Galveston to Puerto Rico

[kmix78]

Hi All

I've never been to Galveston or San Juan, but I'm about to book a repositioning cruise that leaves/arrives at both ports.

If you've been to either, could you share some tips? I'm looking for Family Friendly hotels and activities good for kids aged 10-14. my thought it to arrive in Galveston two days before the cruise and then suspend two nights in San Juan. Beache days are fine, but also open to historical sights since the kids will be missing school and I'd like to get some educational value out of the trip.

Let the planning begin!!!! I love this part as much as the cursing

 

[GoofyLovingFamily]

Moody Gardens in Galveston is educational. There are different pyramids which are museum type places.

 

[cruiser21]

We always stay at the Hilton in Galveston. It's on the Sea Wall. The beach is across the street. They have a nice pool. There's a grocery store next door and several restaurants within walking distance. Landry's and Rain Forest Cafe come to mind. They have a shuttle that will take you to the port. If you want to do something educational in Galveston I think NASA is about 30 miles from Galveston. Also check out the Boardwalk Kemah. It's very close to Galveston. Not educational, but it sure does look fun. The Boardwalk Inn reminds me of the one at WDW.
In San Juan we stayed at the Sheraton in old San Juan. It's walking distance to the everything. Your kids should enjoy the Forts. There's a lot of history in San Juan. Have your kids research it before they go.

 

[jrabbit]

Houston - Johnson Space Center / NASA - I don't know if there are any tours there but I know that I would love it. Still want to be an Astronaut when I grow up (I'm almost 60) - and was glued to the TV during every space flight in the late 60's, through Apollo in the 70's and the Space Shuttle!!!

San Juan
There are two "fortresses" well "Castles" actually. El Moro and San Christobal. Both are part of the US National Park Service parks so paying one (minimal) entrance fee will get you into the other as well for up to 7 days I think. Debbie (below) explained the difference between a "fortress" and a "castle" but I'm old and I have forgotten the distinction between the two types.

• We took a Night Time Walking Tour of Old San Juan through Legends of Puerto Rico - Debbie is Terrific. She knows her stuff and is very excited about it!! She explained and pointed out many "features" of the town that we had totally missed in our prior walks through. Well worth the price of admission!
• A few years ago we visited the Rain Forest - that was interesting. The walk down to the waterfall and back has informational signs about the flora and fauna of El Yunque. (Arranged through our hotel)
• We also had a night time kayaking trip in one of the Bio Bay's - also arranged through the hotel. Was WAY WAY COOL!
• Another "educational" (yes it was) walking tour we arranged was through Flavors of San Juan We did this our first day in OSJ and it gave us the lay of the land, lots of small bites of tasty food and some of OSJ history.

We really love San Juan. Next January we will be going back for the S.Caribbean cruise and hope to spend a few days before we depart to spend exploring more of the island.

 

[amberwc]

LOVE San Juan! The forts are great for the kids, also the nighttime biobay trips. Our kids were too little to kayak, there are a few motorized boats that operate, but they book fast--and don't go on a full-moon.
We also had fun at the Bacardi factory, some great economy lessons there.
This is a great itinerary, makes me want to book it! Have fun!

 

[GoofyLovingFamily]

Good to know the walking tour at night is worth it. I was thinking about that one.