Queen's Staircase
A historic 102-ft. staircase carved by slaves from limestone, leading to Fort Fincastle for stunning Nassau views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Queen's Staircase
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 102-ft. staircase carved by slaves from limestone, leading to Fort Fincastle for stunning Nassau views.
"A historical landmark offering cool shade, a refreshing waterfall, and rewarding views from Fort Fincastle."
🚶♀️ Walk from Cruise Port
It's about a 10-15 min walk from the cruise port. Enjoy the scenic route!
💰 Tip for Local Guides
Locals may offer tours or sell items. A small tip ($10) for a narrated tour is often recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 66 Limestone Steps
Carved from solid limestone
A historic 102-ft. staircase, hand-carved by slaves, offering a cool escape and a glimpse into the past.
Fort Fincastle Views
At the top of the staircase
Climb to the 18th-century fort for stunning panoramic views over Nassau and the surrounding turquoise waters.
Tropical Waterfall
Near the base of the stairs
A charming, shaded spot with a cascading waterfall, providing a refreshing break and a picturesque photo opportunity.
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Beat the Crowds & Heat
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Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚶♀️ Walk from Cruise Port
It's about a 10-15 min walk from the cruise port. Enjoy the scenic route!
💰 Tip for Local Guides
Locals may offer tours or sell items. A small tip ($10) for a narrated tour is often recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer hours. Some vendors sell it, but it's good to be prepared.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The lush vegetation and historic steps make for beautiful photos. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Cruise Port
It's about a 10-15 min walk from the cruise port. Enjoy the scenic route!
💰 Tip for Local Guides
Locals may offer tours or sell items. A small tip ($10) for a narrated tour is often recommended.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer hours. Some vendors sell it, but it's good to be prepared.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The lush vegetation and historic steps make for beautiful photos.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing stairs and walking, so wear comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Queen's Staircase a worthwhile historical stop in Nassau, appreciating its unique hand-carved limestone steps and the cool, shaded environment. The panoramic views from Fort Fincastle at the top are a significant highlight, offering a great photo opportunity and a sense of history. While some note there isn't much at the summit beyond the fort, the experience is generally positive, especially when combined with a local guided walk.
"Well worth a stop. No admission charged though some may request payment. We did accept an offer for a narrated tour which was well worth the $10 tip we gave."
Jerry Harrow
"One of the few true historical landmarks in the Bahamas and the city of Nassau, these historic steps lead up to an 18th-century fort. There’s no entrance fee, but you might be approached by locals trying to sell you souvenirs or bottled water. It’s definitely worth walking through this spot, it's genuinely beautiful, offers some cool shade, and once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view over all of Nassau."
Cirrus Sanofi
"This is a historical monument in honor of free men of African descent built by Queen Victoria way back in 1800s. These 66 steps are now remained at 64. This is a popular tourist attraction in Nassau, Bahamas. Unfortunately if you climb these steps, there is nothing much up there. Still it's good to visit this historical monument and immerse in the history of Bahamian culture."
Mayank Trivedi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Queen's Staircase is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the Nassau cruise port. Head inland from the port, and you should be able to find signs or ask locals for directions.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark. Most locals will be able to direct you. It's located near Fort Fincastle.
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and can take you directly to the Queen's Staircase. This is a good option if you prefer not to walk or are short on time. :taxi:
Many Nassau city tours and historical excursions include a stop at the Queen's Staircase and Fort Fincastle. This can be a convenient way to learn about the history.
Many visitors enjoy walking up the stairs and exploring Fort Fincastle. Consider a guided walk from a local for deeper historical insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Queen's Staircase itself. It's a public historical site.
Climbing the stairs is free. However, you might be approached by locals offering souvenirs or guided tours for a fee.
The Queen's Staircase is an outdoor historical site and is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample light for safety and photography. :clock:
While the staircase is free, there might be a small fee or donation requested for entry into Fort Fincastle itself, though this can vary.
Since there's no admission fee for the staircase, advance booking isn't necessary. If you opt for a guided tour, you can usually arrange that on the spot or through your cruise line.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At the top, you can explore Fort Fincastle, an 18th-century fort offering historical insights and panoramic views of Nassau.
Due to the nature of the steps, the Queen's Staircase is not easily accessible with strollers. It's best suited for walking. :stroller:
Restroom facilities may be limited directly at the staircase. It's advisable to use facilities at the cruise port or nearby establishments before or after your visit. :toilet:
Capture the full length of the stairs from the bottom, or frame shots with the lush greenery. The view from the top is also spectacular.
While generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting during less busy times. Sticking to well-trafficked areas and being mindful of your belongings is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the staircase and its surroundings without harsh shadows.
You can capture the impressive scale of the hand-carved limestone steps, the lush tropical vegetation, the waterfall feature, and the panoramic views from Fort Fincastle.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances or inquire on-site before flying a drone to avoid any issues. :drone:
Consider a wider lens to capture the full staircase. Adjust aperture for depth of field, and be mindful of lighting conditions, especially if shooting in the shade. :camerawithflash:
It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially those selling goods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the stairs themselves are manageable, keep in mind that strollers are not practical. Encourage older children to count the steps or learn a bit about the history of slavery and fortification in the Bahamas. The views from Fort Fincastle at the top are also a great reward for the climb.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While there's no entry fee, be prepared for friendly locals offering souvenirs or optional guided tours. A small tip for a good tour is often considered worthwhile for the historical insights provided. Pack your own water and snacks to save money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The contrast between the shaded steps and the bright sky, or the lush greenery against the stone, provides ample opportunities for creative shots. Don't forget to capture the panoramic views from Fort Fincastle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Queen's Staircase
This site offers a tangible connection to the island's past, reflecting both the labor of enslaved people and the colonial era. While its primary function was practical, it has become a significant historical landmark and a popular spot for visitors seeking to understand Bahamian history. The surrounding area also features a charming waterfall, adding to its appeal as a historical and scenic destination.
Some historical accounts suggest the staircase was named in honor of Queen Victoria, while others link it to Queen Anne Boleyn's arrival at the Tower of London centuries prior, though this is a different location. The Bahamian Queen's Staircase is definitively linked to the island's colonial past and its subsequent renaming.
Visiting Fort Fincastle
The primary draw of Fort Fincastle, beyond its historical significance, is the breathtaking panoramic view it provides. From its elevated position, you can see the entire city of Nassau, the bustling cruise port, and the vast expanse of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. It's an excellent spot for photography and for appreciating the island's geography.
While the fort itself is a historical site, the experience is often enhanced by the local vendors and guides who may be present. A small tip for a local guide can offer valuable historical context and stories about the fort and the staircase, enriching the visit.
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