Parque de las Palomas
A charming Old San Juan plaza famous for its hundreds of pigeons and stunning ocean views, offering a unique feeding experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cleaner park, fewer crowds
Parque de las Palomas
Best Time
Cleaner park, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Old San Juan plaza famous for its hundreds of pigeons and stunning ocean views, offering a unique feeding experience.
"It's a pigeon park!!! They enjoyed every second of the pigeon park. I enjoyed it to, as it was still a beautiful corner of SJ."
🐦 Bring Pigeon Food!
Small bags of birdseed are perfect for feeding the pigeons. They'll flock to you!
📸 Capture the Moment
Hold onto your snacks! The pigeons can be quite enthusiastic when food is involved.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pigeon Spectacle
Hundreds of pigeons flock to this charming plaza, offering a unique feeding experience and photo opportunities.
Panoramic Ocean Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the ocean and historic Old San Juan from this elevated vantage point.
Historic City Walls
Explore the ancient stone walls that surround the park, offering a glimpse into Old San Juan's rich past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pigeons (and the Views!)
Timing is Key for Cleanliness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐦 Bring Pigeon Food!
Small bags of birdseed are perfect for feeding the pigeons. They'll flock to you!
📸 Capture the Moment
Hold onto your snacks! The pigeons can be quite enthusiastic when food is involved.
👟 Watch Your Step
Be mindful of the pigeons, especially if you have young children. Some birds may have injuries.
✨ Enjoy the Scenery
Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful ocean views and the historic architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐦 Bring Pigeon Food!
Small bags of birdseed are perfect for feeding the pigeons. They'll flock to you!
📸 Capture the Moment
Hold onto your snacks! The pigeons can be quite enthusiastic when food is involved.
👟 Watch Your Step
Be mindful of the pigeons, especially if you have young children. Some birds may have injuries.
✨ Enjoy the Scenery
Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful ocean views and the historic architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Parque de las Palomas to be a charming and unique spot in Old San Juan, particularly loved by children for its abundant pigeons. While the feeding experience is a highlight, some note potential issues with cleanliness and the sheer number of birds. The beautiful ocean views and historic walls offer a serene counterpoint to the lively pigeon activity.
"'It's a pigeon park!!!" - one of my 3 children, very gleefully. They enjoyed every second of the pigeon park. I enjoyed it to, as it was still a beautiful corner of SJ, with a view and some cute artsy features. It's worth a quick stop by, for sure. We stopped by again in the morning a few days later for a second visit and saw a worker very thoroughly power washing the whole area. This definitely helps with the cleanliness and smell."
Cherie Hornfeck
"Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park) in Old San Juan—an idyllic small plaza where pigeons flutter freely amid historic city walls and panoramic ocean views.
Dozens—or even hundreds—of pigeons roam freely, often perching on visitors and fluttering in from cozy nesting holes carved into the ancient stone wall"
Kristina B
"A cool spot to visit if you're in Old San Juan... The view is beautiful, and it's a relaxing place to hang out for a bit. But be warned...the second those pigeons see you with the little bag of food, it’s game over 😂. They will come for you like it's a scene from a Hitchcock movie. Fun experience overall, just hold onto your snacks... and maybe your sanity!!!"
EL_CABE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque de las Palomas is located in Old San Juan, easily accessible by walking if you are already in the historic district. If arriving by cruise ship, it's a pleasant walk from the piers. Taxis and ride-sharing services can also drop you off nearby.
Parking in Old San Juan can be challenging. The closest public parking garages are La Cochera and Doña Fela. From there, it's a short walk to the park.
Yes, there are public buses that serve Old San Juan. Once you arrive, Parque de las Palomas is a walkable destination within the historic streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Parque de las Palomas is a public park and entry is free for everyone. You only pay if you choose to buy food for the pigeons.
The park is generally open during daylight hours. It's an outdoor public space, so there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best visited when there's natural light.
While not always guaranteed, small vendors sometimes sell bags of birdseed near the park. It's often easier to bring your own from a local market or pet store.
Parque de las Palomas is generally safe, but like any tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Visitors are advised to watch their children and belongings.
📸 📸 Photography
The most popular photo ops involve the hundreds of pigeons, especially when they are feeding or perched on visitors. The panoramic ocean views and the historic walls also make for beautiful shots.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more picturesque glow.
As a public park, casual photography is welcome. For professional shoots, it's always a good idea to check local regulations, though it's unlikely to be an issue for personal use.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Parque de las Palomas itself does not have food vendors. However, Old San Juan is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls just a short walk away, offering a wide variety of local and international cuisine.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy while relaxing in the park. Just be mindful of cleaning up after yourself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pigeon Phenomenon
While the sheer number of pigeons is a draw, it's also worth noting that some visitors have observed that certain birds may have injuries or missing limbs. A local tip suggests being respectful and mindful of the pigeons' well-being during your visit.
Scenic Vistas and Historic Charm
The park is nestled within the historic architecture of Old San Juan, with ancient stone walls forming a significant part of its character. These walls not only provide nesting spots for the pigeons but also serve as a tangible link to the city's rich past. Walking through the park, you can appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit