What to do in Primero

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Top places to visit

1. La Guancha

Paseo Tablado La Guancha is a boardwalk that hugs the shoreline of Ponce’s dazzling waterfront district, Playa Barrio. Experience life like the Ponceños and revel in the live salsa music, tasty street food and exciting beachside atmosphere. Visit the marina and rent a paddleboat or take advantage of the sweeping sea views from the observation tower.
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La Guancha

2. Hacienda Buena Vista

Sample locally grown coffee and learn about coffee production, both today and in the past at the Hacienda Buena Vista. This traditional coffee farm in southern Puerto Rico is one of the best illustrations of a centuries old industry. When Don Salvador de Vives formed the farm in 1833, he grew fruit. It wasn’t until later in the 1800's that coffee was first planted. The Hacienda Buena Vista hit its stride during the coffee boom of the 1880s. For the next fifty years the farm was considered one of the finest producers of coffee in the world, exporting to the United States, Europe and even the Vatican. Today visitors to the Hacienda will find 87 acres (35 Hectares) of fertile farmland, a series of restored historic buildings and a museum in the Hacienda itself.
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Hacienda Buena Vista featuring a house and street scenes as well as a small group of people

3. Parque de Bombas

This historic firehouse is named for the traditional hand-pumped water units once used on the island. Situated in Ponce’s town center, the Parque de Bombas is hard to miss. Considered by many to be one of the most iconic building in Puerto Rico, the small wooden structure is painted in vibrant reds and blacks, the traditional colors of Ponce. The former fire station houses a museum that unveils the history of southern Puerto Rico, and includes fascinating information about Ponce, the firefighters and the great fire of 1899. A visit to the Parque is a great excursion for history buffs and families with young children, who will enjoy the traditional fire trucks.
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Parque de Bombas showing street scenes

4. El Museo Castillo Serralles

El Museo Castillo Serrallés is a magnificent mansion that symbolizes the prosperity of Puerto Rico’s rum-distilling industry. Established in the 1930s as the home of one of Ponce’s wealthy magnates, the Castillo Serrallés overlooks the entire city from the El Vigía hilltop. Peruse the exhibits housed within the sumptuous villa and learn about the sugar boom that fueled the immense success of rum distilleries such as Juan Serrallés’ Don Q Rum. Stroll around the symmetrical gardens and appreciate the timeless elegance of the terraces and courtyards.
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El Museo Castillo Serralles

5. Plaza of Delights

Spend some time in Ponce’s Plaza of Delights (Plaza las Delicias) and the city will show you its heart. Landmark colonial architecture dominates the city’s main square, while leafy Indian laurel trees and pretty gardens provide a feeling of serenity. Take a break from the bustle of downtown Ponce and enjoy people-watching in the city’s favorite meeting place. The plaza is split into two halves, Luis Muñoz Rivera Plaza to the north and Frederico Degetau Plaza to the south.
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Plaza of Delights

What to do in Primero

Popular places to visit

La Guancha

La Guancha

Take a stroll down Ponce’s waterfront boardwalk and experience its lively dining scene, local music, playgrounds, boat rides and views out to Isla Caja de Muertos.

La Guancha
Hacienda Buena Vista featuring a house and street scenes as well as a small group of people

Hacienda Buena Vista

Visit this historic coffee plantation to learn about one of Puerto Rico’s most enduring industries.

Hacienda Buena Vista
Parque de Bombas showing street scenes

Parque de Bombas

This small, wooden fire station in the heart of Ponce is a historical and architectural monument.

Parque de Bombas
El Museo Castillo Serralles

El Museo Castillo Serralles

Discover an empire built on sugar and rum as you explore the intriguing galleries and luxurious refurbished rooms in this 1930s Spanish Revival mansion.

El Museo Castillo Serralles
Plaza of Delights

Plaza of Delights

Ponce’s plaza of delights is true to its name, with heritage architecture, glinting fountains, tree-lined arcades and the scent of freshly baked pastries in the air.

Plaza of Delights
El Vigia Hill

El Vigia Hill

Climb up Ponce’s highest hill, crowned with an immense concrete cross, to relax in a tranquil garden and see a panorama of the city’s architecturally diverse streetscape.

El Vigia Hill
Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The delicately embellished cathedral crowning Ponce’s Plaza Las Delicias is a cherished landmark in the city and has a history stretching back over 300 years.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center

Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center

You can learn about the history of Portugués with a stop at Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center. While in this romantic area, find time to visit its shops.

Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center
El Vigia Observation Tower

El Vigia Observation Tower

Marauding pirates and seafaring merchants were once spied from this hilltop vantage point, which now features a monumental cross with a viewing deck.

El Vigia Observation Tower

Frequently asked questions

Is Primero worth visiting?
Primero has a unique blend of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into history, nature or local culinary flavours, there's plenty here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Primero?
After you've checked off major attractions like La Guancha, spend the rest of your day exploring the shopping and food scene in Primero.
What is the top tourist attraction in Primero?
The top tourist attraction near Primero is La Guancha, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Primero?
Three days in Primero is more than enough to enjoy the nearby highlights. Many travellers love La Guancha and Teatro la Perla, so why not check them out while you're visiting?
Is Primero a walkable neighbourhood?
Strolling around Primero is easy, with must-visit attractions like La Guancha and Teatro la Perla both within walking distance. Popular neighbourhoods like Ponce Centro and Segundo are also located only 0.64 kilometres and 0.97 kilometres from the centre of Primero, so you can keep your adventure going — no car required.
What are some activities to do in Primero with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Primero with kids.

What to do in Primero for adults?
Vicens Coliseum is one of the top things to do in Primero. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Primero?
Near Primero, La Guancha is an excellent spot for anyone looking to enjoy this area without spending a cent. Also, check out the local green spaces and other nearby neighbourhoods, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for their tips. It's one of the simplest ways to learn about the best free things to do in Primero.