14 Top Things to Do in San Juan

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Planning a day trip or vacation to Puerto Rico? No vacation to the Island of Enchantment is complete without a visit to the nation’s largest city and capital, San Juan! 

This historic and vibrant city is filled with fun activities for guests of all ages. Whether you prefer to get active in the sunshine or drink a piña colada in the shade, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of the top things to do while traveling in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

1. Old San Juan

Old San Juan is a historic district in San Juan founded by Spanish settlers in 1521. A visit to this old city will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Puerto Rican culture and heritage. 

The cobblestone streets are still lined with colorful colonial buildings that now serve as boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants serving up delicious, traditional cuisine, like mofongo. These renowned dining options include Raices, Cafe Puerto Rico, Santaella, El Jibarito, La Factoria, Aguaviva, and Pikayo.

2. Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is one of the most notable landmarks in Old San Juan. The town square serves as the heart of this iconic Puerto Rican destination. Around the square, you’ll find historical statues, old buildings, and the Raices Water Fountain.

Aside from being a popular tourist destination, Plaza de Armas also serves as a venue for cultural events. At any given time of the year, you may find the space being used for a festival, live musical performance, or outdoor art gallery.

3. Condado Beach

Condado Beach is situated in the Condado district of San Juan, bordering the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. This relaxing vacation destination is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. 

Visitors can lounge in beach chairs, taking in picturesque views and soaking up some vitamin D. Then, when they’re done sunbathing, they can hit the sand for a game of beach volleyball or jump in the waves to join in on some water sports. Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, and jet skiing are all popular activities in Condado Beach. 

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4. Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is located in the Santurce district of San Juan. The museum first opened in 2000 and features a large variety of both permanent and temporary exhibitions with a special emphasis on Puerto Rican artwork. 

Though the museum has an expansive collection of work done by current and contemporary artists, there are exhibits displaying work that was made as far back as the 17th century. There is also a 2.5-acre botanical sculpture garden that serves as a home to Koi fish, aquatic plants, and over 100,000 plant types.

5. El Yunque National Forest

Located near San Juan is the massive El Yunque National Forest. The tropical rainforest spans almost 28,000 acres of the Sierra Luquillo mountains. At El Portal Visitor Center, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the ecosystem and conservation efforts. You will also have the chance to join a guided tour.

Or, if you’d prefer, you can hit up a hiking trail instead. The trails range in difficulty, so there is something for everyone. 

While hiking through the El Yunque Rainforest, you’ll be surrounded by tall trees, bamboo groves, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. You’re also likely to spot some wildlife native to the area, like parrots, lizards, frogs, and snakes.

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6. Bacardi Rum Distillery

The Bacardi Rum Distillery is a world-famous distillery first established in Puerto Rico in 1963 by the Bacardi family. When visiting the birthplace of this iconic rum company, guests will learn all about the rum-making process through interactive exhibits.

Visitors can also join a guided walking tour that incorporates rum tasting. As they learn about Casa Bacardi and its history in Puerto Rico, they will have the opportunity to taste a variety of Bacardi Rum flavors. Don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout the tasting tour!

7. Bioluminescent Bay

About an hour’s drive from San Juan is the Bioluminescent Bay called Laguna Grande, located in Fajardo. There are microorganisms living in these waters that emit a bright blue light, which is how the location earned its famous nickname. 

With only five bioluminescent bays in the entire world, it is imperative that during your visit to Puerto Rico, you make the time for a nighttime kayak tour. These touring kayaks typically feature clear bottoms, providing you with the best possible view of the bioluminescent marine life. You can also go snorkeling to see them up close.

8. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a historic fortress located in Old San Juan. It was once used to protect the city against invaders and sea attacks. A visit to El Morro is the perfect spot to learn more about Puerto Rico’s colonial heritage and military history.

This historic fort marked the location of the end of Spanish rule in Puerto Rico when American forces won over El Morro in 1898. Tourists have the opportunity to go on guided tours and explore tunnels, towers, and artifacts. 

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9. Museo de las Américas

The Museo de la Americas is an art museum in San Juan that focuses on showcasing and preserving Puerto Rican and Caribbean culture. The art institution lives within the walls of Cuartel de Ballajá, a historic site originally used during Spanish colonial times as a military barrack. 

The museum was founded in 1992 by archeologist Ricardo Alegria and features a wide range of displays that range between old artifacts and contemporary art. Guests have the opportunity to tour the art galleries, sit in on lectures, and participate in educational workshops. Improve your mental well-being and support the arts, all at once.

10. Castillo San Cristóbal

Castillo San Cristóbal is a historic military fort in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Construction on the fort was initiated by the Spanish in 1634. Expansions and renovations continued on until 1790. The fortress was designed to protect against land attacks and includes tunnels, barracks, and observation points.

Today, this historical site is open to tourists who can join guided tours and learn about the military history of San Juan. Castillo San Cristóbal also provides visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding city.

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11. San Juan Cathedral 

The San Juan Cathedral is located in Old San Juan, founded in 1521 shortly after Puerto Rico was colonized by Spain. The cathedral has been renovated several times throughout the years and showcases a blend of gothic and neoclassical architecture. It still functions as a working church and visitors are welcome to attend mass.

In addition to serving the local religious community, The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is marked as a historic site and serves as the resting place of Juan Ponce de León. Ponce de León famously led the first European expedition to Puerto Rico. 

12. Calle Loíza

Calle Loíza is a street in the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan that is most notable for its vibrant nightlife. With colorful murals, diverse cuisine, and live musicians filling the street, the atmosphere on Calle Loíza is commonly described as artsy and bohemian. 

Creatives and tourists flock to the bars on Calle Loíza each night for some live music, dancing, and delicious drinks. Popular spots include La Junta, El Tap, Piso Viejo, and Música Bar & Lounge. After a hearty dinner of Puerto Rican cuisine and cocktails, watch the sunset from Ocean Park Beach.

13. Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa is a historic promenade in San Juan that dates back to the late 19th century. It was built along the city walls overlooking San Juan Bay, providing visitors with a beautiful view of the sparkling waters and horizon. 

As tourists stroll along the promenade’s shaded walkways, they are likely to come across local artisans selling handmade goods, vendors selling snacks, and musicians performing live. The promenade is also lined with beautifully kept gardens and historical statues.

14. La Placita de Santurce

La Placita de Santurce is a historical square located in the Santurce neighborhood in San Juan. First established in the 19th century, this location continues to serve as a marketplace where vendors sell snacks, produce, clothing, flowers, artwork, and more.

The area has evolved, however, to become one of the most popular nightlife destinations in San Juan. When the sun goes down, bars serve drinks and offer the opportunity to dance to live Latin music. Clubs in the area include El Barril, El Local, and La Cubanita.

Where to Stay in San Juan

With so much to do in Puerto Rico, you’re going to want to find a nice place for the family to stay during your visit. 

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Here’s a list of highly reviewed hotels in San Juan that you’re sure to enjoy:

And if you can’t pick just one, use ResortPass to visit them all. With ResortPass, you will be able to purchase Day Passes that give you daytime access to a resort’s amenities — like the pools and private beach access — without having to pay for a full night’s stay.

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