What Not to Miss in Nassau, Bahamas

Shopping

Straw Market - Duty-free deals can be had for local souvenirs.  Not all items are local though so be sure to look out for "Made in China" stickers on the items you may want to buy.  ALWAYS NEGOTIATE and shop around!  There are no set prices and most shops sell the same items.  Be sure to also walk around the outside of the Market as there are often local craftsmen making handmade art and wood carvings that are definitely one of a kind.

Bay Street- High end items can be found from the stores on Bay Street as well as low end souvenir and T-shirt shops.  Overall it has a little something for everyone and is Duty-free.

Historical sites

Fort Fincastle is on Bennett's Hill which is the highest point on the island.  It also has a water tower behind it that you used to be able to climb for the best view on the island.  Unfortunately, the water tower was damaged in a hurricane and is no longer open.  Entrance to Fort Fincastle is $1.00.

Fort Charlotte is an 18th century fort with dungeons, tunnels and a moat.  It also offers a good view of the harbor from the high ramparts of the fort.  The best part is it is only $1.00 to visit!

Parliament House - Pink colonial-style government buildings past Rawson Square with a statue of Queen Victoria enthroned out front.

Government House is the official residence of the Governor- General of the Bahamas since 1901. 

Queen's Staircase is a 66-step staircase carved out of a coral based sandstone at the end of the 18th century.  The staircase is located on the other side of the water tower from Fort Fincastle off of Elizabeth Avenue.

Balcony House - The island's oldest wooden structure.  One of the notable scenic spots on the island is from the balcony.  Make sure to see the mahogany staircase inside the house which is said to have been salvaged from a mid-1800's shipwreck.

Views / Scenic spots

Atlantis Resort

Fort Charlotte

Fort Fincastle

Balcony House

Queen's Staircase

Kids / Children

Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre - A small zoo and garden just minutes from the heart of Downtown Nassau featuring Pink Flamingos that march in a parade, various other birds including peacocks and Macaws.

Pirates of Nassau - An interactive museum with a pirate based theme and large pirate ship you can walk through. 

Seaworld Explorer- A 90-minute submarine tour with large glass windows that enables you to view the underwater beauty of the waters surrounding Nassau from 5 feet below the surface without even getting your hair wet!

Gamblers

Atlantis Casino - There are a few casinos in Nassau, but none that rival the Atlantis Casino on Paradise Island.