Top Museums in San Juan

Ballajá Barracks

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.

Casa del Libro

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.

Butterfly Art Gallery

You may never see butterflies so beautifully displayed as you will see them in this eclectic gallery. Here they specialize in exquisite creations that capture butterflies in a kaleidoscope of colors. And they do it so well that the lovely creatures seem to be still on the wing, frozen in a freeze frame. Every bit as intriguing is the restored mansion in which the butterfly gallery and the eclectic display of other gift items are displayed. Check out the cafe which offers international fare.

Museo de Nuestra Raíz Africana

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.

Casa Blanca

At One Calle de San Sebastián, this colonial house was built as the residence of Juan Ponce de León, the island's first appointed governor. While he never actually lived there, his family resided in the house before the government purchased it for restoration. The residence features beautiful gardens and exquisite colonial architecture. A museum is now housed in the building and it is definitely worth a visit.

Pamil Fine Arts

Pamil has a collection of paintings in several different mediums. The staff will gladly guide you through the selections. This gallery typically showcases a good mix of local and international artists through exhibits and special showings. The artists' creations here are usually shown to the general public so as to further expose their talents to the masses.

Museo de Antropología, Historia y Arte

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.

Galeria Botello

Located in the Hato Rey financial district, this gallery features original artwork by several local painters and sculptors. The space is pristine and minimally decorated; the only items that interfere with the white-on-white decor are the paintings. These are often -- though not always -- vividly colored. The gallery does not stick with any specific artistic movement; styles vary dramatically according to the artist. Featured painters include Myrna Baez and Lorenzo Homar. Featured sculptors include Jaime Suarez and Nestor Oterro.

Gallery Nights

From February through May and from September through December, on the first Tuesday of the month, the old city's streets welcome lovers of fine art. During this time, San Juan's Museum of Art and History (located at 150 Calle Norzagaray ) and eighteen other art galleries and exhibit halls open their doors to display the best works of Puerto Rican artists. If you are in San Juan during these months, be sure to include this venue on your 'must see' list.

Cajiga Studio

Cajiga Studio web site exhibits Luis Germán Cajiga art work. His work has been displayed at the Puerto Rican Athenian, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, the Museum of the University of Puerto Rico, the Catholic University of Ponce, the Inter-American University and the Museo de Arte de Ponce and all over the world. Acrylics and serigraphs can be ordered online at wholesale prices.