Ponce Shopping

Paseo Atocha: Ponce's Pedestrian Mall

by VdV

Paseo Atocha is Ponce's pedestrian mall (i.e., the street has been closed to auto traffic.) It stretches over 3-4 blocks (I think up to Calle Guadalupe.) There are some benches along the mall, and it is a good place to stop, take a rest, and people watch. Police are stationed at every block along the Paseo, so it is very safe. It is a lively place, and you can find almost anything you need here. There are many clothing, jewelry, electronics, souvenir, etc. stores and restaurants. Also, many merchants have booths or racks along the Paseo. Most of the stores have discounted or reasonably priced merchandise. No real uppity or upscale stores--just your basic clothes, etc.

Den Caya: A bit of India, Africa and Asia found in Ponce...

by VdV

Den Caya boasts a very good selection of unique ethnic clothing from Africa, India, Asia, and Latin American countries. There are blouses, skits, pants, dresses, shoes, handbags and other accessories, books, CDs, etc. My friend Angie bought a salmon-colored blouse like the one pictured on the mannequin, and the purple skirt hanging on the wall (see photo.) I bought a pink skirt similar to Angie's purple one.Given that most of the clothing is made from natural fibers, these clothes "breathe" and are cool to wear in the hot, humid Puerto Rican climate. The prices are comparable or even cheaper to those I've seen on the mainland. The absence of sales tax makes it even more of a bargain!

Plaza del Caribe: Plaza del Caribe

by keeper7

You can find here basically everything from arts & crafts to toys for the kids. In Puerto Rico they use USD and credit/debit cards. In Plaza del Caribe you have 2 floors of shops with a large variety of things to choose from. There is a large food court on the upper floor where you can eat from latin meals, traditional Puertorriquen dishes to pizza & chinese meals. You can spend easly in one visit about $150.00 usd on average.

Traditional Markets (Mercado): Traditional Markets

by virtualpatrick

There are 2 mercados next to each other where you can buy local produce and handicrafts. When I went only one was open and it was selling fruits, vegetables, and seafood.They are within walking distance from the central plaza between Calle Leon & Calle Salud and Calle Estrella & Calle Guadalupe.

Ponce Town Center: Ponce Town Center

by keeper7