St. John's

St. John's, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, is a Caribbean city where colonial architecture meets azure waters. As you walk through the city, you'll see the white towers of St. John's Cathedral, pass by market stalls filled with tropical fruits, and spot Fort James overlooking the harbor. Beyond the city limits, beaches like Dickenson Bay and historical sites such as Nelson's Dockyard await, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.

Exploring St. John's Cathedral

St. John's Cathedral, with its distinctive white baroque towers, stands out in the city's skyline. Built in 1845, it's the third church on this site, as earthquakes destroyed the previous structures in 1683 and 1745. The cathedral is currently undergoing restoration, but you can still visit to admire its intricate details and learn about its significance to the island.

Discovering Fort James

Fort James, located at the entrance of St. John's harbor, illustrates Antigua's colonial past. Built in the 18th century to protect the harbor from French invasion, the fort now provides views of the surrounding area. You can explore the remaining cannons and walls while enjoying the sea breeze. The fort is easily accessible and offers a historical excursion.

Shopping at Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay

Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay are the main shopping areas in St. John's. At Heritage Quay, you'll find duty-free shops selling luxury goods, jewelry, and local crafts. Redcliffe Quay, with its restored colonial buildings, contains boutique shops and restaurants. Both areas attract cruise ship passengers and provide various shopping options.

Visiting the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

To learn about the islands' history, visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda. Located in the former Court House dating back to 1750, the museum displays Arawak and colonial artifacts. You can see a life-size replica of an Arawak house, models of sugar plantations, and other exhibits that tell the story of the islands from prehistoric times to independence.

Experiencing the Local Markets

On Friday and Saturday mornings, head to the farmers market on the southern edge of the city. Here, you'll find an array of tropical fruits, vegetables, and local crafts. The market is a place to interact with locals, taste fresh produce, and experience the atmosphere of St. John's.

Relaxing on Dickenson Bay

Just a short drive from St. John's, Dickenson Bay is a popular beach in Antigua. The long stretch of white sand is lined with resorts, restaurants, and water sports facilities. You can spend a day sunbathing, swimming in the calm waters, or trying out various water activities. The beach is also known for its sunsets, making it a good spot for an evening stroll.

Visiting Nelson's Dockyard

While not in St. John's itself, Nelson's Dockyard in English Harbour is an attraction easily accessible from the capital. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a restored Georgian naval dockyard named after Admiral Horatio Nelson. You can explore the dockyard's museums, art galleries, and shops, all housed in restored 18th and 19th-century buildings. The site also offers insight into Antigua's maritime history and its connection to the British Royal Navy.

Getting Around St. John's

St. John's is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. If you're planning to explore more of Antigua, renting a car can be a convenient option. The V.C. Bird International Airport is located about 8 kilometers northeast of St. John's, making it easy to reach the city upon arrival.