Established in 1765 the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere outside of Haiti. They were originally created to study plants that could thrive in the Caribbean climate.

Signature Trees & Collections

Breadfruit Tree: Brought to Kingstown by Captain William Bligh (of HMS Bounty fame) in 1793. Its enormous, serrated leaves are an iconic sight.

Royal Palm Collection: A wide variety of palm species line the main pathways, offering a cathedral-like canopy overhead.

Orchid House: A small greenhouse filled with native and exotic orchids—blooming season is typically March through June.

Local Wildlife
Keep an eye out for the tiny tree frog (Eleutherodactylus johnstonei) that calls the mossy hollows home. You might hear their high-pitched calls near dawn and dusk.

Hours & Admission

Open daily from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.; gates officially close at noon but you can still linger until 4 p.m.

Admission: XCD $5 (about US$1.85) for adults; XCD $2 for children under 12.

Guided Plant Walks

• Available on weekdays at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. (subject to staff availability). A knowledgeable local guide will point out medicinal plants, fruit trees, and historical anecdotes.
• Ask at the visitor kiosk near the main gate—no reservations needed, but try to arrive 15 minutes early.
• Wear closed-toe shoes, as some paths can be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to venture off the main paths.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (6 a.m.–9 a.m.) for cooler temperatures and birdwatching (bananaquits, hummingbirds).

Bay Street Arches

Bay Street’s iconic stone arches date back to the late 19th century, when they were built as part of a reinforced seawall and to create a covered walkway for dockworkers unloading sugar, arrowroot, and other exports. The cobblestones lining the street in front of the arches were originally used as ballast in the holds of transatlantic ships—including those of the slave trade—and were later repurposed to pave the roadway. Today, the arches form a shaded arcade where local vendors sell handmade crafts, postcards, fresh produce, and souvenirs, offering a living glimpse into Kingstown’s maritime and commercial past.

Government Buildings & Pastel Façades

A short walk east along Bay Street brings you to the red-brick Treasury Building, constructed around 1905 with deep cornices, louvered shutters, and high ceilings designed for tropical climates. Nearby stands the Old Post Office, its soft yellow façade, arched windows, and classical pediment reflecting early 20th-century British neoclassical influence. These landmarks anchor a cohesive streetscape of low-rise buildings painted in pastel hues—each one testifying to Kingstown’s layered heritage under French and British colonial rule.

Kingstown has no shortage of spots where you can watch the sky blaze in shades of orange, pink, and purple. 

1. Villa Beach

Just a fifteen-minute taxi or local-bus ride from downtown, Villa Beach’s narrow strip of black volcanic sand faces directly west. Claim a spot on the sand or along the harbor wall to see fishing skiffs glide home against the setting sun. The nearby hotels and bars sell ice-cold sorrel juice and dinner, but consider bringing your own snacks and water for comfort.

2. Fort Charlotte

For panoramic views, head up to Fort Charlotte on Berkshire Hill. At about 600 feet above sea level, the fort’s ramparts overlook Kingstown’s rooftops and stretch out toward the Grenadines. It’s a quieter setting—perfect for photographers or anyone who enjoys watching the sun sink over distant islands in peaceful solitude.

3. Bay Street Waterfront Promenade

Back in town, the benches along Bay Street’s seawall offer a front-row seat to harbor activity as day turns to night. Vendors wheel out carts of grilled corn, fresh fruit, and chilled sorrel juice just as the sky begins to glow, making it easy to grab a quick snack while enjoying the view.

4. Waterfront Rooftop Bars

For a more elevated experience, choose one of Kingstown’s rooftop or terrace bars overlooking the bay. Perch yourself with a rum punch or local beer in hand and watch lights begin to sparkle on fishing boats and cruise vessels gliding into port. It’s a festive way to cap off the day and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.