Ponce

About

Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, was once the island’s main metropolitan center, a status which has bestowed the city with a wealth of culture. Head to the public square for the one-of-a-kind Lion Fountain, the mayor's residence, and the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And the iconic old fire station which has been converted into a museum. From the plaza, you can also take a trolley up to the Castillo Serralles, the former residence of the producers of Don Q rum, which is now a museum dedicated to the history of the sugar and rum industries. Or visit the Ponce Museum of Art, the best art museum in the entire Caribbean. And if indigenous culture is more your thing, the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center is the largest and the most important archaeological find in the West Indies. Of course, you can also enjoy plenty of sun and fun in Ponce. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, La Guancha Paseo Tablado, and grab a drink or bite to eat at one of the many bars and restaurants while taking in the view of the Caribbean Sea. The pier here is also the departure point for the weekend ferry to Caja de Muertos (Coffin Island or Dead Box Island).