Parque del Tercer Milenio
A 25-acre urban park with historic armory, playgrounds, and wildlife, offering ocean and city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Parque del Tercer Milenio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 25-acre urban park with historic armory, playgrounds, and wildlife, offering ocean and city views.
"Fantastic park, very spacious and a surprising haven for wildlife!"
🚶♀️ Explore the Armory
Don't miss the historic 18th-century armory for a glimpse into the past.
🦀 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for iguanas and crabs; they're a unique park feature!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Armory
Adjacent to the park
Explore an 18th-century armory, a tangible link to the island's rich military past.
Spacious Greenery
Throughout the park
Enjoy 25 acres of open space, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
Ocean and City Views
Park perimeter
Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the vibrant city skyline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Future Redevelopment Plans
Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Armory
Don't miss the historic 18th-century armory for a glimpse into the past.
🦀 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for iguanas and crabs; they're a unique park feature!
🌊 Beach Access
A small beach is accessible from the park, perfect for a quick dip.
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking is available for a small fee, typically around $5.00.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Armory
Don't miss the historic 18th-century armory for a glimpse into the past.
🦀 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for iguanas and crabs; they're a unique park feature!
🌊 Beach Access
A small beach is accessible from the park, perfect for a quick dip.
🚗 Parking Fee
Parking is available for a small fee, typically around $5.00.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the park's expanse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parque del Tercer Milenio offers a spacious urban escape with potential for wildlife sightings and scenic views. While some visitors note areas needing maintenance, a significant redevelopment project is underway to revitalize the historic Normandie Hotel and surrounding parkland, promising future improvements.
"What a fantastic park! It’s very spacious and there aren’t many people around, so you can truly relax.
The best part was the wildlife though! We saw a huge Iguana and Halloween Moon Crabs."
M
"Nice park to spend some time with family, parking fee is $5.00,there's a small beach with facilities, a small spanish fort and a great ocean a city views,some maintenance needed."
Luis Alvarado (LAR drone tech)
"Beautiful park, but extremely run down and not well maintained. Below is an outline of updates planned for this park:
San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero has confirmed a 30-year lease agreement between the municipality and Normandie Oz, LLC, a private firm planning to invest over $100 million to redevelop the historic Normandie Hotel and adjacent areas in Sixto Escobar Park. The Ishay Group, which represents the private developer, will have the right to build and improve the park while preserving its historic elements and public access to the beach. The project is expected to create about 300 jobs during the construction phase, with the Municipality of San Juan receiving around $460,000 annually from leasing the parking and event pavilion at the park.
The changes that will take place as a result of the redevelopment project include:
1. Redevelopment of the historic Normandie Hotel, including the salvage of the structure from the basement level to level five. The sixth and seventh floors will be demolished and rebuilt, with two additional levels added.
2. Improvement of the adjacent Sixto Escobar Park, without affecting its historic elements or blocking access to the beach.
3. Construction of a parking lot that will not impact the maritime-terrestrial zone, with an investment of $25 million to $30 million.
4. Improvement of existing sports facilities, including the track and field facilities and the soccer field, which will be rebuilt on top of the parking lot.
5. Removal of structures in poor condition and posing a danger to the safety of athletes and park users, such as the stands on the north side of the stadium. This part of the facilities does not belong to the historical structure.
6. Preservation of the historic façade of the Sixto Escobar Stadium, which was declared a National Historic Monument in 2014.
7. Temporary relocation of Scuba Dogs Society's operations at the park during construction.
These changes aim to restore and enhance the historic Normandie Hotel and surrounding areas, providing new facilities and amenities for the community and visitors, while preserving the historical and cultural significance of the site."
Nate G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque del Tercer Milenio is accessible by car, with parking available for a fee. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi/rideshare service is recommended for a smooth arrival.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. The parking fee is typically around $5.00.
While it's a bit of a walk, it is possible to reach Parque del Tercer Milenio from Old San Juan, especially if you enjoy scenic strolls. Consider the pedestrian bridge over to the beach as part of your route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Parque del Tercer Milenio itself is generally free. However, there is a fee for parking.
Specific opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check local listings or inquire beforehand, especially if visiting during holidays or special events. The park is generally open during daylight hours.
For general park access, no advance bookings are typically required. However, if you plan to use specific facilities or attend an event, it's wise to check for any reservation needs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Parque del Tercer Milenio offers a variety of activities, including exploring the 25 acres of green space, visiting the 18th-century armory, enjoying ocean and city views, and accessing a small beach. It's a great spot for family outings and relaxation.
Yes, it's a nice park to spend time with family. There are playgrounds and ample space for children to play and explore.
Absolutely! Visitors have reported seeing wildlife like large iguanas and Halloween Moon Crabs, making it an interesting spot for nature observation.
Reviews indicate that while the park has great potential, some areas may require maintenance. A major redevelopment project is planned, which should address these concerns in the future.
The operation of fountains can vary. Some visitors have noted that when fountains are off, there's less to see, suggesting it's best to check conditions or visit when they are likely to be active.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers great opportunities for photography, especially with its ocean and city views. The historic armory also provides a unique backdrop. Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour lighting.
Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to explore the small beach accessible from the park for some added fun. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, like iguanas and crabs, which can be a fascinating discovery for kids. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited, especially during off-peak hours.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Consider combining your visit with nearby historical sites in Old San Juan, as the park is within walking distance or a short drive. The armory provides a unique perspective on the island's defensive structures and military heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The 18th-Century Armory
While the park itself is an urban oasis, the armory adds a layer of historical depth. It's a reminder of the fortifications and defenses that once protected the island. Visitors can appreciate the architecture and imagine the stories these walls could tell.
Nature's Unexpected Visitors
These encounters offer a unique opportunity to observe nature up close. It's a reminder that even in city parks, biodiversity can thrive. Remember to observe these creatures from a safe and respectful distance, allowing them to continue their natural behaviors.
The Future of Parque del Tercer Milenio
The redevelopment plan encompasses a wide range of improvements. This includes the restoration of the Normandie Hotel, enhancements to Sixto Escobar Park while preserving its historic elements and beach access, and the construction of a new parking lot. Existing sports facilities will also be upgraded, and structures in poor condition will be removed. The project emphasizes preserving the historic facade of the Sixto Escobar Stadium, a National Historic Monument.
While these future enhancements are exciting, it's worth noting that some current areas of the park may show signs of wear. Visitors are advised to be aware of ongoing construction or potential temporary disruptions. The goal is to create a revitalized space that balances historical preservation with modern amenities for both locals and tourists.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit