53 Best Things to Do in San Juan, PR (By a Local)
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Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a recurrent visitor, the things to do in San Juan never run out.
San Juan is home to many of my favorite things to do in Puerto Rico, and surprisingly, most are outside the touristy areas of the capital city.
As a Puerto Rico local who has even written a Puerto Rico ebook, I’ll tell you all about the absolute best activities to do in San Juan (including some hidden spots!) – so you don’t miss out on any of the city’s fun. Let’s dive in!
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Best Things to Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Old San Juan
Walk the colorful streets of the capital’s old town.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Old San Juan Walking Tours on Viator
Old San Juan is the historical district of the capital city and one of the most popular places to visit on the island. The city has multiple historical buildings in San Juan’s historic site that date back to the 16th century when Puerto Rico was under the Spanish Empire’s control.
Old San Juan is home to beautiful, colorful Spanish-colonial-style houses and national landmarks like El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. Don’t forget to visit main streets like Calle Fortaleza, Calle San Francisco, Calle del Cristo, and Calle San Sebastian to find churches, plazas, and even museums.
🛎️ Need a hotel? If you’re wondering about the best hotels and areas in Old San Juan, check out my guide to where to stay in San Juan to find the place that best suits your needs.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Explore one of Puerto Rico’s most famous landmarks.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 729-6960 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $10, adults, Free under 15 | 👉 Book a Tour to El Morro
Castillo San Felipe del Morro is easily the most famous landmark in Puerto Rico. The fort built by the Spaniards in the 16th century protected the island’s north coast from incoming sea attacks.
El Morro, as it’s popularly known, features multiple floors with barracks, kitchens, storage, an inner courtyard, and fantastic views of the city walls.
I recommend visiting the original tower on the lowest level, where you can see traces of a cannonball from one of the attacks on the city. During the night, you can still see the lighthouse operating.
👉 Want to Visit for Free? Check out the National Park Service website to see the free entrance days.
Castillo San Cristobal
Stand on top of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 449-4049 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $10, Free under 15
Castillo San Cristóbal is another historical landmark history buffs can’t miss in Old San Juan, and honestly? My favorite one of the fortresses in the city.
Like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal is part of the Unesco World Heritage Site. It also aimed to protect the city when it was built in the 17 and 18th centuries, but from land attracts instead.
The largest Spanish fort in the American continent has unique tunnels, barracks, dungeons, and the infamous Garita del Diablo, a sentry box where, according to legends, officers used to disappear.
👉 Pro Tip: The $10 admission fee includes both San Juan fortresses and it’s valid for 24 hours.
San Juan Food Tour
Sample some of San Juan’s best delicacies.
Puerto Rican cuisine is something you can’t miss in Puerto Rico, and even if you’re sticking to the capital city, you’ll find that San Juan is home to some of the best restaurants in Puerto Rico.
You can pick between local and international flavors (or a combination of both!). But, as a local, I’d say a visit to Puerto Rico isn’t complete without trying the mofongo or arroz con habichuelas.
Some popular eating spots in San Juan include Old San Juan, Condado, Miramar, Santurce, Calle Loíza, and Piñones, although this last one is officially in Loiza.
Taste everything San Juan has to offer with an Old San Juan food tour. I took it, and it’s one of the highest-rated tours in Puerto Rico.
San Juan Bay
Sail through this beautiful bay.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Top San Juan Bay Cruises on Viator
Instead of walking, enjoy the old city’s beautiful scenery while taking a San Juan boat tour.
While many commercial ships and cruises enter and exit the area, small boats also take tourists around the San Juan Bay while listening to music and eating good food.
A boat tour is also one of the best San Juan excursions if your time in the city is limited.
If you’re on a budget, take the ferry to the neighboring city of Cataño, so you can get a ride through the bay for less than a dollar.
Escambrón Beach
Sunbathe, swim, or dive on the best beach in San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Parking: $5
Escambrón Beach has everything you could expect from a great beach: clear waters, facilities, and multiple areas for diverse beachgoers, and you don’t even need to step out of the capital city to enjoy it.
Considered the best of San Juan’s beaches, Escambron Beach is not only popular for bathers, but it’s also one of the best destinations for diving and snorkeling in Puerto Rico. You can even see sea turtles in its waters!
You will, however, find frequent crowds here. But, visiting before 9:00 am or after 6:30 pm is an easy solution to that problem. I find that visiting at night is safe, more refreshing, and much more relaxing.
If you’re researching diving destinations in Puerto Rico, Escambron Beach is definitely worth checking out!
👉 Local Tip: Facilities are open from 8:30 – 5 pm, but the beach itself is open 24 hours.
Playa Peña
Walk from San Juan’s main landmarks to this secluded beach.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free
Many tourists believe Old San Juan lacks beaches, but in reality, Playa Peña is just a short walk from El Morro and the San Cristobal Castle.
Descend the stairs across the Capitol and you’ll find a golden sand shore with small pools formed by a natural barrier.
Playa Peña, also known as Playa del Capitolio, lacks facilities, but this beach’s sunset strolls are one of the best couple activities in Puerto Rico.
Keep in mind that ocean conditions during the winter might make this beach dangerous for swimming, so if you’re visiting from October to February, check out my guide to the best beaches to choose one that is safe for swimming.
Plaza de Armas
Dance bomba, take pictures, and feed pigeons in San Juan’s main plaza.
Plaza de Armas is the heart of Old San Juan, and a must-visit if you’re interested in history or culture. Located right by the city hall, this plaza, like most of Old San Juan, dates back to the Spanish colonial period.
Although a few centuries have passed since its construction, the plaza is still the place where locals meet.
At Plaza de Armas, you can participate in Bomba and Plena shows, catch festivals, or buy food. During the Christmas holidays, you’ll find a large tree and decorations around the plaza.
San Sebastian Festival
Dive deeper into Puerto Rican culture by experiencing one of San Juan’s best festivals.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free
Old San Juan is home to some of the best concerts, exhibitions, and festivals in Puerto Rico, but the most famous one is Las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, also called “La San Se”.
This four-day festival takes over the streets of Old San Juan with parades, exhibitions, music, and dancing. Kiosks with local crafts and food cover sidewalks and plazas.
The festival which takes place on the third weekend of January, is something that party lovers can’t miss.
La Fortaleza
Take a tour of this historical government building.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 721-7000 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4 pm Mon-Fri, Closed Sat-Sun
La Fortaleza is the governor’s official residence, and while many tourists look at it from afar, very few actually know that it’s open to visitors!
Also known as the Santa Catalina Palace, this San Juan National Historic Site structure has two medieval-looking towers from the 16th century.
But, the palace got its neoclassic appearance during the alterations in the 19th century. La Fortaleza has breathtaking rooms and a surrounding garden that you will rave about if you’re a history enthusiast.
Salsa Class
Take a salsa class and level up your dancing skills.
👉 Browse San Juan Salsa Classes on Viator
When you think of salsa, you probably think of the Caribbean and Puerto Rico! That’s why one of the best things to do in San Juan is to take a salsa class with your partner.
Not only will you be learning to dance, but you’ll know more about the local culture and you’ll make new friends. Once you learn a few moves, visit local bars, pubs, and La Placita de Santurce to showcase your new skills and enjoy the best of Puerto Rico’s nightlife.
Jardín Botánico de la UPR
Relax and connect with nature in this stunning garden.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 474-0403 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Free
The Botanical Garden of the University of Puerto Rico is one of the hidden gems of San Juan. This garden features multiple trails, a Japanese garden, a sculpture garden, and artificial lakes.
The botanical garden is the ideal place for people who want to connect with nature away from the crowds of San Juan. It’s also a great place to go birdwatching or have a picnic with your family.
Sites & Attractions
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San Juan Cathedral
Visit the oldest cathedral in the United States.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 722-0861 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm Mon-Fri until 7 pm Saturdays, 8 am – 4 pm Sun
The San Juan Cathedral stands at the end of what used to be one of the entrances to the old city.
Built in 1540 after a hurricane destroyed the original structure, the San Juan Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in a US territory, and it’s also part of the San Juan National Historic Site.
Besides its historic value, the cathedral keeps the remains of Juan Ponce de León, the first governor of Puerto Rico.
Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis
Check out this gorgeous cemetery.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 480-4617 | Hours: 7 am – 3 pm daily
Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis is more a piece of art than a cemetery.
Visit early (it gets hot in the afternoon!) and walk between the dozens of beautiful sculptures depicting Christian scenes while listening to waves splashing outside the cemetery.
Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis is the final resting place of various famous Puerto Rican figures.
Plus, if you’re into spooky stuff, you can also take a ghost tour through the cemetery.
Paseo del Morro
Hike around the walls of Old San Juan and soak in the scenery of the bay.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free
Paseo del Morro is a 1.5-mile-long promenade that borders the city walls, starting at the San Juan gate and ending at El Morro.
The walk offers beautiful views of the San Juan Bay, as well as chances to look at the city walls and sentry boxes up close.
While you’ll enjoy the views during the day, at night, the promenade lights up and offers a perfect spot for a romantic date.
Paseo de La Princesa
Stroll down this historic promenade with important Puerto Rico landmarks.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Old San Juan Walking Tours on Viator
Paseo de la Princesa is one of the preferred spots by locals for get-togethers, family outings, and dates.
During the weekends, the promenade often has food and craft kiosks, so you’ll enjoy delicious food and take home locally-made souvenirs.
Snap a shot at the Raices fountain, and if you can, stay for the sunset! But, don’t forget to visit the San Juan gate nearby, the only gate left out of the four original gates of the city.
San Jose Church
Visit America’s second-oldest church.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 918-3800 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm Wed-Fri and Sun, 11 am – 7:30 pm Sat, Closed Mon-Tues
The San Jose Church opened after nine years of restoration, and the results are worth a visit.
The church dates back to 1532, making it the second oldest church on the American continent, and it’s an example of Spanish Gothic, baroque, and renaissance architecture.
You will find beautiful frescos, arches, chandeliers, and paintings inside. I personally loved the mermaid frescoes discovered during the restoration!
Even if you’re not religious, you’ll love this historical building in the heart of San Juan.
Parroquia San Francisco de Asis
Visit the crypt in this 19th-century San Juan church.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 724-1131
Despite its simple Neoclassical façade, the San Francisco de Asís Church hides one of the best finds for history enthusiasts visiting Old San Juan: a crypt.
This crypt, hidden underneath the church, feels like stepping into an old European catacomb, and best of all, it’s free to access. You’ll find tombs dating back to the 19th century, right next to more recent ones from the 20th century.
While the original church was built in 1756 and later expanded and rebuilt in 1876, the mural at the altar dates back to 1949 and was painted by Juan Bautista García. The altar itself is a unique one, featuring a mural with angels, wheat, grapes, and countryside scenes seen through windows, painted in green, gold, and terracotta.
According to legend, the crucifix inside the church was found near El Morro after a shipwreck in the 18th century and brought here.
The Wheel
Have a romantic date at the classic Ferris wheel.
📍 Google Maps | Social Media | Hours: 5 – 11 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $12
The Wheel is one of San Juan’s most recent attractions, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re looking for a fun date night.
The Wheel has a bar where you can try local Puerto Rico beers, dance the night away during special DJ events, or watch sports on big screens.
But, the site’s most popular attraction is its 110-foot Ferris wheel, which gives great views of El Capitolio, San Juan’s Marina, and San Juan Bay.
Couples will love the night landscape and the atmosphere at the bar, but families are welcome too.
The Wheel is still under development, so you can expect an entertainment center with food trucks, shops, and a beer garden soon.
Calle Loiza
Hop between restaurants, bars, and pubs in this hipster district.
When it comes to enjoying Puerto Rico’s nightlife, Calle Loíza comes second only to the infamous La Placita.
But contrary to its counterpart, Calle Loiza is much more popular among 20-somethings.
The street that connects San Juan to Carolina is home to dozens of restaurants, bars, and pubs that open at night (trust me, don’t bother visiting before 4 pm).
For those looking for a drink, check out El Bar Bero, El Tap, and Bosco. For a good night dancing, go to Piso Viejo Bar and Grill and Música Bar & Lounge PR.
And for eating, you’ll have plenty of options regardless of your taste. Calle Loíza offers Mexican, Puerto Rican, Creole, Korean, and Argentinian cuisines among many others.
Casa Blanca
Explore the oldest structure in Old San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 725 – 1454 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $5 to the house, free gardens
Located at the end of Calle San Sebastián, Casa Blanca is considered the oldest structure in San Juan. This two-in-one Spanish colonial house and fort was originally built for Juan Ponce de León, Puerto Rico’s first governor.
Construction began in 1521, and although Ponce de León died before he could live in it, his descendants inhabited the house until the 18th century.
Today, the historic site is open as a museum, showcasing 16th and 18th-century artifacts and furniture from the Spanish colonial era that recreate what life was like during that time.
Although the house itself might not impress everyone, the lush gardens are one of the best free things to do in Puerto Rico. They offer some of the best views in Old San Juan and create a calm, safe space to escape the buzz of the historic district.
La Casa de los Contrafuertes
This 16th-century house is used as a communal creative space.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 565-9877 | Website | Hours: 12 – 6 pm Fri-Sun
La Casa de los Contrafuertes is one of the most peculiar structures in Old San Juan.
As the oldest civil residence in the city, dating back to the 16th century, it now serves as a collaborative art hub modeled after a beehive, buzzing with a mix of creative experiences. This cultural refuge brings history, nature, and the arts together in the heart of Old San Juan.
Also a nonprofit organization, the space hosts resident artists, rotating exhibitions, and a community garden. You’ll also catch workshops, conferences, performances, plays, and poetry readings in this cultural spot.
👉 Local Tip: La casa de los contrafuertes borders the San José plaza.
The Poet’s Passage
Step into this cute shop for the prints and stay for the poetry.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 721-0564 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Wed-Mon, 10 am – 12 am Tues | Entrance: Free
A gallery, a coffee shop, and a living museum all in one, The Poet’s Passage is a charming little corner in Old San Juan.
At first, this place tricks you into thinking it’s just a cute little shop with poetic prints, paintings, and handmade crafts.
But as you wander through The Poet’s Passage, you’ll discover it’s so much more, and each corner makes the space feel even more magical. There’s a small bohemian-style coffee shop and a cozy art gallery nestled inside.
On Tuesdays, catch their Open Mic Poetry Nights, which extend until midnight. And yes, you guessed it, you’re welcome to join in!
Museums & Culture
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Museum of Contemporary Art
Check out the only museum in Puerto Rico dedicated entirely to contemporary art.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 977-4030 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $8, $3 for kids under 5
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Puerto Rico is a great stop for people who enjoy contemporary and abstract art.
This museum is the only one in the entire archipelago dedicated exclusively to collecting and exhibiting art produced in the second half of the 20th century in Puerto Rico and Latin America.
It’s one of the top museums in Puerto Rico to catch family events and movie nights almost every weekend. You can find the activity calendar on their social media.
Santurce Es Ley
Find the street art produced at a popular art festival.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Street Art Tour on Viator
Every year Santurce hosts Santurce es Ley, a street art festival during which dozens of international muralists create murals over multiple buildings on Cerra Street, Hoare Street, and Elisa Street.
Art lovers can’t miss the astonishing murals between common buildings. Some of them change during each version of the festival, so even if you visit yearly, you’ll find a new mural every time.
Best of all, the area is known for its bars, pubs, and coffee shops, so you can enjoy a meal after your walk through this outdoor museum.
The Santurce Es Ley festival usually takes place in summer. Plan your visit around it, to see the creation of these impressive murals in person.
Museo Las Americas
A museum where even the building itself is loaded with history.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 724-5052 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 12 pm and 1 pm – 4 pm Wed-Fri, 11 am – 4 pm Sat-Sun, Closed Mon-Tues | Entrance: $6, adults, $4 under 12
El Museo Las Americas is a San Juan museum with a history itself.
The structure was once a military barracks during the colonial period under the Spanish Empire and later, a hospital during the Second World War.
Today the museum hosts collections about the cultural heritage of Latin America and Puerto Rico.
Museo de Historia, Antropología y Arte
Find the hidden tokens in a famous Francisco Oller painting in this museum.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 763-3939 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4:30 pm Tue-Fri, Closed Sat – Mon | Entrance: Free
Museo de Historia, Antropología y Arte is located within the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras.
Although small, the museum deserves a visit, as it houses sculptures, historical artifacts, and paintings. But the museum’s main attraction is Francisco Oller’s painting, El Velorio.
The huge piece (8 x 13 feet to be exact) is famous for its multiple techniques, use of light, hidden tokens, and meanings.
El Velorio translates as the funeral, and it depicts a baquiné, a traditional ceremony that took place when a young child died during the 19th century in Puerto Rico. Instead of mourning, the community gathered and celebrated with music, singing, dancing, and food.
The museum also offers family-friendly workshops on certain Saturdays of the month. Check the museum’s social media to learn about them.
Teatro en 15
Enjoy 15-minute plays in Spanish and English in Old San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 480-3530 | Website | Hours: 6 – 10 pm Thurs-Sat, 1 – 5 pm Sun, Closed from Mon-Wed | Entrance: $5 for play or $25 for all plays
Teatro en 15 is a unique and fun concept that consists of watching 15-minute plays.
The company runs 6 plays every night during weekends and you can choose between watching one or all of them.
The theater is small and fits about 15 visitors per show. The billboard includes plays both in English and Spanish. Every month the billboard offer changes.
While some plays are family-friendly, some are adult-themed, so be sure to ask ahead when buying your tickets.
You can only buy tickets in person an hour before the play at La Casa Cultural.
Museo del Mar
Sail through Puerto Rico’s maritime past.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 977 – 4461 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $5
Museo del Mar is a one-of-a-kind museum in Old San Juan. While many San Juan museums focus on military history and the Spanish colonial era, this one dives into Puerto Rico’s maritime past, showcasing artifacts tied to navigation and seafaring life.
The museum features a collection of coins, navigational instruments, and maps from the Spanish colonial period.
Your kids will love the impressive lineup of ship models and miniature boats in bottles. It’s fun and super visual.
On the back, you’ll find what’s considered the largest life belt collection in the world, according to Guinness Records. If you’re into ships or navigation, see how many of the belts you can recognize!
But, perhaps one of my favorite things in the museum was the mock-up depicting the 1797 Battle of San Juan, which helps you visualize how the British ships attacked and where they did it. You’ll also find a small TV with a short documentary that explains the battle in more detail.
There is also a cool section on the Porto Rico Line, a steamship line that once transported sugarcane between Puerto Rico and the US and operated as a passenger ferry between New York and the island.
Family-Friendly Things
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San Juan Sip and Paint
Sip on a refreshing drink while you create a masterpiece.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 725-1960 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 10 pm Tues-Sat, 11 am – 9 pm Sun, Closed Mon | 👉 Book a San Juan Sip and Paint Activity
Right across the popular Plaza de Armas in San Juan, you’ll find San Juan Sip and Paint. This fun experience allows visitors to create art with the guidance of entertaining and motivating teachers.
Although the group works together to create the same piece, in the end, each student finishes up with a unique painting they can take home.
The best part of San Juan Sip and Paint is that you don’t need any experience! All you need is the will to have fun.
It’s a great thing to do while on a family vacation in Puerto Rico.
San Juan’s Ciclovias
Explore San Juan on wheels using its designated bicycle lanes.
If you’re looking to explore San Juan with your family in a different way, you can rent a bike or a scooter to ride through the capital city’s designated bicycle lanes.
Known as ciclovias, these lanes connect Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra, Condado, and Santurce.
Most of them are protected and divided from traffic by concrete, making it a great option to explore safely in Puerto Rico. You can rent out scooters through the Skootel app, or e-bikes and bicycles at local rental shops. Or book a San Juan bicycle tour to explore the city in a fun and active way.
If you’re staying in San Juan, check out your hotel’s perks. Many Puerto Rico hotels offer complimentary bike rentals.
Plaza Las Americas
Shop til you drop at the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 767-5202 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 9 pm Mon-Sat, 11 am – 7 pm Sun
The capital city is a paradise for shopaholics, so it’s no surprise it’s also home to the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean.
Plaza Las Américas is located in the Hato Rey neighborhood, and it houses both local and international brand stores. Besides shopping, you can visit the Eco Exploratorio museum, watch movies, play at the arcade, and catch special events within the shopping mall.
The shopping mall is something for the entire family, and if it gets overwhelming, I recommend escaping the crowds at Casa Norberto, a bookstore and coffee shop on the third floor!
Cine Estuario
Watch a movie under the stars next to the infamous Condado Lagoon.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 725 8165 | Website | Hours: 7 – 9 pm, first Saturday of the month usually | Entrance: Free
For families with kids, Cine Estuario is a great entertainment option in Condado.
Happening every first Saturday of the month, Cine Estuario is an outdoor movie night that takes place in Jaime Benitez Park next to the Condado Lagoon and Paseo Román Baldorioty de Castro.
From 7 pm families bring their seats and blankets and gather to spend the night under the stars. Just make sure to use bug repellent, as you’ll be outdoors next to a mangrove.
José “Remi” Vega Children’s Playground
A colorful park for little ones in historic Old San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: 8 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Walking Old San Juan with kids can get a bit boring and exhausting for them, which is why it’s essential to include kid-friendly stops in your Puerto Rico family vacation itinerary. One of the best spots you’ll find is the José “Remi” Vega Children’s Playground.
Located right along Paseo de la Princesa, this colorful park has a fun playground with sensory-rich stations and musical play zones. It also has shaded seating areas, so parents can take a break too, right next to the historic city walls and some of the monuments in the park.
And if you’re visiting during the San Sebastián Festival, this park becomes home to Las Mini Sanse, a kid-friendly version of the famous festival, featuring mimes, magic shows, bomba classes, and performances.
Food & Drink
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Bacardi Factory
Take a rum tour at this iconic factory in Cataño.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 788-8400 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Wed, 10 am – 9 pm Thurs-Sun
Although not exactly in San Juan, the Bacardi Factory is only 25 minutes away from San Juan, and it’s worth your time if you’re into tastings.
The Bacardi factory offers visitors rum tasting tours, mixology classes, and facility tours, so you can learn about Bacardi’s rum history and the process behind making it.
Coffee Shops
Sample some of San Juan’s best coffee shops and cafes.
If you’re a coffee lover, then you will love Puerto Rico’s strong-flavored coffee, and you won’t have to go to Puerto Rico’s coffee farms to taste it.
In San Juan alone you will find dozens of coffee shops. Most of them source their beans from their own farm, which means coffee lovers aren’t only tasting great coffee, but having a farm-to-table experience.
I recommend trying Café Cuatro Sombras, Café Colao, Café Regina, and Barista Squared. But, check out my guide to the best coffee shops in San Juan, to find more places where you can try the local coffee.
La Factoria
Check out some of San Juan’s best nightlife locations and watering holes.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 11 am – 1 am Sun – Thurs, 11 am – 2 am Fri-Sat
You won’t have to search too much to notice there are a lot of bars and taverns in Old San Juan, but La Factoría is probably the most popular of all.
This 6-in-1 bar is known for its cocktails. The Lavander Mule and Champeta are two of the bar’s most acclaimed drinks!
Move through the multiple connecting doors you’ll find in the location, and you’ll find a different bar and a different vibe (and menu!) each time.
If you’re in the mood for dancing some salsa, make your way to the Shing A’Ling, where you’ll find live salsa music on weekend nights.
Do expect lots of local crowds here! If you want something more peaceful, check out other bars in Calle San Sebastian, where most of Puerto Rico’s nightlife occurs.
Lote 23
Sample many Puerto Rican cuisines in one convenient location.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 12 – 10 pm Wed-Sat, 12 – 8 pm Sun, Closed Mon-Tue
Deciding what to eat with a group of friends and family is a struggle. But, Lote 23 in Santurce is a quick and delicious solution to the dilemma.
The food truck park has multiple food kiosks that serve the best of local and international cuisine, including desserts and beer.
If you visit during the weekends, you’ll often find live entertainment on-site. Best of all, it’s open until late, in case you get the late-night cravings.
Piso Viejo Bar and Restaurant
Enjoy a drink and dance salsa with the locals at this Calle Loíza bar.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 908-3384 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 1 am Mon and Wed-Thurs, 12 pm – 2 am Fri-Sun, Closed Tues
⚠️ Closure Note: Piso Viejo Bar and Restaurant is temporarily closed for maintenance.
San Juan is filled with hotspots for enjoying the nightlife, and Piso Viejo Bar and Restaurant is one of them.
This restaurant in Calle Loíza is a great pick, whether you’re looking for something to eat or something to drink. The atmosphere is casual, and often you’ll enjoy live entertainment on weekends.
But, perhaps the location is best known for its Salsa Thursdays when you can take free salsa classes right in the restaurant and dance along with locals.
Montadero Chocolate
Indulge in locally-produced artisanal chocolate.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 721-8021 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Tues-Sat, Closed Sun-Mon
Chocolate lovers will find plenty of options in San Juan to indulge their sweet tooth, but few taste as good as Montadero Chocolate.
Located on Calle Tetuán, Montadero Chocolate is a bean-to-bar chocolate shop with deep Puerto Rican roots.
Founded by Germán Ramos and his wife, Kenia, Montadero revives a family tradition inspired by Germán’s grandmother, who used to make chocolate in the Montadero region of Isabela.
The shop sources its cacao from local farms and handcrafts its chocolate in small batches. These artisanal chocolatiers oversee the entire process, from roasting to molding, to ensure quality in every bite.
At the San Juan shop, you’ll sample all kinds of flavor combinations, from hints of coffee and nuts to fruity infusions. You’ll also find cacao nibs to take as a souvenir.
You can drink hot chocolate on site, or if you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, you can book a chocolate-making class at their main facility in Caguas.
Outdoor Activities
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La Ocho
Take classes or hit the waves in this epic surfing destination.
📍 Google Maps | Parking: $5 | 👉 Browse Top Surfing Lessons in San Juan on Viator
It’s true, the most popular Puerto Rico surfing destinations are on the West Coast. Still, you’ll be glad to know San Juan has more than a few spots great for surfing, including La Ocho.
La Ocho is a spot next to Escambrón Beach, between Peñon de San Jorge and Playa Peña. During the weekdays it’s relatively empty, but lots of surfers visit on the weekends.
Mushy waves usually vary between 3 and 5 feet and are ideal for beginners, but can get considerably bigger between September and February. Keep in mind the spot gets deep pretty quickly and that wind conditions affect the tide.
Mostly locals surf here, so make sure to ask about the best spot in the area. Next to La Pecera, you’ll find Pressure Point, another great spot for surfing.
La Pocita (La Pecera)
Check out the fish and other sea life in this cove in Escambrón Marine Park.
📍 Google Maps | Parking $5 | 👉 Book a San Juan snorkeling Tour on Viator
While most travelers visit Escambrón Marine Park to swim in Escambrón beach, the park also has a cove known as La Pocita that easily ranks as one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Puerto Rico.
La Pocita has reefs as accessible as 5 feet deep in water, known as the snorkel reef. There is also a seaweed forest where you’ll easily spot sea turtles.
Swim beyond the Fish Protection Wall to see yellow tail snappers, damselfish, and blue tangs swimming around the Taino Reefs, 200 man-made reefs.
You can easily explore the beach on your own if you have experience snorkeling, but if you’re a beginner, I recommend booking a San Juan snorkeling guided tour.
Condado Lagoon
Explore the Condado Lagoon kayaking or paddleboarding.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Top Tours to Condado Lagoon Kayak on Viator
The Condado Lagoon is the center of watersports in San Juan and a great alternative if you want to enjoy the coast more actively.
Rent a kayak or a board and get out into the lagoon to get amazing views of Miramar, Puente Dos Hermanos, and Condado.
You’ll find frequent tours out in the area, but you can rent your own gear from any of the businesses in Condado and paddle at your own pace. You might even see manatees!
I recommend exploring in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the views without the heat of midday.
Ocean Park
Go kiteboarding on this beach in San Juan.
If you’re an adventure-seeker, then you’ll love to know you can go kiteboarding in Ocean Park Beach in San Juan. This urban beach sports strong winds and good conditions for the sport.
You can also learn other water sports like wingboarding or book an e-foil hydrofoil experience.
Parque Luis Muñoz Rivera
Unwind outdoors at this park right by Escambrón Beach.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free, $5 parking
The Luis Muñoz Rivera Park in Old San Juan is the perfect space to spend a fun afternoon with your kids without breaking the bank. The wide park has gazebos, water fountains, and monuments, but most of all, lots of space for your kids to run, bike, or skate. There’s also plenty of shade where you can lie out a blanket and relax with a book.
It’s not unusual to see wedding photoshoots, salsa classes, or birthday celebrations at the park. There’s a coffee shop on the west end, and you can also enjoy Sabor Arte, a space where you’ll enjoy a picnic-style dinner.
And if you get too hot, you’ll be within walking distance of Escambrón Beach.
Toro Verde Urban Park
Zipline over the T-Mobile District.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 936- 2146 | Website | Hours: 11:30 – 10 pm Sun-Thurs, 12 – 11 pm Fri, 11:30 am – 11 pm Sat | 👉 Book a Zipline Tour on Viator
The Toro Verde Urban Park is an adventure park located right in San Juan and the only ziplining park you’ll find in the capital city.
Toro Verde is a great stop for families and it has entertainment for all ages. The park has an arcade, a rock-climbing wall, and a rope course.
But, the main highlights for adrenaline seekers are the two ziplining circuits.
The Sky Bull is a circuit of 3-ziplines in a seated position (my recommendation if you’re a beginner!) and the Blazing Bull, with which you’ll fly Superman style over Distrito de Convenciones.
You can also enjoy a meal right on-site at the Verbena Restaurant.
Parque Luis Muñoz Marín
Fun for both kids and adults, this park is a safe outdoor escape in San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 480-7777 | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Wed-Sun | Entrance: $2 per person, $3 per car
The Luis Muñoz Marín Park (not to be confused with Luis Muñoz Rivera Park) is a great spot for a family day out. The park offers pedal kart rentals, a splash fountain, playgrounds, and a rope circuit that kids love to climb.
You’ll also find a plant and butterfly nursery. During the Christmas season, the park often features festive holiday-themed decorations that add extra fun to your visit.
Even if you’re not visiting with kids, you can access the park and spend a day reading, walking, or photographing your surroundings.
Cheap & Free Things to Do in San Juan
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T-Mobile District
Chill with the locals at this contemporary plaza.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 998-2000 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 11 pm Mon-Wed, 11:30 am – 12 am Thurs-Fri, 11:30 am – 1 am Sat-Sun
The T-Mobile District is one of the newest attractions in San Juan and is a great option to meet local people. The modern plaza seeks to bring people together with a variety of free concerts, activities, and restaurants.
Adventure lovers who want to zipline but can’t visit El Yunque National Forest or The Toro Verde Adventure Park in Orocovis can experience urban ziplining in the T-Mobile District.
Families can spend a fun day at the site’s arcade or catch a movie at the Caribbean Cinemma VIP.
EL Morro’s Esplanade
Experience San Juan’s epic golden hour.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a San Juan’s Sunset Walking Tour on Viator
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a partner, you can’t miss the sunsets in El Morro’s esplanade in Old San Juan.
When the time of the golden hour arrives, the San Juan Bay, the fortress, and the cobblestone streets acquire a beautiful orange glow perfect for taking pictures.
If you’re visiting with your kids, I recommend arriving earlier and joining the local crowds flying kites in El Morro. A small kiosk next to the Instituto de Neurobiología sells kites.
At night, El Morro’s esplanade is also a great spot for a picnic.
La Placita
Dance all night long and hang with the locals.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 307-1364 | Hours: 3 pm – 1 am Sun-Thurs, 3 pm – 2 am Fri, 3 pm – 12 am Sat
If you’re looking to experience the lively Puerto Rican culture and hang out with locals, you can’t leave San Juan without visiting La Placita in Santurce.
This is both a local market during the day and a partying spot at night with live music, dancing, and food kiosks. Check out La Placita’s social media to learn about upcoming events.
The Narrow House
Once a passageway, now it’s the narrowest house in San Juan.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (787) 598-2664 | Hours: 11 am – 7 pm Wed & Thu, 11 am – 5 pm Fri, 2 pm – 7 pm Sat
Old San Juan is full of curiosities, and one of them is the narrow house. This house was once a passageway used to pass between buildings.
As the population on the islet grew, so did the demand for housing. Multiple passageways in San Juan became houses, but this one next to Capilla del Cristo is believed to be the narrowest of them.
Curious travelers can call the number above or visit their social media to book a tour of this unique site in the capital.
Paseo de Diego
Shop, eat, and snap photos in this San Juan neighborhood.
Río Piedras used to be one of the most active neighborhoods in San Juan, and now the local community is working hard to bring it back to its former glory.
For seasoned travelers smart enough to look beyond first impressions, Paseo de Diego in Río Piedras is the place to shop cheap, discover unique restaurants, and enjoy cozy coffee and ice cream spots, plus some impressive street art you’ll want to add to your IG feed.
One of the best photo ops on this street is the Astronaut Monument by Kidnetick. Halfway through the street, you’ll see the Plaza del Mercado de Río Piedras, the local market where you can buy fresh fruit and veggies for half the price of other markets or enjoy a filling lunch at one of the kiosks.
Speaking of food, don’t miss Café Comunion on Paseo de Diego, one of San Juan’s popular coffee shops, or Mucho Gusto, a vegan-friendly ice cream spot.
Lago Las Curias
Walk under the overflow funnel of this lake in the Cupey neighborhood.
📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free
Lago Las Curias is one of San Juan’s best-kept secrets and a great example of community self-management.
Until a few years ago, the lake was covered in an invasive algae species that almost killed the ecosystem and covered the lake’s surface entirely.
The Cupey community took matters into its own hands and started cleaning the lake, believe it or not, through manual labor. Eventually, it raised enough funds to try mechanical cleaning methods and returned the lake to its former glory.
Nowadays, the lake has a beautiful promenade where you can walk, bike, and fish.
A small pier takes you next to the iconic overflow funnel. Birdwatchers can spot over a dozen species flying during the sunset, including swallows, great egrets, and blue-and-yellow macaws.
To the opposite side of the promenade, you’ll find a downhill, muddy, and outgrown trail that leads to the tunnel underneath the funnel. Though challenging, this was one of the most mesmerizing sights I’ve seen in San Juan.
👉 Local Tip: If you do go underneath the funnel, you will get wet. The area is also slippery, so prepare accordingly.
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Thanks for reading the 50+ best things to do in San Juan for history buffs, foodies, families, and adventure travelers. If you need more help planning your trip, consider hiring me to get a custom Puerto Rico itinerary!
Have fun experiencing the best San Juan activities!
Thank you so much for this super informative article. We are going to San Juan in two weeks, and I can’t wait to visit everything you’ve recommended, eat mofongo, and dance salsa. ¡Gracias!
Hi
What are some fun clubs or night life in old san juan for 18+
Hi Farrah! You can check out La Factoría, Club Brava, Club Vibra, and La Respuesta, although only La Factoria is in Old San Juan. Keep in mind some of these clubs and bars requiere you to be 21+.
Looking to rent an Airbnb somewhat close to Fajardo so we can hopefully make it to Culebra. Would love to be walking distance to beach/shops/restaurants. What would you recommend?
Thanks!
Hi Kelly! Check out apartment rentals in Cabezas, the neighborhood with easy access to Seven Seas Beach or around Las Croabas, with easy access to numerous restaurants.
Hi Vanessa
Thank you for all of the suggestions! will be traveling during thanksgiving week and going to see all the sights at san juan. although our trip is on the other side my son wants to learn about the culture beginning with san juan.
keep on traveling and doing what you love!
Thanks for your tips. We visit el morro, old San Juan today . 😍
What is the sitting, giant wooden statue labeled bright futures called? And where is it located?
Great information and well written. We will be visiting next year. What’s a good month weather-wise?
Thank you,John and Susan
Latitudeadjustmentblog
Hello! I would say between late March and June you’ll enjoy warm weather and good conditions on the beach. You’ll also avoid hurricane season. Check out our guide on the best time to visit Puerto Rico, to see more of the pros and cons of each season.
I just arrived in San Juan yesterday and have been quizzing every patient local to figure out how to REALLY get a good dose of Puerto Rican culture. This was an amazing help!
You’re welcome at Jardín Botánico of Puerto Rico (UPR Botanical Garden) at Río Piedras. Thanks for your description!
Thanks Vanessa for letting the world know how beautiful and how many great things Puerto Rico has to do. Excelente trabajo. Te felicito!🙏🙏🙏🙏
I was born in Ponce and raised in New York. I’ve been to Puerto Rico many times and enjoyed some beautiful places in the island. These tourists attractions look awesome and will try to visit them soon. Cuando sé termine està pandemia. Guàrdare está informacion para el futùro.
Going in February. Thank you for all the good suggestions
Love you great ideas I have being to a few in my first trip but you had some great ones thank you for my new memories and keep them updated…..stay safe
My wife and I spend the winters in San Juan. Many thanks for sharing these special local experiences which we will seek to enjoy.
You’re welcome! Hope you enjoy this winter in San Juan even more!
Thank you so much for sharing all the neat things to see and do!🙌🙌
Glad I can share some of the best of San Juan with you!
really amazing list you put together.