A trip to Caguas is a journey into the heart of Puerto Rico. Also known as La Ciudad Criolla (The Creole City), Caguas is home to museums, ecological centers, and historical architecture. This city keeps cultural traditions alive while providing modern amenities and entertainment for all interests and ages.
Whether you’re visiting or planning to relocate, here are the top eight things to do in Caguas, Puerto Rico:
1. Jardín Botánico y Cultural William Miranda Marín
This botanical garden lies on a 60-acre property with lush gardens surrounding the remnants of Hacienda San Jose, a 19th-century sugar plantation in the Turabo Valley. Endemic plants, tropical foliage, and modern artwork form a beautiful tapestry. You can also walk along the small lake and enjoy a panoramic garden view.
The William Miranda Marín Botanical and Cultural Garden is a natural museum celebrating Puerto Rican culture, nature, and tropical agriculture. You can walk the trails, go on the educational tours, and participate in activities that explore:
- The history of the sugar industry in Caguas and the old San Jose sugar mill
- Turabo Valley’s ecology (forests and wetlands, and related flora and fauna)
- The cultural, medicinal, and ecological relevance of the endemic plants
- Taíno historical artifacts and way of life
- The barracks and culture of enslaved people
- Puerto Rico’s agricultural industry
Also, check out the outdoor cinema that’s open Thursdays through Sundays at 7 pm. Visiting this botanical garden is a family affair!
2. Caguas Museum of Art
The Caguas Museum of Art showcases folk art, artisanal goods, and cultural handmade pieces. These works include wooden carvings of religious figures, saints, animals, and musical instruments. You will also see exhibits of leatherwork, ceramics, toys, and traditional figurines.
3. Catedral Dulce Nombre de Jesús
The Catedral Dulce Nombre de Jesús (Sweet Name of Jesus Cathedral) was built in 1626 as a hermitage or rural chapel. It became known by its current name when the Spanish Crown established the Municipality of Caguas in 1775 and designated it as the parish church.
A masonry church was constructed in the 1830s and served as the parish church until it was damaged by Hurricane San Felipe in 1928. The original structure was then demolished, and the current concrete building was designed by Pedro Méndez and Joseph O’Kelly, with construction completed in 1936.
In 1964, Pope Paul VI designated it as a cathedral when he established the Roman Catholic Diocese of Caguas. The cathedral was last remodeled in 1999 and remains a prominent landmark in the town.
You can walk around the site and appreciate the beauty of this 1930s architecture. Are you craving island living? Explore real estate in Puerto Rico.
4. Las Catalinas Mall
Las Catalinas Mall opened its doors in December 1997 with 80 stores. In 2023, the addition of a 123,000-square-foot entertainment space led to a rebranding as the Shops at Caguas. Now, you’ll enjoy over 100 stores,a food court with restaurants to suit every palate, and exciting attractions such as arcade games, go kart racing, and bowling.
Its location next to the Luis A. Ferré Expreso offers easy access. So stop by for some retail therapy,delicious food, and some fun with the family!
5. Centro Criollo de Ciencias y Tecnología del Caribe
If you like science and tech and enjoy learning how they enhance our lives, visit The Centro Criollo de Ciencias y Tecnología del Caribe (C3TEC). The Caribbean Creole Center for Science and Technology makes science and learning an interactive experience.
C3TEC is the first and only interactive center in Puerto Rico promoting the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) through informal education. The center welcomes curious people of all ages and hosts exhibitions and science labs to explore real-world issues.
Visit and learn more about topics like geology, global warming, and living organisms. Tour the green roof that showcases sustainable technologies using vegetation cover. Watch films and documentaries in the C3TEC theater and build your knowledge bank.
6. Caguas Real Golf and Country Club
The Caguas Real Golf and Country Club is home to all golf enthusiasts in the town. Established in 2002, it is a Parkland-style, 18-hole course designed by John Sanford. As you figure out your next move on this course, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the mountain and river views.
Since it’s in the Caribbean, the course is open year-round. Also, check out the driving range, clubhouse, and golf store.
7. Paseo de los Artistas
The Paseo de los Artistas or Arts Promenade is one of the city’s artistic attractions. On the third Saturday of each month, it transforms into an outdoor festival celebrating local artists.
Caguas organizes this art fair, to showcase local artisans’ works, along with music and food. Take in diverse artistic expressions such as poetry readings, theatrical performances, live music, and art installations.
Are you a food connoisseur? The Arts Promenade also hosts the Al Fresco Music & Culinary Show on the last Friday of each month. The event brings people together to feast on criollo (creole) food and innovative fusions of local and international cuisines. Coast through the various food stations, food trucks, and kiosks, and have a blast!
Visit Caguas, Puerto Rico
We’ve discussed some of the best things to do in Caguas, Puerto Rico. If you’re visiting or planning to stay, an adventure awaits you!
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Let’s discuss how we can make your real estate dreams a reality: