José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum

For my brief two-day stop in Puerto Rico before heading to Wyoming’s snowy parks, I kept my plans simple. I wanted to explore the historic heart of San Juan, and it didn’t disappoint.

The old city is anchored by two remarkable forts: Castillo de San Cristóbal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro. I started with the latter, often simply called El Morro. It’s the larger and more impressive of the two, built in 1539 to defend against enemy ships approaching from Europe. Puerto Rico’s strategic location made it vital during the age of exploration, as it was often the first stop for ships crossing the Atlantic in search of fresh water and supplies. El Morro’s design is fascinating—a testament to the ingenuity of its time. Its walls once bristled with cannons ready to create a deadly crossfire with San Cristóbal against invading fleets.

El Morro’s history doesn’t end with the colonial era. During World War II, the U.S. Army adapted the fort for anti-aircraft defense, showing how its strategic importance spanned centuries.

After the forts, I wandered through the streets of old San Juan. The colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively atmosphere gave the city a unique charm. The vibrant hues of the architecture and the warmth of the people made it easy to lose track of time.

Now, I’m soaking up my last moments in the sun before trading palm trees for snowy peaks in Wyoming.Read more