The Best Things to Do in St John’s, Antigua
Want to experience a different side of Antigua and Barbuda beyond pristine beaches and all-inclusive resort bars? Take a day trip to St. John’s to soak up the lively atmosphere, visit some key sights, and enjoy some local shopping.
St. John’s is Antigua and Barbuda’s capital city, commercial centre, and the island of Antigua’s main port. Compared to the small towns that dot the rest of the island nation, St. John’s is well developed for local life. Around 22,000 residents live in St. John’s, and its also a thriving cruise port.
In stark contrast to the relaxing beaches and plush resorts of the island, the centre of St. John’s is a colourful, noisy assault on the senses. It’s absolutely worth a visit, to experience some local flavours as you stroll its vibrant streets.
We spent around three hours in St. Johns – unfortunately, both the museum and cathedral were closed so we were a little more limited on things to do. We’d also visited on the only rainy day of our two-week Antigua trip!
On a normal day when things are open, I’d recommend spending at least a morning or afternoon in St. John’s to soak up the vibes and visit some of the highlights. If you’re visiting Antigua for one day as part of a cruise, you could take a morning tour to explore the island’s highlights, before spending the rest of the day exploring St. John’s.
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda chronicles the country’s history, with exhibitions including archaeology, transportation and crafts. Housed in the oldest building still in use in St John’s, the colonial courthouse dates back to the 1740s.
The downstairs museum houses historical and cultural exhibitions; and the upper floor is a library with a large collection of artifacts. Outside the building, you’ll see a green train from the country’s railway system, used to transport sugar between plantations and trade posts.
Opening Times: Weekdays 8.30am-4pm
Admission Fee: US$3
St. John’s Cathedral
Dominated by its imposing twin towers, this baroque Anglican church sits on a small hilltop overlooking the inner city. The Cathedral was first built in 1681 and rebuilt twice after earthquake damage destroyed the previous incarnations.
Inside, you’ll find renovated wood panelled interiors, stained glass windows and religious plaques. The entire cathedral is currently undergoing further renovation, but you can still visit both the exterior and interior.
Opening Times: Weekdays 9am-4pm; Saturdays 9am-1pm
Admission Fee: US$5 / EC$13
VC Bird Monument
Antigua and Barbuda’s first prime minister, Vere Cornwall Bird, was elected in 1981. During his 13 years in power, he took the country from a British colony to an independent country. Across Antigua, you’ll find tributes to influence – including the country’s international airport, named in his honour.
This surreal, strangely lifelike monument was installed in 2002, three years after Bird’s death. You can find it on a small plaza on a busy intersection by the city market.
Shopping in Heritage Quay
A bustling open-air shopping complex, with colourful storefronts along a palm-tree lined walkway. Once you’ve browsed the clothing, jewellery and cosmetics stores, you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink on the waterfront.
St John’s Public Market
If it’s an authentic local shopping experience you’re looking for, check out St. John’s Public Market. Housed in a large, airy building, on weekend days the market spills out into neighbouring streets.
Locals shop here for groceries, and you can find exotic local produce including Antigua’s ‘black pineapple’, sugar apples and sorrel. If you’re after a souvenir, the main building also has craft stalls run by local vendors.
Caribbean Cooking Classes
Take the delicious flavours of Antigua home with you!
A short drive outside of St. John’s centre, Nicole’s Table cookery school offers a range of Caribbean cooking classes. Think cooking with rum, delicious West Indian curries, and whipping up the perfect jerk recipes.
The classes are run by Nicole Arthurton Dennis, an experienced cook who previously worked as a private chef on the exclusive island resort of Jumby Bay. Taking place in Nicole’s very own kitchen, she incorporates fresh, healthy ingredients into classic and modern Caribbean dishes.
Fort James & Fort Barrington
Outside of the city centre, on each side of the harbour, you’ll find the ruins of two forts, built to protect the city.
Fort Barrington is the newer of the two sites, built in 1779. To get here, you’ll need to be prepared for a steep hike up Goat Hill. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views, and the ruins of the fort which include a circular battery, barracks and ammo magazine.
Fort James is more easily accessed, just under an hour’s walk from the historic centre of St. John’s. At the height of its usage, the fort was equipped with 36 guns and accommodated 75 soldiers. Several cannons and the fort’s foundations can be seen at the site today, and it’s also close to Fort James beach.
Beaches near St. John’s
A visit to Antigua wouldn’t be complete with spending downtime on one of the country’s 365 pristine white sand beaches! There are plenty within easy reach of St.John’s, some favourites include:
Runaway Beach: A quiet stretch of sand with calm, shallow waters and great snorkelling areas nearby.
Dickenson Bay: One of Antigua’s more popular beaches, Dickenson Bay is a mile-long stretch with an abundance of watersports on offer.
Fort James Beach: Around an hour’s walk from Antigua’s Heritage Quay and cruise port.
Where to eat in St. John’s
As a vibrant city centre, St. John’s has plenty of food spots – from international chain fast food to charming cafes serving a taste of the Caribbean.
Harbour View Café ($$) – a prime location to gaze out over the harbour as you enjoy a meal and a rum punch.
Hemingway’s Caribbean Café ($$) – the perfect local spot to try traditional Caribbean dishes including pepperpot and saltfish.
Cuties ($$) – charming café offering brunch and sharing platters
Fred’s Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream ($$) – sweet treats to cool down in the heat!
Antigua Tours from St. Johns
Arriving on a cruise ship? The best way to see as much of Antigua in one day from St. John’s is to take a guided tour. Public transport in Antigua isn’t particularly reliable, so most travel is easiest by taxi or guided tour.
Antigua Historical Guided Tour with Beach Visit: This 4.5hr tour takes you around the island to some of Antigua’s must-see attractions. Included on the tour, you’ll visit Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights, as well as passing through the local villages of Freemans and Liberta. Ending at a beautiful Antigua beach, it’s the best way to experience Antigua in a short time.
You can also take a ride around the island on an Antigua boat tour, departing from St. Johns.
Where to stay in St. John’s
If you’re visiting Antigua on a self-guided visit, try these local hotels:
JJ Guesthouse ($$) – double and single rooms close to the centre of St.Johns
Heritage Hotel ($$$) – one of very few city hotels in St. John’s, close to the cruise port
Caribbean Inn and Suites ($$$) – suites and apartments just outside St. John’s
If you’re looking for a resort in Antigua, I’d recommend Pineapple Beach Club in Long Bay.
Best time to visit St.John’s
December to April is the most popular time to visit Antigua and Barbuda, They’re the driest months, and temperatures stay between 22°C and 29°C.
The weather in May and June is still warm, and although there’s a slight increase in rainfall, it’s worth it if you want to save some money on your Antigua vacation, as cheaper deals can be fond at this time.
July to November are also the wettest and most humid months, with a higher risk of hurricanes on the island.
