ARECIBO. You might recognize some areas of the observatory from the movie "Contact," part of which was filmed here. The facility is associated with Cornell University's National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center and boasts the world's largest radar-radio telescope. A visitor center features interactive learning opportunities on subjects such as weather, meteors and the solar system, but be sure to walk around the platform and view the dish in a sea of surrounding greenery. The observatory is about 50 miles from San Juan, but astronomy buffs and many others will find the trip extremely worthwhile.

BAYAMON. This park will interest both children and adults thanks to the variety of exhibits. The 42-acre site boasts a zoo, planetarium and several museums on subjects such as archaeology, transportation and aerospace. Paddleboat rentals are available on a man-made lake that is home to many types of tropical birds.