Things to do with kids in Puerto Rico

I have been asked this question a few times... I tried to remember what I did growing up.... I remember going to the beach, the forest, climbing rocks, riding my bike, and running around the street. That's the life of a kid growing up in an island.... So I had to dig in and do some research to find out some new attractions for young kids. Here's what I came up with:

In Old San Juan:

• Fly a Kite: This is a must! There is always a nice breeze (wind) up on the North shore and since El Morro (Spanish Fort) has a large open yard it makes a perfect spot to fly kites. Either bring your own, or there is usually a vendor on the street nearby selling the cheap plastic kites and string. They can get really high! Lots of fun!
• Museo del Niño (From Frommer's): In the late 1990s, the city of San Juan turned over one of the most desirable buildings in the colonial zone -- a 300-year-old villa directly across from the city's cathedral -- to a group of sociologists and student volunteers. Jointly, they created the only children's museum in Puerto Rico. Through interactive exhibits, children learn simple lessons, such as the benefits of brushing teeth or recycling aluminum cans, or the value of caring properly for pets. Staff members include lots of student volunteers who play either one-on-one or with small groups of children. Nothing here is terribly cerebral, and nothing will necessarily compel you to return. But it does provide a play experience that some children will remember for several weeks. http://www.museodelninopr.org/

Outside San Juan:

• La Marquesa Forest Park: La Marquesa Forest Park is located in 600 acres of land in the town of Guaynabo. There is a train-trolley that will give you a tour through the park. Its first stop is in an artificial cascade and a gazebo with a spectacular view to the mountains and the metropolitan area. The second stop is in an area with swings for children, gazebos and restrooms. From this point you can walk to the observation 70-feet tower, the highest point of the park. Around the observation tower there are more gazebos and recreational areas for children. In order to return to the entrance you can take the trolley or walk 20 minutes throughout the forest's trails. This is about a 20-30 minute drive from San Juan. http://www.puertoricodaytrips.com/la-marquesa-forest-park/
• Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park: Located in a beautiful beach area, the lighthouse has been restored and integrated into a new recreation facility featuring an expansive deck as well as a children's play area. Replicas of Indian huts, African quaters, Christopher Columbus ships, Huge Pirate's ship & cave, cafeteria, museum & mini-zoo. A breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean (one of the few "passive whale-watching" views in the world)and the surrounding area. Salt-water aquarium with Sharks, Stingray, Nemos, Seahorses and more! This is about 1-1.5 hours drive from San Juan. http://www.arecibolighthouse.com/

I hope this was helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions or want me to write about a specific topic. I'd be glad to help you with some more ideas! =D