Street Art & Graffiti

Santurce has some of best street art and graffiti artists in the world! While its hard to let you know exactly where you’ll find it – since great works may be ‘here today and gone tomorrow’, the largest concentration is on Fernandez Juncos Avenue from parada 22 near Pavia Hospital to the Tren Urbano.  Make sure…

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Arcángel Mural

Although not technically along Avenida de las New mural for the cover art of Arcángel’s Los Favoritos 2 is on every bus stop along Ponce de Leon Avenue.

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Community + Fantastic Coffee
= Café Comunión!

Ponce de Leon Ave @ Pda 24 y Cobian’s Plaza  If you haven’t stopped by Café Comunión Coffee Shop across the street from Cobian’s Plaza, its about time you visited Santurce’s new celebrity barista Abner Roldán – featured on the cover of the April/May issue of Barista Magazine.  Easy to find, just in between Lote 23…

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Café Comunión – Coffee Shop

Café Comunión – Coffee Shop If you haven’t stopped by Café Comunión Coffee Shop across the street from Cobian’s Plaza, its about time you visited Santurce’s new celebrity barista Abner Roldán – featured on the cover of the April/May issue of Barista Magazine.  Easy to find, just in between Lote 23 and Abracadabra – next to…

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Reopens in April! – Café Sidibou

Ponce de Leon Ave @ Pda 23 y Cobian’s Plaza Update: Although its hard to believe from the photo after Maria – Café Sidibou is about to reopen bigger and better than ever!  Watch for the fantastic new murals and twice as much seating as Santurce welcomes a little bit of Tunisia across from Cobian’s…

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John Travolta in Santurce

Calle San Jorge @ Parada 25 La Casona Restaurant has been converted to The Gold Coast as the setting for the new John Travolta and Mira Sorvino film ‘Speed Kills’.  You’ll see the crew trailers at the corner of Ponce de Leon and Calle Mayol, but filming is taking place at the classic restaurant on Calle…

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‘No Manches’ Mexican Restaurant

Mexican & International Cuisine @ Parada 25 Its on a rather deserted stretch of Fernandez Juncos – but its just after the Coro de Niños and La Casona just past the gas station and sign shop. We haven’t been yet, but the menu looks great, prices reasonable and decor is bright and inviting. Looks like the menu…

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Sarah Urbain @ Hotel San Jorge

Santurce Urban Traditions @ Parada 25 Artist Sarah Urbain with her new mural project at Hotel San Jorge – featuring traditional street scenes from the Santurce neighborhood. Its still in process from the hotel entrance at 605 Calle San Jorge around the corner to Ponce de Leon Avenue and Zal Si Puedes bar… If you’re down…

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Street Theater @ Hidrante 454

454 Calle Saldaña @ Parada 24 Just around the corner from Abracadabra – Casa Fantasmes and Hidrante 454 Gallery are becoming another great arts venue with the performance of  “Meme de Guerra” on Thursday Dec 23rd.   This is in addition to their ongoing exhibition of Brandon E Cannon’s ‘Unceremonious System’ upstairs in the main gallery space.…

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Lote 23 Food Trucks

Lote 23 Food Trucks Just across the street from Ciudadela – make sure to stop by and check it out!   Described as a ‘Hipster Plaza del Mercado’ by more than one visitor – its actually a much different concept – and a really great complement to its more established neighbor down the street at…

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Lote 23 – Food Truck Park & More!

Ponce de Leon Ave @ Parada 23 Just across the street from Ciudadela – make sure to stop by and check it out!   Described as a ‘Hipster Plaza del Mercado’ by more than one visitor – its actually a much different concept – and a really great complement to its more established neighbor down the…

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PB Ysla – Chef José Mendín

Ave De Diego @ Parada 22 Work is underway to convert the former Mumbai Restaurant location into Puerto Rican Chef José Mendín’s new restaurant on Ave. De Diego near the PR Museum of Art and Fine Arts Center.   Not much information yet – but you can get an idea of what’s coming from their existing PUB BELLY…

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Estorbos Update – Calle Mayol

Calle Mayol @ Parada 25 The community around Plaza Inmaculada and Inmaculada Elderly are thrilled that the abandoned National Paper building has finally been demolished after being featured on the front page of La Primera Hora earlier this year. Rumors in the neighborhood say that the empty lot will be one of the public-private initiatives for…

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Café Sidibou

Ponce de Leon @ Parada 24 Newest addition to the international food scene is Café Sidibou – just across the street from Cobian’s Plaza. Painted in the traditional blue of the ancient city of Sidi Bou Said – just north of Tunis, Tunisia in the area of ancient Carthage.  Famous for its tradition of eleborate blue doors…

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Pica Power!

Calle San Jorge @ Parada 24 All of San Juan came out to cheer for the Puerto Rico Olympic team as they crossed through the Arts District on their way to a HUGE celebration at the Coliseum at Parada 28. While the crowd went wild for the entire team and their success in Rio, the loudest…

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Santurce es Ley 6

Calle Cerra @ Parada 15   Join the party the weekend of March 11 – 13, 2016 for the sixth celebration of Santurce es Ley mural festival in the Tras Talleras neighborhood.  Easy to find – just start at Ponce de Leon Ave near the Conservatory of Music. The water tank mural is on the…

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Proposed Santurce Theater District

March 9th – 10am – MAC @ Parada 18 Public hearings were held on Wednesday March 9, 2016 for the proposed Senate Project 1556. While they were well-intentioned – citing problems such as lack of parking, abandoned buildings, public transportation, lack of economic/creative development of many communities of Santurce and potential unintended consequences of specific changes to zoning/laws….…

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José Enrique Re-opens!

Plaza del Mercado @ Parada 20 After their recent adventure with the tax department, José Enrique is finally open again just one short block from Plaza del Mercado!

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Mauro Dance School

Ponce de Leon Ave @ Parada 24 Next time you’re at Abracadabra, stop by and say hello to their new neighbor! Mauro Dance School has been in Santurce for many years – moving from one space to another, so its nice to see them in the site of the former Gosen Supermarket.   With studios…

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Plaza del Mercado turns 100

Calle Dos Hermanos @ Parada 20 Nov 20 – 23, 2014 Join the celebration as Santurce celebrates 100 years of ‘La Placita’ with a weekend filled with music, food and dancing in the streets. The traditional market is easy to find – just go to Ponce de Leon Avenue and find the Big Blue Church (Iglesia…

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Santurce es Ley

Calle Eliza Cerra @ Parada 15 Although the official festival was held a few weeks ago, Santurce el Ley continues with visiting Italian artist – Cruz painting (upper portion near scaffolding) during his visit to Santurce. If you haven’t seen this year’s street gallery – make sure to visit soon! Click here for a full…

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Urban Art Hotel Project

Ponce de Leon @ Parada 25 Attention Urban Artists! Caribbean Consulting and Avenidadelasartes.com are helping to reposition Hotel San Jorge & The Hostel @ San Jorge as an Urban Art/Design Hotel with budget accommodations for travelers who want accommodations in Santurce. With its location at Parada 25 and easy access to Abracadabra, La Respuesta, El Local, Loiza Street and other…

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Artist In Residence

Hotel San Jorge @ Parada 25 Matthew Reid is the first artist in Hotel San Jorge’s summer ‘Artist in Residence’ program. Based in NYC – Matthew worked on the Hostel section of the hotel, the empty lot next to Santurce Discount and will continue on Fernandez Juncos.  Any interested artists should contact rholm@caribbeanconsulting.com with proposal and…

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La Lupe @ Zal Si Puedes!

Zal Si Puedes @  Parada 25 The fun continues at Santurce’s most intimate club with ‘La Lupe’. Join the fun – Friday and Saturday nights around midnight.    

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What’s Up Santurce?

  Santurceando Event Guide @ All Paradas Finally we have a comprehensive guide to what’s going on in Santurce. This is an interactive guide where you can add you own events, so lets make sure that Santurceando gets as much support as possible! Check it out and EXPLORE Santurce – santurceando.com

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Zal Si Puedes

Hotel San Jorge @ Parada 25 Wed – Sunday 10pm until??? Our new favorite gay/straight-friendly bar is so small you’ll be friends with everyone by the end of your first drink! Zal Si Puedes is local slang for “Escape if you Can…” and chances are you won’t be in a hurry to leave. Friday nights…

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Queer Film Fest

Metro Theater @ Parada 18 November 14 – 20, 2013 There isn’t much information online yet – but we wanted to give you a ‘heads up’ about this year’s gay film festival. Check out their website and visit the festival on your way to Tia Maria, SX, VIP, Circo or Splash! San Juan Queer Film…

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Fantasmes – Crowdfunding Album

“Bare Bones” – Fantasmes Live at Libros AC from Libros AC on Vimeo. Fantasmes Indie Rock Experience @ Parada 24  Our favorite indie rock band is raising money to produce their new album. Check out their page at Indiegogo.com and throw a few bucks their way to keep indie rock alive in Santurce.  Not only…

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El Taco Restaurant

Calle del Parque @ Parada 24 Stop by the new Mexican fast-food restaurant just a few steps from Ponce de Leon across from the Victoria Espinosa Theater. Full selection of tacos, burritos and your Mexican favorites plus very good Pollo Asado! Open from about 11am til about 7pm so great choice before or after the…

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El Departamento De La Comida

Calle Las Palmas @ Parada 17 (walk 10 min) This is a little out of the way, between Petrus Gallery and RH Todd (Walgreens/Walmart) in one of the most exciting emerging art areas. Remember ‘Alphabet City’ in NYC and its underground art scene? You’ll feel the same vibe here with lots of storefront galleries, art installations…

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Murals Featured in Dallas News

Ave De Diego & Ponce de Leon @ Parada 22 The new mural inspired by Julia de Burgos is featured in the lifestyle and travel section of The Dallas Morning News. Located on Ave. De Diego – just next to the entrance to Heaven and Hell and across the street from Tia Maria, its the work of  the…

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Andromeda Opens & Closes!

Ponce de Leon y Calle Bolivar @ Parada 24 Only open since April, this restaurant never really caught on and it looks like the building is now being converted to condos. We still have Godfather II across the street – and it looks like very soon we’ll have a new affordable condo option!  

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Santurce es Ley Murals

Ponce de Leon y Calle Saldaña @ Parada 24 The ‘Santurce es Ley’ art festival added some interesting art to the former Gosen Supermarket next to Abracadabra Restaurant. Check it out while you’re waiting in line for weekend brunch and don’t miss the two cute coqui’s!

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Rock Under the Stars

Ciudadela Plaza @ Parada 23 The crowds turned out on April 19th for the second Rock Under the Stars concert at Cuidadela. This is supposed to be a monthly event, so check out dates when you’re shopping at Selectos or enjoying the coffee bar, sports bar, pizza oven, sushi bar, burrito bar, deli, burger bar,…

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Santurce’s ‘Top Ten’ Chef

Plaza del Mercado @ Parada 20 The news keeps getting better for the local culinary scene! José Enrique has just been listed as one of the top 10 best new chefs in the United States by Food and Wine Magazine. Check out the article and stop by the restaurant which is now open from 11am Tues…

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Hire an Artist Expo – Apr 6th

April 6, 2013 – 5pm Abracadabra @ Parada 24 Stop by Abracadabra on Saturday April 6th at 5pm if you’re an artist or performer looking for work, or even better if you need to hire artists, performers and creative talent!  Even if it is not for a performance-oriented position – what could be better than…

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10th Int’l Mime Festival – Apr 12-14

Centro de Bellas Artes @ Parada 22 Enjoy the 10th International Festival of Mime and Physical Theater with artists from Australia, Chile, France, Poland, USA and Puerto Rico at the Fine Arts Center from April 12-14, 2013. Admission is only $20 and since language is no problem, its great for EVERYONE! Check the Fine Arts…

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Santurce es Ley Festival – Apr 4-7

April 4-7, 2013 All Santurce Festival – Paradas 12 -24 Celebrate the latest private initiative to promote the Santurce Arts District! ‘Santurce is Law’ is a grass-roots effort to promote micro-projects that might not normally get public attention. If you want to see what’s happening on the ‘cutting edge’ of the Arts District – make…

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Festival Casals – BRAVO!

Fine Arts Center @ Parada 22  As an ex-New Yorker, I have to admit to being somewhat of a culture snob – and while I’ve always appreciated our Symphony Orchestra, I’ve usually seen room for improvement.  Well – no more!  With the closing concert of Verdi’s Requiem, I’m a convert! Under the direction of Maximiano…

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54th Puerto Rican Theater Festival

Fine Arts Center @Parada 22 Calle del Parque @Parada 24 Cambalache – March 14-17 & 22-24, 2013Teatro Victoria Espinosa- Calle del Parque Oh Natura  – April 5-7 & 12-14, 2013Teatro Victoria Espinosa- Calle del Parque Sueño Eterno – April 19-28, 2013Sala Experimental – Centro de Bellas Artes Ballet de San Juan – May 10-12, 2013Centro de Bellas Artes There is no website listedCall 787-724-0700…

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José Enrique Expanded Hours

Plaza del Mercado @ Parada 22 I’m in Plaza del Mercado 3 or 4 times a week doing consumer research with tourists and never realized one of San Juan’s ‘hidden secret’ restaurants is open for lunch from Tuesday through Friday.   If you were intimidated by the lines at night, stop by for lunch and…

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La Respuesta – FANTASMES

Indie Rock @ Parada 24 As our local indie rock scene gears up for their treck to SXSW (South by Southwest)  – you don’t need to travel to Austin to join in the fun! You can get a preview as FANTASMES performs at La Respuesta March 8th at 9pm – $8.00 entrance.  Just find the Arriví…

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World Puppetry Day Festival

 Puppet Festival – March 6 – 24 World Puppetry Day takes place all over the world on March 21st. Celebrate throughout March with special events in Santurce! Mar 6th – Parada 20 (1416 Ponce de Leon, across from Central High School)Facebook: Titeretada 2013 Mar 15 & 16th – Parada 24 (Abcadabra – 1661 Ave Ponce de Leon)Facebook: Banners & Cranks…

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European Film Fest – Mar 14-20th

European Cine @ Fine Arts Miramar – Parada 12 More than 40 European films will be presented for the first time in Puerto Rico! Sponsored by Alliance Française, check the website or facebook page for schedule of films, conferences and special events! Website: http://hechoeneuropa.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hechoeneuropa

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Bright Lights, Big City!

Big Changes @ Parada 23 – Ciudadela! The lights went up at the entrance to Ciudadela and there is lots of new activity!New owners have lowered prices and sold almost all available units at prices that haven’t been seen in Santurce luxury condos for years!Great location, easy parking, 24 hour gym and supermarket are already…

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Santurce – Foodie Tourism

Abracadabra ‘local counter café’ @ Parada 24 The lines form outside of Abracadabra every Sunday morning for their famous brunch even before they were mentioned in this week’s Washington Post article ‘Puerto Rican Food Beyond Rice and Beans’ Besides Abracadabra, they mention José Enrique at Plaza del Mercado and the emerging foodie scene emerging along…

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Boutique Blues?

Designer Boutique @ Parada 22 Color blocking is in process at the new location of Luxes Lighting Boutique between Ciudadela and the PR Museum of Art. This is across from the big empty lot where the ‘Altos de Cangrejos’ neighborhood used to be located before greed and the housing boom expropriated the entire community for…

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HORRIBLE!!!!

Parada 22 @ the corner of ugly and obscene! It was bad enough when tourists looking for the Fine Arts Center could identify the area by the decrepit Art Deco building that was rotting away at the entrance to the Fine Arts Center.  But this is HORRIBLE!  Who had the bright idea to remove a…

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DondeSea Food Truck

New Food Truck at Stop 23 Check our our new neighborhood food truck in the parking lot between Farmacia Luis and Ciudadela. Choice of sandwiches or burgers with some creative touches. All include sandwich, chips and soda.  Stop by and check it out!

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Andromeda Bar & Restaurant

New Restaurant & Bar at Stop 24 Signs just went up announcing the new Andromeda Bar & Restaurant on the corner of Ponce de Leon and Calle Bolivar. This area has lagged a bit, but now that Ciudadela is filling apartments, we’re happy to see development in the area around Cobian’s Plaza.

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El Laboratorio de Artes Binarios

Parada 18 – Ponce de Leon y RH Todd I’ve noticed the very unusual digital designs for a long time, but just passed by when the gate was open and discovered a new arts venue around the corner from the Museum of Contemporary Art. Check out their website at www.labartesbinarios.com for yet another private arts…

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Benicio Del Toro & Oliver Stone

Parada 22 – De Diego Avenue  Click on the image for this weekends presentations and films as Oliver Stone and Benicio del Toro raise funds for the Puerto Rico Museum of Art. For more information see the museum’s website at www.mapr.org .

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Tutti Italia ???

Parada 25 – Fernandez Juncos at Calle Cataluña Does anyone know what the new Tutti Italia sign promises across from the new home of Mauro Productions on Fernandez Juncos? We can’t decide if its a new Italian Restaurant with parking near Plaza Inmaculada or maybe Italian designer furniture? Any info would be appreciated, but we’ll…

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HELP ME PLEASE! Estorbo Publico!

Parada 22 – Fine Arts Center We interview tourists every week and they all agree that this is a Public Eyesore at the entrance to Bellas Artes.  What should be a shining example of Santurce’s ART DECO architecture is a blot on the entire ARTS DISTRICT.Rumors abound as to why this building is allowed to…

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Puerto Rico Queer Filmfest

Parada 18 – Metro Theater November 15 – 21, 2012 The fourth edition of San Juan’s International Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Film Festival will feature films from Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Canada, USA, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Isreal, Iran, Japan and Australia. The schedule isn’t post yet, so check out their website at www.puertoricoqueerfilmfest.com for full…

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Halloween Street Party!

Parada 18 – Calle Condado The annual Halloween parade has found a new home and was a night to remember! The blocks between Ponce de Leon and Fernandez Juncos were full of friendly monsters and some truly frightening spectacles – especially after the crowd from the Lady GaGa concert arrived and partied all night long!

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Salsa Classes in Santurce!

Parada 26 – YMCA near Tren Urbano Station Its amazing how difficult it can be to find salsa classes in Puerto Rico! Now, its easy with inexpensive classes every Tuesday and Saturday at the San Juan YMCA. Just take the M3 bus to the final stop at Tren Urbano’s Sagarado Corazon Station. Go to the…

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Adios Art Casita…

Parada 25 – Ave Fernandez Juncos & Calle Cataluña This old wooden casita has long been a favorite of street artists, but is now demolished, fenced in and pending development. We can expect to see more and more of this as developers anticipate the construction of the Tren Liviano which should connect Old San Juan…

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Festival de Cine Internacional – Metro Theater

Parada 18 – Ave. Ponce de Leon METRO THEATER – OCT 17 – 24, 2012 Feature Films, shorts and documentaries from around the world. Click here for Website and Program 

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Los Muros Hablan – Urban Art Festival

Paradas 18 – 23 – Various Locations International Festival of Urban Art: Oct 4-14, 2012 Join artists from around the world for two weekends of street art. Artists from Puerto Rico, Spain, Argentina, Mexico and Belgium and explore their works between Plaza del Mercado & Calle Hipodromo (parada 20)  and Calle del Parque (parada 24).  Works…

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Festival de la Palabra – Oct 4-7, 2012

Parada 22 – PR Museum of Art Join the fun and explore the wonders of words at this Spanish language festival at the Museum of Art. Check their website for details: www.festivaldelapalabra.com  

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Libros AC Opens

Parada 23 – 1510 Ave. Ponce de Leon787-998-5130   :::::   787-998-5132  Website: www.librosAC.com Libros AC, the new Bookstore, Bar & Bistro had its grand opening tonight. Located just across the street from Ciudadela, this is a great addition to the neighborhood.

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Levels Disco Opens Oct 6th

Parada 22 – Ponce de Leon (across from Fine Arts Center) Latest incarnation of the old Teatro Puerto Rico. Special guest artists and great DJs should make this the place to be!

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Colegio de Abogados Restaurant

Parada 15 – 808 Ave Ponce de Leon 787-530-1814 There is a new restaurant at the Colegio de Abogados building – 808 Ponce de Leon Ave. Featuring Puerto Rican cuisine at popular prices. Parking Available. 

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Street Artist AR.JEI.EM.SI

 Street Art @ Parada 23  Stop by the abandoned building across from Ciudadela and next to the new Libros AC for the new work by street artist AR.JEI.EM.SI which is should be completed in the next few days. Click here for AR.JEI.EM.SI’s  YouTube channel

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Bombay becomes Mumbai…

Name Change at Parada 22 They haven’t even opened and our new Indian restaurant has had a name change from BOMBAY to MUMBAI. Is this clever marketing to get people to do a ‘double-take’ – or are they just being politically correct? See for yourself on Ave. De Diego between Ponce de Leon and the Museum of…

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Inaugural Concert at PR Conservatory of Music

New Concert Hall Opens at Parada 15 Sunday September 23rd brings the long anticipated inauguration of the new theater at the Conservatory of Music. If you don’t go to the inaugural concert on September 23rd, check their website for upcoming events! Click here for the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music Website (español)

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International Film Festival – Fine Arts Miramar

World Cinema comes to Parada 12 September 27 – Oct 3, 2012 Check out the best of international cinema at the new Fine Arts Cinema on Ponce de Leon near stop 12. Click here for official website, schedule and times

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Bombay coming to Stop 22

New Indian Restaurant at Parada 22 The sign just went up with the name of the newest entry on Santurce’s ‘restaurant row’ along Ave De Diego between the Fine Arts Center and Puerto Rico Museum of Art.  We’ll announce opening dates as soon as info in available! 

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La Hoja eco-bar

New Club at Parada 20  Nightlife continues to move into the area between Plaza del Mercado and Centro de Bellas Artes with the opening of La Hoja eco-bar.    Promoting organic wines, natural juices and use of recyclables – it will be interesting to see if the club crowd embraces this as a new wave…

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Levels Disco

New Dance Club at Parada 22 The former Teatro Puerto Rico (across from Centro de Bellas Artes) on Ave Ponce de Leon has a new name!   This theater has gone through several reincarnations as Asylum, El Teatro, Liquid, Red, and a temporary home for a sex expo that was evicted from the convention center.…

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Mercado San Andrés

Planned San Andrés Gastronomic Center between Parada 22 and ‘Downtown Condado’ They have finally announced a location for the proposed MERCADO SAN ANDRÉS gastronomic center in Santurce. It will be at the corner of De Diego Avenue and Calle Antonsanti in the large empty lot where the ‘Altos de Cangrejos’ neighborhood used to be (next…

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Tren Liviano Update

Plans to take abandoned buildings between Parada 25 and 26 Signs went up last night with public notice that several abandoned buildings between Calle Mayol (Plaza Inmaculada) and Tren Urbano are in the process of being expropriated due to ‘estorbo publico’ or public nuisance. These include the former National Paper building (shown above had been…

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Tren Liviano Office Opened

Showcase of Arts District Plans at Parada 25 Wednesday night’s opening ceremonies at the new Tren Liviano (light rail system) offices and public displays at Stop 25 on Ponce de Leon and Calle San Jorge. The office is just across the street from Hotel San Jorge and the new executive offices of the Salvation Army.…

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Libros AC at Ciudadela!

New Bookstore, Bar and Bistro at Parada 23 Just across the street from Blanche Kellogg Plaza, the new Bookstore, Bar and Bistro is nearing completion at 1510 Ave. Ponce de Leon. Check their progress of friend them on their Facebook page – Libros AC.

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SELECTOS in Ciudadela!

Selectos opens ‘Urban Market’ in Ciudadela at Parada 23. Walk through Blanche Kellogg Plaza past Planet Fitness or by car through Calle Antonsanti (near museum and Bistro de Paris).  Check out their unique trolly system for getting your packages from the store down to the parking level!

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Mauro Productions New Home

Mauro Productions moves to Parada 25 Mauro Productions, which has been located at the Masonic Temple on Ponce de Leon has announced a new home base. The new facility will be their own building one block away at 1761 Fernandez Juncos Ave (corner of Calle Cataluña). Although not as grand as their former space, its…

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Bangkok & Bombay in Santurce!

Condado Restaurant moves to Parada 20San Juan’s favorite pan-Asian restaurant has found a new home at the corner of Fernandez Juncos and Calle Hipodromo.Easy to reach by bus: M3, M2, T5, M21, B16 (stop across from Central High School and walk one block on Calle Hipodromo), or  Fernandez Juncos buses T9, M2, M21 with a…

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Parada 25 Update

Salvation Army @ Parada 25Improvements are happening fast at Stop 25.The new headquarters and community center for the Salvation Army will be inaugurated on September 1st with a march from their existing headquarters in Puerto Nuevo to the new location. This is located just across the street from the Hotel San Jorge and the soon-to-open…

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Marche de las Siluetas

Marche de las Siluetas Luis Torrellas – 2000 Look for this sculpture as you enter Miramar from Condado Lagoon. In front of Hotel Las Americas, Hotel Miramar & Bistro 606. Parada 12: From the bridge underpass to the Hotel Miramar.

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Miramar Historic DistrictParada 12 / Stop 12

One of San Juan’s favorite neighborhoods. Take a stroll through architecture from the late 1800’s through mid-century modern.    La Giralda Francisco Valines Cofresí – 1910 

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Capilla Nuestra Señora de Lourdes

  Capilla Nuestra Señora de Lourdes This geo-gothic church was built from 1906-1908 by the archetect Antonín Nechodoma. Nechodama was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright and built many of the large family homes in Miramar and Santurce. Open from 11am – 1pm     Parada 12: Ponce de Leon and Miramar Avenue

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Gone but not forgotten!

Unknown Artists at Parada 24Does anyone know the graffiti artist that did this mural at Stop 24 just behind Godfather II Restaurant on Calle Santa Ana y Bolivar?  Its been painted over – but we would love to give credit to the artist since this is one of our favorites. If you know this artist or…

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Tren Liviano

New Headquarters at Parada 25Looks like they are completing work on the new headquarters of the Tren Liviano (light rail system) at Parada 25 next to the Hotel San Jorge. Although the actual train will run on Fernandez Juncos Avenue, this office should have information, displays and hopefully an actual passenger section on display.

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La Giralda

La Giralda Just up the hill from the neo-gothic church on Miramar Avenue. Built in 1910 by architect Francisco Valines Cofresí in a French revival style as ‘the lookout’ with views of Condado lagoon and San Juan. Now used for offices, not open to the public. Parada 12: 651 José Martí St – Just up the hill from…

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Is it Art? = 7

Street Art as Parada 26Marginal next to Tren Urbano Terminus near Calle Rosario 

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Fine Arts Miramar

Fine Arts Miramar One of San Juan’s two cinemas dedicated to foreign films. Luxury seating plus café. Senior discounts. Parada 12: 654 Ave Ponce de Leon www.caribbeancinemas.com

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Is it Art? = 6

Street Art near Parada 26Fernandez Juncos Avenue near Calle Pedro de Castro 

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Is it Art? = 5

Street Art near Parada 26Calle Pedro de Castro near Fernandez Juncos Avenue 

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Casa Aboy Cultural Center

Casa Aboy Cultural Center One of San Juan’s oldest cultural centers built as a tropical chalet by architect Miguel Ferrer from 1910-1012 as a private residence overlooking the lagoon. Open Mon- Friday 11am – 2pm and special exhibition hours. Parada 15:  900 Ave Ponce de Leon – near Calle Hoare and Conservatory of Music  Website:…

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Teatro Ambassador
Parada 18 / Stop 18

Originally a movie theater – the Ambassador has been renovated as a cabaret-style theater. Popular for cabaret, comedy and intimate concerts known locally as bohemias.        

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Edificio Aboy – Art Deco

Edificio Aboy – Art Deco Also known as ‘El Faro’ or the lighthouse, this art deco apartment building was constructed in 1937 by architect Jorge Julia Passarellis. Most noted for the glass block stairway that resembles a lighthouse. Listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.  Parada 15: 603 Calle Aboy. Located on the side street…

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¡Ay Bendito!

Crab without legs at Parada 23Although the ‘cangrejo’ or crab is the official symbol of Santurce, these sculptures along Ponce de Leon haven’t gotten much respect. Originally they had feet, which were easy to trip over (but putting bad design aside) – almost all have been stolen and assumed to be in some recycle foundry…

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Compañía de Baile Andanza
Parada 18 / Stop 18

One of San Juan’s premier contemporary dance companies. Performances usually held in the Fine Arts Center (Bellas Artes) or their smaller space on Calle Condado.    

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Conservatory of Music

Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music Puerto Rico’s premier music education facility with concert hall and frequent public concerts overlooking Condado Lagoon.  Parada 15: 951 Ave Ponce de León, Miramar Website: Conservatorio de Musica de Puerto Rico (español)

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Joe’s Deli?

Filming at Stop 24No – its not really a new ‘New York Style Deli’ at parade 24 – but about six months ago when the film crew converted Gosén Supermarket for a Boar’s Head deli meat commercial.  You can see the TV ads on many cable stations for their Boar’s Head International Deli Meats.  Now…

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Conservatory Recital Hall

  Conservatory of Music – Concert Hall San Juan’s newest performing arts venue next to the Conservatory of Music. Parada 15 – Ponce de León Ave and Calle Colberg Website: Conservatorio de Musica de Puerto Rico (español)

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Metro Theater
Parada 18 / Stop 18

Catch the glamour of Hollywood’s golden era at our ‘Art Moderne’ movie palace. Originally operated by MGM – now multi-screens showing first run movies and Metropolitan Opera simulcasts! Metro Theater – 1939 – Thomas Lamb    

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Victory Garden

Victory Garden Building Spanish Revival style residential building constructed in 1936 by architect Pedro de Castro. Listed in National Registry of Historic Places. Parada 15 – 1001 Ave Ponce de León corner of Calle Colberg. Article: Edificios en San Juan, Puerto Rico – National Park Service

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Is it Art? = 3

Street Art near Parada 26Calle Pedro de Castro between Fernandez Juncos and Ponce de Leon. 

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Petrus Gallery

Petrus Gallery The first major private gallery established in Santurce. Parada 15 – 726 Calle Hoare (walk away from the lagoon and cross Ave. Fernandez Juncos to Calle Las Palmas and take a left one block). Website: www.petrusgallery.com

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La Respuesta

Street Art at Parada 23Fernandez Juncos Ave at Calle del Parque 

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Art Deco
Auditorio Salvador Brau
Parada 20 / Stop 20

One of the best examples of Art Deco in Santurce, the Telecommunications building opened their theater in 1949 as a broadcast studio. Building officially designated as Landmark in 2003.    

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Graffiti – Stop 15

Grafitti & Street Art After you visit Galeria Petrus, return by Calle Cerra and find several very interesting examples of local artists.  Parada 15 – Calle Cerra between Calle Las Palmas and Fernandez Juncos Ave. Website: See other examples in our Public Art & Graffiti page

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La Respuesta

Street Art at Parada 23Entrance to La Respuesta on Calle Bolivar near Fernandez Juncos 

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Goodbye Supermercado Gosén

Supermarket Closes at Parada 24After several years as the only supermarket in the area, Gosén Supermarket is closing next week in anticipation of the new Selectos market in Ciudadela.  Scene of many film shoots – most recently you can see it as ‘Joe’s Deli’ in the national commercial for Boar’s Head ethnic cold cuts.  

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Central High School
Parada 20 / Stop 20

Silent film star Gloria Swanson was a student at the original Central High School before she went on to star in ‘Sunset Boulevard’ and become a Hollywood legend. Now a ‘magnet school’ for graphic design and visual arts.    

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Metro Theater

Metro Theater Classic ‘Art Moderne’ movie palace built in 1939 by architect Thomas Lamb for MGM films. Now multi-screen cinema showing first run movies and Live Simul-cast of Metropolitan Opera performances. Parada 18: 1255 Ave Ponce de León across from Museum of Contemporary Art Website: Caribbean Cinemas

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Is it Art? = 2

Street Art near Parada 23 Tribute to Miles Davis.Ponce de Leon across from Cobians Plaza. 

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Ballets de San Juan
Parada 22 / Stop 22

One of San Juan’s leading ballet companies. Look for their classic performances and annual ‘Nutcracker’ at the Fine Arts Center (Bellas Artes).    

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Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

Museum of Contemporary Art of Puerto Rico (MAC) Built as a ‘Georgian-revival’ style school in 1916 by  architect Adrian C. Finlayson, the building was converted into the museum in 2002 with a growing collection of contemporary art and visiting exhibitions. National Registry of Historic Places. Parada 18 – Ave Ponce de Leon and RH Todd  …

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Carlitos!

Street Portrait at Parada 24 Fernandez Juncos Ave and Calle Bolivar 

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La Casona Mosaics

Mosaics at Parada 25La Casona Restaurant is adding mosaics to their wall at Stop 25 on Fernandez Juncos Avenue – one block from Coro de Niños and Hotel San Jorge, stop by and check out the progress. More photos on next page…

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Centro de Bellas Artes
Parada 22 / Stop 22

For more than 50 years, ‘Stop 22’ has been called the ‘TIMES SQUARE’ of San Juan… Our Fine Arts Center (Bellas Artes) has 4 theaters ranging from cabaret and experimental to theater and concert venues.    

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Ambassador Theater

Ambassador Theater Former movie house, now an intimate cabaret-style theater used for light comedies and intimate concerts. Parada 18: 114 Ponce de Leon Avenue 

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Condado Confusion

Condado at Parada 18?  Wrong!Someone should let the bus shelter advertisers know which side of the highway they’re on… These posters have been around for quite a while promoting Ponce de Leon as part of Condado! Where are the ‘Bienvenidos a Santurce’ signs? 

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Adanza

Compañía de Baile Andanza  San Juan’s modern dance company with performances at their own performance space on Calle Condado, the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art and Centro de Bellas Artes. Parada 18: 657 Calle Condado – Suite #3 Website: Compañía de Baile Andanza (español)

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Is it Art?

Street Art near Parada 24Either you love it or hate it…Ponce de Leon across the street from Abracadabra “Counter-Café”.

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El Laboratorio de Artes Binarios (LAB)

El Laboratorio de Artes Binarios (LAB) New interdisciplinary design studio dedicated to development of innovative formulas and solutions using digital design and fabrication techniques and processes. Parada 18 – 1206 Ave Ponce de Leon Website: www.labartesbinarios.com

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Pink Payphones?

Street Art at Parada 23This art installation just showed up on March 23, 2012.Ponce de Leon across from Cobians Plaza.

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Museo de Arte
de Puerto Rico
Parada 22 / Stop 22

San Juan’s major museum dedicated to Puerto Rican and International Art. Also home to Raul Julia theater and celebrity chef Mario Pagán’s Laurel Restaurant.      

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Danza de Fuego

Danza de Fuego Danza de Fuego Sculpture by Carmen Ines Blandet. Parada 18: RH Todd intersection with Calle Condado just on the Santurce side of the highway on your way to the Museum of Contemporary Art.  

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Adios Tortuga…

Street Art at Parada 22De Diego Avenue across from Tia Maria Liquor Store has been painted over.

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Ciudadela &
Blanche Kellogg Plaza
Parada 23 / Stop 23

The center of Santurce’s redevelopment with condos, gym, supermarket and condos. Built around a 1906 Mission Revival school, the plaza features murals by mosaic artist Eddie Ferrraioli.  

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Baldorioty Mural

Murals under Expressway Classic murals depicting Tainos playing ball.  Men on one side of the road, women on the other. Parada 18: The underpass where Condado Avenue becomes RH Todd Avenue as you walk to the Museum of Contemporary Art and Parada 18 from Condado.

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About this project…

Welcome to our new project for the San Juan, Puerto Rico’s Arts & Culture District.  The Santurce district is ‘on the other side of the highway’ from the Condado tourism area and runs from Miramar (near the Puerto Rico Convention Center and Condado Lagoon) for about 4 miles to the Puerto Rico Coliseum and the…

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Map of Ponce de Leon Avenue

The arts district starts at ‘Stop 12’ in Miramar and continues for approximately 4 miles with the largest concentration of arts, culture, nightlife and entertainment in the Caribbean! Starting near the Puerto Rico Convention Center and Condado Lagoon, the route is easy to explore with the M3 Metrobus that runs all the way to the…

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