Thinking of visiting San Juan and trying to understand things to do in san Juan Puerto Rico, well you are in the right company
San Juan, Puerto Rico is a beautiful and diverse city with lots of things to do. There are beaches, crystal clear waters, historical sites and museums, botanical gardens, and nature reserves.
It’s easy to get around San Juan on foot or by car because the streets are laid out in a grid pattern. The roads are well-maintained and safe for pedestrians as well as drivers but there are also taxis available should you need them for transportation between attractions or just going out for dinner at night.
Go to the beach
There’s no shortage of beaches in San Juan. The city is surrounded by three distinct bodies of water—the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Bay of San Juan.
Each has its own landscape and color palette: turquoise waters, white sands, and turquoise blue skies; golden sand beaches with azure waters; emerald green water that reflects a cloudless sky.
You’ll find yourself driven to choose between them, but it’s impossible to go wrong when you’re in a city that boasts some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. In fact, Puerto Rico was recently named one of the top 10 beach destinations for 2019 by TripAdvisor!
So jump into some waves or relax on the sand: either way you’ll be enjoying yourself at one of these 15 incredible spots around San Juan!
Visit El Morro
If you’re interested in history, there’s no better place to visit than El Morro. This Spanish fort was built by the Spaniards to protect against land-based attacks on the city of San Juan from the sea.
The construction of El Morro dates back to 1539 when it was built on a promontory overlooking San Juan bay by Luis de Morales under orders from the governor of Puerto Rico.
It has since been modified many times over its 600-year history but remains an important landmark in Puerto Rico today.
El Morro is located at 280 Calle Norzagaray in Old San Juan and is open daily except Mondays from 8 am-4 pm (5 pm during daylight savings).
Admission costs $2 for adults and $1 for children ages 6-12 years old; children under 6 are free with paid adult admission.
Casa Blanca
Casa Blanca is a historic mansion in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico and it has been home to many governors since its construction in the 17th century.
It was built as a sugar mill by Juan Ponce de León and was later renovated into a stately residence under Spanish rule.
This place is definitely worth checking out if you want to learn more about Puerto Rican history or just want to check out some beautiful architecture!
Walk the streets of Old San Juan
Old San Juan is one of the best places to walk around, as it is a great tourist attraction with many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
The fortresses of El Morro and San Cristobal are worth visiting. Old San Juan’s streets are narrow and the sidewalks uneven, but there is no other place in Puerto Rico where the architecture is so unique or beautiful!
Shop for unique Puerto Rican crafts at Parque Central
Visit Parque Central, the city’s most historic square. While there is a lot of shopping to be done here, you can find many unique crafts that are not available at other locations.
You can buy a Puerto Rican flag or a coffee mug with your name on it if you want to remember your trip forever. Another great souvenir is a T-shirt with the Puerto Rican flag on it because this will allow everyone else to know that you have been to this beautiful country and enjoyed everything that it has to offer!
If you really wanted something special, then maybe an elegant necklace would do the trick! The best part about buying jewelry at this location is that everything comes in different colors so everyone will be able to find something perfect for them!
Wander through Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a Spanish fortress built by the Spanish in the 16th century. The fort was designed to defend Puerto Rico’s capital city of San Juan and its harbor against British, French, and Dutch attacks.
It sits at the entrance to San Juan Bay, strategically overlooking it. As you wander through this site, you will learn about Puerto Rico’s history and culture while being exposed to some of its most beautiful vistas.
When starting your visit here at the fort, make sure that you first check out the Museo de las Casas Reales (Museum of the Royal Houses) where exhibits depict life on this island during that period as well as explain how these structures were created for defensive purposes
Visit Finca Botanica Eco-Reserve & Nature Center off the beaten path in San Juan
Finca Botanica is a nature preserve on the outskirts of San Juan. It’s a great place to stroll through a forest, hike up one of the many hiking trails, or take your bike out for a spin.
The environment at Finca Botanica is beautiful and peaceful—it makes you feel like you’re far away from everything else in the city.
You’ll find wildlife here as well: red-tailed hawks soar overhead while parrots flutter around their cages at the bird sanctuary, and there are even monkeys that hang out near their enclosure!
This eco-reserve also serves as an educational resource for locals (and tourists) who want to learn more about Puerto Rico’s flora and fauna.
You can take advantage of its many programs during your visit:
Spanish classes will give you some insight into local culture
Art workshops allow visitors to create pieces inspired by what they see
Adventure programs let kids experience nature with hands-on activities; workshops will teach kids how to build their own boats using cardboard or plastic bottles!
Explore and know History at the Castillo San Felipe del Morro
The Castillo San Felipe del Morro, located in San Juan Bay, Puerto Rico, is a major tourist attraction.
This 16th-century fortification was built to protect the city from foreign invaders. It stands on a rocky promontory and has six levels of defense walls with numerous artillery pieces. Its design is considered one of the most impressive military engineering accomplishments of its time.
The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is part of the San Juan National Historic Site which also includes the nearby Castillo San Cristobal, another impressive fortification built by the Spanish in 1783. Visitors can explore both forts and learn about their histories and significance to Puerto Rico’s culture and heritage. From the top of El Morro, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and bay below, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits this historic site.
Visit Paseo del Morro
Walk The Paseo del Morro is an incredible experience that allows visitors to explore the historical and cultural heritage of San Juan, Puerto Rico. This beautiful walkway runs along the coast of San Juan, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the city skyline.
Along the way, visitors can take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city, including its colonial architecture and vibrant street life.
The Paseo del Morro also offers a variety of activities for all ages, such as strolling along the promenade or exploring nearby forts and museums. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local cuisine at nearby restaurants or relax on one of many beachfront patios. Walk The Paseo del Morro is truly an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
See Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery is a peaceful, lush green cemetery located in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is a place of beauty and serenity, with its cobblestone pathways, white marble headstones, and colorful flowers.
It was established in 1837 and is the final resting place for many prominent figures from Puerto Rico’s history.
Visitors to the cemetery can admire the impressive architecture of the tombs and mausoleums as well as take in views of the city skyline. The cemetery also serves as a reminder of Puerto Rico’s rich cultural heritage; it contains monuments honoring independence heroes, important military figures, and other notable citizens. In addition to its historical significance, Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery provides visitors with a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of life in Old San Juan.
Explore Castillo San Cristobal
Visiting Castillo San Cristobal is an unforgettable experience. Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this fort was built by the Spanish in the late 1700s and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The fort has two levels with walls that are up to 20 feet thick and provide stunning views of the city. Inside you can explore its many rooms, galleries, and tunnels. It also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the Spanish colonial period. You can also take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its history and architecture.
With its beautiful grounds, rich history, and stunning views of the city, Castillo San Cristobal is definitely worth a visit!
Go to San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)
San Juan Cathedral, or Catedral de San Juan Bautista, is a beautiful and historic cathedral located in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Built in 1521, it is the second oldest cathedral in the Americas and one of the oldest churches in Puerto Rico. The church was originally built as a parish church for the Spanish settlers and was later elevated to cathedral status by Pope Pius IX in 1865. It has been restored several times throughout its history, most recently in 1996.
The exterior of the building is made from stone blocks and features a distinctive bell tower with four bells that were cast in Spain. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible as well as numerous works of art from renowned local artists.
The cathedral also houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts including ancient crucifixes and statues of saints. San Juan Cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Puerto Rico and provides a fascinating glimpse into its rich history and culture.
Flamenco Beach (Playa Flamenco)
Flamenco Beach, or Playa Flamenco, is a stunning beach located on the Caribbean island of Culebra in Puerto Rico. It is known for its pristine white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters, as well as its picturesque views of the surrounding hills. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, iguanas, and various species of birds.
Visitors to Flamenco Beach can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the warm waters or simply relax on the beach and soak up some sun. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat or have a few drinks. With its beautiful scenery and laid-back atmosphere, Flamenco Beach is an ideal spot for anyone looking for a relaxing day at the beach.
Things to Do in San Juan This Spring
San Juan is a great place to visit this spring. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife, there’s something for everyone.
From exploring the historic Old San Juan to taking a tour of the El Yunque rainforest, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. For those looking for some adventure, there’s snorkeling and kayaking in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea or zip-lining through the lush jungle canopy.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, take a stroll along Condado Beach or explore one of the many museums and galleries around town. There’s also plenty of delicious food to try – from traditional Puerto Rican dishes to international cuisine – as well as shopping opportunities at local markets and boutiques.
Whatever you choose to do in San Juan this spring, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!
Things to do in San Juan with Kids
San Juan, Puerto Rico is a great destination for families with kids. There are plenty of fun activities to keep the little ones entertained. For starters, you can take them to the beach and enjoy some sun and sand.
You can also visit El Morro, a 16th-century fort that offers stunning views of the city and ocean. If your kids are into animals, you can take them to the San Juan Zoo or the Caribbean National Forest. Other attractions include Castillo San Cristobal, a Spanish fort built in 1783; La Fortaleza, an old governor’s mansion; and El Yunque National Forest, which is home to many species of tropical birds and plants.
There are also plenty of museums and galleries in San Juan that offer educational experiences for children. With so much to do in San Juan, your family will have an unforgettable vacation!
Conclusion
There are so many things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From exploring Old San Juan and the historic sites to going to the beach, there’s something for everyone!
