Front Street in Hamilton, Bermuda; credit Reilly Durfy

Bermuda Attractions

Bermuda Attractions are headlined by its 300 to 400-year-old forts spread throughout the island which were built between 1612 after first settlement and manned until 1957. The island once had over 100 forts because it was a strategic outpost for Great Britain at the height of its powers. Many of the larger forts have been restored and are open to the public with dioramas, displays, and original cannons.

Forts
Fort St. Catherine is located in St. George Parish north, it has displays and dioramas and a replica of the British Crown Jewels. Gates Fort is located in St. George Parish east guarding the Town Cut channel entrance. Fort George is also located in St. George Parish and overlooks the Town of St. George. Town of St. George. A scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest, continually inhabited British settlement in the New World. It boasts small winding streets with typical British Colonial architecture with fountains, gardens and squares, cobbled streets, and plazas. Fort Hamilton is located in Pembroke Parish and overlooks the City of Hamilton.

Royal Naval Dockyard
The sprawling stone building that was the former naval base to Bermuda now houses several different sites and attractions, including a pub located in the old Cooperage, or barrel-making facility; The Maritime Museum, offering the most extensive look at Bermudian history on all of the islands; or many shops located in the former naval administration building. Now known as the Clocktower Mall, these small shops offer many souvenir options including jewelry. Located just off of King’s Wharf, visitors coming off of cruise ships may find the Royal Naval Dockyard to be an appealing option.

National Museum of Bermuda
This museum is a major reason to visit the Royal Naval Dockyard aera. After the loss of its naval bases during the American Revolutionary War, the British Royal Navy relocated the headquarters of its Atlantic Fleet here from 1812 to 1957. The old limestone storage buildings, keep and a fortress have been wisely redeveloped by the Bermuda Government into a history museum tourist attraction, and shopping center.
Address: Pender Road, Royal Naval Dockyard
Phone: 441-234-1418

Front Street
Located in the city of Hamilton, Front Street has an abundance of shops for gifts and an equally large number of restaurants for the palate. It is a good place to people-watch Bermudans during major festivals too.

Victoria Park
Located in Hamilton, this public park is the home to many concerts in the summer months on the bandstand, which was established in 1899 and completely restored in 2008. Visit one of the several flower gardens, walk on the paths or sit on one of the many benches under the trees. Public restrooms are available nearby and the location is prime, between several of the busy streets of the capital. In the summer, expect frequent concerts on the bandstand during the day and into the evening hours, food vendors, and other attractions for both adults and children. Conveniently for tourists, the main bus station of the city is located one block over from the park. Open daily sunrise to sunset.

Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo
It features a variety of animals nursed back to health after being found in danger on the shores. Visitors can walk into the habitats of the animals due to the small nature of the facility. Highlighted by a 140,000-gallon replica coral reef, it is one of Bermuda’s main attractions. Over three hundred birds, reptiles and mammals, and 200 species of fish.
Days & Times: 9a-5p with the last admission at 4p.
Address: 40 North Shore Road, Flatts Village
Phone: +1 441 293-2727

National Museum of Bermuda, hosted by a seaside fortress in Royal Naval Dockyard; credit Joel Wesseldyke

Crystal and Fantasy Caves
Two quite different caves to see. You can see one cave for $24 or two for $35. Narrated tours require walking 120 feet underground to stalagmite caves with pools. Rubber-soled shoes are recommended and some people get claustrophobic. Once in the cave, however, it’s extremely beautiful.
Daily 9:30a-4:30p with the last admission at 4p
Address: Wilkinson Ave, Bailey’s Bay
Phone: +1 441 293-0640

Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute
Address: 40 Crow Lane, East Broadway, Pembroke
Phone: 441-297-7219

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
One of the oldest cast iron structures in the world. First lit in May 1846. You can climb its 180 steps to the observation deck surrounding the lamp, which offers spectacular views of the island and the waters around. There is a Tea Room at its base offering drinks and light fare.
Address: St. Anne’s Road, Southampton