Places To Go

San Jose, Central Avenue

By Patrick Brunelle ⋅ January 21, 2009 ⋅  Email this post ⋅  Print this post ⋅ Post a comment

The one and only Central Avenue. At least I think it must be a one and only. I have never been anywhere quite like it. Smack downtown San Jose. Pure Costa Rica in your face. You won’t see any tourists here, which is old for a capital city. Managua is the only other capital where I have seen ZERO tourists. Why you may ask??? I think it is die to the poor reputation of downtown San Jose, more than anything else.

Is it safe to walk down Central Avenue?
I would say yes, within reason. Is it the safest place in the country, no. But it is reasonably safe for you to spend the day walking about and taking in the local vibe. I wouldn’t recommend a stroll at night however.

Is it worth the trip?
If you are already downtown, yes. Like I said, no place like it, however I would recommend spending your time away from the city, and visit Costa Rica’s amazing nature.

What should I see if I am downtown?

My favorite spot is the National Theater. It is a smaller replica of the one built in Paris and is quite charming. Another cool spot to visit is the Gold Museum.