San Juan National Historic Site — Attraction in San Juan

El Morro is an absolute must-visit if you are in San Juan. This is a beautifully preserved structure from colonial Puerto Rico, and almost the entire fortress is open to the public. Visitors start their tour of the castle in a series of small rooms with displays of 15th century weapons used by Spanish soldiers, informational placards, explaining the history of El Morro, and small porticos with iron railings overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Visitors can see the rooms where the soldiers lived in the fortress, although the entrances are roped off. You can't enter the living quarters, but the park staff have kept the rooms as they looked when the soldiers lived there. You would then walk to the ramparts, where they have remnants of some of the artillery that was in place when the fortress was built. You can't touch the cannon, but you can get some great photos.

They also have a number of garritas open to the public, so you can see everything the sentries watched over. The garritas offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea on one side, and the city of San Juan on the other side.

Visitors then walk to the top level of the fortress, where you can get unimpeded 360 degree views. As you walk back down, you can stop by the gift shop on your way out of the castle. On a hot day under the Puerto Rican sun, you will be grateful for the shade and cooler air of the gift shop after walking all over the fortress.

This is a place you must add to your itinerary in San Juan. Admission tickets for each guest included access to El Morro, but also same day passes to the Castillo de San Cristóbal, a slightly smaller fortress about a mile away along the coast. The castle is an important part of Puerto Rican history, a central part of the island's skyline, and a point of pride for natives of San Juan.

Es absolutamente necesaria visitar El Morro si estás en San Juan. Esta es una estructura bellamente conservada de los días coloniales de Puerto Rico, y casi toda la fortaleza está abierta al público. Los visitantes comienzan su recorrido por el castillo en una serie de pequeñas habitaciones con exhibiciones de armas del siglo XV utilizadas por soldados españoles, pancartas informativas, explicando la historia de El Morro, y pequeños pórticos con barandillas de hierro con vistas al Mar Caribe.

Los visitantes pueden ver las habitaciones donde vivían los soldados españoles en la fortaleza, aunque las entradas están rotas. No se puede entrar en las viviendas, pero el personal del parque ha mantenido las habitaciones como se veían cuando los soldados vivían allí. Se caminaba entonces hasta las murallas, donde tienen restos de parte de la artillería que estaba en su lugar cuando se construyó la fortaleza. No puedes tocar el cañón, pero puedes conseguir algunas fotos fantásticas.

Tienen también una serie de garritas abiertas al público, por lo que se puede ver todo lo que los soldados vieron.

Las garritas ofrecen unas vistas impresionantes del Mar Caribe por un lado y de la ciudad de San Juan por el otro.

Los visitantes caminan hasta el nivel superior de la fortaleza, donde se pueden obtener vistas sin obstáculos de 360 grados. Mientras caminas hacia abajo, puedes pasar por la tienda de regalos al salir del castillo. En un día bajo el sol puertorriqueño, estarás agradecido por la sombra y el aire más fresco de la tienda de regalos después de caminar por toda la fortaleza.

Este es un lugar que debes incluir en tu itinerario en San Juan. Los boletos de entrada para cada visitante incluían acceso a El Morro, pero también pasa el mismo día al Castillo de San Cristóbal, una fortaleza ligeramente más pequeña a una milla de distancia del castillo El Morro. El castillo es una parte importante de la historia puertorriqueña, una parte central del horizonte de la isla, y un punto de orgullo para los nativos...

The San Juan National Historical Site is a picturesque and historically significant destination located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico. This site is not only a treasure trove of cultural heritage but also a perfect spot for picnics and large gatherings, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

As visitors enter the historical site, they are greeted by the imposing walls of the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fortress that stands as a testament to Puerto Rico's rich colonial past. The sprawling grounds surrounding the fortress provide ample space for picnics and outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and groups to come together and enjoy a day in the sun.

The lush greenery and manicured lawns of the historical site offer a tranquil setting for picnics, with plenty of shady spots to set up a blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore create a soothing ambiance, perfect for relaxation and unwinding amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

In addition to picnicking, the San Juan National Historical Site is also a popular spot for large gatherings and events. The expansive grounds and open spaces provide ample room for groups to gather, whether for a family reunion, a corporate outing, or a community event. The historical site's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance adds a touch of charm and elegance to any gathering, making it a memorable and special location for any occasion.

While the beaches near the historical site may be crowded at times, they still offer a beautiful backdrop for picnics and gatherings. Visitors can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, and take in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea while basking in the warm tropical weather. The beaches provide a perfect setting for beach games, water activities, and simply soaking up the sun with friends and loved ones.

In conclusion, the San Juan National Historical Site is a versatile and enchanting destination that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot for a picnic, a scenic location for a large gathering, or a beachside escape, this historical site has something for everyone. So pack a picnic basket, gather your friends and family, and head to the San Juan National Historical Site for a day of fun, relaxation, and exploration in the heart of Puerto Rico's vibrant...

My baby sis had been in Kuwait and Afghanistan since August 2017 serving our beautiful country. It was time for our long overdue sister trip. Since my husband and I relocated to Puerto Rico in January, what better place was there to start a memorable visit?! We began our third day in Old San Juan at Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi. Do NOT miss the opportunity to visit these two meaningful, historical sights of PR. Both are absolutely amazing and moved me to tears. The cemetery is one of the most glorious cemeteries I've had the privilege of visiting. The neoclassical monuments are beyond stunning. The tombstones are indescribable. Situated on a grassy hill along the coast, the cemetery offers views that are outstanding. Construction of the cemetery began in 1863 and is the final resting place for some of PR's most prominent and well known citizens. Colorful La Perla is to the east of the cemetery and although most refer to La Perla as a slum, and maybe one of the last & oldest of Puerto Rico, I disagree. I think it is fabulous. It's authentic & real and gives one a true feel of life on the island. To the west of the Old San Juan cemetery is El Morro (Castillo San Felipe del Morro). This 16th Century citadel fought its last battle in 1898, during the Spanish - American War, when the U.S. Navy bombarded the fort. El Morro sits high above the old city and overlooks the entrance to the San Juan Bay. San Felipe del Morro was named in honour of King Felipe the II of Spain. Both the cemetery and El Morro offer one of the best walking tours in Old San Juan.

TIP: The cemetery has restrooms and I advise those with small bladders to visit the facility before entering the fort. I don't recall seeing available facilities at the fort. I could be wrong. As I always mention, when touring large areas or long walking tours, carry a backpack instead of a purse. It's freeing and you're able to carry along water, snacks, and the always present camera/phone. Plus, you'll never lose things AND it's a nice place to store small bags of souvenirs. Look, Ma!...