Background

Museum of Antigua & Barbuda: A Journey Through Island History

Explore Antigua & Barbuda's vibrant past at this St. John's museum, housed in the island's oldest building. Discover artifacts & cultural treasures!

4.2

Housed in St. John's oldest building, the former Colonial Courthouse (circa 1750), the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda showcases the islands' rich history, from their geological formation to independence. Exhibits feature Amerindian artifacts, colonial-era relics, and insights into the sugar industry.

A brief summary to Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

  • Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds for a more relaxed experience.
  • Allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the museum's exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions and special events.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of Antigua & Barbuda is located on Long Street in St. John's, within easy walking distance of the cruise port at Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Quay. From the cruise port, walk west along the main street (Heritage Quay) until you reach Long Street. Turn left onto Long Street; the museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    St. John's is the central hub for Antigua's bus system. From either the East Bus Station (near the Antigua Recreation Ground) or the West Bus Station (by Market Place), the museum is a short walk. From the East Bus Station, walk west along Independence Avenue, then turn left onto Long Street. From the West Bus Station, walk east along Market Street, then turn right onto Long Street. The museum will be on your right. Bus fares within St. John's are typically around EC$3.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout St. John's. A short taxi ride from the cruise port or either bus station to the museum should cost approximately EC$20-30. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tipping is customary (10-15%) for good service.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available on the streets surrounding the museum, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours. Several paid parking lots are located in the city center, such as the Heritage Quay Parking Lot, Market Street Parking Lot, and High Street Parking Lot. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around EC$5 for two hours. Be aware of the new 45-minute parking permits in St John's.

Unlock the Best of Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

The Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, located in the heart of St. John's, offers a captivating journey through the islands' history and culture. Established in 1985, the museum resides within the beautifully restored St. John's Courthouse, dating back to 1750 and believed to be the oldest building in the city. The museum's exhibits chronicle Antigua and Barbuda's story from its geological beginnings to its political independence. Visitors can explore displays about the islands' geological formation, the Amerindian peoples who first inhabited them, the impact of European colonization, the era of slavery, and the development of Antiguan culture. Highlights include indigenous Taino pottery, colonial-era documents, and exhibits detailing the once-dominant sugar industry. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and community events, showcasing contemporary local artists and cultural practices. The upper floor houses a reference library with a collection of pre-Colombian and historical artifacts, including ceramics, faunal remains, metal objects, texts, maps, and photographs. The Historical and Archaeological Society of Antigua and Barbuda manages the museum, which partners with other historical sites like the Dockyard Museum at English Harbour and Betty's Hope Trust.

Popular Experiences near Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

Popular Hotels near Museum Of Antigua & Barbuda

Select Currency