Where did the main fighting of the Spanish-American War take place?

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Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders — Spanish-American War Theodore Roosevelt leading the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War, 1898; print created by Kurz & Allison.

The main fighting of the Spanish-American War took place in two primary theaters: the Philippines and Cuba.1

The Philippines: Combat centered on Manila. On May 1, 1898, U.S. Commodore George Dewey destroyed the Spanish Pacific fleet in Manila Bay. By August, U.S. troops had occupied the city.21
Cuba: Military efforts focused on Santiago. Following a naval blockade, U.S. forces landed on the coast and engaged in significant land battles, including the Battles of El Caney and San Juan Hill. The conflict in this region concluded after the destruction of the Spanish fleet and the subsequent surrender of Santiago.21

Additionally, a brief campaign occurred in Puerto Rico, where U.S. forces landed in July 1898 and occupied the territory shortly before the cessation of hostilities.34