Ponce Sights and Landmarks Guide, Puerto Rico

Despite being part of the United States, Puerto Rico is still in line with its Spanish and indigenous culture.  This culture can be seen while sightseeing in Ponce de Leon, named after one of Puerto Rico’s great heroes.  The area was founded by Leon’s grandson.  In spite of the fact that Ponce de Leon is the second largest city after San Juan, it is rather laid back as a city.  The entire vibe in Ponce de Leon is relaxed and it is not nearly as touristy as its counterpart.

Ponce de Leon is mainly visited for its grand architectural designs that have been preserved over the years as well as beautiful park areas where you can take a peaceful walk. The main place to go and start your sightseeing is from the Plaza las Delicias.  From here, you will be able to see the rest of this city’s main attractions.  The Catedral de la Guadeloupe is an immense cathedral with superb architecture that is a mix between various styles.  It is a huge white cathedral but if you do not recognize it, you will know you are here if you see the Plaza de Bombas or the Firemen’s Plaza which consists of a uniquely painted former fire station. 

 Other buildings of interest include the Casa Alcaldía or the city Hall for Ponce de Leon, Casa de la Masacre de Ponce and the Castillo Serralles.

You can take a serene walk along the harbor on the Guancha Paseo Tablado.  There are many shops and restaurants that you can stop by on your walk. You can then pass by one of the great museums to see.  These include the Ponce Museum of Art and the Museum of Puerto Rican Music.  If you are looking for a small adventure, you can board one of the ferries from the nearby pier to cruise over to the Caja de Muertos otherwise known as Coffin Island.  This is a deserted island that only has a lighthouse with miles of uninhabited beach.

Ponce de Leon is a great alternative to San Juan as it is much more relaxed with dozens of sights to see and adventures to take.

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