Museums in Puerto Rico - Attractions

This museum is a memorial to the life of the late Felisa Rincón de Gautier, who served as the first female mayor of San Juan, from 1946 to 1968. The museum is located in Doña Felisa's former home, where one can view photographs, her honorary degrees and awards and a collection of keys to cities, worldwide. Here, you will also find samples of her extensive wardrobe, outrageous wigs and elegant accessories. Known as Doña Fela, this beloved lady impacted Puerto Rican history by her dedication and efforts to improve the lives of the local people.

Situated on a prominent hill that overlooks the town of Isabel II, the Mirasol Fort is a typical example of the 19th century Spanish fortification system. Today, the carefully restored Fort Conde de Mirasol houses a museum of art and history that celebrates the fascinating culture of this unique and precious little island. Vieques Island is about six miles east of Fajardo; daily flights leave from airports in San Juan and Fajardo. The Fort is located in the town of Isabel Segunda.

This small museum houses the pre-Colombian artifacts collection belonging to the Universidad de Puerto Rico (University of Puerto Rico, or UPR). In addition to the artifacts, you'll find historic documents and art. The space serves as an exposition hall for contemporary art from local artists as well. The museum, while minuscule, is well maintained and is constantly visited by students and faculty. The admission is free of charge.



The museum stands just in front of the University's main library.

Love to read? Located on Calle Cristo, check out this tiny museum which offers exhibitions related to books and printing. The museum has a collection of vintage books from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Take in the history of book printing on the island and take note of the very curious and primitive printing tools discovered by local historians.

Come admire current works by the Puerto Rican contemporary art community here. Browse the historic exhibition area where you'll view old photographs and artifacts. The Museum showcases works of the top-rated local artists that are available to the viewing public during exhibitions throughout the year. Call ahead for information on current showings, as the museum constantly changes its venue. Admission is free.

You will find a maritime museum and a whale watching and dolphin-spotting platform at this El Faro Lighthouse and Park in Rincon. The lighthouse dates back to 1892 and razed almost 100 feet. It has survived countless hurricanes, an earthquake and a tidal wave. It was raised and then rebuilt in 1922. The lighthouse has 26,000-candlepower light, which has been automated since 1933 and still guides ships through the Pasaje de la Mona. The museum is open in the winter only from 10a to 2p as it is totally dependent upon the labor of one man.

Located on Calle Cristo, the Museo del Niño (The Kids Museum) is designed to appeal to and inspire children. However, it is both fun and educational for the entire family. Plan on several hours to tour the entire facility. Located in the heart of Old San Juan, this museum offers interactive activities and presentations in both English and Spanish. Charming street scenes of Old San Juan, all built to size and complete with hopscotch courts, give the kids a place to call their own. Call ahead for group tour information.

In Ponce, this gallery is by far the island's, and possibly the Caribbean's, most notable art spot. Its original collection was donated by local ponceño and former Governor of the island, the laureated Luis A. Ferré. The museum's offerings range from the finest local painters (Oller and Campeche), to fine classics like Lord Leighton's Flaming June. The collection spans 500 years, since the discovery of Puerto Rico, but the museum's array is truly international.

Built in 1812 as barracks for the troops assigned to guard the San Agustin Bastion, this building was later converted to an officers' quarters in 1851 by the Spanish Army. The building was then remodeled to serve as a museum for Puerto Rican crafts.

On Calle de San Sebastián, this private home now houses the Pharmacy Museum, which depicts a traditional apothecary shop in 18th century San Juan, with great attention to every detail. It's certainly different and well worth a visit for people who want to gain knowledge on the history of the city. There is no admission charge.

The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is the island's newest addition, and the museum has quickly become one of San Juan's most beautiful landmarks. While the exterior boasts 1920s neoclassical architecture, once inside visitors find a center of learning, a computer laboratory and a family gallery. The facility houses a grand collection of Puerto Rican-made paintings and sculptures. It continuously features temporary exhibitions and has a 400-seat amphitheatre. The Pikayo Restaurant provides dining facilities.

African heritage has played a strong role in influencing Puerto Rican culture. This adobe-styled museum chronicles the history of Africans in Puerto Rico from the early days of slavery to modern day. Here you will find African art, literature, sounds, and pictures. Browse through nine exhibition rooms. Admission is free.

Located on Calle de San Sebastián, this small museum is devoted to the life and music of the loved and famous Catalan cellist, Pablo Casals. Although not Puerto Rican by birth, he was loved dearly by the locals. Casals is known for his lifetime friendship with the late Puerto Rican governor, Luis Muñoz Marín. His life is now remembered in the yearly 'Festival Casals'. Casals' memorabilia, CDs, tapes and videos are available in the gift shop.

Located on Calle Cristo, the Plaza derives its name from the Cathedral located at its north end. Originally the Plaza extended from the cathedral to the San Juan Gate. Its history is closely tied with that of the Cathedral and the Convent. In the second half of the 19th century, the Plaza was paved, and in the 1980s it was fully restored. Near the Plaza you can find the Hotel El Convento, a selection of restaurants, stores and museums.

Refurbished in 1992, in time for the celebration of Columbus' discovery of the Americas in 1492, the Cuartel de Ballajá was once a military barracks. Today, it houses the Museum of the Americas where crafts and other exhibits detail the cultures of the Americas. Exquisite colonial architecture provides a handsome backdrop for the cultural events often celebrated in the building's central patio. Admission is free.