The List San Juan
The top 10 mustdos in San Juan, PR
El Yunque National Forest
© ROBERT HOLMES/CORBIS
1 El Yonque National Forest
It’s definitely worth the near hour-long drive from of the city center to experience the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. Hike through this Mother Nature-made jungle for a glimpse of breathtaking waterfalls that tumble among exotic flora and fauna. PR
Road 191, Rio Grande/Luquillo; 787-888-1810; fs.fed.us/r8/Caribbean
2 Breakfast at La Bombonera
For more than a century, this landmark Spanish café has been a traditional morning hangout for Sanjuaneros who start their day with a sticky sweet quesito (traditional pastry) and a cup of café con leche. 259 San Francisco St, Old San Juan; 787-722-0658
3 Le Lo Lai Festival
This event features colorful dance shows that are a saucy blend of the island’s Spanish, indigenous and African musical roots. Three free performances take place each week in Old San Juan, Isla Verde and Condado. 787-721-2400
4 San Felipe del Morro Fortress
If the walls of this massive 16th-century fort could talk, they would tell countless tales of how it prevented invaders from penetrating the capital city by sea. Visitors happily settle for a tour of the six levels of cannons and bombproof vaults. Top of Norzagaray St, Old San Juan; 787-729-6777; nps.gov/saju
5 Paseo de la Princesa
Take a day or night stroll along this picturesque harborfront esplanade, which is lined with antique street lamps, royal palms, centuries-old trees with weeping branches, magnificent statues and sculptures, fountains and no shortage of stray cats. In front of Old San Juan Harbor, Old San Juan
6 San Sebastian Street Festival
This festive annual tradition draws people out in droves for its colorful parade of giant papier-mâché heads and street vendors selling handmade crafts and local foods. It’s a family affair during the day and a rockin’ party for the young and restless at night. Jan. 14-18. San Sebastian St, Old San Juan; 787-725-7559
7 Carli’s Fine Bistro & Piano
For cool jazz on a hot night, head to Carli Muñoz’s intimate little bistro, where he reigns from a Steinway Grand piano. There’s live music most nights — and you never know what famous musician may drop by and sit in. 206 Tetuan St, Old San Juan; 787-725-4927; carlisworld.com
8 Museo de Arte
This elegant museum, which is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institute, has an impressive permanent collection of works that date from the 16th century, as well as rotating international exhibits, an interactive family gallery, a sculpture garden and a gourmet restaurant. 299 De Diego Ave, Santurce; 787-977-6277; mapr.org
9 Flavors of San Juan Food & Culture Tour
Both curious foodies and the culturally curious get a helping of history and local Criollo cuisine during this walking tour of the Old City, which winds along cobblestone streets and into four restaurants for a sampling of traditional food and drink. Plaza de Armas, Old San Juan; 787-964-2447; sanjuanfoodtours.com
10 Plaza del Mercado
By day it’s a farmers market, but at sunset on Thursday through Saturday, La Placita turns into a giant outdoor block party. Lean up against a giant avocado sculp-ture and enjoy a cold drink, local music and Puerto Rico’s most vibrant after-hours social scene. Capitol and Dos Hermanos sts; 787-723-8022
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