Choose from 18 Fun Things to Do in New Providence Island
ShowingFilter 1-18 of 18 listings.
How to Get There
The Queen’s Staircase is located on the northern end of New Providence Island, on Elizabeth Avenue. Use the staircase as a shortcut to Bennet’s Hill and Fort Fincastle.
Fort Charlotte
High atop a hillside overlooking the harbor of Nassau is the British-colonial Fort Charlotte—the largest fort in Nassau. Constructed in the late 18th century for a battle that never took place, this historic site offers picturesque views, hidden underground passages, a waterless mote, remote dungeons and even authentic canons. Guides are available to help travelers navigate through subterranean halls far below the fort, but well-place signage and plenty of light means visitors can just as easily explore the grounds on their own.
Practical Info
The fort is an easy walk from Bay Street and Arawak Cay. Entry is less than $2 per person. Tours take place Monday through Sunday at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Address: Fort Charlotte, Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: $2
From $ 34
Straw Market
One of the traditional crafts of the Bahamas, straw working has become infused into Bahamian culture and industry. Each island has developed its own distinctive plaiting or braiding style to create beautiful straw hats, baskets, etc.
The Straw Market in Nassau serves as the ultimate destination to pick up Bahamian souvenirs. Grab a hat to protect yourself from the sun, or maybe pick up a small wood carving as a trinket to take home to a family member. In addition to the authentic hand-crafted merchandise, the Straw Market also offers many other items. What makes the Straw Market a unique shopping experience is getting to bargain the prices down; just remember to never accept the first offer and have fun seeing how low you can get the price to go!
Practical Info
The Straw Market is located on downtown Bay Street along the northern coast of Nassau.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: Free
From $ 34
Arawak Cay
This seafood paradise—ripe with fresh fish and strong drinks—is a destination for diners looking to truly taste Nassau. What began with a few tiny stalls selling locally sourced conch quickly grew to include a variety fish and a more extensive list of traditional Bahamian fare. Travelers line up for famous conch salad and crispy conch fritters that local cooks fry to order. But visitors can sample shrimp, lobster and snapper prepared street side, too. Be sure to request a hit of local hot sauce, made with the island’s special blend of spicy peppers and juicy limes.
Arawak Cay is a fun stop for an afternoon snack or a delicious local dinner. And since the streets come alive at dusk, this waterfront spot is an ideal destination for a frosty beer or a strong sipping sundowner to round out the night.
Arawak Cay is a fun stop for an afternoon snack or a delicious local dinner. And since the streets come alive at dusk, this waterfront spot is an ideal destination for a frosty beer or a strong sipping sundowner to round out the night.
Practical Info
Restaurants and shops in Arawak Cay are typically open daily between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Twin Brothers and Goldie’s Enterprises are two local favorites, but it’s hard to go wrong with any meal in Arawak Cay.
Address: Arawak Cay, Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 34
Paradise Island
Paradise Island in the Bahamas lives up to its name. Though Nassau, the colorful capital of the Bahamas, is high up on many traveler's must-see list, visitors to the Bahamas shouldn't leave without taking a quick jaunt across the sea to explore Paradise Island.
Paradise Island is over 685 acres of tropical fun in the Caribbean. Beaches, restaurants, bars, casinos, innovative hotels and land and water based entertainment cover the island and you'll quickly learn it's nearly impossible to get bored on Paradise Island.
The most famous landmark on Paradise Island is Atlantis Resort. Even if you're not staying at Atlantis you can get day passes to visit its water park and aquarium which has pools, waterslides and sea animals to view "“ one waterslide even goes through the shark tank.
Golfing and water activities like snorkeling are also popular activities during the day on Paradise Island. At night, the fun continues at the many beach bars that dot the island.
Practical Info
Most visitors to Paradise Island arrive through Nassau. There are daily fairies from Nassau to Paradise Island that take about 15 minutes. You can also take a cab or walk over the bridge connecting Nassau to Paradise Island. The bridge is 600 feet long and reaches an elevation of 73 feet, and it typically takes about 30 minutes to walk across. One benefit of taking a taxi over is that it can drop you off exactly where you want to be once on Paradise Island.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 74
Rose Island
Rose Island is an idyllic private getaway off the coast of Nassau. Home to a coral reef and a lone beach bar, this tiny, tropical islet offers an exclusive setting for snorkeling and sunbathing on an 11-mile (18-kilometer) stretch of uninhabited, privately owned Bahamian beach.
The Basics
A short, 25-minute boat ride east of New Providence Island whisks you away from crowds and ashore this intimate corner of paradise. Take a dip in the crystalline lagoon, sip a drink at the beachfront bar, or snooze in an oceanfront hammock. More active options include snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. If you’re interested in socializing, join in on the private island’s beach bar parties, for which party passes are available from various tour operators.
Full-day excursions to Rose Island usually include access to the pristine beaches, a buffet lunch or welcome drink, and most water sports. Guided snorkeling tours are available to explore the underwater world with the supervision of a guide, who points out the marine flora and fauna.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to bring everything with you that you’ll need for the day, including sunscreen, bathing suit, towel, and a sun hat.
- Most guided snorkeling tours include use of snorkel gear.
- A Rose Island day trip is a great option for those wishing to escape the bustle and frenetic energy of Nassau.
How to Get There
Accessible by boat, Rose Island is located three miles (five kilometers) east of Paradise Island, which in turn lies directly off New Providence Island in the Bahamas. Most day trips to the island leave from Paradise Island Ferry Terminal, which is about 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) northeast of downtown Nassau and a 5-minute walk south of Paradise Island city center. The boat crossing takes about 25 minutes.
When to Get There
Most tour-goers from Nassau spend the entire day at Rose Island, so visitors can take advantage of all the activities and have plenty of time to lounge on the beach. The high season in the Bahamas, November through April, tends to be crowded but also has the best weather and low chance of rain. During this time, book your Rose Island excursion ahead of time.
Swimming Pigs
Animal lovers will want to book a Rose Island tour that also stops at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay. This beach is famous for its swimming pigs, who will paddle out to greet any boat in search of snacks and human interaction. No one is sure where these non-native pigs came from, but they sure make for great photo ops!
Address: Rose Island, Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 119
Pirates of Nassau
Get out your eye patch and peg leg and get ready to delve into one of the most infamous and legendary aspects of Caribbean history. During the Golden Age of Piracy, from 1690 to 1720, pirates patrolled the waters of the Caribbean, terrorizing merchant ships and no place played a greater role in illegal pirate operations than Nassau, home base to the world's largest concentration of swashbuckling seafarers.
A trip to Pirates of Nassau takes one back to the Golden Age when pirates ruled the Caribbean. A favorite of both adults and children alike, this museum is one you won't want to miss. It is said that when a pirate slept, he did not dream of heaven, but of returning to Nassau. Come and find out for yourself what made Nassau pirate paradise.
Practical Info
Located in downtown Nassau, the museum is a short distances from most places on the island and easy to access.
Address: King and George St., Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open Mon - Sat from 9am - 6pm, Sun from 9am - 12pm
Admission: Adults: US$12
From $ 108
National Art Gallery of the Bahamas
For a real taste of Bahamian culture, head to the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas in Nassau. Housed in a classic 19th-century colonial-style building known as Villa Doyle in the center of town, the gallery displays paintings, sculptures, and other pieces by local artists from the 1850s to the present day.
The Basics
The National Art Gallery collection comprises a wide range of works including ceramics, paintings, photography, sculpture, and textiles, with an emphasis on 20th century and contemporary artists. In additional to the permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts special exhibitions focusing on how art reflects different aspects of the island nation's culture and history. For a more comprehensive experience of the gallery, consider booking a guided tour, which must be organized in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The National Art Gallery is a lovely stop for those wanting to learn more about Bahamian art, culture, and history.
- Discounts are available for local residents, seniors, and students. Children under the age of 12 visit for free.
- The gallery is accessible to wheelchair users.
- There is an on-site store selling works by local artists.
How to Get There
The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located on West Hill Street in Nassau, close to St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and the National Heritage Museum. It is walking distance from downtown Nassau and the cruise terminal. Visitor parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The museum is open 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 12pm to 5pm Sunday; it is usually busiest in the mornings.
Visit a Library Housed in a Jail
Just a couple of blocks from the National Gallery, past Government House, there's an unusual octagonal building with a domed roof painted flamingo pink. This is Nassau Public Library, formerly the town's jail"”only today the jail cells house the library's books instead of the town's prisoners. Head up to the top-floor veranda for panoramic views of the city and the ocean.
Address: Villa Doyle, W Hill St, Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Park
With tropical birds, lemurs, jaguars, iguanas, and more, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre in Nassau is educational fun for the entire family. The zoo is also home to a marching flamingo show, where the salmon-colored birds show off their marching skills, and popular lory and other animal feedings.
The Basics
Jamaican horticulturist Hedley Edwards developed the Ardastra Gardens in the 1930s, and today they serve as a refuge for more than 130 animals, many of which belong to endangered species. Along with enjoying the animal encounters, you can explore the four acres (1.6 hectares) of jungle gardens filled with tropical plants and flowers designed to be a haven of peace and tranquility.
You can buy an admission ticket upon arrival or in advance to skip the line. Local bike tours of Nassau often stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ardastra Gardens and Zoo is a wonderful stop for families visiting the Bahamas.
- Tickets are discounted for children under 12 and Bahamas residents; children aged 3 and under enter for free.
- The zoo and gardens are accessible to wheelchair users.
- There is an on-site café and gift shop.
- The flamingo show takes place daily at 10:30am, 2:15pm, and 4pm.
- You can hand-feed the lory parrots daily at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.
How to Get There
Ardastra Gardens is located along Chippingham Road on the edge of downtown Nassau, on New Providence Island. It is accessible by car or taxi, or by public transportation—the #10 bus from Cable Beach stops close by, and any bus heading west from the downtown Hilton hotel stops here on request.
When to Get There
Ardastra is open 9am to 5pm every day excluding Christmas, December 26, and New Year’s Day. Last entrance is at 4pm, though most people enjoy around two hours visiting the animals. Mid-morning tends to be the busiest time here.
Revel in Nassau’s Pirate History
In the 18th century, the city of Nassau was a hotbed for pirates and smugglers who roamed the waves, holding ships to ransom and stealing their precious cargo before storing it in hiding places on the island. This swashbuckling history is brought to life at the Pirates of Nassau Museum via re-created street scenes and performers in period costume. There’s even a replica of a pirate ship (smaller than life size!) that you can explore.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Fort Fincastle
Overlooking the city of Nassau from its vantage point atop Bennett’s Hill, Fort Fincastle was built in 1793 to protect the island of New Providence from outside invaders. Much of the imposing building remains intact today. Visitors come to explore the fortifications and enjoy the view from the highest point in Nassau.
The Basics
Lord Dunmore, serving as governor of the British West Indies, built the paddle steamer–shaped Fort Fincastle as a deterrent for invading troops. It is named after Dunmore’s secondary title, Viscount Fincastle. The limestone walls, 126 feet (38 meters) high and topped with replica cannons, are an impressive sight and take visitors back to the days of pirates and huge navy ships on the high seas.
Walking tours and historical sightseeing tours of Nassau often make the trek up the adjacent 66 steps of the Queen’s Staircase to visit the fort and enjoy the panoramic views over Paradise Island. After the fort was decommissioned, it served as both a lighthouse and signal station before being opened to the public.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the fort is via paid ticket.
- The site is equipped with restrooms.
- The fort was built with the same limestone excavated to make the nearby Queen’s Staircase.
- The water tower adjacent to the fort was built in 1928 to help maintain water pressure on the island.
How to Get There
Fort Fincastle is located at the top of Bennett’s Hill in Nassau, Bahamas. It is walking distance from points in Downtown Nassau. Most people access the fort on foot—either self-guided or as part of a tour—by walking up Queen’s Staircase. It is also possible to drive here (there is parking on-site) or take a taxi.
When to Get There
Fort Fincastle is open seven days a week from 8am–4pm. It is closed on public holidays. There tends to be fewer visitors during the early part of the week.
Enjoy the Lively Scene at Junkanoo Beach
With golden sand and turquoise water, Junkanoo Beach is a classic Caribbean stretch of sand and one of the most popular beaches on the island of New Providence for fun in the sun. Close to downtown and the cruise port terminal, it’s lined with busy beach bars and is consistently popular with vacationing visitors to the island.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Free
From $ 34
Queen's Staircase
The Queen’s Staircase, one of Nassau’s most visited attractions, holds an important place in Bahamian cultural history. Around 1793, slaves carved this 102-foot (31-meter) staircase, comprised of 65 steps, out of solid limestone. Later it was named in honor of Queen Victoria’s 65-year reign and her role in abolishing slavery in the Bahamas.
The Basics
This steep staircase was built to serve as a direct-access shortcut to Fort Fincastle (New Providence Island’s highest point, on Bennet’s Hill) in case of attacks by the Caribbean’s marauding pirates in the 1700s. When visiting the stone staircase, take in the remarkable construction done centuries ago—all by hand. To carve the steps, slaves had to cut through rocks with axes and other sharp hand tools.
The Queen’s Staircase is included on most Nassau highlights tours that visit the island’s most historic sights. With a tour guide, visit other Nassau attractions such as Fort Charlotte, Rawson Square, and Cable Beach via traditional ground transportation or an all-terrain vehicle. Tours and shore excursions leave regularly from Nassau city or the cruise ship terminal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Queen’s Staircase is a must-see for all visitors to Nassau.
- The limestone steps of the Queen’s Staircase are steep and a tough climb, suitable only for those with full mobility and proper footwear.
- The staircase can be slick after a rain, so be careful. (The Bahamas’ rainy season is June through November.)
- If the 65-step climb sounds daunting, plan to visit Bennet’s Hill and Fort Fincastle first, then walk down the steps from there.
The Queen’s Staircase is located on the northern end of New Providence Island, on Elizabeth Avenue. Use the staircase as a shortcut to Bennet’s Hill and Fort Fincastle.
When to Get There
The staircase is open daily. If you want less populated photos, be sure to show up in the early morning or around sunset when crowds are scarce (they tend to arrive around midday).
Views from Fort Fincastle and Bennet’s Hill
Since Bennet’s Hill is the highest point on the island, it’s a favorite for photographers and those in search of whole island views. From Fort Fincastle’s perch, visitors can see Paradise Island and the mammoth Atlantis, Arawak Cay (home to the famous fish fry), and Ardastra Gardens, among other landmarks.
Address: Elizabeth Ave, Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Blue Lagoon Island
With its stretch of white sands fringed by coconut palm trees and a lush rain forest, Blue Lagoon Island, or Salt Cay, is an idyllic escape from the crowds of Nassau, offering everything you'd expect from a tropical island. Bring the whole family along for a day of fun in the sun, or take it easy for a day of pure beachy bliss on Blue Lagoon Island Beach.
The Basics
The private Blue Lagoon Island feels worlds away from Nassau’s bustle and is well-known for its wildlife sightings of dolphins and sea lions. The island can only be visited via a tour package that includes boat transportation. Options include an all-inclusive beach day and a Blue Lagoon Island Segway tour, while Blue Lagoon Island also hosts dolphin encounters and swim sessions with sea lions for an additional fee. Kids will be entertained by the island’s aqua park, and the whole family can enjoy water sports like sea kayaking, tubing, and scuba diving. Beach bums rest assured—there’s plenty of space to lay in the sun.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Grilled items such as hot dogs and veggie burgers and drinks such as fruit punch are available on the island, but budget-minded travelers may prefer to pack a picnic.
- Those traveling to the Bahamas on a cruise can book shore excursions to Blue Lagoon Island.
- Don’t forget sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Amenities such as showers, beach chairs, and changing stations are available at the island’s beach.
How to Get There
Blue Lagoon Island is located three miles (five kilometers) from the northeast coast of Nassau (about a 20-minute boat ride) and can be reached by regular ferries from nearby Paradise Island.
When to Get There
Regular private, ticketed ferries run throughout the day from Paradise Island. To beat the crowds, go early. Travelers spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day on the island.
Address: Bahamas
Hours: Daily
From $ 74
Nassau Cruise Port
The colonial city of Nassau is an excellent introduction to the Bahamas. Just 180 miles (290 kilometers) off Florida’s southern coast on the island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and its 29 islands.
The Basics
Downtown Nassau is a colorful mix of colonial architecture and historic landmarks, boutiques, and tropical gardens. Visitors can tour the city by horse-drawn carriage or catch a boat to Paradise Island, known for its golden beaches and the luxe Atlantis Resort. Guided tours showcase the colonial highlights and often include stops at Ardastra Gardens, the Queen's Staircase, and Fort Charlotte.
Still, aquatic adventures are the most popular ways to explore Nassau and the turquoise waters of the western Atlantic Ocean. From downtown Nassau, you can snorkel or scuba dive to the surrounding coral reefs, head out in search of the island's resident dolphins, and spot other photogenic marine life. Don’t miss shore excursions to the beach—popular destinations include Blue Lagoon Island, Cable Beach, Junkanoo Beach, and Rose Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many Nassau tours include pickup and drop-off at the cruise port, allowing visitors to make the most of their time on the island.
- Although Nassau offers many ocean excursions that typically involve some physical activity, those with mobility difficulties can see marine life on a glass-bottom boat tour without getting wet.
- If you’re in port for a short time, consider a private tour to escape the crowds and catch all the can't-miss attractions without a large group.
How to Get to Downtown Nassau from the Nassau Cruise Port
Getting into town is easy from Prince George Wharf on the island’s north coast, where cruise ships dock. Either grab a taxi at the wharf or walk 10 minutes south to Bay Street, the main shopping hub. Visitor information booths are located at the port’s Festival Place Welcome Center, where you can find maps and other useful resources.
Port Information
Nassau is a popular port of entry for the Bahamas, and most major cruise ships dock here. The Bahamian and US dollars are used interchangeably throughout the island, but other currencies must be exchanged. The local language is English.
Address: Arakwak Cay, Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 59
Cable Beach
Famous for its golden sands, the Bahamas' Cable Beach is a popular water sports and lolling destination for visitors to New Providence Island. This 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of idyllic beach is home to several massive resorts"”including the Atlantis on nearby Paradise Island"”each with their own claim staked in the sand.
The Basics
If you want to explore Cable Beach but aren't staying in one of the resorts, seek out the public stretches of sand. The gentle turquoise waters, typical of the Caribbean, are perfect for snorkeling right off the beach and other water sports, and you can book island tours and boat tours from outfitter stands dotted along the coast.
Cable Beach is a stop on many Nassau island tours and cruise ship shore excursions that cover the Nassau highlights, such as Junkanoo Beach, Ardastra Gardens, the Queen's Staircase. To explore the Bahamas farther afield, you can embark on multi-island tours that might stop on Exuma, Blue Lagoon Island, or Rose Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring your own beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas.
- Known for its many restaurants lining the shore, Cable Beach is one of Nassau's best dining destinations. Food-loving visitors can plan their Cable Beach stop around a gourmet breakfast or lunch.
- Many hotels along Cable Beach sell day passes that give access to all of their amenities.
How to Get There
Located along the north coast of the island, Cable Beach is only a short drive from downtown Nassau. Taxis are another option, and they eliminate the hassle of parking in this crowded part of the island.
When to Get There
Daytime on Cable Beach is for soaking up rays and swimming; nighttime sees visitors dining at beachside restaurants and checking out the island's largest casino at Baha Mar.
Snorkeling on Cable Beach
Cable Beach is one of New Providence Island's best snorkeling spots for beginners and children. Visitors staying at one of the all-inclusive resorts have access to snorkeling gear; others can rent it at one of the beach shacks. The calm waters are home to schools of fish who are used to the presence of humans, as well as stingrays and starfish.
Address: Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Free
From $ 85
Heritage Museum of the Bahamas
Learn the history of one of the most storied set of Caribbean islands at the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas. See relics of the plantation era, when many slaves were brought to the islands; artifacts from the days when pirates patrolled nearby waters, and memorabilia from days of the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson.
The Basics
Located in Mountbatten House—itself an interesting building, once the summer home of Lord Louis Mountbatten, Admiral of the Fleet for Great Britain and the last Viceroy of India—the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas is part of the Graycliff Heritage Village. A large part of the museum’s collection belongs to the British antique dealer Hamilton White.
Exhibits range from a slice of meteorite (about 4.5 billion years old) found on the islands to artifacts dating to the era of Christopher Columbus in the late 15th century, to a slave bench with iron ankle shackles that brings plantation life into sharp focus. Visitors can choose an audio guide or opt for a guided tour for additional insights into the collection.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the museum is by paid ticket.
- Discounted tickets are available for children.
- Access to the museum is via a flight of stairs, so it may be unsuitable for people with limited mobility.
- Look out for the faces carved into the suits of Spanish armor designed to frighten the opposition armies.
How to Get There
The museum is found on West Hill Street, opposite the Graycliff Hotel, close to Government House and the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. It is walking distance from most points in Downtown Nassau, including the cruise terminal.
When to Get There
The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10am–5pm. It is closed on Sundays and holidays. Most people spend around 45 minutes in the museum.
Climb the Queen’s Staircase
Consisting of 66 steep steps carved out of solid limestone by the island’s slaves, the Queen’s Staircase links Downtown Nassau to Fort Fincastle. The steps were built around 1794 and later renamed in honor of Queen Victoria. Once you reach the top, you can take a look around Fort Fincastle, which was designed as a defensive outpost to protect Nassau from invasion by foreign fleets.
Address: West Hill Street, Nassau, Bahamas
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Government House
Built in 1806, the Government House is considered by many to be the leading example of Georgian Colonial architecture in all the West Indies. Its vibrant exterior gives this traditional building that sits atop Mount Fitzwilliam a uniquely island vibe, with a coral-colored paintjob that nods to Nassau's famous conch. An impressive entryway, towering Ionic columns and a proud statue of Christopher Columbus lend a noble air to the mansion the visiting representative of the Queen calls home. Climb the hilltop for breathtaking views of Paradise Island or hang around the gates to catch the changing of the guards"”both offer photo ops that are uniquely Nassau.
Practical Info
The Government House is located on Duke Street, between Hill Road and Market Street. The grounds are well kept but strictly guarded.
Address: Duke St, Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 30
Nassau Public Library & Museum
With its pink exterior and unusual octagonal shape, the Nassau Public Library is a well-loved local landmark. Although you might not think to visit a public library while on vacation, a detour to see this building is well worth the effort. The library once served as the town’s jail, and the books are housed inside the former jail cells.
The Basics
The library has been in operation since 1837, making it one of the oldest public libraries in the Caribbean (although it didn’t move to its current home until 1873). The Old Powder Magazine building in Williamsburg, Virginia, inspired its 8-sided shape. The library was the first building to be erected on what is now Parliament Square.
The library also doubles as the city’s museum, with interesting artifacts from the Bahamas’ indigenous Arawak Indians, plus information about the islands’ colonial history. Many people make a stop at the library on a historical walking tour of Nassau or as part of a fun fact-finding adventure tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the library is free.
- Wi-Fi available at the library, as well as computers that visitors can use.
- The library’s basement was once used as a dungeon.
- Don’t miss the veranda on the top floor, which offers great views over Nassau.
How to Get There
The Nassau Public Library and Museum is located at Shirley Street and Parliament Square, in Downtown Nassau on the island of New Providence, part of the Bahamas island chain. The library is walkable from most places downtown and is about five blocks from the cruise port terminal.
When to Get There
The library is open Monday–Thursday from 10am–8pm, Friday from 10am–5pm, and Saturday from 10am–2pm. It is closed Sundays and holidays.
Thrills and Spills on Paradise Island
Just across the water from Nassau, you’ll find Paradise Island, home to two casinos, several large resorts, and the legendary Aquaventure water park at the Atlantis hotel, where daring thrill seekers can catch a clear-sided waterslide that travels through a shark-filled lagoon. The island is also a popular destination for jet-skiing and other water sports.
Address: Shirley Street and Parliament Square, Nassau, Bahamas
From $ 23
Parliament Square
The island of Nassau is the seat of the Bahamian government and the four bubblegum pink buildings that house its key branches lend a distinctly island vibe to what’s known as Parliament Square.
The pastel Georgian-style buildings of the Supreme Court, the Public Library and Museum and the Houses of Parliament surround the square, where a statue honoring Queen Victoria stands. This government center is within walking distance from the main cruise ship ports, as well as numerous shops and restaurants, making it a perfect stop to learn a bit of history while touring the town.
The pastel Georgian-style buildings of the Supreme Court, the Public Library and Museum and the Houses of Parliament surround the square, where a statue honoring Queen Victoria stands. This government center is within walking distance from the main cruise ship ports, as well as numerous shops and restaurants, making it a perfect stop to learn a bit of history while touring the town.
Practical Info
Parliament Square is located on Bay Street across from Rawson Square. It is free to visit and tourists are welcome weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Address: Parliament Square, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Daily 10am-5:30pm
From $ 23
Christ Church Cathedral
The Gothic-style Christ Church Cathedral has become one of the island's most famous houses of worship. Its brilliant white stone tower, vaulted mahogany ceilings, detailed altar and handmade stain glass windows draw travelers to this Anglican church. Memorial plaques from the 1800s explore the history of Nassau's previous residents, while the 400-year-old grounds and Garden of Remembrance offer travelers wandering town or docking at port for a day with a quiet, contemplative place to escape the noise of city streets.
Practical Info
Christ Church Cathedral is located at the corner of George Street and King Street. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. with communion and prayer meetings held every day but Saturday.
Address: George St, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
From $ 23