Top Things to Do in Ponce

Museo de Arte de Ponce

Widely known as one of the best art museums in Puerto Rico, Museo de Arte de Ponce (MAP) has gained international recognition for its permanent collection of 4,500 pieces, consisting of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, ceramics, photographs, video, and sound installations. MAP’s collection spans work from Puerto Rico, the Americas, and Africa, and has a notable collection of 19th-century European art. This important institution operates every day except Tuesday and offers guided tours throughout the day. Admission is $6.

Note: The Museo de Arte de Ponce is currently undergoing reconstruction and is partially open to the public. Due to ongoing repairs to its main building, the museum has adjusted its visiting hours and operations.

Plaza Las Delicias

The public square of Ponce is popular among locals and tourists alike; with its ornate colonial buildings and lush shade trees, it’s easy to see why. One of the square’s most striking structures is the Parque de Bombas, an old fire station which has been converted into a museum. Around the plaza you will also find the magnificent Fuente de Los Leones, the mayor's residence, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Be sure to stop in at the many charming coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques selling locally made products.

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Castillo Serrallés

Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of Ponce, this grand estate was formerly the home of the Serrallés family, owners of the Don Q rum distillery. On a guided tour of the museum, you can appreciate the ornate architecture, manicured gardens, and lavish swimming pool, as well as learn about how the family lived and grew their business.

Behind the Serrallés Castle is the imposing Cruceta del Vigía, a high tower located on a hill overlooking the whole city; and the Jardín Japonés, a beautiful natural space with trees, bonsai, and ponds. The Cruceta was built in the 19th century when the Island was under Spanish rule and was used to monitor and alert of possible pirate attacks or the arrival of commercial ships.

Parque de Bombas

You'll find this old fire station in Ponce's enchanting town square, Plaza Las Delicias, directly behind the town's cathedral. Now a humble museum, the building was once the city's main fire station — and the first ever in Puerto Rico. This photography hotspot was listed on National Register of Historic Places on July 12, 1984.

La Guancha

This picturesque seaside boardwalk is lined with restaurants and kiosks selling food, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks. La Guancha is a popular entertainment destination for locals and an ideal place to kick back after a day of strolling around the city.

Note: La Guancha is currently closed to the public due to reconstruction work.

Caja de Muertos

The vibrant Caja de Muertos island, located eight miles off the coast of Ponce, is a nature reserve. Find crystalline beaches, gorgeous hiking trails, a lighthouse, and a cave. To reach this islet, book a private boat trip in advance.

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Experience the Vibrant Carnaval Ponceño

If you're visiting Ponce in February or March, don’t miss Carnaval Ponceño, one of Puerto Rico’s most colorful and lively festivals. Celebrated the week before Ash Wednesday, this week-long event fills the streets with music, dancing, and vibrant parades.

The stars of the show are the vejigantes — folkloric characters dressed in bright costumes and wearing hand-painted, long-snouted masks. You can join locals in donning your own mask and soaking in the festive spirit, especially along La Guancha boardwalk, where restaurants, bars, and shops add to the excitement.

Each day features something special, from the crowning of the Carnival Queen to lively masquerade balls. The festival concludes with the symbolic Burial of the Sardine, marking the start of Lent.

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