Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas William Miranda Marín
Caguas’ real gem is the Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas William Miranda Marín. A testament of history, this theme-park is designed to educate the public and elevate the relationship between culture and nature in a tropical setting. Its 60 acres of land are made up by gardens and the remains of Hacienda San José — a 19th century sugar plantation.
The garden offers guided tours, walking trails, and various specialized exhibits (like the African and Taíno Ancestral Grove, Forest Heritage, Riverside Corridor, and Tropical Wetlands) for you to wander. Explore the rich history of the ancient sugar mills of Caguas, the ecological significance of the town, an in-depth look at agriculture of Puerto Rico; and more. Learn about the indigenous archeological findings on site, the century-old sugar mill ruins, and the centennial slave barracks. Take a closer look at the roots of the Puerto Rican creole identity to understand something deeper about the island.
Museo de las Artes Populares
Lovers of folk art, skilled artisans, and local culture should make this a stop to learn more about several of the island’s prominent craftspeople. The museum pays homage to artists such as Zoilo Cajigas and Celestino Avilés, two wood carvers dedicated to creating religious figures, as well as saints and musical instruments. Some of their works are featured permanently at the museum. Elpidio Collazo and Emilio Rosado also have rooms dedicated to their craft, carved birds. Other artists that worked on leather, ceramic, and toys are showcased as well. A second showroom exhibits traditional figurines by a cagüeño teacher named Edwin Báez.
Paseo de las Artes
One of the main attractions in Caguas is the Paseo de las Artes, a space that turns into an outdoor festival highlighting local artists. Be ready to walk, eat and drink, dance, and appreciate the works of Puerto Rican and international makers that have made this space their workshop. Another event that takes place at the Paseo de las Artes is the Al Fresco Culinary show. This event gathers people to savor creole food and creative presentations of local and international fusions at different food stations, food trucks, and stands.
