What Are the Best Family-Friendly Activities in Old San Juan?
Your cruise itinerary includes a stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and as the Family C.E.O., you need a plan that will charm all ages. Old San Juan is a fantastic port for families because it's walkable, historic, and filled with unique experiences that don't require a long bus ride.
Instead of a formal, structured tour that might bore the younger ones, you can create a magical day by exploring the city's simple pleasures. Here are the four best family-friendly activities in Old San Juan that your entire group will love.
- Explore Castillo San Felipe del Morro. This massive, 16th-century citadel is the main event. Let the kids run along the ramparts, discover hidden sentry boxes (garitas), and imagine soldiers defending the city. The sheer scale of the fort and the stunning ocean views are impressive to all ages, and it's a fantastic way to burn off some energy.
- Fly a Kite on the Lawn. The huge green field leading up to El Morro is famous for its steady ocean breezes. Local vendors sell colorful kites for a few dollars. This simple activity is a beloved local tradition and a perfect multi-generational moment. Grandparents can relax and watch while parents and kids work together to get their kite soaring.
- Visit Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park). Located near the famous La Fortaleza Street, this small park is home to hundreds of friendly pigeons. For a dollar, you can buy a bag of birdseed and have the kids (and brave adults!) experience the thrill of being covered in gentle birds. It makes for unforgettable photos and is a guaranteed hit with young children.
- Cool Down with a Piragua. As you wander the blue cobblestone streets, you'll see vendors scraping ice from a large block and covering it with flavored syrups. This local version of a snow cone is called a piragua. Letting everyone pick their favorite flavor is a cheap, authentic, and refreshing way to end your perfect day in port.
These simple, engaging activities ensure a memorable and stress-free visit to one of the Caribbean's most beautiful historic cities.
A great day in San Juan is a key part of an Eastern Caribbean cruise. To see the full picture, read our Ultimate Guide to the Best Caribbean Itineraries for a Large Family here.
Now that you have a plan for San Juan, are you wondering about your other Eastern Caribbean stops? Compare St. Thomas and St. Maarten in our detailed guide here.
