Best Things to Do and See in Puerto Rico
The best things to do and see in Puerto Rico, a beautiful island steeped in history, form a blend of the old and the new, modern and ancient. To make sure you have time to take in all its culture, though, a little planning is necessary. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most interesting places to visit, the coolest things to do, and the most picturesque sights you have to see. Save yourself some time by reading it, and you’ll learn valuable information about places like El Yunque National Rainforest, located on the east side, or other excursions like a walking tour through Old San Juan. From the Fort of San Cristobal to the Puerto Rican Museum of Art, we’ve left no stone unturned. By the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll be one step closer to visiting one of the Caribbean's most attractive destinations.
El Yunque National Rainforest
El Yunque is a small yet diverse rainforest located on Puerto Rico’s east side. It’s the only one on the island recognized by the U.S National Forest Service, and is recently up-and-running after extensive damage from Hurricane Maria. Though some trails are still closed, you’ll be able to take a hike up through Dwarf Forest and toward the top for some sweeping views. Main attractions like the waterfall on la roca, which has ancient petroglyphs, or one of the other natural pools, are also open to visitors. Make a day trip out of it from San Juan, and remember to keep an eye out for rare species of birds, coqui, and other species indigenous to the island.
299 Avenida José de Diego, Santurce
Many of Puerto Rico’s famed artists have their work on display at the Puerto Rican Museum of Art, now celebrating 20-plus years open to the public. Through eighteen sizable exhibition halls, the permanent collection ranges from the 18th-century masters such as Jose Campeche, to more contemporary artists like Luis Alonso and Myrna Baez. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the artists, the museum does a great job of explaining Puerto Rico’s relationship to arts and production and how this codependence was mediated by politics. Occasionally, there are also rotating exhibits that aim to push boundaries through experimentation. Take a guided tour any Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon to learn more about it.
501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan
Fort San Cristobal was built under Spanish rule over 150 years ago. Today, visitors can still tour the three-story fortress and appreciate all its architectural quirks, as it’s considered to be an impressive example of advanced military engineering of the era. A complex maze of underground tunnels leads to dungeons, bunkers, and various rooms for cannon, while on the outside you’ll get panoramic views and a closer look at the moat. There’s no official tours during the week, you’ll be handed a map upon entrance that details what you’re looking at and its significance. On weekends, there are usually a variety of ranger-led talks that give a better idea at what a typical day on the base was like and how the site is currently maintained.
Carretera 165 KM 6.2, Cataño
Book a tasting tour at the Bacardi Rum Factory, the biggest in the world. Over 100,000 units are bottled a day at this gigantic distillery in Catano, which offers visitors the option of two different tours. If you’re more interested in understanding how the alcohol is made, book a rum tasting tour. You’ll be provided with a complimentary drink while you lounge outside and wait for a trolley to take you to the main building. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to sample rare spirits that aren’t for sale in the United Sdtates. The historical tour, on the other hand, focuses more on the history of the brand and how it came to expand. Those interested in bartending can even take a mixology class, where you’ll learn how to make some classic rum cocktails.
Calle Yamil Galib, San German
Escape the city and head to the countryside of San German, a town on Puerto Rico’s west coast. The Porta Coeli Church is the area’s most famous building, and one of the oldest structures in the Western Hemisphere. Inside, you can browse a small museum dedicated to religious paintings, sculptures, relics, and other devotional objects. It won’t take long for you to make your way through the church’s history, but be prepared to climb a lot of stairs to reach the top. The church is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Vieques Island
Vieques Island is right off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast and visited for one reason: Mosquito Bay. The natural wonder is one of few bioluminescent bays in the world, best visible during the late evening hours. Book a tour through a reliable company like Black Beard Sports, and you’ll be guided through the waters after you learn more about the science behind the island’s ecosystem. The tour lasts about three hours altogether, and one of them is via kayak. Since it’s at night, however, you’ll have to book a hotel room on the island. Just remember there are no tours during the full moon.
1 Democracy Square, San Juan
An architectural standout in San Juan, the capitol building was constructed in the early 20th century. The building has three floors and exhibits Puerto Rico’s history through important documents like its constitution. Visitors can also check out the legislature meeting chambers and learn more about its façade, designed in the Neoclassical revival style. The building is located directly on the waterfront, and can be toured by calling and making an appointment. Admission is free, however, and tours are only conducted during the weekdays.
Sector El Vigia, Paseo De La Cruceta, Ponce
At the Serralles Castle, you can learn more about the family that made millions through their Don Q rum brand. Atop a hill in Ponce, the castle offers incredible views of the area and an opportunity to stroll through the manicured grounds and garden. Inside the actual structure, you'll find a small museum that details the history of the family, as well as personal items that once belonged to the family like antiques and hand-crafted furniture. Tours are offered throughout the day to shed light on the rum distillation and the sugar production processes that helped uphold the nation’s economy.
Caguana Ceremonial Park and Museum
Utuado
Puerto Rico’s history is intertwined with that of the Taino people, an indigenous community that played a large role in shaping the island’s culture. Discover more information about the Taino at the Caguana Ceremonial Park and Museum, located in Utuado at the center of the island. A $3 entrance fee grants you access to the grounds, which include a small park and playing fields where the Taino would play games, and the small museum housing other petroglyphs and cultural or religious artifacts. Park rangers are usually available on-site to give guided tours of the area.
San Juan
The colorful buildings of Old San Juan seem straight out of a romantic fantasy. Originally settled by the Spanish, the charming area still retains many of its period details, including a variety of 16th- and 17th-century houses. Take a walking tour and you’ll be accompanied by author David Rodriguez, whose stories will bring the locations to life. The length of the trip is flexible and includes major sites like City Wall, the San Juan Gate, and Plaza de Armas, providing a comprehensive narrative on all the unique factors that come to define the neighborhood.
CHEAT SHEET
For more on the best things to do and see in Puerto Rico, also see:
· Sher She Goes - 9 Epic Things To Do in Puerto Rico (Post Hurricane Maria)
· Culture Trip - Must-Visit Attractions in Puerto Rico
· Vacation Idea - 25 Best Things To Do in Puerto Rico