Altos de Chavón: A Must-See in the Dominican Republic

Altos de Chavón is one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in the Dominican Republic. Located in La Romana, this Mediterranean-style village was built in the 1970s and feels like stepping back in time to the 1500s. Perched above the Chavón River, it offers stunning views, cobblestone streets, historical architecture, museums, and one of the most famous amphitheaters in the Caribbean.

Table of Contents

• History of Altos de Chavón

• Things to Do in Altos de Chavón – Attractions Guide

• Cultural Events and Concerts at Altos de Chavón

• Best Restaurants in Altos de Chavón

• Practical Information for Visiting Altos de Chavón

✅History of Altos de Chavón

Altos de Chavón may look very old, but its story started not so long ago. In 1976, Charles Bluhdorn, a Gulf+Western executive, and Roberto Copa, an Italian architect, dreamed of creating a village that looked like it came from the 1500s right in the Caribbean.

The idea came to life when a new road project blasted through a mountain, leaving behind lots of limestone. Instead of throwing the stone away, Bluhdorn decided to use it to build the village. Local artisans worked for years to create every detail by hand, from the cobblestone streets to the iron lanterns. Even though it was built in modern times, it looks and feels like a real old-world town.

The buildings were crafted by hand using coral stone, bricks, and traditional materials. Terra-cotta tile roofs, wrought-iron details, and ivy-covered limestone walls give the village a charming old-world look. By day, the Caribbean sun makes the pastel stone buildings glow. At night, lanterns light up the narrow streets, creating a romantic and cozy atmosphere.

Altos de Chavón officially opened in August 1982 with a huge concert featuring Frank Sinatra, Buddy Rich, and Santana at its amphitheater. What started as a dream turned into a special cultural center for the Dominican Republic, led today by Bluhdorn’s daughter, Dominique.

✅Things to Do in Altos de Chavón – Attractions Guide

Roman-Style Amphitheater

In the center of the village, you will find a 5,000-seat open-air amphitheater built from stone. This dramatic venue has hosted world-famous performers including Andrea Bocelli, Elton John, and Sting.

Even if you do not catch a show, walking around the stone seats is a special experience. The acoustics are amazing, and it is said you can whisper on the stage and still be heard at the very back

St. Stanislaus Church

This small coral-stone church sits on the main plaza and looks like it belongs in a postcard. Built in 1979, it honors St. Stanislaus, the Polish patron saint linked to Pope John Paul II, who sent a relic from Poland for the church.​

The church remains active today, with weekly Catholic mass. Thanks to its beautiful fountain plaza and peaceful setting, it is also a popular wedding spot. Visitors are welcome inside during posted hours to admire its simple but charming interior and stained-glass windows.​

While many believe that Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley were married here, this is a common myth. In reality, their civil ceremony took place in La Vega at the home of a local justice of the peace. However, the couple did stay at Casa de Campo during their visit, adding to the church’s allure as a romantic destination.

Archaeological Regional Museum

History lovers will enjoy this small museum located near the plaza. It houses more than 3,000 artifacts, including pottery, tools, and jewelry from the Taíno people and other early cultures of the island.

Exhibits are in both English and Spanish, and some pieces have even been displayed in museums in New York and Paris. It is a great place to cool off and learn about the island’s early history. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and is closed on Mondays.

Art Galleries and Design School

Altos de Chavón is known as a center for art and education. It is home to the Altos de Chavón School of Design, affiliated with Parsons School of Design in New York.

You will often find student exhibits and art shows featuring Dominican and international artists. There are also galleries where you can browse or buy paintings, sculptures, and handmade crafts.

If you pass by the workshops, you might see artisans creating pottery, textiles, and other pieces. It is a perfect place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Shops and Boutiques

Altos de Chavón offers charming boutiques and craft shops along its cobbled streets. Many stores sell handmade goods like ceramics, woven textiles, cigars, jewelry, and carved wooden art.

A popular shop, Artisan Chavón, sells items made right in the village’s workshops. You will also find fashion boutiques with beachwear and small galleries with fine art.

Shopping here is a relaxing experience, and many shops stay open into the early evening, around 7:00 pm.

Views of the Chavón River

One of the highlights of visiting Altos de Chavón is the stunning view of the Chavón River. From the plaza and near the amphitheater, you can enjoy breathtaking scenes of the river winding through green valleys before reaching the Caribbean Sea.

The Chavón River has a long history. During colonial times, it was used to transport precious wood from the island’s interior. Today, it is famous for its beautiful landscapes and peaceful waters.

The river is also a movie star! Parts of the famous movies Apocalypse Now and Rambo: First Blood Part II were filmed along the Chavón River because of its lush jungle-like scenery.

✅Cultural Events and Concerts at Altos de Chavón

Altos de Chavón is not just a beautiful village. It is a lively cultural center that hosts some of the Dominican Republic’s best events and concerts.

The main stage is the famous stone amphitheater. Concerts are usually one-night-only events that attract fans from across the island. If you are visiting, check the event schedule ahead of time. Tickets are often available through the Casa de Campo resort or online.

Beyond the big concerts, Altos de Chavón also hosts smaller cultural events. The Cultural Center Foundation organizes art shows, workshops, and community events throughout the year. You might catch an open-air classical music recital, a dance performance, or a colorful folkloric show like "Kandela," which highlights Dominican music and traditions.

There is also a lively artisan market once a month, usually on the last Saturday. Local vendors set up stalls in the plaza to sell crafts, artwork, gourmet foods, and handmade souvenirs. Live music often adds to the festive feeling, making it a fun way to meet locals and explore Dominican culture.

For nightlife, the atmosphere is casual and artsy. Some weekends, you might find live music at one of the restaurants or bars. The Génesis Nightclub, once famous in the 1980s and now revived, offers late-night dancing if you want to keep the evening going.

For the latest event schedules and ticket information, visit the official Casa de Campo events calendar: https://www.casadecampo.com.do/events/.

✅Best Restaurants in Altos de Chavón

After a day of exploring, relaxing with a good meal is the perfect way to end your visit. Although the village is small, Altos de Chavón offers several excellent restaurants and cafes, many with beautiful views of the Chavón River or the scenic village plazas.

You’ll find a nice variety of dining options here. One of the most popular spots is La Piazzetta , a cozy Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta, fine wines, and romantic atmosphere. The rustic stone arches and outdoor terrace create a charming place to enjoy dinner.

If you're craving something more casual, Chilango Taquería near the main plaza serves flavorful tacos, fresh guacamole, and margaritas in a colorful, laid-back setting. For a quick bite, there’s also a small café offering sandwiches, pastries, and great coffee.

Another great option is the golf bar overlooking Dye Fore, where you can sip a cocktail while taking in sweeping views of the river and fairways.

Sunset is one of the best times to dine in Altos de Chavón. As the sun sets, the golden light makes the stone buildings glow, and the village takes on a warm and magical feel. Most restaurants are open for lunch, but the main dining scene begins in the late afternoon and continues into the evening.

Some nights, you might even enjoy live music while you eat, like a soft guitar performance or a local Latin jazz trio playing in the plaza.

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or during events. If you’re staying at Casa de Campo, booking through the resort may include your entrance to the village.

You don’t have to commit to a full meal either. You can just stop for a drink, enjoy some ice cream, or find a bench in the plaza to relax and enjoy the peaceful vibe.

Dining in Altos de Chavón is stylish yet easygoing. The dress code is Caribbean casual, feel free to dress up a little, but comfort is key.

✅Practical Information for Visiting Altos de Chavón

Location

Altos de Chavón is located in La Romana, on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It sits inside the exclusive Casa de Campo resort, about 5 miles (8 km) from downtown La Romana.

The village is about a 50-minute drive from Punta Cana and about the same from Santo Domingo’s Las Américas Airport (SDQ). You can reach it by rental car, taxi, or an organized tour. If you drive, head to Casa de Campo and let the gate staff know you are visiting Altos de Chavón.

Entrance and Fees

Since Altos de Chavón is inside a private resort, visitors who are not staying at Casa de Campo must pay a day pass fee. The current cost is about $50 USD for adults and $25 USD for children ages 4 to 12.

This fee gives you access to Altos de Chavón and also to Casa de Campo’s other attractions like the Marina and Minitas Beach for the day. Bring a valid ID for entry.

If you have a dinner reservation at one of the Altos de Chavón restaurants or tickets for a show, mention it at the gate, as sometimes the entrance fee may be waived. Resort guests and villa owners can visit for free.

Hours

Altos de Chavón is open all day for walking around. However, most attractions and shops follow these general hours:

• The Archaeological Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed Mondays).

• Art galleries usually open around 10:00 am and stay open into the evening.

• The St. Stanislaus Church is open during the day and holds public Mass on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

• Restaurants start serving lunch around noon and stay open through dinner, many until 10:00 pm or later.

Shops usually open around 9:00 or 10:00 am. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon so you can enjoy sightseeing, catch a sunset, and stay for dinner.

Accessibility

The village has cobblestone streets and some stairs, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Some areas have ramps, but wheelchair access is limited due to the historic design.

If visiting during midday, bring water, a hat, and sunscreen (Learn more) as there is little shade. Public restrooms are available near the amphitheater and galleries.

Visitor Services

At the entrance, you will find a small gift shop and information center with maps and brochures. Restaurants, cafes, and a small convenience store are available inside the village.

There are ATMs at Casa de Campo Marina, and most shops and restaurants accept credit cards. (Learn about money in the Dominican Republic). Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken. (Read more)

Safety

Altos de Chavón is very safe, with good resort security. It is family-friendly, well-lit in the evening, and perfect for relaxed exploring. As always, watch your step on uneven surfaces and keep an eye on children near the cliffs.

Photography Tips

Altos de Chavón is one of the most photogenic places in the Dominican Republic. Visit the lookout behind the church for the best view of the Chavón River. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting.

Drones are not allowed without special permission.

Popular Combination Tours from Punta Cana

Many travelers visiting Punta Cana choose to book a day tour that combines Altos de Chavón with other nearby attractions. These combination tours offer a full-day experience mixing culture and natural beauty.

Some popular options include:

• Altos de Chavón and Saona Island: Explore the historic village, then head to Saona’s famous beaches for a relaxing afternoon. Tours often include a buffet lunch and open bar.

• Altos de Chavón and Higüey: Combine your visit with a cultural stop at Higüey’s Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, one of the most important religious sites in the country.

These tours typically include transportation, guided visits, meals, and drinks, making them a hassle-free way to explore the area.

• Ready to explore? Book your Altos de Chavón combination tour on Viator here!

• Want to know more about nearby attractions?
  Read more about visiting Saona Island, Catalina Island, or the Basilica of Higüey here!

• Want to stay close to the magic? Book your stay at Casa de Campo Resort

  Casa de Campo is one of the most famous luxury resorts in the Caribbean, located in La Romana on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. It offers over 7,000 acres of space with championship golf courses, a marina, a private beach club, an equestrian center, a shooting range, and beautiful villas and hotel rooms. Staying here means you are just minutes away from concerts, art shows, restaurants, and all the charm of Altos de Chavón, with the luxury and service Casa de Campo is known for.

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