Things to Do in San Juan With Kids — From Your Cruise Port

San Juan guide: family-friendly attractions. Real, specific, no fluff.

Exploring San Juan with Kids: Top Family-Friendly Attractions

San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and fun activities perfect for a family vacation. You can start planning your trip by considering the following top family-friendly attractions that are a must-visit when visiting the Port of San Juan.

La Fortaleza and the Old San Juan Area

La Fortaleza, a 16th-century fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of the city. You can take a guided tour with your kids and explore the fort's walls, towers, and courtyards. The Old San Juan area is also filled with colorful streets, shops, and restaurants that are perfect for a family stroll.

• Address: Calle Norzagaray, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
• Phone: +1 787-723-9692
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)
• Ticket price: $10 per adult, $5 per child (ages 7-17), free for children under 7

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

This 16th-century fort is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore the fort's walls, towers, and tunnels, and even take a guided tour. The fort's location is perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing walk along the beach.

• Address: Calle Norzagaray, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
• Phone: +1 787-729-6960
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)
• Ticket price: $10 per adult, $5 per child (ages 7-17), free for children under 7

Kid-Safe Transit Options

Getting around San Juan with kids can be easy and fun. Here are some kid-safe transit options that you can consider:

Tren Urbano

The Tren Urbano is a convenient and affordable way to get around San Juan. You can take the train from the Old San Juan station to the Hato Rey station, which is close to many family-friendly attractions. The train is clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

• Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes
• Price: $0.75 per ride (children under 5 ride free)
• Hours: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Monday - Sunday)

Colectivos

Colectivos are shared vans that operate in San Juan. They are a great option for families who want to get around the city without breaking the bank. You can take a colectivo from the Old San Juan area to the Condado area, which is home to many family-friendly hotels and restaurants.

• Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes
• Price: $1.50 per ride (children under 5 ride free)
• Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)

Best Food for Kids in San Juan

San Juan is a foodie's paradise, and you can find many delicious and kid-friendly restaurants throughout the city. Here are some of the best food options for kids:

La Bombonera

This iconic bakery has been a San Juan staple for over 100 years. You can grab a quick bite at La Bombonera and enjoy some delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. The bakery is kid-friendly, and the staff is welcoming and helpful.

• Address: 263 Calle de la Fortaleza, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
• Phone: +1 787-725-9034
• Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Monday - Saturday), 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Sunday)
• Price: $5-$10 per person

Café Manolín

This cozy café is located in the heart of Old San Juan and serves delicious breakfast and lunch options. You can enjoy some fresh fruit, yogurt, or sandwiches, and the staff is kid-friendly and welcoming.

• Address: 215 Calle del Cristo, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
• Phone: +1 787-725-9191
• Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Monday - Saturday), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sunday)
• Price: $5-$10 per person

Additional Tips and Recommendations

San Juan is a vibrant and exciting city that offers many family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some additional tips and recommendations to make your trip even more enjoyable:

Beach Safety

San Juan has many beautiful beaches, but some of them can be rough and not suitable for young children. Make sure to check the beach conditions before heading out, and always supervise your kids when they're playing in the water.

Language

Spanish is the primary language spoken in San Juan, but many locals also speak English. You can still get by with just English, but it's always helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.

Currency

Exchange Rate and Currency Tips

When traveling to San Juan, it's essential to have a good understanding of the local currency and exchange rates. Puerto Rico uses the US dollar, which makes it easy for American tourists to navigate the city. However, it's still a good idea to have some local currency on hand, especially for small purchases or tips. You can use the Portability App to exchange your currency or withdraw local funds at an ATM, which often offers more favorable exchange rates than currency exchange offices.