A Guide to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas for Cruise Visitors

Welcome to Charlotte Amalie, the eclectic heart of Saint Thomas!

Cruise line passengers love this little town because it is easily accessible on foot and filled with interesting sites. Check out our complete guide to Charlotte Amelie and you might just consider staying here for a few days.

The historical downtown quarter is full of old Danish residences, antique shops, lampposts, and cafes. Not to mention the setting is gorgeous and surrounded by rich blue water!

Discover Charlotte Amalie with our handy guide!

Top Attractions in Charlotte Amalie:

Fort Christian

It is hard to miss the striking red-brick Fort Christian.

Built in the 17th century by the Danish settlers, this stately fort is today the oldest standing structure in the US Virgin Islands.

The on-site museum showcases centuries-old artifacts that throw light on the island’s complex colonial history from the indigenous natives, to slave trade from West Africa.

These plantations are home to some sad history, but it’s worth a visit to learn and pay respects.

Drake’s Seat

Not so far from Fort Christian is Drake’s Seat.

It is rumored that Sir Francis Drake came here often to monitor his fleet of ships.

This scenic overlook offers far-sweeping vistas of Magens Bay and beyond.

Photographers will love Drake’s Seat by sunset when the sky transforms into a vibrant palette of reds and pinks.

Emancipation Garden

Set in the heart of Charlotte Amalie, the Emancipation Garden was built in 1848 to commemorate the freeing of slaves.

The park provides locals and visitors respite from the sun with its bubbly fountains, shaded benches, and lush foliage.

It’s a beautiful spot to catch your breath and take a moment, after you’ve finished shopping, sightseeing, and learning history.

St. Thomas Synagogue

Dating back to the 1800’s, this is the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.

The St. Thomas Synagogue is worth visiting for its unique sand floors and tranquil environs.

An exhibition here showcases the life of the Jewish community over the years.

If the rabbi is present, he will greet you and answer any questions.

Note: You will need to walk up a steep hill to get here but it is well worth the effort.

Blackbeard’s Castle

The Blackbeard Castle dates back to the mid-1600’s when the Danes sought to fortify the town.

Locals believe that the notorious pirate Blackbeard often came up to this lookout tower to survey the sea and protect it from invasions.

Today it is possible to climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the town and its surroundings.

A pirate-themed museum is a hit with little kids and culture trippers.

99 Steps

This historic staircase, 99 Steps, in the Kongens Gade Quarter winds past historic homes where pink bougainvillea and hibiscus spill prettily over the walls.

The step street, known as frigang, finishes at a viewpoint of the harbor below.

This free activity is a reminder of Charlotte Amalie’s Danish colonial past.

Fun Fact: There are actually 103 steps to reach the top, not 99! If you are keen to discover more history and culture, read our guides on Cruz Bay and Christiansted in St. Croix.

Havensight Mall

The perfect end to your Charlotte Amalie sojourn is with some retail therapy at Havensight Mall.

This duty-free shopping center is conveniently located near the port.

Most of the major brands have their presence here and you can shop around for island jewelry, souvenirs, and handicrafts.

Once done, chill with a coconut rum cocktail at any of the waterfront bars nearby.

Where to Eat in Charlotte Amalie:

Tickles Dockside Pub

A short walk from the port will get you to Tickles Dockside Pub in Crown Bay Marina.

Here you can watch luxurious yachts and some of the world’s largest cruise ships float into the harbor.

Recommended dishes here include BBQ baby back ribs, tuna nachos, and the smash burgers.

Follow it up with their spiced rum bread pudding for dessert.

Twisted Cork Café

A garden setting awaits at the Twisted Cork Café in Frenchtown.

This is the place to visit for fresh made-to-order food with heart and soul!

Ask for their blackened fish tacos, buffalo shrimp, and Parmesan-crusted pork chop!

Twisted Cork has a rather extensive wine collection as well – reds, whites, and sparkling too.

French Quarter Bistro

Opened in 2018, the French Quarter Bistro proposes New Orleans cuisine with Creole and Cajun influences.

Top recommendations include the New Orleans crab cake, escargot served in lemon and butter, and the decadent Bananas Foster Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce.

Yum!

El Meson Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

For time-tested, authentic Mexican dishes, El Meson is a winner!

They have it all from beef fajitas to taco salads, as well as burritos, nachos, and enchiladas.

Saturday nights get frenetic with Salsa Nights – DJs spin the latest Bachata, Reggaeton, Salsa, and Merengue tracks!

Best Ways to Get Around Charlotte Amalie:

• Charlotte Amalie is a small town so the best way to get around is by foot. The historic downtown area, duty-free shops, cafes, and landmarks like Emancipation Garden and Fort Christian can all be reached on foot.
• Licensed taxis are available right at the port and are a quick way to reach beaches like Magens Bay. Make sure to agree on a price before commencing the ride.
• To enjoy the town at your own pace, inquire about the best car rentals at any of the agencies near the cruise ship dock or the airport.
• Those with time on their hands could consider public transportation. Charlotte Amalie’s VITRAN public bus is popular with locals and a great way to get a feel of the city.

Conclusion

Charlotte Amalie is a must-visit destination in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Visitors planning to disembark at Charlotte Amalie will find a charming town that can conveniently be explored on foot.

Make sure to try West Indian snacks and drinks, take plenty of photos, and come back for more.

As you plan your visit to Charlotte Amalie, don’t forget to bookmark our list of the best things to do, see, and eat!