The capital of Grenada buzzes with local markets, 18th-century Fort George, and waterfront restaurants. Visitors can explore spice stalls and swim at Grand Anse beach nearby.
St. George's spreads across a volcanic crater on Grenada's southwestern coast. Red-roofed buildings painted in yellow, pink, and blue surround the horseshoe harbor, while narrow streets wind up to Fort George. You'll find the 18th-century Grenada National Museum in former military barracks, and spice traders selling nutmeg and mace at Market Square. Walk through the 340-foot Sendall Tunnel to explore the Church Street district or take a boat trip to see the waterfront homes along the Carenage.
Getting to St. George's
Maurice Bishop International Airport lies 8 miles southwest of the city center. Minibuses run frequently between the airport, St. George's, and Grand Anse Beach. Cruise ships dock at the terminal just north of Fort George, and the city serves as the main transport hub for the entire island.
Walking Around the Carenage
The Carenage waterfront follows the crater-formed harbor's edge, where local restaurants serve fresh seafood and fishing boats dock throughout the day. At the midpoint of the waterfront stands the Christ of the Abyss bronze statue, donated by Genoa in 1961 to commemorate rescue efforts during a shipwreck.
Historical Fortifications
Fort George sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the harbor. The police now use part of this 18th-century structure, but you can explore other sections daily between 7 AM and 5 PM. From Fort Frederick on Richmond Hill, you can see across the city and bay. The French constructed this fortress after taking the island in 1779.
Museums and Cultural Sites
The Grenada National Museum occupies French military barracks built in 1704. Exhibits range from indigenous pottery to colonial-era artifacts, including a marble bathtub that belonged to Empress Joséphine. You can learn about the island's former whaling industry and rum production through the museum's collections.
Market Square and Shopping
Vendors at Market Square sell fresh produce, spices, and local crafts throughout the week. The area maintains its traditional character with wooden stalls and local traders, despite the modern cruise terminal nearby. You'll find major supermarkets Supersavers and Foodland near the bus station, open Monday through Saturday.
Spicemas Festival
During August, the Spicemas carnival fills St. George's streets with music and dancing. The final two days include street parades with costumed performers, steel pan bands, and calypso music. The celebration commemorates the emancipation of slaves and includes competitions at Queen's Park, where judges evaluate costumes and select calypso queens.
