Spending the weekend in San Juan with the family? With special events like the tenth edition of Circo Fest in Old San Juan, here is the perfect itinerary to make the most of your day.
Breakfast, brunch and ocean views
Start your day early with a walk along Paseo de la Princesa in Old San Juan while the city wakes up. The golden morning light falls on the historic walls, making for good family photos before the crowds arrive.
For breakfast, head to Tostado at its spacious Puerta de Tierra location, which has good parking and a brunch menu every day. Options range from traditional breakfast porridges to burgers with juicy beef.
The atmosphere is very casual and relaxed. You can walk in or make a reservation. Is your family into chocolate? Head straight to Chocobar on Calle San Francisco.
Other spots for a group breakfast: El Huevo and Abracadabra in Santurce. Comedor in Miramar also has good sandwich options.
Things to Do at midday and where to have lunch
Escape the midday heat with a visit to the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, where you can currently see exhibitions such as "El agua no tiene enemigos" by Ponce artist Jean 'Baco' Ortiz opening March 7, and "Puerto Rico Plural," a permanent exhibition tracing the evolution of Puerto Rican identity from the 18th century to the present.
Another good option is Museo Casa Blanca, the former home of Juan Ponce de León, Puerto Rico's first governor.
If you have kids with you: San Juan has Viking Arena, an indoor Viking-themed park with ziplines, trampolines and play areas, and Zonactiva Kids, a sports center with classes and activities designed specifically for young children.
For lunch, try the mofongo at Deaverdura. Still looking for a hearty breakfast? Order the Bandeja Jíbara at Mercado La Carreta for a brunch with Puerto Rican flavor.
Another option, if you are near La Perla, is La Garita Yaz, with its rustic space highlighting authentic Puerto Rican cooking surrounded by the historic walls and the Atlantic Ocean.
If you are with a large group, go for a pizza spot. Pirilo in Condado is a reliable choice. Bigga, La Pizarra, La Paz and Via Appia's in San Juan also serve the famous Honey Pepperoni.
Afternoon activities
In the afternoon, head to Escambrón beach, one of the most accessible beaches for people with disabilities, with views of El Morro and good light at sunset.
You can also stop by Parque Luis Muñoz Rivera right at the entrance to Old San Juan, a large quiet stretch within the city where you can walk, ride a bike, sit on a bench or let the kids play.
📆 What events can I go to this weekend in San Juan?
🎪 Circo Fest in Old San Juan: A cultural festival dedicated to circus arts, with live performances, acrobatics and shows for the whole family. It will be in Old San Juan this weekend before continuing its tour of the Island.
🖼️ Free admission day at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico: On Sunday, March 9, during its "Access for All Day," you can enjoy the museum and workshops at no cost. Spend a family Sunday with workshops, talks, guided tours, music and storytelling as part of the "El arte y la mujer" edition.
✌️Yoga day at the MAC: That Sunday, recharge at the second yoga session of the year in the interior courtyard of the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. The class will be led by Vasti Mikal at 5:00 p.m. and admission is free. Bring your mat, a towel and a water bottle.
Also on Platea: Plan ahead with our March events guide
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
