The Gallery Inn

We stayed in a large Vista Room with a terrace overlooking Old San Juan. While the spacious terrace and view were nice, that was the end of the charm. Our room was filthy: Thick dust everywhere — you could literally trace it with your finger, Broken furniture, including a marble desk that appeared to have been damaged years ago, Leaking walls, Unsafe electrical wires and strange exposed sockets, A dingy bathroom that felt neglected and poorly maintained. We paid about $800 for two nights, and this was far below what we expected for that price. We also tried dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, and that was disappointing too — the food was mediocre and the drinks were diluted and not even tasty. The property as a whole feels neglected, poorly maintained, and dirty, despite its potential charm and great location. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this hotel and would not stay here again.

"During a recent stay at this establishment, my wife and I noted its distinctly eclectic aesthetic upon arrival. While the initial check-in process lacked the warmth we typically expect, we proceeded with our stay. Our accommodations were centrally located, adjacent to a piano, and notably lacked a window. Despite an unsettling initial ambiance, we eventually retired for the night. However, our sleep was disrupted by inexplicable knocking, tapping, and vocalizations, which understandably caused us significant unease. Subsequently, we both distinctly heard a loud growling sound. Shortly thereafter, the room's lights extinguished, only to illuminate as I briefly ascended to the restroom. Consequently, we elected to check out prematurely and secure alternative lodging. For those seeking an immersive experience within a historic, potentially 400-year-old building, this location may be of interest. Furthermore, individuals intrigued by the possibility of paranormal activity might find this to be a unique destination. However, for those who do not share this interest, we would recommend considering alternative accommodations. Sincerely, Shalenna

I’m an architect, so first things first: this hotel is not very friendly to the mobility impaired. It does not have staff or amenities to cater to your every whim or creature comfort, and yet it charmed me completely, with its art, and whimsy.

We had stayed here 10+ years ago. Remembered the subterranean pool, gardens, cool artwork , orchids , parrots etc everywhere. Yeah, the rooms back then were "old fashioned" kinda faded , and it rained through our roof one night, but OK. What SEEMED recent internet pics reassured us, and we thought it was mostly charming the first time. Oops. Not the same as the pics. The downstairs of the former establishment with pool had been sold to the Cannon Club,which is now a restaurant piano bar, loud to the Inn just above we heard. What's left in the small upstairs common areas is dark, dingy, mostly piled up junk. (a small deck and small bar with a nice view is the highlight) The new pool is basically a plunge pool right when you walk in. My wife checked around and found exactly 1 exotic bird, so not what we remember at all. We might've stayed the night, if not for the room. Mosquitos, big water stains, tiny 1950s style bath with shower, all decrepit, 20 year old mattress. Unexpected bonus..there was a window unit type AC! The host was polite about refunding the second night, I suspect this wasn't the first time. We were more than happy to book it to El Convento (which fortunately had availability) the day of our arrival.

There is nothing like this place anywhere else on Island! For those who want something a bit more refined than the Factoria bar and music scene, just a 90 second walk towards the water gets you into a true gem of Puerto Rico. We did not stay at this hotel - but each time we visited Old San Juan we ended our nights here. Talented jazz trio (many from Berklee School of Music and other music schools abroad), multiple Steinway pianos, an eclectic cute bar — and tasteful, meaningful decorations through this one-of-a-kind establishment. Staffing is a bit light (so you may wait 10 minutes for drinks … tables could have used a nice cleaning in-between guests to make new arrivals more immediately comfortable), but once you are IN… you are part of the family. We talked with the owner every night and truly enjoyed drinks and live music at the Gallery Inn. They have some spectacular birds here during the day that interact with guests. But we never got to see them as they go to bed early! Next time …. !!!

We stayed only for 1 night prior to cruising out of San Juan. Our room overlooked the pool area and was on the 1st floor. The room was comfortable. The 2nd bathroom had a window which looked out onto the hallway to the breakfast area. We did go to the Cannon Club for a couple of drinks in the evening. People were gathering and starting to play the piano which was nice. The music went on after midnight, which was a little bothersome, so I would suggest a room facing the sea side rather than an interior room. Great location & walking distance to everywhere in Old San Juan. If you want a TV, then you will want to stay elsewhere. There is wi-fi. We would probably stay again.