Ponce Plaza Hotel And Casino

From the street, the hotel is marked by the classic colonial seen throughout much of Ponce -- that is, in addition to the frequently jaw-dropping Art Deco buildings that pepper the downtown as well. In fact, the property was originally built in the late 19th century and has since undergone many overhauls, ultimately turning it into the mostly modern boutique property that it is today. Expect to see wrought-iron chandeliers, French doors and wooden storm shutters, black beams accenting ceilings, and large gold mirrors throughout the interiors. Bright, modern art adds a little edge to everything as well.This hotel serves as a bit of a local landmark in Ponce, and is home to some of the city's popular social hubs. Melao Coffee Shop is generally busy during the day, where locals and travelers lounge around enjoying specialty coffees and a light fare at high-top tables and long banquettes. However, it's Lola’s Eclectic Cuisine -- with its popular bar and foodie-friendly menu -- that draws in locals and tourists alike. Overall, with a small pool and upbeat, upmarket dining and drinking venues, the hotel has a social, but not wild, vibe. With a few kid-friendly activities and easy walking distance to tourist attractions, expect to see an even mix of families and couples, most of whom are generally on vacation.

The Ponce Plaza Hotel and Casino has an enviable location along Ponce's main plaza, across from Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral. The hotel is within a five-minute walk of City Hall and the Old Fire House Museum, both of which are situated within the main square. Along the main square's perimeter, vendors sell classic Puerto Rican street food like pinchos, tostones, and piraguas, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants all around. Ponce is not on the beach, and those seeking some sand and surf will need a car. La Guancha is a 15-minute drive from the hotel and has a small beach, kayaks, live music, and plenty of restaurants and food kiosks. Mercedita Airport is a 20-minute drive away, and it takes an hour and a half to reach San Juan, which is home to much larger Luis Munoz Marin Airport.

Across all categories, rooms are pleasant, though there is some variation when it comes to style -- some are rather plain, while others have a bit more style. Most rooms are moderately sized to spacious, with walking space, closets for extra storage, and small striped couches for sitting. Rooms are adorned with handsome king and double-size mahogany beds, wooden headboards, white bedding, gold bedskirts, and striped accent blankets. We love details like the antique-style furniture and checkerboard floors in the Junior Suite King that we visited, but unfortunately the Standard Room that we saw looked a bit worn -- with noticeable chips on furniture -- and had bland tile floors.All rooms include flat-screen TVs, powerful air-conditioning, desks, irons, and coffeemakers, though guests should note that coffee is not provided. Bedside tables have plenty of light and alarm clocks, and there ample outlets for charging needs along with free Wi-Fi. The highlight of many of the rooms are the outdoor balconies and terraces. Many of the streetside balconies have lovely views of the historic architecture in Ponce, while interior rooms have terraces with chairs and tables. It's worth noting that while rooms facing the street have better views, they are subject to noise from downtown, especially on weekends.Most bathrooms are adequately sized, though the suite bathrooms are more spacious, with an extra vanity room. Bathrooms have glass showers, plenty of towels, some vanity space, hairdryers, and Green Natura toiletries. We did spot some mold and discolored grout in the showers during our visit. 

Ponce Plaza Hotel and Casino has plenty of features on offer to keep everyone happy, though the highlight here are the dining and drinking options. Melao Coffee Shop is open for a light fare breakfast, lunch, and dinner -- bagels, egg sandwiches, soups, hot sandwiches, burgers, and pizza -- as well as a host of specialty coffees. Melao isn’t open very late, but provides a good option for an early breakfast in a casual setting of high-top tables, long banquets, and is generally busy but rarely overrun. Lola’s Eclectic Cuisine is a foodie destination in Ponce, and much like the name suggests has both an eclectic menu and decor. The restaurant blends the original historic structure with modern furniture -- checkered black and white floors, high back purple booths, and abstract artwork -- while also combining an international cuisine with local flavors. Expect to see lobster ravioli, ceviche, and plantains all on the menu. Viva Bar, situated within Lola’s, serves mixed drinks, beer, and wine.The small pool terrace is located in the middle of the hotel and offers a handful of beige lounge chairs for guests to use. The pool is small but clean and easily accessible. A compact fitness center is situated in the auxiliary building of the hotel, with a handful of modern cardio machines and free weights. It looks out over the city of Ponce and has nice views. The casino that's adjacent to the hotel has black jack, roulette, craps tables, and over 260 slot machines. Covered parking, three meeting rooms, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel are nice additional features. However, guests should note there is a fee for parking.