The Gallery Inn Rating: 3.0 Pearls

Old San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Pros

• Beautiful, artsy old-world Spanish decor
• Near numerous sites, restaurants, and clubs
• Wine deck has beautiful ocean views, overlooking the north wall of Old San Juan
• All rooms have air-conditioning (the main house does not)
• Free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi in common areas
• Small, charming pool
• Tempur-Pedic mattresses in all rooms
• Lush gardens and on-site art studios
• Veneitan-style music room where chamber concerts are held
• On-site massage services
• The Beach House, an off-site cottage on the beach available for guest use

Cons

• No fitness center or business center
• Near La Perla, a dangerous area at night
• No TVs (a pro for some)
• Can be noisy at night (a popular club is across the street)
• Some bathrooms are down the hall from the rooms
• Complaints of upkeep issues and mosquito problems
• Complaints of difficulty with A/C and temperature control
• Lots of stairs; not suited for guests with mobility issues

Bottom Line

Owned by the same couple for decades, the historic Gallery Inn is run like an informal B&B -- guests are greeted by name, much of what the restaurant serves is grown in the garden, and no two rooms are the same (though they do share lots of Spanish-style charm). Also like a B&B, the hotel lacks amenities such as TVs and a fitness center. The property's main draws include the convenient Old San Juan location, ocean views from the wine deck, and the artsy, laid-back feel. The innkeepers are both artists, and it's evident they put thought into every detail of the restoration -- expect beautiful old-world details like brick floors, wood beam ceilings, rich rugs, sculptures, and antique knickknacks.

Oyster Awards

• Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Rico

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