With the return of the Criollos de Caguas to the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN), the city of Turabo adds new chapters to its nearly 250-year legacy.
The Caguas valley has been the birthplace of prominent figures and the setting of historic events, so before you catch them on the court, we've put together a brief look to help you learn more about what's known as the Center and Heart of Puerto Rico.
The current sports landscape in Caguas
Caguas, birthplace of figures such as the poet José Gautier Benítez and the writer Abelardo Díaz Alfaro, and artists such as the noted bolero singer Felipe Rodríguez "La Voz", is also recognized for its significant presence in Puerto Rican sports.
The Criollos de Caguas have proven to be a formidable force in winter baseball. The team added to its collection of 21 winter championships with its 2023-2024 season title, which join its five victories in the Serie del Caribe.
Although they have not matched the success of their baseball counterparts, the Criollos de Caguas BSN franchise ran from 1969 to 2008 before merging with the Piratas de Quebradillas.
Their greatest achievement during that period came in 2006, when they won their first title, over the Cangrejeros de Santurce.
The return of the Criollos to the BSN
In August 2023, the board of governors of the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) approved the transfer of the Grises de Humacao to the town of Caguas, where the team became the Criollos de Caguas. 🏀
📲 Find out more: Full game schedule here
This marks the return of professional basketball to the center and heart of Puerto Rico, where no official team has played since 2008. The approval has the financial and logistical support of the Municipality of Caguas and a group of new franchise owners.
Heading into the elections
Politically, Caguas has been governed by the Partido Popular Democrático (PPD) since William "Willie" Miranda Marín took office in 1997, followed in 2010 by his son and current mayor, William "Willito" Miranda Torres.
The latter will seek reelection in 2024 and will be challenged by Roberto López Román of the Partido Nuevo Progresista (PNP), Dora Colón of Proyecto Dignidad, and an as-yet-undeclared candidate from the Movimiento Victoria Ciudadana (MVC).
Things to do in Caguas
If you want to spend time in the criolla city, you have several options, whether you're going on your own, as a couple or with family.
Those who enjoy a quieter, arts-focused day can visit the Museo de Arte de Caguas (MUAC), located in the picturesque Casa Amarilla on Calle Padial, and then walk the paths of the Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas, set on the grounds of the former San José sugar mill.
For those who prefer something more high-energy, the Sector Sixty6 entertainment center at the Shops at Caguas (formerly Las Catalinas Mall) offers a large arcade, 14 bowling lanes and the longest indoor karting circuit on the Island.
Where to eat in Caguas
Caguas is no exception when it comes to food and drink, with multiple options around the municipality's historic downtown.
1. Cosechas Food Truck
Cosechas is just one of three spots at Espacio Kautiva, a corner on PR-189 run by chef Luis Díaz. The menu range is impressive, from Asian dishes to seafood and Puerto Rican fritters.
2. La Asturiana
Every town has its beloved local bakery. In Caguas, that's La Asturiana, with its brick-oven bread and an extensive selection of pastries and sweets.
3. La Mordida
Authentic tacos, birria, nachos, burritos and margaritas: you shouldn't leave Caguas without trying one of the dishes at La Mordida, on Calle Celís Aguilera.
4. Mr. Sándwich Bistro
Among the most recognized restaurants in Caguas is the well-known Mr. Sándwich, located in the barrio Bairoa, with its extensive menu of meats, fish and seafood, flavorful mofongo and, yes, sandwiches.
How to get to Caguas and avoid the traffic
For visitors without their own vehicle, we recommend route E30 of the Metro Urbano, which picks up passengers at the Tren Urbano station in Cupey on the way to the Terminal Francisco Pereira in Caguas, a short walk from the municipal public square.
Municipal bus services from the terminal also connect the urban center with the surrounding barrios. Schedules and routes are available at this link.
Explore on your own
If you're interested in exploring more of Caguas and its many attractions, visit our interactive map, or our directory where we can suggest things to do based on what you're in the mood for today.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
