The charming city of Charlotte Amalie and nearby attractions are a treasure trove of history, culture, shopping, and, of course, breathtaking ocean views. While the Windward Passage Hotel has amazing things to do in its own right, there are a surprising number of things to do when visiting the city on foot or a short taxi ride away.
Main Street
Shopping on Main Street (Dronningens Gade) is a popular diversion you don’t want to miss. Find duty-free luxury items, including jewelry, perfume, and watches, for loved ones or a gift for yourself. Get lost in small alleyways where you’ll find local art and handmade jewelry.
Camille Pissarro Gallery
The cozy, understated haven of the Camille Pissarro Gallery features the art of the original French Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro. The gallery is located in Pissarro’s childhood home in the loft of a merchant’s building. View some of Pissarro’s works along with works from other artists.
St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum
Enjoy rich history with St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum walking tours or the only Hassel Island hike and boat tour in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These tours educate and excite with sourced information provided by the Saint Thomas Historical Trust.
Specialized Tours
For those looking for a spookier education in Charlotte Amalie, tour with the top-rated Charlotte Amalie Ghost Walk by American Ghost Walks. According to their website, this tour is an easy-to-moderate walk and features an “expert” paranormal guide to add extreme creepiness and true history to your experience.
The Local Culinary Scene and Nightlife
If you are looking for invigorating nightlife, look no further than Charlotte Amalie. With an exciting culinary scene, including the freshest seafood and local flavors. The city also presents welcoming bars and vibrant clubs.
Emancipation Garden
Take a peaceful walk through an ocean breeze in Emancipation Garden. Named in celebration of the emancipation of slaves on July 3, 1848, this garden features the trees, “lignum vitae,” the national tree of the Bahamas. This wood is one the hardest and was used to make ship propellers, while the resins were used in health remedies.
Blackbeard’s Castle
Explore the historic Danish watchtower, built in 1679 to protect the harbor. Offering lovely views, tours, and pirate lore, this place has relaxing fun to be had by all.
99 Steps
The 99 Steps, built in the mid-1700s, was built as a “step-street” to help the Danes traverse Charlotte Amalie’s hilly terrain. The steps were built using bricks that were once ballast from British and Danish ships. Once at the top, visitors are gifted stunning, sweeping views of St. Thomas.
Fort Christian
The oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands is a must-see for serious history enthusiasts. Built between 1672 and 1680, it features prison cells, a tower, a chapel, a courtyard, and a museum. See artifacts, including indigenous relics and Danish colonial furniture.