things to do in old san juan

Old San Juan, the historic district of San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a charming and vibrant area filled with colorful colonial architecture, rich history, and exciting activities. Here are some things to do in Old San Juan:

1. Walk along the City Walls: The city walls, also known as El Paseo de la Princesa, offer stunning views of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. You can walk along the walls and enjoy the scenic views, street performers, and food vendors.
2. Visit El Morro: El Morro, also known as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, is a 16th-century fort that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the city. You can explore the fort’s tunnels, towers, and exhibits.
3. Explore La Fortaleza: La Fortaleza, also known as the Palace of Santa Catalina, is a 16th-century palace that serves as the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. You can take a guided tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens.
4. Visit the San Juan Cathedral: The San Juan Cathedral, also known as the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, is a beautiful colonial church that dates back to the 16th century. You can admire its stunning architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
5. Shop and dine on Calle del Cristo: Calle del Cristo is a charming street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can find unique souvenirs, try local cuisine, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
6. Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico: The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is a museum that showcases the island’s rich artistic heritage. You can see works by local artists, as well as exhibits on the island’s history and culture.
7. Take a stroll through the Parque de las Palomas: The Parque de las Palomas, also known as the Pigeon Park, is a charming park filled with pigeons, street performers, and food vendors. You can take a stroll, feed the pigeons, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
8. Visit the Casa Blanca Museum: The Casa Blanca Museum is a 16th-century house that was once the residence of Juan Ponce de León, the Spanish conquistador who founded San Juan. You can see exhibits on the island’s history and culture.
9. Go to the beach: Old San Juan has several beautiful beaches, including La Puntilla and El Escambrón. You can soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy the scenic views.
10. Take a night tour: Old San Juan is even more magical at night, with its colorful buildings and streets illuminated by lanterns and streetlights. You can take a guided tour to explore the area’s nightlife, bars, and restaurants.
11. Visit the San Juan Bay Marina: The San Juan Bay Marina is a bustling waterfront area filled with boats, restaurants, and shops. You can take a boat tour, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply enjoy the views.
12. Attend a festival or event: Old San Juan hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the San Juan Festival, the Puerto Rico Jazz Festival, and the Old San Juan Christmas Festival.
13. Visit the Museo de las Américas: The Museo de las Américas is a museum that showcases the art, history, and culture of the Americas. You can see exhibits on the pre-Columbian era, the Spanish colonial period, and the modern era.
14. Take a food tour: Old San Juan is known for its delicious cuisine, which reflects the island’s Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. You can take a food tour to sample local dishes, such as mofongo, arroz con gandules, and empanadas.
15. Visit the Plaza de Armas: The Plaza de Armas is a charming square filled with historic buildings, street performers, and food vendors. You can take a stroll, admire the architecture, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

These are just a few things to do in Old San Juan. The area is full of history, culture, and natural beauty, and there’s always something new to discover.