rum tasting tour puerto rico

TASTING TOUR

When we age rum, some of it naturally evaporates from the barrel. This is called the "angel’s share". What the angels didn't get can be yours when you book the best and most exclusive rum tasting experience in the Caribbean. A unique opportunity to sip and enjoy all of our rums, from the cult-classic Three Stars to the extremely limited-edition Five Stars.

In the aged spirits world, the “angel’s share” is known as the small percentage of alcohol that evaporates inside a barrel as it ages. What the angels don’t take, it’s for all of us to enjoy! To celebrate, we’re sparing no expense in this tasting experience. You’ll get to taste it all. From the fruit notes of Dos Estrellas to our cult-classic Tres Estrellas. You’ll also sip Ron del Barrilito Cuatro Estrellas, a new blend available exclusively at Hacienda Santa Ana, and of course, the crown jewel: Cinco Estrellas. There’s no better opportunity to taste all of these world-class rums in a single tasting.

$80 per person (includes Heritage Tour), approximately 60 minutes.

Upon arrival, enjoy one complimentary Ron del Barrilito rum cocktail at our Visitor’s Center before beginning your tour.

After the tour ends, you’re welcome to stay and relax for a while at Hacienda Santa Ana’s grounds, enjoy more cocktails at our bar or explore our gift shop.

CHOOSE A DATE

Reviews from our visitors, additional info.

• We reserve the right of admission.
• A responsible drinking policy will be strictly implemented.
• Please observe proper behavior and conduct at all times.
• No professional video or photography equipment is allowed inside the Visitor Center areas.
• The use of selfie sticks is prohibited inside the Visitor Center and during guided tours.
• Minors under 18 years old are allowed free on the tours.
• ID required (18 years is the legal drinking age in Puerto Rico)
• Complimentary cocktail cannot be made with Ron del Barrilito Cuatro Estrellas or Cinco Estrellas
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to tour departure time for registration and welcome cocktail.
• Spanish tours will be available on the following hours; 1:15 PM and 3:15 PM

CANCELLATION POLICY

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Thanks for contacting Ron del Barrilito! Please check your email for further instructions.

DON Q RUM TOUR LIVE THE DON Q EXPERIENCE

The #1 rum of puerto rico invites you to celebrate our 156th anniversary with a unique and unforgettable experience., a blend of experiences, where & when.

(Tour in Spanish) 10:30am & 3:30pm (Tour in English) 1:00pm Duration: 1:30 Limited capacity of 15 people per group Parking: Parking Facilities are located by the main entrance of the museum in front of the security guard booth, on both sides of the road.

AFTER THE TOUR EXPERIENCE, ENJOY A COCKTAIL AT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

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• February 26, 2024 | Casa Bacardi Rum Tour in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Casa Bacardi Rum Tour in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Posted By: Julie Henning February 26, 2024

Touring a rum distillery is a popular, fun, and authentic experience for tourists visiting Puerto Rico. A key export with a rich cultural history dating back centuries to the time of colonial sugarcane plantations, if you consume rum in your cocktail, chances are it originated somewhere on the island. One of the largest producers of rum in terms of sales volume and brand recognition, Bacardí, is headquartered approximately 20 minutes from the historic La Perla district in downtown San Juan.

Open to the public for tours, we recently visited Casa Bacardí to learn more about the delicious liquor that inspired the creation of so many tropical drinks.

Bacardí, Rum Tasting Tour: What to Expect

Upon arriving at Casa Bacardí, guests check in at the outdoor Pavilion and are given a token to be redeemed for a welcome cocktail. Leave time to wander the grounds, take photos, enjoy your drink, order food from the cafe, and use the restrooms.

Check in at the Pavilion and enjoy a welcome cocktail.

At your designated tour time, your guide will direct you to board an open-air trolley. For the next thirty minutes (or so), you’ll learn about the history of rum across the Carribbean and the growth of the Bacardí empire in San Juan. On this tour, guests stay in the trolley as it passes by many of the buildings and structures on the campus.

Buildings on the Bacardí Tour

Up next, guests step off the trolley and into this building which houses both the Bacardí Store and tasting rooms. The second half of the tour involves guided instruction on tasting six different types of Bacardí rum paired with a gourmet chocolate. Exiting through the store presents you with the opportunity to purchase both rum and other branded souvenirs.

Bicardi store and tasting room building.

A 75-minute guided tour offered in English and available for adults 18* and older, the Bacardí rum tasting tour runs $80/person. Reservations are both recommended and required.

* The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18.

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Rum Experiences in Puerto Rico You Shouldn’t Miss

You don’t have to be a rum connoisseur to appreciate the indelible mark this iconic spirit has made on Puerto Rico’s narrative 

Often called “The Rum Capital of the World,” Puerto Rico produces 70 percent of the rum sold in the U.S. The island’s rum production dates back to the early 16th century. Spaniards brought sugar cane crops from Hispaniola (today the Dominican Republic). The island’s first sugar cane mill was constructed in 1517. By the mid-19th century more than 700 sugar cane plantations had been established, as well as a good number of sugar refineries and rum distilleries. Although the sugar industry eventually diminished, rum-making endured. Today the rum industry adds over $300 million to Puerto Rico’s economy annually. It’s also responsible for more than 700 jobs in the island’s distilleries. 

Distillery tours

For a taste of Puerto Rico’s rich rum history, book a tour or mixology class at one of the distilleries. Some of them have produced rum for more than 100 years. Here are a few places to add to your rum discovery itinerary. 

Ron del Barrilito

Hacienda Santa Ana, Bayamón

Tour Cost: Heritage Tour, $25 per person; Mixology and Tasting tours, $80 per person

Crafted by hand in small batches, Ron del Barrilito rum is aged in vintage American white oak sherry barrels—a process that’s remained the same since 1880. A Heritage Tour showcases the family legacy behind Puerto Rico’s oldest distillery, including a look at Hacienda’s historical landmarks like the lovingly preserved family mansion. The interactive Mixology Tour teaches guests the art of creating classic bar-quality cocktails. The Tasting Tour allows guests the unique opportunity to taste the “angel’s share” of rum, the part of rum that naturally evaporates from the barrel during the aging process. The tasting experience includes Dos Estrellas, Tres Estrellas, Ron del Barrilito Cuatro Estrellas and Cinco Estrellas.

Casa Bacardí

PR-165, Cataño

Tour Cost: Mixology Class and Rum Tasting Tour, $75; Bar Visit, $20

When Don Facundo Bacardí Massó purchased a small distillery in Santiago de Cuba in 1862, it was the beginning of a rum revolution. Over the next several decades, Bacardí rum earned celebrity status and even helped fuel tourism to Cuba from the U.S. during the Prohibition era. In 1930, they built distilleries in Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The facility located here is the world’s largest premium rum distillery. Hone your cocktail making skills with the Mixology Class, where you’ll craft the classic Mojito and shaken Piña Colada. During the class, you’ll learn more about Bacardí’s history, as well as pick up a few new bar skills.

The Rum Tasting Tour showcases Bacardí’s premium rums and includes a chocolate pairing. A trolley tour to the family museum and an overview of the company’s history are part of both experiences. If you aren’t able to secure a tour or have less time to enjoy the distillery, consider the Casa Bacardí Bar Visit. A ticket gets you a tasty cocktail, a locally-made empanada and the chance to chill at the waterfront Pavilion with a fantastic view of El Morro, an iconic fortification and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

San Juan Artisan Distillers

RD-690, KM 3.2 Sabana Hoyos, Vega Alta

Tour Cost: $80 per person

San Juan Artisan Distillers is located about 22 miles (34 km) west of San Juan. It’s Puerto Rico’s only working sugar cane plantation estate and distillery. Inspired by the use of sugar cane early rum makers in Puerto Rico used, owner Pepe Alvarez planted his first crop and started the process of creating his own rum distillery. However, before they were able to harvest it, Hurricane Maria destroyed the crop entirely.

That setback only fueled his imagination. The result: fruit-flavored rums made with fruits locally sourced from farms in San Sebastián, Santa Isabel, Manatí and other regions. Tour guides provide insight into their rum making process and showcase the company’s dedication to sustainability. The 1½-hour tour concludes with a sampling of rums crafted by San Juan Artisan Distillers. 

Crab Island Rum

4FCF+PV, Vieques

Tour Cost: Call distillery for tour details

Opened in 2019, Crab Island Rum Distillery is the first distillery on Puerto Rico’s southeast island of Vieques, where owner Ivan Torres was born and raised. He returned to the island to pursue his dream of creating handcrafted artisanal rum after earning his college and master’s degrees in the states. Torres sought the guidance of renowned rum master Luis Planas, who mentored him through the early stages of developing the business. Ingredients for the coffee and orange infused brands are sourced from local growers on Puerto Rico’s main island. Free distillery tours and tastings are available.

More rum experiences

Situated in the heart of Old San Juan, La Casita de Rones opened its doors in 2016. Co-owned by Joel Vazquez Rivera and Ramon Díaz, it’s the flagship store of Rums of Puerto Rico, a marketing arm of the island’s Department of Economic Development and Commerce. This distinctive rum experience showcases authentic Puerto Rican tapas and entrees that pair well with one of their craft rum-based cocktails. A well-curated shop offers an ample selection of apparel, glassware, bar accessories and other rum-inspired souvenirs.

In addition to his work with La Casita de Rones, co-owner Joel Vazquez Rivera channeled his passion to share Puerto Rico’s rum culture by creating Puerto Rico Rum Journey . The program provides visitors an easy way to book rum tours, experiences, events and buy merchandise. You can either go to their website or book through the app which is available in iOS and Android via the App Store or Google Play. They offer a selection of rum distillery itineraries, as well as tips on additional places to explore in each destination. Available itineraries feature many of the above-mentioned distilleries, with Casa Bacardí being the most popular. The app also offers a “rum experts” experience where users can unlock collectible badges on their digital passport to win prizes and level up their rum expert status. 

“Hopefully, this program will make Puerto Rico a rum destination and spread the word that our rum heritage has not been discovered by all who visit the island,” shares Vazquez.

Address: Calle Comercio San Juan

Tel: 787-966-7042

Cost: Call program for details

Download this courtesy guide to optimize your travels and experience in Puerto Rico.

Best Rum Tour Puerto Rico: An Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Delight

Key takeaways – best rum tour puerto rico, takeaway 1: explore the popular rum tours, takeaway 2: discover the hidden gems, takeaway 3: embrace the past and experience the present.

Table of Contents

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Exploring the Casa Bacardi Tour in San Juan: A Must-Visit for Rum Enthusiasts

Let me share an experience that left quite an impression on me. You see, when I first stepped foot into the Casa Bacardi distillery , I was struck with awe. Known as the home of the world’s largest rum distillery, this place is one of the top rum tours in Puerto Rico . In any case, hands down, it is a must-visit for all rum enthusiasts.

Now that I think about it, what set this tour apart was their 75-minute tasting session where you get introduced to their wide range of exclusive Puerto Rican rums. All things considered, what added more charm to this visit was getting a chance to become a rum maestro during their Rum Tasting Tour.

Discovering the Delights of Ron del Barrilito’s Rum Tasting Tour at Hacienda Santa Ana

Moving on from Casa Bacardi, another gem I discovered was the Ron del Barrilito’s Rum Tasting tour at Hacienda Santa Ana . This revered establishment offers you an opportunity to taste a variety of best Puerto Rican rums including their cult-classic Three Stars and beyond. Do consider opting for different tour options such as Heritage Tour and Mixology and Tasting tours; they truly add value to your rum tasting in Puerto Rico .

Unveiling Other Distillery Visits: Crab Island Rum Distillery and Beyond

By the way, diversifying your palette does not end here. The Puerto Rico rum journey extends its charm beyond these top-rated distilleries. For instance, places like San Juan Artisan Distillers and Castillo Serrallés, including Crab Island Rum Distillery, are all worth your visit if you have a penchant for the finest rums.

Venturing the Don Q Rum Home Visit in Ponce: An Insight into Sugar Plantation Processing

In Ponce, don’t miss out on visiting the home of Don Q rum . Although it doesn’t publicize a distillery tour, it’s still worth noting since locals consider their rum as one of the best in Puerto Rico. In any case, this tour particularly appealed to me due to its fascinating insight into sugar plantation processing.

Revisiting History at The Ron del Barrilito Distillery: A Timeless Rum-Making Process

If history piques your interest like mine, consider visiting the Ron del Barrilito distillery. They’ve stayed true to their original rum-making process since 1880. This experience is like taking a step back in time – making it one of the best Puerto Rican rum factories tours.

The Modern Experience of Puerto Rico’s Craft Spirits: A Closer Look at The Crab Island Craft Spirit

Last but certainly not least, let me introduce you to something for those who prefer modern experiences. Enter The Crab Island Craft Spirit – a haven for craft spirit lovers. If traditional white rum in Puerto Rico doesn’t tickle your fancy – this new wave distillery is sure to impress with its innovative spirit offerings!

All things considered, when it comes to finding the best rum tour in Puerto Rico , there’s a wide variety of options waiting for you! Each promising delightful experiences and catering to different tastes and interests. From classic brands like Bacardi or local favourites like Don Q or Ron del Barrilito, Puerto Rico’s rum tours are a journey of taste, tradition, and history.

My Personal Take about Best Rum Tour Puerto Rico

• The best Rum Tour in Puerto Rico are not only educational but also incredibly fun and lively.
• The island is rich in numerous distilleries each one distinct with a historic charm waiting to be discovered!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Rum Tour Puerto Rico

1. what makes the casa bacardi tour in san juan so popular.

The Casa Bacardi tour in San Juan is a popular choice because it is home to the largest rum distillery in the world. Visitors can enjoy a 75-minute tasting session and distillery tour, and even become a rum maestro with their Rum Tasting Tour.

2. What unique experiences does Ron del Barrilito’s Rum Tasting Tour offer at Hacienda Santa Ana?

Ron del Barrilito’s Rum Tasting Tour at Hacienda Santa Ana offers the opportunity to taste their range of rums, including cult-classic Three Stars and more. They also have different tour options such as Heritage Tour and Mixology and Tasting tours.

3. Are there other distilleries worth visiting as part of the Puerto Rico Rum Journey?

Absolutely! Besides Casa Bacardi and Ron del Barrilito, you can visit other distilleries like Crab Island Rum Distillery, San Juan Artisan Distillers, and Castillo Serrallés – all part of the Puerto Rico Rum Journey.

4. Is it possible to visit Don Q rum’s home in Ponce?

While Don Q rum does not have a public distillery in Ponce, it is still worth noting since it is considered by many locals as one of the best rums in Puerto Rico. You can learn about sugar plantation processing on this tour.

5. Is there a historic rum-making experience available in Puerto Rico?

Absolutely! The Ron del Barrilito distillery has stayed true to its original rum-making process since 1880, making it an excellent choice for those interested in history.

6. Are there any options for craft spirit lovers in Puerto Rico?

Yes, if you’re a craft spirit lover, be sure to check out The Crab Island Craft Spirit for a more modern experience that caters to your preferences.

Now you know Best Rum Tour Puerto Rico , but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like PR. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Puerto Rico journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.

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Puerto Rico rum tours: unforgettable island holidays

Discover the complex and charismatic flavors Caribbean rum on a journey to Puerto Rico; home to beautiful beaches, spectacular cities and incredible food and drink to delight the palate. Come on a rum tour with Wine Paths and meet the Master Blenders as they share their craft with connoisseurs and beginners alike.

Join Wine Paths on a luxury rum tour of Puerto Rico and taste the world’s oldest commercially produced spirit. Often referred to as the “noble spirit”, rum has many connections to the sea. It has been linked to pirates and Navy sailors, and the first rum cocktail ever made – the Rum Sour – was served in a conch shell at the beach.

Its island origins make it a drink that many consider to be exotic and tropical. But the dark and mysterious flavors of rum can take many forms. Enjoyed around the world and available in almost every country, it certainly doesn’t lack in availability. But finding top notch, sip-worthy, refined rum is another story. Our luxury rum tasting holidays journey you to some of the most beautiful areas of Puerto Rico, filled with history, culture and gastronomy as we go in search of world-class rum varietals.

Tantalize your taste buds with the extensive and diverse range of rums available. Find your rhythm in the heat of Puerto Rico and discover your favorite rum variety with the help of Master Blenders and rum tasting experts.

Why go rum tasting in Puerto Rico?

Rum can be made in any location where sugarcane is cultivated or imported. Most rum production takes place in the Caribbean and Latin America – and Puerto Rico is responsible for making over 80% of all the rum that is consumed in the USA alone.

Puerto Rico is also home to five of the pillar brands of the industry; Barcardi, Don Q, Palo Viejo, Ron del Barrilito, and Ron Llave. The Bacardi label is the most prolific and is sold in 175 countries worldwide. But even devoted Barcardi drinkers are often unaware of the whole story of how this rum came about, and what stringent production processes are used to craft the different rum products.

With the help and assistance of rum experts, you will learn about the characteristics that make Puerto Rican rum so special. You will also get to experience the unique flavors of rum varietals, including light rum or silver rum, amber run, spiced rum and dark rum. The art of rum making is a complex one, and we’ll help you unravel the mysteries of this unique spirit in the rum capital.

Places to visit in Puerto Rico

Barcardi, the world’s most popular rum brand, has a distillery located across the bay from Old San Juan. The distillery is a popular attraction, with tours available seven days a week. The area of San Juan is also a fantastic place for visiting bars and trying out the different rum cocktails on offer. Travelers also choose this location for its many restaurants where they can sample authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.

While Bacardi is the most famous label, Don Q is also a favourite amongst locals in Puerto Rico. Manufactured by the Serrallés family in the town of Ponce, you can visit the Serrallés Castle Museum where you can learn about the history of sugarcane during a guided tour.

Other distilleries that are open to the public include Hacienda Santa Ana (the oldest distillery on the island) and PitoRico (located in the mountainous region of Jayuya and open to visitors from Tuesday through Saturday).

When to visit Puerto Rico

The best time to go to Puerto Rico is usually from mid-April to June, as this is just after the busy winter season has ended and before the rainy summer season really gets going. The wet season hits it peak in August and will last until November.

As well as high humidity, the wet season is much hotter which some may not find to be comfortable for sightseeing. However, that’s not to say that wet season should be ruled out. This can be a great time to travel if you want to miss the crowds.

From December to March, the island is dry, hot and sunny. But this is the most crowded time, with holiday makers hitting the beaches.

Join us on a luxury rum tour in Puerto Rico

Join Wine Paths on our exciting and exclusive rum tours in Puerto Rico, the world’s number one rum capital, and home to some of the most refined rum varieties. We will take you to the famous distilleries, museums and landmarks that are significant to the rum making industry.

Learn all about the history of Caribbean rum, how it was invented and developed, and how it is made today. The rum makers of Puerto Rico craft their rum to exacting industry standards. Meet the Master Blenders, flavor creators and expert rum producers that have shaped the global market with Puerto Rican spirits.

Taste authentic local cuisine, enjoy a selection of cocktails, and discover the different styles of rum that best suit your palate. Hone your nose and uncover the secrets behind light or dark rums, and delve into the depths of different spices and ingredients.

Interesting facts about Puerto Rican rum

As well as having a link to pirates at sea, rum was also the official drink of the British Navy. Rum rations were even given to sailors to fight off scurvy. That’s where the term “Navy-strength” originates from. Navy-strength rum means rum made to at least 57% ABV (114 proof). The reason for this was a safety precaution. If the rum should have leaked on board a Navy ship and caused their gunpowder to get wet, the high alcohol percentage would have kept it flammable. A lower alcohol percentage would have meant neutralization of the gunpowder, making it unusable at battle.

While Puerto Rico is known as the rum capital of the world, the spirit was actually first distilled in Barbados. It was discovered by plantation slaves who used molasses to make alcohol through fermentation.

Read on for some unforgettable rum experiences in Puerto Rico.

What is the best Puerto Rican rum to try?

Don Q is said to be the best rum in Puerto Rico according to locals, while Bacardi is the most famous and is recognized around the world. That’s not to say that these are the labels for you. Our tasting tours will let you try a range of brands and varieties.

What are the flavor distinctions between light and dark rum?

Rum varieties can be hard to classify as the flavors can be so diverse. But generally speaking, lighter rums tend to be sweeter (although not always), amber rum is medium bodied, and dark rum is full bodied with flavoring agents such as caramel or molasses.

Can rum be used for food pairing?

Diversity is excellent within the rum category, so food pairing is easy for all tastes and palates. Many popular Puerto Rican dishes pair well with rum. Typically, light rums go well with fish, seafood and chicken while darker rums go well with meat. However, there are no hard and fast rules about how rum should be paired. 

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12 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

L ocated approximately 1,000 miles southeast of Miami , Puerto Rico is a popular Caribbean island with American travelers. Leave your passport at home and head to year-round summer, piña coladas, and occasionally getting caught in the rain. It's all part of the charm of being in the tropics.

Puerto Rico is best know for its abundance of places to unplug, unwind, and explore the unknown. The island is filled with secluded wonders, from beach coves and clear waters to tree swings with panoramic mountain views. It's also a place to eat, drink, and be merry. A half dozen brands of local rum collectively back Puerto Rico's claim to the title " Rum Capital of the World ."

If you want to discover Puerto Rico beyond the San Juan cruise port, consider renting a car or hiring a guide to reach lesser-known destinations. Here are 12 of the best things to see and do in Puerto Rico.

1. Eat your fill of pork in Guavate

There's a pork trail in Guavate that is a meat lover's dream come true. Only 40 minutes from San Juan, the town within the mountain municipality of Cayey is most active on weekends when you'll also find live music and street vendors. There are lechoneras lined up one after another, small shops specializing in roasted pork-one of several essential Puerto Rico dishes to try.

How the lechoneras came to exist depends on who you ask : One account attributes them to the need to serve locals driving from San Juan, while another claims there used to be a penitentiary nearby, and that visiting families needed somewhere to eat; the prison had a farm that raised hogs. No matter their origin, the lechoneras in the area are a beloved part of the community, each serving their own version of pork-pair your cut of choice with arroz con gandules , a yellow rice and pigeon peas side item that is a Puerto Rican staple.

2. Experience natural waterslides at Las Paylas

Ever thrown yourself down a waterslide carved into giant boulders by the flow of a river? Las Paylas is a series of natural slides and pools located in a resident's backyard in Luquillo, about 45 minutes from San Juan. The slides are a three-minute walk from the driveway turned parking lot. Spend the morning in nature's playground, rope swing optional. Exercise caution and tuck in your elbows while going down the slides. If you work up an appetite, stop by the local kiosks for an empanada and chilled fresh coconut on your way back.

3. Marvel at pink lakes in Cabo Rojo

Cabo Rojo is only an hour from the airport in Aguadilla for those flying into the west side of the island. The area is a draw for its natural wonders, including salt flats that look like a vast span of pink lakes in the right light. While this phenomenon is not unique to Puerto Rico (other examples from around the world include Lake Tyrrell in Australia and San Francisco Bay's salt ponds), it's a rare sight and one that's largely unobstructed and unmonitored here.

There's a small, volunteer-run information center, but the salt flats are not officially labeled or advertised as a tourist destination. There are no designated entry points or tickets for admission. You can park by the side of the main road and enter for free. You'll find the salt flats en route to La Playuela, commonly referred to as Playa Sucia , a popular white-sand beach surrounded by large cliffs on which you can hike or bike.

4. Taste savory ice cream flavors at Heladeria Lares

Creative flavors and community connection are family traditions at Heladeria Lares , a small ice cream shop nestled in the small town of Lares in the center of Puerto Rico. The recipes are created in-house and can range from sweet potato to cilantro flavored. The ice cream shop makes the perfect stop after exploring the nearby cave system at Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy.

5. Meet "Flaming June" at the Museo de Arte de Ponce

The well-known painting Flaming June portrays a sleeping woman in a vibrant saffron dress. You can see this work by by Frederic Leighton ar the Museo de Arte de Ponce . The museum opened to the public in 1959 and houses an estimated 4,500 works of art, including pieces from Puerto Rico and Latin America.

6. See Ponce's Gaudí-style architecture

Located in the southern part of Puerto Rico's main island, Ponce is full of delights for art and architecture lovers ; the Parque de Bombas is a visually striking former fire station and one of the island's most notable landmarks, while Casa Weichers-Villaronga is a neoclassical mansion that doubles as an architecture museum.

Enjoy the city's own style of architecture, called Ponce Creole, which incorporates fantastical elements-think intricate, ornamental decorations on rooftops, stately columns, and exterior crown molding. Notable buildings with this style include Casa Weichers-Villaronga, the Museo de la Música Puertoriqueña, and Casa-Font Ubides .

7. Go ziplining at Toro Verde

" The Monster " at Toro Verde is one of the longest ziplines in the world. It's hung between the trees in Orocovis, a mountain town toward the center of the island about 90 minutes from San Juan. The 1.57-mile-long line takes an adrenaline-packed two minutes to fly from one end to another, Superman-style. Other zipline options are available for those seeking moderate to mild thrills. You can make reservations online ; there is a restaurant and bar on site if you want a drink in celebration of your bravery afterwards.

8. Taste local rum at Ron del Barrilito

Puerto Rico has no shortage of rum distilleries . Opened in 2019, the Ron del Barrilito factory offers guests the option to tour the building, Hacienda Santa Ana, for $40, or attend a mixology class or partake in a premium tasting tour for $80 each. Here you'll also find Ron del Barrilito 5 Star, a collector's edition aged up to 35 years and more than $700 per bottle.

You will also spot a special "freedom barrel" on your tour, undisturbed since 1942 and reserved for consumption by the people of Bayamon in the event Puerto Rico one day declares independence.

9. Explore Old San Juan with a food tour

Those looking to experience Old San Juan in a new way should consider a food tour around the city with Spoon . The area is walkable and the tour includes history about the city's plan and design. From freshly brewed coffee to avocado stuffed with pork, you'll taste the classics while simultaneously supporting small businesses.

For an upscale dining experience, head to Marmalade Restaurant and Wine Bar , which offers international dishes like a harissa-seasoned ahi tuna tartar.

10. Try river tubing at the Tanama River

The Tanama River in the town of Utuado offers a twist on the traditional lazy river; it'll float you into a pitch-black cave. The reward at the end of this adventure, which accommodates large groups, is a free facial thanks to a large supply of river clay. The word "Tanama" is Taino for "butterfly," so expect to see many of them on your visit.

11. Kayak in a bioluminescent bay

There are three places to find bioluminescence in Puerto Rico: Fajardo, Lajas, and Vieques. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest of them all, and several companies offer evening kayak tours on glass-bottom boats. Go with Bieque Ecotrips if you want a smaller group tour; Aqua Sunset Tours is an operator to consider if you want a fully clear kayak versus just a glass bottom. Plan your visit during the new moon to see the brightest contrast possible, and make reservations ahead of time as spots fill up quickly.

12. See Taino petroglyphs at Cueva del Indio

Cueva del Indio is about 25 minutes north of Cueva Ventana. If possible, aim to see both caves on one trip. Cueva del Indio is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's so scenic it's been featured in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides . There are a number of Taino petroglyphs on site dating back nearly a thousand years. Wear sneakers or hiking shoes as the terrain is rugged and explore at your own risk.

This article originally appeared online on March 30, 2021; it was most recently updated on October 14, 2023, to include current information.

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