Government House
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Kongens Quarter

2.7
·9 reviews·Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands

Discover historic Danish colonial charm amidst lush gardens and stunning panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Government House

Kongens Quarter

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover historic Danish colonial charm amidst lush gardens and stunning panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie.

2.7
(9 reviews)

"The gardens were great for pictures and climbing all those stairs to the top was worth it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Lots of stairs and uneven paths, so good footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Camera ready!

The gardens are perfect for photos, especially with the historic architecture. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Government House Gardens

Government House Gardens

Kongens Gade

Lush greenery and vibrant flowers provide a picturesque backdrop for memorable photos.

Danish Sentry Box

Danish Sentry Box

Outside Government House

A well-preserved piece of history, offering a unique snapshot of colonial architecture.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of the stairs

Climb the stairs for breathtaking views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding harbor.

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Planning Your Visit

Garden Views & City Vistas

While interior access might be limited due to renovations, the gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities. Be prepared for stairs if you aim for the top for panoramic views.

Historical Echoes

Explore the remnants of Danish colonial history, including a preserved sentry box. It's a glimpse into the past, even if some areas are under construction.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

First cruise, visiting Amber Cove, San Juan, St Maarten and St Thomas. Unsure what to do at the ports

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Lots of stairs and uneven paths, so good footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Camera ready!

The gardens are perfect for photos, especially with the historic architecture. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

To those who have visited the Caribbean: which islands ACTUALLY have the best beaches, snorkeling, and wildlife?

💧 Stay hydrated

The Caribbean sun can be intense; bring water, especially if climbing stairs. :droplet:

🚧 Check for closures

Some areas might be under renovation, so check local updates before you go. :construction:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Lots of stairs and uneven paths, so good footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Camera ready!

The gardens are perfect for photos, especially with the historic architecture. :camerawithflash:

💧 Stay hydrated

The Caribbean sun can be intense; bring water, especially if climbing stairs. :droplet:

🚧 Check for closures

Some areas might be under renovation, so check local updates before you go. :construction:

What Travellers Say

2.7
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the beautiful gardens and the historical significance of the Danish Sentry Box. The panoramic views from the top are a major highlight, offering great photo opportunities. However, some areas may be under construction, and the climb can be strenuous.

"We wasn't able to go inside but we had great time in the garden and also climbing all those stairs to the top. Garden was great for pictures"

Stacey McKenzie

"A Danish sentry box still stands outside Government House (1867) on Kongens Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands."

David Stanley

"The Income Tax Return System is not working. Media says up to date. Slow processing due to manual entries. IRB sent check to wrong address. 3 years and still waiting for refund. No one at IRB knows anything although IRS acknowledged credit."

Andrea Bryan

What People Like

Beautiful gardens
Historic sentry box
Great city views

What People Dislike

Under construction
Many stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kongens Quarter is located in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. If you're arriving by cruise ship, it's a short taxi ride or a moderate walk from the cruise port. Taxis are readily available at the port. :taxi:

Yes, it's walkable, but it's uphill and can be a bit of a trek, especially in the heat. Many visitors opt for a short taxi ride to save energy for exploring the quarter itself. :walking:

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for stairs. Exploring on foot allows you to appreciate the historical details and garden beauty at your own pace. :footprints:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, the gardens and exterior areas of Kongens Quarter are free to access. However, specific interior access to buildings like Government House may be restricted or require special arrangements. :ticket:

The exterior areas and gardens are typically accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to enjoy the scenery and take photos. :clock1:

No, the gardens are usually open to the public without an entrance fee, making it a great free activity. :moneywithwings:

Access to Government House itself can vary. While the grounds and gardens are usually accessible, interior tours might be limited or require advance booking. It's advisable to check locally for current access policies. :building_construction:

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens are a prime spot for photography, with vibrant flora and historic architecture. The Danish Sentry Box is also a unique subject. Climbing higher offers panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie. :camerawithflash:

Absolutely! The lush gardens and historic elements provide a beautiful and unique backdrop for portraits. The natural light in the morning or late afternoon is ideal. :frame_photo:

Drone usage regulations can be strict in populated areas and historical sites. It's best to check with local authorities or the St. Thomas tourism board before flying a drone. :aerial_tramway:

🎫 🏛️ History & Culture

Kongens Quarter is a historic area in Charlotte Amalie, reflecting Danish colonial influence. It features colonial-era architecture, including the Danish Sentry Box, and was once a center of administration. :scroll:

The Danish Sentry Box is a small, preserved structure that served as a guard post during the Danish colonial period. It's a tangible reminder of the island's past. :shield:

While official guided tours might be limited, you can explore the area independently and learn about its history through informational plaques or by hiring a local guide. :map:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Kongens Quarter is a dream for photographers! The lush gardens offer vibrant colors and textures, perfect for close-ups and scenic shots. The historic Danish Sentry Box provides a unique architectural element. For breathtaking panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor, make the climb up the stairs. The best light for photography is typically in the early morning or late afternoon, offering softer shadows and warmer tones. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs

For those interested in the island's past, Kongens Quarter offers a tangible connection to the Danish colonial era. Seek out the Danish Sentry Box as a key historical artifact. Explore the architecture that remains, imagining life during that period. While interior access might be limited, the exterior elements and the context of the quarter provide a rich historical narrative. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Gardens and Views

The gardens of Government House are a major draw for visitors to Kongens Quarter. These beautifully maintained spaces offer a tranquil escape with a variety of tropical flora. Many visitors find them to be excellent for photography, providing a colorful and serene backdrop. Be prepared for a bit of a climb if you wish to reach the higher vantage points, as the area is situated on a hill. The effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Remember that while the gardens are generally accessible, interior access to Government House itself can be restricted or subject to renovation schedules. It's always a good idea to check for any current advisories. The climb involves numerous stairs, so comfortable footwear is essential. TikTok The combination of natural beauty and historical architecture makes this a unique spot for a leisurely stroll and some memorable snapshots. Instagram

A Glimpse into Danish Colonial Past

Kongens Quarter is steeped in the history of Danish colonial rule in the Virgin Islands. One of the most notable historical markers is the Danish Sentry Box, a small, well-preserved structure that once served as a guard post. Its presence is a tangible link to the island's past and a popular spot for photos. Reddit

Beyond the sentry box, the architecture in the area hints at its colonial origins. While some parts of the quarter may be undergoing remodeling or renovation, the historical essence remains. Visitors can appreciate the blend of architectural styles that tell the story of the island's diverse heritage. Understanding this history enriches the experience of exploring the quarter. TikTok

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