Museo de las Americas

Cheap and incredibly informative, but not the most convenient hours :(. I only got to go for an hour because they close at 4 and have an hour and a half from 11:45-1:00 that they are closed, but in that hour I went through one information dense exhibit and one art exhibit that are so worth the $4 I spent. If you want to go, definitely schedule out 2-3 hours, especially if you love to read into museums in depth.

A beautiful and powerful museum- educating and taking the visitor through the history of the island and its global impact. Excellent!

The museum is undergoing renovation, but it doesn't interfere with one's enjoyment of the place. There's a $6 fee. The exhibits are divided into 8 Salas and cover the scope of Puerto Rican history. I especially liked the exhibition of Henrrique Méndez Cąratini. Not a part of the museum, but on the 3rd floor of the complex is an exhibition of La Borinqueña, the PR super-heroine created by Edgardo Miranda Rodriguez. The area has other museums, El Morro, and the Viejo San Juan Cemetery, to name a few. Plan on 4-5 hours in the area to catch all the sights.

Has a ton of interesting and beautiful exhibits to see. Would not expect a little kid to stay interested/do well inside.

An important worldly cultural institution that goes through the history and art of the Americas. Strongly recommend and this museum has incredibly influenced me.

It is an old soldier barracks that have been restored. The museum is on the second floor only. They have 8 exhibit rooms but 3 were closed when we visited. The rooms are really cool, all have AC. It's not that great of a museum, but for $6 entry fee, it's okay. Bathrooms coffee shop and gift store available on the first floor.

This is my second time at this museum in eight years. It provided nice respite from the scattered rain showers of the day. I couldn't pay cash at the front desk, I had to go to the gift shop. We also found out that two galleries were closed for renovations, which is sad because they sounded very interesting. But the exhibits were laid out nicely, it was clean, and did tell a story. The first exhibit seemed to be the most educational and inclusive of different native cultures. Another exhibit had a huge doll house with such intricate details it was mesmerizing. I enjoyed Gallery 5 which had a modern story of PR female artists who met in Mexico. Then it jumped to gallery 8 which was not as memorable. The building was completed in the 1860s and use to house Spanish/PR military troops. It was the barracks, but the central square is very typical Spanish. They have a nice coffee shop and ample space for pictures in the square. The museum staff was open and professional. For six dollars a person, it's probably one of the better museums to visit in San Juan.

Great museum for art, history, and culture. Very affordable (I think it was $6 GA or $4 for students- they don’t take cash at the main entrance though). Highly recommend for anyone visiting San Juan! Focus is not limited to Puerto Rico but the Americas more broadly, if that isn’t obvious lol.

Really cool museum and definitely worth checking out. I had no idea Puerto Rico had such a deep and complex history, so it was super interesting to learn how everything evolved over time. My favorite part was the traditional hut -- it was cool to sit inside and imagine what life was like back then. I also liked reading about the different tribes and cultures, especially how some of the artists studied in the U.S. and then brought their experiences back home.

We enjoyed our visit and learned a lot about the indigenous peoples that first settled in Puerto Rico as well as the folk art and graphic artists of the island. Most displays had English translations which was helpful. The museum is going through a major renovation so only half the galleries are available, but the entry fee is very reasonable and it is well worth the trip.

Highly underrated museum. Well worth the price of admission ($5 or $6 - I can't remember but it wasn't much). Permanent exhibits provide great historical perspective into Puerto Rico's place in history of the Americas. There were also several special exhibits of local artists and printmakers that were outstanding. One of which was closing on the day we visited and two others to close within the next month, but I am sure they will be replaced with similarly intriguing exhibits. The museum focuses on Puerto Rican artists and their influences over time. Well air-conditioned if you need a break from the heat and convenient to everything. Do not miss the opportunity to visit here.

This is a fairly small (I think only because they are renovating a lot of the rooms right now) but cool local museum showcasing art from around Latin America as well as contemporary art from local and international artists. On the day I visited, there were only four rooms open. Three of those rooms had contemporary/modern art on display; they were ok, but I am not huge into contemporary/modern art, so I went through them pretty quickly. However, I spent a TON of time in the fourth and last room, which was mostly dedicated to Puerto Rican art (with a bit from around the Caribbean and Latin America). They have a pretty big mask collection, which I really liked, as well as displays representing local life as it once was. There was also a super cool mural that I spent a ton of time admiring. There's a nice gift shop at the end that I bought a book for my daughter that was made by a local artist. The bottom floors have local eateries and a coffee shop that are pleasant. All in all, a nice diversion (with a/c!) in old San Juan.

Went to this sweet street museum last week and it was a delight. We were short for time sadly- leave yourself at least 2 hours. The entry is organized and receptionist kind. It is $6 and card only. A cute museum cat greeted us upon arrival. After you get checked in, you make your way from exhibit to exhibit in a circle like path around the courtyard. Each exhibit is different and a great sample size. We spent about 10-20 minutes per exhibit depending on how much there was to read and/or watch. I like the diversity- some of the displays were very old while others more recent. It painted a picture of the history. I do wish we had a map or guide. Perhaps I missed it? So we could have been more strategic about the path we took. The place was clean and well staffed. People were respectful and the end was a cute little gift shop with cards, aft and classier gifts. I picked up some cards to send. Overall it is worth a stop if you're in the area.

This is a very cool museum! They had three installations we were able to see: 6, 7, and 8, which made me think there were more but probably under construction. The cost is only $6 per adult to get in. Each gallery has a completely different theme. Not a huge museum, but it had a great variety of work. Local artists and ancient pieces were featured in individual galleries throughout the building. I would give yourself some time here to thoroughly enjoy the space.

Only $6. You will want between 1-2 hours. Really great exhibits on the different American Indian cultures and Puerto Rican cultures. The descriptions of the artifacts and artwork do a nice job explaining the influences both historically and culturally. The only complaint was one room of Puerto Rican art only had Spanish names and descriptions. It was the only exhibit that wasn't bilingual. I would recommend planning it for the afternoon to get out of the peak afternoon sun and heat.

This was right behind touring the forts for me. As a visitor to the island, I admittedly didn't know much Puerto Rican history. This museum was so helpful! I got to see the African influences, native Taino culture, and how the colonization and Christian faith helped form the current culture and people of Puerto Rico. A few of the exhibits were closed when we went, but it was still so worth it! During Covid masks are required in the exhibits, but they have AC so it's not an issue. The museum is on the second floor, but the first floor has a coffee shop and a cafe for food and refreshments before or during your visit.

I likely have the same angle and capture that many people before me have posted. But I thoroughly love the color contrast and architecture of the building taking a tour. It's right across the street from the fort.

I thoroughly enjoyed this museum visit. My party arrived at opening on a weekday during the holiday weekend. The exhibits were very detailed and insightful. It was very educational, especially the Cultural exhibit. Most of the exhibits have both English and Spanish. But some do not have English translation. Even without the translations, the artifacts can still be observed and enjoyed. Parking The location is across the street from a parking lot. It's easier to get in early (especially on holiday weeks) to make sure you get parking if you're driving into the city. There were a few closed bathrooms on the main floor so be sure to use the one in the exhibit before leaving. Overall it's a beautiful museum and it well done.

Museo de Las Americas always fails to live to its promises and expectations. Although a lot of its contents is visually interesting, its textual information is always meager and generalized. One African exhibit immediately opens with the promise to describe the effect of slavery in Puerto Rico. Inside, there is little of that. Just one case includes items supposedly from PR, but the rest is all about continental African art, customs, power and music. Even that with nearly nothing about location, age and actual use. The local guide had little to add when questions were asked. Just a few of the exhibit halls are open with contemporary art that is nice but not memorable. Curious articles in the hallways have little more than a source tag with no dating or history. I could have made the same comments from previous visits before Covid, so that fails as an excuse. Senior admission is just $4, and that is about its worth.

This is an amazing place in a very historic building. We loved every exhibit we saw but the exhibit by Imna Arroyo called "Travesías" was especially powerful and moving. It will only be there until June 30th so go if you can! Las Artes Populares en las Americas is a permanent exhibit and was also another one of my favorites. Truly an incredible place!

We had a brief visit to this museum that made me wish we had allowed more time in our schedule. Easy to get to and reasonable price for entry. They have art and some artifacts that presents different history pieces of the island (colonization, African heritage etc). They are separated into different gallery rooms with themes. The first gallery we visited had no staff but the second we visited the person in the room led us through the whole things and explained much of it and even responded well to different questions we had about the artist and some of her own opinions. She suggested which other galleries we should visit with our limited time frame and we were so happy we asked. Definitely recommend. I would allot at least 2 hours but if you're curious and get a good guide in the different rooms maybe at least 3.

This is a "must visit" for tourist visiting San Juan. Omg, I was in awe of all of the beautiful, historical and present art that is Puerto Rico. The artists portrayal of historical figures, of events, of articles was simply amazing.,, and the tour guides, they themselves are artists, in that they were able to relay the true essence of the story/message/visual representation that was being told. I'm in awe... I don't know who to thank, so I'll say, "thank you all", for your dedication to the arts... and especially to " Alonso", follow your dream man, you have a story to tell, the world needs to hear it.. Viva la Puerto Rico, viva la!!

I came here YEARRRRS ago when I was about 15.. and I remembered there wasn't that much ppl here.. It is beautiful though. I came here again, for SANSEEEE wepppa!!! & IT WAS PACKED! Had a mini flea market and they had beautiful Puerto Rican art... Nice place to visit during big events! Or even if you would just like to walk around!

Very informative! It's only $6 and is open all day. I stumbled across it on my way back to my hotel. They have several expos, including one called "La Herencia Africana." I am African so was particularly interested in that one, and found it very informative. I did not know that Puerto ricans also had American Indian roots. I only had time to check out one expo but the other ones looked equally interesting. And don't worry, although most of the writings is in Spanish, the expo had an English translation under each item.

Wow, this place was beautiful, spiritual, and deep. I felt like I got in touch with my other half. Some parts of the museum were emotional. They touch a lot of beautiful roots of culture. They even have amazing artist paintings and beautiful history rich pieces of art. This is a beautiful place to start the day, we first started the day at Don Ruiz and decided to check the museum out. Each exhibit has AC which was great, as you walk between each room you get to be away from the heat. I recommend bringing or purchasing water bottles, my fiancé and I found our selfs getting a small heat head ache and it was most likely from being dehydrated. They also have a very amazing gift shop, the stem punk buttons are awesome. You also get a student discount, so be sure to bring your student ID I believe it cuts the price of admission by half which is really great.

What an amazing Museum. My family and I absolutely loved this museum. We visited this attraction and were able to see renderings of Artist Jose Alicea's work depicting the lives of Puerto Ricans. In addition to the artist works there were also plenty of other artist. The Agricultural contributions Mexico and Latin America have made to the world were highlighted. In addition the Museum had separate galleries highlighting the African contribution to the culture and life of the people in the Caribbean and Latin America as well as the Religious contributions. Overall I was extremely impressed by the Museum and the educational experience they provided. I highly recommend this place for all, adults and children.

Museo de las Américas is a neat history and art museum in downtown San Juan. Here you can explore various rooms and exhibitions detailing the development of life and culture in the Americas, as well as on the island of Puerto Rico specifically. Learn about the indigenous tribes, the European settlers, and the evolution of a distinctive Latin American culture. Exhibitions include artwork, clothing, household items, pottery, and other visual aids to help you learn about and experience the history and culture. Admission is relatively inexpensive, so pay a visit if you're in the area and want to learn!

A small museum worth the trip. Watch the 20 min video in the 1st gallery about Peruvian sculpture Felipe Lettersten & his journey through the Amazon creating statues of willing tribes. Closed on Mondays & has AC.

Its a beautiful landmark so pretty and colorful and big i remember seeing it in a music video i am puerto rican and never had a chance to come to this lovely place . im so glad i was able to have a chance to come

This a great Museum, have 8 exhibits: 4 permanents exhibits (1) Indian's in America (6)African Heritage (7)Conquest and Colonization of P.R. (8) Folk Arts of America, plus 4 temporary exhibits. The price are good $6 Adult, $4 children, students, seniors. This is a must see Museum.

This museum is outside of El Murro, and was a good brief introduction to the history of cultures of the Americas. It wasn't one of the best museums I've been to (it is not the MET or any of the Smithsonians), but it was an easy way to get a simple overview of all the different cultures that resided in Latin America. I think there were about 6 rooms you can walk into and learn about the history and culture. Two rooms featured art from Puerto Rico (one was a photography exhibit of a handful of Puerto Ricans in their everyday life), another was a guest exhibit of his Venetian Masks (the artist actually came into the exhibit which was kinda cool). I think two of the rooms were only in Spanish, and they said they were still working on English translations, so may be that will be changed in the future. There is a student and senior discount I believe. It was about ~$3 per person, which wasn't too bad. The odd thing was the very overly sales-like museum staff who approached us at the front of the museum to advertise the museum's exhibits to us. I would not go out of my way to come here, but I would stop by if you're in the area and you have an hour to spare. The coffee shop at the main level courtyard of the museum is a spectacular way to relax after your visit.

I loved all the exhibits that were open during my visit here on the Fourth of July. Great cultural experience.

AWESOME!!! SUPER AWESOME! Small, quaint, lots to learn. Beautifully maintained, beautifully staffed. Professional, courteous. A gem, a true hidden gem!

Definitely worth checking out! It's located right across the street from The El Morro fort. There's a delicious coffee shop to get you started than head upstairs where they have 8 exhibits. Each room is quite unique. We only paid $3, well worth it! We saw the fashion art exhibit- beautiful! And the slavery exhibits were very moving.

First of all, the museum is located at Cll Beneficencia, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico. It is showing the address incorrectly on the map. This is a wonderful museum! There are galleries on native peoples of the Americas as well as a good exhibit on African art and the colonial period in Puerto Rico. The permanent exhibits are really well done and there are a couple of temporary exhibits on contemporary art. Its a very inexpensive way to learn a bit about the art and culture of different peoples. As a bonus, it gets you out of the hot sun (or rain in our case) and into cool. air conditioned rooms in an old historic building. If you like art or history museums, you'll enjoy it.

Loved this museum! We wanted to check out the Native American exhibit and were surprised that they have a lot more than just the Taino in there. We were expecting it to be just the Indigenous Caribbean tribes, but found a lot on North American tribes as well. There were two beautiful handcrafted dugout canoes from Suriname in the hallway, as well as an exhibit of Puerto Rican Folk Art. Really enjoyed this museum.

Only three dollars entry fee. Not the best museum ever but if you have the time it is certainly worth it. Some very interesting exhibits but you won't need more than an hour or so for the whole thing. Definitely better for Spanish speakers but ok for English speakers too.

Just left this place and was very impressed. The fashion art exhibit was spectacular with enthusiastic staff. The music exhibit American Sabor was very informative and plenty of features to listen to fabulous music. This is a great place to visit and is near the Fort so you can do both.