25 Interesting Facts About Puerto Rico to Know Before You Visit

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Rico? If so, you may be surprised to learn that this small Caribbean island attracts millions of visitors every year, generating billions of dollars in revenue. But there’s more to Puerto Rico than just beautiful beaches and year-round sunshine. In fact, there are a wealth of interesting facts and quirks about this island that you should know before you go. From its rich cultural history to its stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine, Puerto Rico has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into 25 cool and interesting facts about Puerto Rico that you may not have known.

General Travel Facts

1. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the Caribbean Sea, making it a popular travel destination for U.S. citizens.
2. The island is approximately 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, with a population of over 3 million people.
3. The official languages of Puerto Rico are Spanish and English, but Spanish is the most commonly spoken language on the island.
4. The official currency used in Puerto Rico is the U.S. dollar, which locals refer to as either “peso” or “dollar”.
5. American citizens do not require a passport to travel to Puerto Rico.

History & Geography Facts

1. One main island and several smaller islands make up the archipelago of Puerto Rico. The main island is about 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, making it roughly the same size as Connecticut.
2. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. This means that while it is not a state, it is still a part of the United States.
3. The island was originally inhabited by the Taíno people, who called it Borikén. In 1493, Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain and named it San Juan Bautista.
4. San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, having been founded in 1521. The city is renowned for its historic architecture, such as the fortifications of Old San Juan.
5. The island has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Check out our guide to find the best time to visit Puerto Rico.
6. Puerto Rico is known as the “Island of Enchantment” due to its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people.
7. Puerto Rico is home to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It covers 28,000 acres and is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals.
8. The island is easily accessible from the mainland United States, with flights from major cities such as New York, Miami, and Atlanta.

Culture & Sightseeing Facts

1. The Arecibo Observatory, located in northern Puerto Rico, was once the largest single-aperture telescope in the world until its collapse in 2020.
2. The island is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly in the genres of salsa and reggaeton.
3. Vieques, a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico, is home to the bioluminescent bay. It is one of the few places in the world where you can see bioluminescent plankton that glows in the dark when disturbed.
4. Puerto Rico is home to many historic forts and landmarks. Two examples are El Morro and La Fortaleza in Old San Juan, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
5. The island is also known for its beaches, including Flamenco Beach in Culebra, which has been ranked one of the best beaches in the world.
6. Puerto Rico has a rich artistic and literary tradition. Notable Puerto Rican authors include Julia de Burgos, Pedro Juan Soto, and Esmeralda Santiago.
7. Puerto Rico is a popular destination for cruise ships, with many ships stopping in San Juan as part of their itinerary.

Food & Drink Facts

1. Puerto Rican cuisine is a unique blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taíno influences. Some popular dishes include mofongo, arroz con gandules, and lechón.
2. Puerto Rican coffee is known for its rich flavor and is considered one of the best in the world.
3. The Tripleta sandwich is a popular Puerto Rican street food. It is a combination of ham, beef, and chicken, along with lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
4. Puerto Rico is home to many unique desserts. Two examples are tembleque, which is a coconut pudding, and quesito, which is a sweet cheese-filled pastry.
5. Puerto Rico is home to many food festivals throughout the year. Additionally, one of them is the Saborea food festival in San Juan. This festival celebrates the island’s cuisine and local chefs.

Final Thoughts

After learning about these 25 cool and interesting facts about Puerto Rico, it’s easy to see why this Caribbean island is such a popular travel destination. From its rich cultural history to its stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine, Puerto Rico truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic forts and landmarks, relaxing on some of the world’s best beaches, or sampling some of the island’s unique dishes and desserts, Puerto Rico has it all. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island, make sure to take the time to discover everything that Puerto Rico has to offer. With so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed!