Keep in mind that inappropriate weather might keep you from jumping.

Roca Norte

Climb a rock formation created by Hurricane Maria.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (939) 218-7887 | Website | Hours: 7:30 am – 7:30 pm daily | Entrance: $50-150 depending on tour

Rock climbing is another extreme sport you can do in Puerto Rico and Roca Norte is one of the best places to do it.

In this outdoor gym located on the patio of a house in Vega Baja, you can climb on a rock formation with routes formed by Hurricane Maria.

You can choose to climb alone if you already know how to lead climb, clean anchors, or climb, or you can book a two-hour guided climbing session. Children are welcome, so feel free to bring your family along.

Tanama River

Do water sports in a river that crosses through a canyon.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Tanama River Tubing Tour

Lying on a tube while drifting calmly inside a cave is a serene, yet still outdoorsy, Puerto Rico activity.

In the Tanama River between Utuado and Arecibo, you can enjoy cave tubing while a tour guide talks about the history and culture of Puerto Rico. Alternatively, you can do body rafting, kayaking, and river trekking.

Multiple companies offer adventure tours in the Tanama River including Batey Adventures and Tanama River Adventures.

Cañón San Cristóbal

Go canyoneering in the deepest canyon in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Tour to Cañón San Cristobal

The San Cristobal Canyon in Barranquitas is a popular spot for adrenaline seekers.

Once a dumping site, the San Cristobal Canyon is now a reserve and an outdoor adventure space with hiking trails, waterfalls, cliffs for rappelling, and rivers you can swim in.

Past visitors have gotten lost in the area, so I recommend visiting with a tour or in groups.

Desecheo Underwater Caves

Go scuba diving into the waters of a forbidden island.

📍 Google Maps  | 👉 Book a Tour to Desecheo Island with Taino Divers

Calling all scuba divers! Desecheo Island offers a unique underwater world full of caves and marine life.

Going into Desecheo itself is dangerous and forbidden because the island is full of live ammunition left behind by the United States Armed Forces, but it’s safe to explore the surrounding waters.

Taino Divers offers trips to the amazing area.

Humacao Nature Reserve

Bike or kayak in a breathtaking nature reserve.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 7 am – 4 pm Tue-Fri, 9 am – 3:30 pm Sat-Sun, Closed Monday

Puerto Rico is home to dozens of parks and nature reserves, and you’ll find one of the best between Humacao and Naguabo.

The Humacao Nature Reserve goes by different names, but regardless, it offers some fun things to do, like kayaking, fishing, hiking, and cycling.

The reserve hosts different ecosystems like a beach, multiple lagoons, and a Pterocarpus forest, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors together with your family. 

I loved kayaking in the lagoon, and having to lie down in the kayak to pass under a bridge was super fun.

Pink Salt Flats

Explore the most popular salt lakes on the island.

📍 Google Maps

If you’re already in the west region of Puerto Rico, make a quick stop at the Pink Salt Lakes in Cabo Rojo.

Popular for their unique color, you can find the salt lakes inside the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge. Keep in mind that the pink color varies according to environmental factors and the time of day you visit.

The viewing tower and the visitor’s center are open only on weekends, but the salt flats are always open through the pedestrian entrances.

Birdwatchers should definitely bring their gear to appreciate the species in the area. Just know that the salt flats smell, and the trails between them get slippery after it rains! Ditch this activity completely if it’s a rainy day.

Cueva Ventana

Overlook Rio Grande de Arecibo’s valleys from this cave 700 feet above.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 322- 3554 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 daily | Entrance: $29 adults, $10 kids | 👉 Book a Tour to Cueva Ventana and Local Waterfall

Cueva Ventana (literally translated as Window Cave), is a famous Puerto Rico landmark in Arecibo.

The cave is located 700 feet above ground and is known for its window-like opening that gives visitors a mesmerizing view of Rio Grande de Arecibo’s valley.

Cueva Ventana also has multiple petroglyphs that history enthusiasts will love seeing. Your tour guide will highlight the swallows’ nests and bat populations on-site, allowing you to appreciate them up close. 

The visit also includes a stop at Cueva Clara, an open cave that precedes Cueva Ventana. During the hike, you’ll learn about the surrounding ecosystem, the North Karst region, and a bit of local history.

Charco Hondo and La Planta

Bathe in manmade waterfalls in Arecibo.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free 

The Tanamá River gives life to many beautiful spots on its course from Adjuntas to Arecibo’s coast.

One of my favorite spots is Charco Hondo in Arecibo. The outdoor area is perfect for adventurers and families looking for a place to escape the heat.

The first waterfall, although manmade, is a local favorite for its easy access.

To get to the second waterfall you’ll have to hike about 15 minutes upriver and cross the river a few times. 

The second waterfall used to be a hydroelectric dam (therefore its second name, La Planta) and is much larger than the first one. 

If you have kids with you, I recommend staying near the first one. Stay out of the river if it’s raining. 

Gilligan’s Island

Navigate to a beautiful island with shallow waters.

📍 Google Maps

Gilligan’s Island, also known as Cayo Aurora, is a beautiful mangrove island with shallow and crystal clear waters located south of Guánica.

Although there used to be a ferry to the island, it stopped running in 2020, and the island “closed”, at least in the official sense.

That said, many people kayak from Guanica’s coast to it (although sadly, the closest spots are fenced by private properties).

Playa San Jacinto seems to be the easiest access point, but its gate sometimes closes early. Alternatively, you can take a private boat tour to the island to snorkel and see colorful fish.

Fun & Family-Friendly Things to Do

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Finca Pastoreo

Find the clues to a mysterious missing case within the maze of this Dorado farm.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 427-9305 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Tues-Thurs, 9 am – 9 pm Fri-Sat, Closed Sun-Mon | Entrance: $10 | 👉 Book a Finca Pastoreo Tour on Viator

Finca Pastoreo is an eco-friendly farm located in the town of Dorado that both kids and adults will love. 

One of the easiest farms to visit in Puerto Rico, Finca Pastoreo has the only grass maze in Puerto Rico. 

You’ll get a map and a game card to help you navigate the maze while solving the mystery of a missing farmer. 

Besides exploring the mazes, you can book a tour to see the farm’s animals, learn about eco-friendly farming, and even help out with the farm’s tasks.

After spending the day exploring, stop by the Gelato store on the farm, eat a refreshing treat, and play board games. I recommend the Mango Banana flavor!

Paseo del Litoral Israel “Shorty” Castro

Catch mesmerizing sunsets at this beachfront promenade.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

Beachfront promenades are one of the best ways to enjoy a relaxed day outdoors in Puerto Rico, and one of my top picks is Paseo del Litoral Israel “Shorty” Castro, located in Mayagüez.

This coastal promenade has a skate park, a kids’ playground, and wide trails perfect for walking, biking, and jogging. You’ll often see locals exercising, walking their dogs, or gathering with family and friends here.

But what I really like about this spot is its sunsets. Come in the late afternoon to catch the reddish skies over the dark-sand beach with Desecheo Island in the background. 

There’s plenty of free parking, and the area is safe and welcoming even after sunset.

Asociación de Observación, Difusión Astronómica y Ciencias del Espacio (AODACE)

Join a group of astronomy enthusiasts in their educational stargazing events.

🌐 Website | Phone: (787) 602-4224

When it comes to stargazing, finding the best spots in Puerto Rico might be challenging even for locals. However, when I discovered AODACE, I honestly fell in love with its mission to make astronomy more accessible to the general public.  

But what really sets this association apart is its monthly open-to-public activities, during which the group welcomes visitors and enthusiasts, for free. 

The AODACE members tour Puerto Rico with stargazing events, educational exhibits, and workshops. The entire team brings telescopes and astronomical cameras they lend to visitors to see the stars and planets. Feel free to ask questions and share your own passion for the night skies!

AODACE frequently hosts events at Finca Higuaca in Cabo Rojo, which I find is one of the best places to admire a non-polluted sky in Puerto Rico. Check their social media to learn about upcoming events.

Arroyo Surfing Park

Surf safely in this waterpark in Arroyo.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 455-1081 | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Tues-Sun, Closed Mondays (High Season), 10 am – 5 pm Sat-Sun (Low Season) | Entrance: $12, adults, $8 under 12 | Temporarily Closed

There aren’t many amusement parks in Puerto Rico, but instead, you’ll find plenty of waterparks where you can escape the heat and enjoy family quality time.

The Arroyo Surfing Park is one of the best waterparks in Puerto Rico, with waterslides, pools, and food kiosks, but the top attraction is the flow rider, where you can catch waves safely for an additional few bucks.

👉 Pro Tip: The Arroyo Surfing Park is open during specific seasons. Make sure to call ahead to see if they’re open and if the Flow Rider is in service.

Gran Parque del Norte

Discover 20 acres of tourist attractions along the beach.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 898-3840 |  Hours: 6 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Free

El Gran Parque del Norte is a beachside park with a volleyball and basketball court, kayaking, bicycle rentals, and different spots to take pictures.

Kids will love the small trolley that takes them on a ride around the park. There are some food kiosks and restaurants on-site.

You can frequently find festivals and activities at this free Puerto Rico attraction in Hatillo. Keep in mind, however, that the beach isn’t safe for swimming.

Carabalí Rainforest Park

Ride an ATV in the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 889-5820 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily | 👉 Book an ATV Tour at Carabali

Located right next to El Yunque National Forest, Hacienda Carabalí offers visitors the exhilarating chance to ride ATVs around the foothills of the rainforest.

If you’re not a fan of ATVs, you can also take a horseback riding tour through the forest or nearby beautiful beaches. You don’t need experience, as you will receive training from your expert tour guides.

Plaza Las Americas

Shop in the largest mall in the Caribbean.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 767-5202 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 9 pm Mon-Sat, 11 am – 7 pm Sundays

If shopping is your thing and you brought an extra suitcase, head over to Plaza Las Americas.

Considered the top shopping mall in Puerto Rico, Plaza Las Americas features brand stores, a movie theater, restaurants, bookstores, museums, and more!

You can also find occasional exhibitions, contests, and seasonal characters like Santa Claus in the mall.

Guajataca Tunnel

Recreate history in an old railway tunnel in Quebradillas.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free

The Guajataca Tunnel is located between Quebradillas and Isabela. What was once the tracks of a railway is now a recreation area for strolling, photographing, eating, and buying local crafts.

There’s even a trolley that takes kids on a ride while recounting the story of the tunnel during the weekends.

Walk through the tunnel and continue along the coast until reaching Pelican Beach, a great beach for strolling and meditating for its seclusion.

👉 Short On Time? Book a multi-stop tour through the west coast to visit the Guajataca Tunnel.

Icacos Island

Take a catamaran to an uninhabited island.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Viator Top Tours to Icacos

Vieques and Culebra are probably already on your list, but have you heard of Icacos?

Icacos is one of the cays of Puerto Rico with shallow waters where you can snorkel or go scuba diving next to coral reefs.

The cay is part of the Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve, and you can reach it through private catamaran tours that can’t be missing from your Puerto Rico itinerary.

Carolina Paintball Field

Play an airsoft game with your friends or family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 531-9011 | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Sat-Sun | Entrance: $25 for 3 hours

Kids and adults alike will love shooting their stress away in the Carolina PaintBall Field. The company provides you with both the airgun and the safety equipment to have an exhilarating family day trip.

They also offer group rates that can help you save if you’re visiting with your loved ones. Make sure to call ahead to make a reservation!

Manantial Ojo del Agua

Swim in this natural spring with slides, fountains, and a swing. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 370-0216 |  Hours: 8 am – 10 pm Mon-Wed, 8 am – 11 pm Thurs-Sun | Entrance: Free but $5 for parking

Considered the biggest water spring in Puerto Rico, Ojo del Agua is located in Vega Baja. The water spring is great for families with kids as it has waterslides, swings, and a fountain.

Ojo del Agua is about four feet deep and the water is clear. There are fish in the spring and you can see the water emerging from the floor near the entrance. Off-street parking costs $3 and on-street parking is free.

Las Aventuras del Don

This amusement park in Añasco has carnival games, restaurants, and a frappe shop.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 431-3059 | Website | Hours: 4 pm – 10 pm Tues-Thurs, 2 pm – 10 pm Fri, 12 pm – 10 pm Sat-Sun, Closed Mondays | Entrance: Free, each carnival game has its price

This popular Puerto Rico amusement park is one of the best stops for families visiting the island. It started as a small frappé shop known as Don Frappé in 2009 and expanded into an amusement park with a zipline, bumper karts, and go-karts.

Both kids and teens will find something to do in the park. Stop at Don Maceta, the site’s restaurant, to taste great Puerto Rican food. Adults can have fun at the Sal Si Puedes Escape Room.

Museums & Culture

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Beaches & Rivers | Food & Drinks | Sites & Attractions | Outdoor Activities | Fun & Family | Museums & Culture

Santurce

Enjoy the artsy and lively atmosphere of this San Juan neighborhood.

📍 Google Maps

Santurce is a neighborhood that mixes art, local culture, and good food.

Visitors can spend hours enjoying street art at Calle Cerra, and Avenida Fernandez Juncos, and dancing and eating with locals in La Placita de Santurce.

Santurce also boasts multiple coffee shops, art galleries, bookstores, and themed restaurants.

Although many areas of Santurce might feel unsafe for tourists, following general Puerto Rico safety rules like parking in well-lit areas, avoiding shady-looking alleys, and traveling in groups at night will keep you out of trouble.

Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center

Learn about the indigenous history at the largest Taino site in the Caribbean.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 894-7325 | Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: $5, adults, $3 under 13

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site in Utuado is an archaeological site with petroglyphs and ceremonial plazas that offer visitors a view of the pre-Columbian lifestyle of the Taino.

It’s one of the best things to do in Utuado for history enthusiasts. The on-site museum offers plenty of insight into the Taino traditions and beliefs and exhibits artifacts found in the area.

San Germán

Explore the second-oldest city in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps

The local history extends past San Juan to Puerto Rico cities like San Germán, the second oldest city on the island.

Founded in 1573, the city hosts numerous historical landmarks in the historic district, including plazas, Spanish colonial houses, and the iconic Porta Coeli Church that dates back to 1609.

History enthusiasts visiting the town should stop at the local museums, which retell the foundation and formation of the west region.

Castillo Serrallés

Tour a real-life castle next to a Japanese garden.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 259-1774 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $18

Once home to the Serrallés family, this Spanish-revival castle is now a museum, surrounded by other attractions like a Japanese garden, and Cruceta del Vigia, a 100-foot cross with a platform from which you can see Ponce’s coast.

The guided history tour allows you to learn about the creators behind Rum Don Q as well as see the lavish interior of the castle.

I loved the detailed interiors, including the roof in one of the dining rooms and the vintage kitchen.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo

Contemplate contemporary art pieces from Latin America and Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 977-4030 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $8, adults, $3 under 5, free for seniors

The Contemporary Art Museum of Puerto Rico is the only museum on the island that’s dedicated solely to contemporary art. It’s one of the best places to visit if you’re part of the art community.

This unique museum, founded in 1984, has a permanent collection that includes 1,200 art pieces from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Puerto Rico.

You can also enjoy the familiar activities, movie nights, and special events they post frequently on their page. 

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Enjoy art in a museum that’s both for adults and kids.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 977- 6277 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Thurs, 10 am – 5 pm Wed, Fri and Sat, 11 am – 5 pm Sundays, Closed Mondays and Tuesdays | Entrance: $15, adults, $5 kids

The Puerto Rico Art Museum in San Juan displays 24 exhibition galleries of art.

The permanent exhibition, Puerto Rico Plural, groups more than 250 pieces from the 18th century to the present, including the mural on the museum’s entry made with Chinese ink.

This museum also features an interactive art room and a garden perfect for visiting with kids.

Museo Las Américas

Explore a unique museum inside the Spanish military barracks.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 724-5052 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 12 pm & 1 pm – 4 pm Wed-Fri, 11 am – 4 pm Sat-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $6, adults, $4 under 12

If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to include Museo Las Americas on your list of things to do while visiting Puerto Rico.

Once the Spaniard military barracks, with rooms, kitchens, and cells, this top Puerto Rico museum on the second floor is now home to multiple galleries with permanent collections depicting the American continent’s complex heritage.

In the same building, you’ll also find coffee shops, restaurants, and shops.

Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis

Walk between historical tombs next to the Atlantic Ocean.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 480-4617 | Hours: 7 am – 3 pm daily 

Visiting a graveyard is not exactly in your typical guide, but the Santa Maria de Pazzis cemetery could easily pass as a museum. This small graveyard is home to astonishing sculptures of angels, virgins, and bible scenes.

Passing the yellow gate, you’ll find the oldest part of the cemetery with the tombs of famous Puerto Ricans and a round chapel with a dome that dates back to the 19th century.

There are a few ghost stories about the cemetery you can learn about through this San Juan ghost walking tour.

Museo de Arte Bayamón

Visit a museum with pieces from famous Puerto Rican artists.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 269-4433 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: Free

Puerto Rican art, like everything else in our country, is a mix of trends, cultures, and styles. The Bayamon Art Museum reflects exactly that through its collection.

Although small, this museum has a gallery with temporary exhibitions, a hall with engravings, and another hall with pieces from the early start of Puerto Rican art. It’s one of my favorite spots in Bayamón to escape the chaos of the city.

Museo de Arte de Ponce

Tour one of the most important museums in Puerto Rico.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 840-1510 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Fridays, Closed from Sat-Thurs | Entrance: $6, adults, $3 under 6 

The Ponce Art Museum houses one of the most important collections of Puerto Rican and European art in Puerto Rico. The collection boasts more than 4,500 objects, of which roughly 800 are on display. 

You can find exemplars of British paintings, 19th-century art, Spanish paintings, and Puerto Rican art. Art fans could easily spend half a day in the museum and shouldn’t miss its most renowned piece, Flaming June.

Want More? Listen to My Puerto Rico Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love my Puerto Rico episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming Puerto Rico”). 

I talk about things to do in Puerto Rico at minute mark 20:03.

The host, Nate, and I also discuss places to visit in Puerto Rico (13:16), language & cultural tips (32:32), how to get around Puerto Rico (28:01), why more people should visit Puerto Rico (31:09) and all the other common questions about travel to Puerto Rico. 

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you arrive in Puerto Rico.

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What are you looking forward to from this list? Let me know in the comments below! Up next, check out our epic list of Puerto Rico guides here.