Paseo de la Princesa

Bask in the nighttime glow of historic San Juan. Old San Juan is the oldest settlement within Puerto Rico, established in 1508 by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. The star attraction is Paseo de la Princesa, a 19th-century walkway just outside the city walls that’s home to antique streetlamps, street vendors … and plenty of inspiration for hand-holding.

El Yunque National Forest

Less than an hour’s drive from San Juan is El Yunque National Forest, the only rainforest that belongs to the US Forest Service. Set foot in this exotic 28,000-acre wonderland, where a tropical monsoon climate thrives, then take a 45-minute hike up Mt. Britton -- at more than 3,000 feet high, this lookout will leave you feeling like you’re on top of the world.

Rio Camuy Cave Park

Keep the outdoor exploration going with a visit to Rio Camuy Cave Park. This intricate cave system, about a 1.5-hour drive from San Juan, is definitely worth the trek. Discovered in 1958, the cave park is home to underground waterways carved out by the third-largest underground river in the world. Just make sure you call before going; the park closes if it gets too rainy.

Plaza de Armas

Enjoy a stroll through Plaza de Armas (“Arms Square”), one of the main squares in San Juan. The big picture-taking attraction here is the plaza’s round fountain. The structure has 4 statues, more than a century old, each depicting one of the 4 seasons.

Bacardi Rum Tour

You can’t travel to Puerto Rico's capital without trying Bacardi rum. Sample the very best at the Bacardi Rum Factory. Head for Highway 22 West, then get off at the exit for Catano Road -- you’ll spot a little brown Bacardi sign, and the Bacardi factory just beyond.

Cafe Carli Concierto

Chill out with smooth jazz sounds at Cafe Carli Concierto in Old San Juan. The really cool thing about this stylish bistro and bar is that it’s owned and run by Carli Muñoz, a pianist for the Beach Boys back in the day. Today, Muñoz entertains guests with his own live piano accompaniments, while you dine on entrees such as rosemary jus lamb chops and blackened ahi tuna with Cajun spices.

Catamaran Tour of Puerto Rico

To truly savor this Isle of Enchantment, take a Puerto Rico catamaran tour, enjoying views of the El Yunque mountains and the eastern coastline. Upon anchoring, plunge into crystal-clear waters for snorkeling ops along popular diving spots like Cayo Lobo. You’ll also want to get in some kayaking time along the bioluminescent Laguna Grande bay.

El Morro Castle

Get in a little San Juan history at the towering El Morro Castle. This 16th-century citadel lies in the northwestern-most point of Old San Juan, beckoning with its iconic garitas and intriguing military history spanning 400 years. Be prepared to climb steps and steep slopes; it’ll be worth it for the scenic views of the Atlantic that await.

La Fortaleza

Another must-see site is La Fortaleza, the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico; it also happens to be the oldest executive mansion in continuous use anywhere in the world. Built between 1533 and 1540, La Fortaleza began as a military fortification for San Juan, to withstand potential attacks from Carib Indians and marauding European powers of the day.

Ritz-Carlton Casino

Try your luck at the Ritz-Carlton Casino, the largest casino in Puerto Rico. Open 24 hours a day, this high-stakes casino, tucked inside the grand Ritz-Carlton hotel in San Juan, offers traditional games like blackjack and 3-card poker, along with more than 329 slot machines.