Old Fort Craft Market
A vibrant local market in Montego Bay offering authentic Jamaican crafts, delicious jerk chicken, and a lively cultural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Old Fort Craft Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant local market in Montego Bay offering authentic Jamaican crafts, delicious jerk chicken, and a lively cultural experience.
"Discover authentic Jamaican crafts and savor delicious jerk chicken at this lively local market."
Bring Cash! 💰
Vendors may charge extra for card payments. Jamaican dollars or USD are best.
Negotiate Prices Politely 👍
Many vendors are open to negotiation, especially on weekdays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Jamaican Jerk
Various food stalls
Savor the iconic jerk chicken and other local delicacies from vendors like Mr. Frass.
Handcrafted Souvenirs
Artisan stalls
Discover a wide array of colorful souvenirs, from figurines and instruments to bags and clothing.
Local Artisan Demonstrations
Market stalls
Watch local artists at work, creating unique pieces right before your eyes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King (and Card Fees Apply)
Navigate the Sales Pitches
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
Vendors may charge extra for card payments. Jamaican dollars or USD are best.
Negotiate Prices Politely 👍
Many vendors are open to negotiation, especially on weekdays.
Look for Unique Finds ✨
While many items are similar, a few stalls offer truly unique, handcrafted pieces.
Try the Jerk Chicken! 🍗
Don't miss out on authentic jerk chicken from local vendors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
Vendors may charge extra for card payments. Jamaican dollars or USD are best.
Negotiate Prices Politely 👍
Many vendors are open to negotiation, especially on weekdays.
Look for Unique Finds ✨
While many items are similar, a few stalls offer truly unique, handcrafted pieces.
Try the Jerk Chicken! 🍗
Don't miss out on authentic jerk chicken from local vendors.
Support Small Businesses ❤️
Your purchases directly support local artisans and small businesses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Old Fort Craft Market for its authentic Jamaican crafts and delicious jerk chicken, offering a genuine local experience. While some find the souvenir selection repetitive and vendors can be persistent, many enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to support small businesses. It's recommended for a short visit to soak in the local culture and find unique treasures.
"The reason I went it’s because it’s a local craft market and I support small businesses. Especially when I’m on vacation I would prefer local stuff. So as soon as we step out of the vehicle, people are gonna start to escort you to their stall. Literally everyone will tell you to see their stall. My husband just had a bad experience when one of the guys who was selling a bamboo cup because he didn’t have enough cash so he paid card and they charged him additional fee around 13%. So if you go to the local market or craft bring cash."
teena teena
"Lovely merchants with a lot of real Jamaican products in their nice huts. Good atmosphere and worth visiting. No hustle, no pressure, but cute things: figurines, small instruments, bags, clothes, magnets and so much more. Take Jamaican money, but $US is possible, too. We (Germans) liked this market a lot"
Ute Ronge
"Go see Kerry, shop 129! She was so nice and easy to buy from. All the ladies were lovley, and they would love to negotiate. Get a beer and shop. If you like the feel of a tiny market, then try this place."
Virginia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Fort Craft Market is located in Montego Bay, Jamaica. It's easily accessible by taxi or tour services from most resorts in the area.
Yes, the market is conveniently located relatively close to the Sangster International Airport (MBJ), making it a good stop for arrivals or departures.
While local buses might pass nearby, taking a taxi or arranging a tour is generally more convenient and direct for tourists.
Parking is typically available, especially if you arrive by taxi or private tour.
The market is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entrance fee to browse the Old Fort Craft Market. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase.
No, advance booking is not usually required for the Old Fort Craft Market. It's a walk-in market.
It's highly recommended to bring cash (Jamaican dollars or USD) as some vendors may charge extra fees for card payments.
Yes, negotiation is common and often expected, especially on weekdays. Be polite and friendly when discussing prices.
Discounts are usually achieved through negotiation rather than advertised sales.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs including wood carvings, paintings, jewelry, clothing, bags, magnets, and local crafts.
While some items are handcrafted by local artisans, many souvenirs are mass-produced. Look closely and ask vendors about the origin of their goods.
It can be worth it for unique finds and to support local businesses, but be aware that prices can sometimes be higher than expected.
Many visitors recommend specific vendors like Kerry at shop 129 for her friendly service. Exploring and interacting with vendors is part of the experience.
Yes, you can find authentic Jamaican crafts, but it requires careful observation to distinguish them from mass-produced items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market is famous for its authentic Jamaican jerk chicken and other local dishes. You can also find cold Red Stripe beer from vendors.
Many visitors rave about the delicious and authentic jerk chicken and other local flavors available.
Options might be limited, but you may find some local fruit or vegetable dishes. It's best to inquire with individual vendors.
Yes, vendors often sell refreshing drinks like Red Stripe beer and other local beverages.
The food is generally prepared fresh and is a popular choice for locals and tourists. Exercise your usual caution when trying street food.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of them or their specific crafts.
Capture the vibrant colors of the crafts, the lively interactions between vendors and customers, and the local artisans at work.
While not strictly enforced, be mindful of vendors' privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
Morning light can be soft and pleasant, while afternoons offer more dynamic interactions and vibrant scenes.
The market is located in an area with historical significance. You can photograph the general market atmosphere and any visible historical structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for stalls with visually appealing items like wooden toys or brightly colored clothing. While the food stalls offer authentic flavors, consider if your children are adventurous eaters. A short visit might be more manageable than a prolonged stay to keep everyone engaged and happy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on smaller items like magnets or keychains if you're on a strict budget. Enjoying the local food, like jerk chicken, can also be a cost-effective and delicious meal option. Remember that the experience of browsing and interacting with locals is free!
couples
Consider visiting in the morning for a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to chat with vendors and each other without feeling rushed. Sharing a plate of jerk chicken or a cold Red Stripe can be a simple yet enjoyable shared experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artisan Experience
It's worth taking the time to explore beyond the initial rows of stalls to find these unique creators. Some vendors are proud to share the story behind their work, making the purchase more meaningful. Remember that supporting these individual artists directly contributes to the local economy and preserves traditional crafts.
Pro Tip: Look for vendors who are actively working on their crafts. This is a good indicator of authenticity. Don't be afraid to ask questions about their techniques and inspiration.
Navigating the Market Vibe
While most interactions are pleasant, a few vendors might be more pushy. A polite but firm 'no, thank you' is usually effective. Visiting on a weekday can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, allowing for more leisurely browsing and interaction.
Community Insight: 'Everyone will tell you to see their stall. My husband just had a bad experience when one of the guys who was selling a bamboo cup because he didn’t have enough cash so he paid card and they charged him additional fee around 13%.'
Culinary Delights: Jerk and More
Beyond jerk, you can find other local dishes and refreshing beverages like the iconic Red Stripe beer. These food stalls offer a true taste of Jamaica, often prepared with traditional methods passed down through generations. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the island's vibrant food culture.
Traveler Tip: If you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal, the jerk chicken stalls are a must-try. They offer a delicious and affordable way to experience local cuisine.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit