The Gallery Inn

Location is a perfect-plus for exploring old San Juan but this eccentric hotel is such a trip that you might not leave it to see the city. The same person for over 5 decades has guided the conversion of 5 original quaint and real homes into an inn that abounds with color yet is honest with its past. This hotel is not a museum since the art comes from within and grows over time. The staff are PEOPLE who are as much of the hotel as are the bricks and tiles. This is not some phony B&B with chintzy "antiques" positioned for effect. The owner lives in the inn and is a true classy lady. If you want to feel old San Juan then start here.

The Gallery Inn is definitely the place to go for those who want a very different type of experience. This hotel does not have all the luxuries of a more modern hotel but it does tell a story of days gone by. The pros, look up the pictures of this establishment and you will see an outdoor garden filled with sculptures, plants, and patio furnishings. A wall ruin that stands right in the middle of the pool divides it in two but you can swim around it. The main lobby and piano room transport you back in time as both are filled with antique furnishings, rugs, paintings from the artist/owner, and a self playing Steinway that plays music of artists who have stayed there. Windows with balconies allow you to look out into the streets of Old San Juan and, if your'e lucky, your room view will face the ocean. A complimentary breakfast greets you in the morning that consists of bread, butter, jelly, and coffee. The cons- the room I had was small and falling apart. The decor spoke of various styles that did not go together. It seemed as if whatever decor was available was thrown together without thought. Some of the furnishings are very worn. It was just my luck to have the room with the terrace which made up for the decor and small space. All the electrical outlets were falling apart and the bathroom needed serious help as it looked shabby. A leak near the window made dealing with the closet challenging as one does not want to fall, but I was careful. Breakfast could be better.

OMG!!! The property was amazing, very unique and a must see! Staff were amazingly friendly, Gabriel is an amazing bartender and loves experimenting. Gotta do a shout out to our local girls from NH, Jesse and Kelly....wishing the best of luck and very jealous!! This is definitely on my agenda to go back to visit!

Most interesting place to stay in the heart of San Juan

I arrived late and asked to take my luggage to a room, at the end of a steep stair along a narrow corridor. The room had deteriorated furniture, walls poorly painted and electric cables were visible. Contrary to the advertisement it had no internet connection, so I requested a change of room. A new, more comfortable room was available. Very poor electric system, old everything, decaying. Service was below standard.

The hotel is great, we loved the atmosphere. However, our room had too much humidity in the walls.. I woke up sneezing and have been sneezing all day. The vintage decoration is good but the structure damages is a completely different thing.

THE PROPERTY AND LOCATION ARE AMAZING! IT JUST NEEDS A LITTLE DUSTING. THAT'S ALL.

Amazing!! The coolest hotel I've ever stayed at - worldwide! If you can stay in the "Print" room - it's my highest recommendation.

Everything was great

All great!