One of my favorite activities perfect for a sunny weekend is visiting a botanical garden. Working from home means spending a lot of hours looking at the same four walls, which leads to inevitable cabin fever. Botanical gardens are a perfect option to surround myself with the zen ambiance and stimulating scenery that I need to ground myself
A Perfect Escape from Cabin Fever
On a recent trip to Puerto Rico, we came across the Jardin Botanico y Cultural William Miranda Marin in Caguas. This botanical garden blends nature and Puerto Rican culture in beautiful exhibits of foliage, lakes, architecture, and even a museum of the indigenous populations of Puerto Rico.
Entrance and First Impressions
At the entryway, you are greeted by an exquisite fountain (which provided the most refreshing breeze on the scorching day we visited) right by the ticket booth. Unfortunately, part of the garden was closed due to maintenance and repairs. However, our tickets were adjusted to a discounted price of $3 per person. They also offer golf cart pick-up/drop-off services for an additional $6 per person. This place is extremely affordable and worth every penny. Upon entering, you’re met with pergolas adorned with flowers and a long boardwalk lined with tall palm trees.
Exploring Caguas: Accessibility and Highlights
While Caguas is not close to the touristy areas of San Juan, it is an easily accessible town about 30 minutes away from the San Juan Airport area. If you can get a car rental, visiting Caguas is worth your time as it is a metro town full of restaurants and shops. This offers a perfect opportunity to explore what Puerto Rico has to offer beyond the typical touristy visit. If you’re looking for a venue to host your event, the garden may be a perfect option. Its beautiful views, entertainment, and ample space can accommodate birthday parties, weddings, and many more events. The garden offers indoor facilities to host events regardless of the weather.
Favorite Sections & Photography Opportunities
Outdoor Pool of Lilies and Koi Fish
One of my favorite sections of this garden was the outdoor pool of lilies and koi fish. Surrounded by romantic stonework and a charming well, it felt like a scene from a medieval love story. If photography is your thing, than I highly recommend bringing a camera along for some stunning photos. My Canon EOS Rebel T7 never fails to capture the moment
Romantic Stonework and Medieval Vibes
The garden is the perfect spot for all types of photography. They offer photography sessions for events like proposals and engagement shoots. While we did not book these services, you can bring your own photography and camera gear , your own photographer or choose one of their recommended photographers.
Cultural Significance and Historical Insights
Symbolism in the Garden's Structures
The symbolism of each structure in the garden relates to Puerto Rican culture. A highlight of the tour was the museum of the indigenous populations of Puerto Rico . The rich knowledge and remarkable artifacts were truly amazing.
The Indigenous Museum
I have always wanted to learn more about the Taino, and this museum offered plenty of interesting information. Specific plants being grown in the garden play key roles in Puerto Rican cuisine.
Puerto Rican Cuisine and Plant Life
The garden is built on a nineteenth-century sugar hacienda. Its ruins, including a restored slaves’ barracks and old sugar mill equipment, represent Puerto Rico’s black history. As you walk through, you need to pay close attention to find the trinity of Spanish, African, and Taino culture that makes Puerto Rico unique.
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Since the garden is pet-friendly, our dog also got to enjoy the day. He seemed to sense the serenity around him and was biiiig chillen. There were plenty of shady spots for him to rest. However, be cautious on hot days as some surfaces can get very hot. We bought our travel carrier and dog booties for him, which made it easy to carry him around. If the entire park had been open, the walking trails would have offered ample space for a good outing.
Final Thoughts and Future Visits
If you couldn’t tell, I loved this place. We will definitely return someday to see the full park and hopefully catch one of their events. I read that the garden is decorated for Christmas, and I bet it’s a sight not to miss. So if you’re like us, take the whim and visit this place. Let me know what you think!
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