Must-see attractions in Central America

  • Parque Las Palmas

    Managua

    A cute and shady little neighborhood park with the requisite benches, snack kiosks and even a laid-back bar in the middle.

  • Independence Plaza

    Northern Belize

    This run-down plaza near the bridge over the New River marks the site of Fort Mundy, a strategic British military position.

  • Iglesia

    Monteverde & Santa Elena

    A local landmark in the center of Santa Elena. The adjacent roasted-chicken shack apparently has no religious affiliation.

  • Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol

    Caribbean Coast

    This elegant peach-colored colonial church fronts the leafy central park and is dedicated to the patron saint of Boaco.

  • Iglesia Molagüina

    Matagalpa

    The 1751 Iglesia Molagüina, in the center of town, is the plainest of Matagalpa's churches, but has nice gardens.

  • Clock Tower

    Punta Gorda

    The clocktower is a useful landmark in the center of Punta Gorda's downtown, as well as being a small cafe.

  • Spanish Cannon

    Darién Province

    This cannon dating back to the time of the conquistadors takes pride of place in El Real's main square.

  • Iglesia de San Francisco

    Panama City

    This restored 17th-century church exhibits Gothic, Romantic and Renaissance architectural influences.

  • Catholic Church

    Ambergris Caye

    San Pedro's modern Catholic church has a central location on the waterside and is a local landmark.

  • Star City

    Managua

    A former casino (now closed) and current landmark that locals use to give directions in the area.

  • Hindu Temple

    Belize City

    Right in downtown, this simple Hindu temple serves Belize's small but growing Indian community.

  • Parque el Cerrito

    Western Honduras

    Parque El Cerrito has a nice lookout point – head up 105 steps to the best view around.

  • Congreso General Guna

    Comarca de Guna Yala

    This is the headquarters of the supreme governmental body of the Comarca de Guna Yala.

  • Antiguo Hospital

    Granada

    The city's old hospital ruins are a landmark locals often use when giving directions.

  • UCAN

    León

    Pricey private school worth checking out for a look into León's university scene.

  • Feria de Santa Fé

    Veraguas Province

    The town's fairgrounds are where all important events and celebrations take place.

  • Alcadía

    Estelí

    A local reference point, the city hall sits across the park from the cathedral.

  • UCC

    León

    This university specializes in architecture and tourism-related degrees.

  • Casa del Obrero

    Managua

    A downtown landmark originally dedicated to the Nicaraguan worker.

  • Tecún Farm Supplies

    The Pacific Slope

    Turn here if you are looking for the Museo Cultura Cotzumalguapa.

  • Casino Pharaoh

    Managua

    A landmark locals use to give directions in the neighborhood.

  • Church

    Montezuma

    This local landmark is on the north side of the soccer field.

  • ICE Building

    San José

    Headquarters for the Costa Rican Electricity Institute.

  • Cathedral

    Puerto Limón

    A retro architectural landmark in the center of town.

  • Clock Tower

    Northern Belize

    This Corozal landmark dominates Central Park.

  • Alianza Francesa

    San José

    The Alliance has French classes, a small library and rotating art exhibits in a Barrio Amón home. There are also cinematic and musical events. The classes…

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