St. Thomas is a captivating island in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, where the echoes of history reverberate through its museums and historical sites. From the grand manor houses that bear witness to Danish colonialism to the resilient fortresses guarding against invaders, each destination unveils a story waiting to be discovered.
Here’s a list of must-visit museums and historic sites across St. Thomas.
Virgin Islands Children’s Museum
Traveling with kids? Stop by the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum, where education meets inspiration. Located in Charlotte Amalie’s Buccaneer Mall, the museum offers interactive, hands-on exhibits that teach kids the principles of science, technology, engineering, art, and math by allowing them to build and play with the exhibits themselves, from water wheels to reading stations, light shows and reading areas.
St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum
Located between Main Street and the Charlotte Amalie waterfront, this small museum is dedicated to preserving the archeological and cultural past of St. Thomas. Tours are by appointment only and are led by a Historical Trust volunteer. While exhibits can change periodically, this small museum boasts an extensive display of artifacts. Explore rooms featuring West Indian art and antiques from the 1600s, along with treasures found in shipwrecks.
Haagensen House
Nestled in Charlotte Amalie’s historic district, this museum was once the home of a wealthy Danish banker in the 1920s. Today, guests can enjoy a guided tour through the home, which features traditional Caribbean architecture, louvered windows and a stylish balcony with panoramic views of the harbor. As you wander from room to room, you’ll notice a sizable collection of antique art and furniture and the largest collection of life-sized bronze and copper pirate sculptures.
Important Note: Haagensen House is temporarily closed to tours, but you can view the home from the outside.
Pirate’s Treasure Museum
You’ll learn about famous pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd at The Pirate’s Treasure Museum in east Charlotte Amalie’s Buccaneer Mall. A fun and interactive museum perfect for families, you’ll discover the history of piracy in the Caribbean and see treasures and artifacts from shipwrecks in the waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands. See cannons and cannonballs, marvel at Roman coins and learn about life on a pirate ship on the high seas during the golden age of piracy.
French Heritage Museum
Once the village fire station and then a clinic, the French Heritage Museum has a long history that dates back to the early 1940s. Located in Frenchtown, the museum is home to exhibits that highlight the island’s architecture, cuisine and culture, as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands maritime history. Throughout the museum, you will find old photos of Frenchtown, West Indian crafts, toys and music, along with antique furniture, fishing nets and tools.
Fort Christian
Fort Christian is a National Historic Landmark near Charlotte Amalie’s Emancipation Garden. An impressive 17th-century stone fort that once housed the Danish militia, it’s easily recognizable by its gothic style architecture and vibrant red exterior. Visitors can explore the grounds, see the jail quarters and visit the museum, which is home to historic furniture, paintings and West Indian artifacts. Finally, be sure to head to the roof, which offers one of the best views of Charlotte Amalie.
St. Thomas Synagogue
Built in 1833, the stunning St. Thomas Synagogue is the second oldest in the western hemisphere. It’s a beautiful example of Caribbean architecture, and the sand floor, a tradition carried over from the days of the Spanish Inquisition, is a rare feature only found in four other synagogues around the world. Located in Charlotte Amalie’s historic district, the synagogue offers free 15-30 minute tours, and you can also visit The Weibel Memorial Museum in the foyer of the synagogue, which features images, artifacts and plaques detailing Jewish history on St. Thomas.
Caribbean Genealogy Library
The Caribbean Genealogy Library is an absolute necessity for anyone interested in researching their family history. The library is located outside the east end of Charlotte Amalie. It has an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials related to genealogy, focusing on the Caribbean region. If you happen to have family ties to St. Thomas or are simply interested in the island’s genealogy, the staff can even help you do your own research. Appointments are required to visit, so inquire ten days in advance.
