Queen's Staircase

Historical landmark · Nassau ·

Queen's Staircase

Historical landmark · Nassau ·

Historic 65-step limestone staircase, lush greenery, waterfall

Information

Greenwich St, Nassau, Bahamas Get directions

@travelleisure

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21 Best Things to Do in the Bahamas

"A historic Nassau landmark hand-carved from solid limestone rock between 1793 and 1794 by enslaved people to provide a direct route between the town and Fort Fincastle; it features 66 steep steps and is surrounded by lush island foliage." - Skye Sherman Skye Sherman Skye Sherman is a travel writer based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Aside from traveling, she's also a pilot, scuba diver, bookworm, and fourth-generation Floridian. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Palm Beach Illustrated, Atlas Obscura, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-things-to-do-in-the-bahamas-7501485

Queen's Staircase - Nassau Shore Excursions

@cntraveler

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These Caribbean Islands Are Getting a Wave of New Hotels, Cruise Itineraries, and Flight Routes

"The Queen's Staircase, an 18th-century passageway in Nassau's historic district, has been restored."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/caribbean-gets-a-wave-of-new-hotels-cruise-itineraries-flight-routes

Queen's Staircase - Nassau Shore Excursions

@travelleisure

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10 Cheap Solo Vacations Around the World

"A historic staircase within the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, dating back to the late 18th century." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/cheap-solo-vacations-8658909

Queen's Staircase

@afar

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"One of the smaller forts in the Bahamas sits right at the heart of downtown Nassau. Fort Fincastlewas built from cut limestone atop Bennett’s Hill to defend Nassau from pirates. One of the most notable features near the fort andhistoric complexis the Queen’s Staircase, a 66-step stairway hewn from solid rock by slaves to connect the fort to the city. You can walk the stairs as you make your way to the fort, then enjoy a great view of the city and the coastline. If you’re counting steps, you’ll notice that thereareonly 65;that’s because the final step is buried under the modern asphalt paving at the bottom."

The Best Things to Do in the Bahamas

Photo by Michael Runkel/age fotostock

Queen's Staircase

Harold P.

Google

This is certainly cool stop, however there’s not a lot to do besides gander at the stair case & enjoy some drinks & buy gifts at the top. This is a relatively short walk from the main cruise terminal (10-15min). Leaving the trendier port you’ll traverse through less refined parts of the city. In fact you might ponder is the trek worth it. Once there it feels like a tropical retreat. The high walls & lush greenery makes for a cool back drop. There’s not a very steep history, but interesting. It was simply a connection point between the main city & overhead fortifications. We enjoyed fresh coconut water & a few other things. Very typical tourist point. When we went music was blaring through blown speakers. I guess that’s ok for some. I’d recommend at least checking this out as it’s close and IMHO worth it. It’s nice as it has bathrooms there too. As if Feb 20th, don’t trust Google Maps for directions. While it’ll take you there, it does not account for the construction at the old fort. We took a round about detour…not bad though. I gave 4 stars as it simply was unique & a quick & free adventure.

Dubzmassimo

Google

Such a great experience! Queen’s Staircase in Nassau is a must-see landmark rich in history and natural beauty. Carved out of solid limestone by enslaved people in the late 1700s, the staircase is both humbling and impressive, offering a powerful glimpse into the island’s past. The 66 steps are surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic rock walls, creating a cool, shaded escape that feels peaceful and almost hidden away from the busy streets nearby. The waterfall flowing along the staircase adds to the charm and makes the climb feel refreshing rather than strenuous. At the top, you’re rewarded with great views and a sense of accomplishment, along with easy access to nearby historic sites like Fort Fincastle. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply exploring Nassau for the day, Queen’s Staircase is absolutely worth the visit. It’s beautiful, meaningful, and a memorable part of the Bahamian experience. Highly recommended!

Daevon B.

Google

The Queen’s Staircase is absolutely stunning and rich in history. I had the pleasure of visiting twice, and each time was breathtaking. I was amazed by the incredible effort the number of years and the countless people it took to create this landmark is truly humbling. The beauty and history combined make it a must-see while in the Bahamas. I learned so much and will never forget the experience highly recommend!

Vernell C.

Google

This was a very interesting stop on our tour. I didn't get to go all the way to top, but the entrance and water fall was very beautiful and had so much history. If you get the right tour guide like the one we had who can give you the detailed information, it naked it even more interesting. If you ever travel to Nassau Bahamas, you have to make this stop. Beautiful and it is free to walk through and view the beautiful trees and scenery.

Mark K.

Google

Very cool spot! Have your driver take you to the top first to walk down instead of walking up like most people do. Amazing water fall along the stairs. Definitely do not miss seeing this of you're new to Nassau!

Andy S.

Google

It's ok, I thought it was going to be older, more antiquated, but the stairs appear modern, like clay bricks. I'm appreciative of the experience, locals in the area makes it enjoyable too, like the lady at the top of the stairs selling beverages who was so kind with a great amount of sincerity, and the lady running the bathrooms, and the guy at the parking lot who helped me find parking (he was there on Sunday November 9th at 3pm). Beautiful locals!!! The waterfall was nicely done, with relaxing tones that enhances the surroundings.

On The Go With N.

Google

From the moment we arrived at the base of Queen’s Staircase, it felt like stepping into a living history book. Carved by hand out of solid limestone between 1793–1794, the 65 (originally 66) steps stand as a powerful — and humbling — tribute to the hundreds of enslaved people who built a pathway between the city and the fort above. Climbing the steps under towering limestone walls, flanked by tropical trees and lush greenery, offered a peaceful contrast to the busy streets of downtown Nassau. The cool shade and the natural beauty of the surroundings made the ascent not only comfortable but meditative. At the top — or even along the way — the small waterfall cascading beside the stairs added a tranquil soundtrack to the visit. The gentle flow of water, paired with the rock walls and leafy canopy, created a serene oasis that felt almost magical. What truly sets Queen’s Staircase apart is the combination of its deep historical significance and easy accessibility. There’s no admission fee to climb the steps, making it an affordable (or “must-see even for budget travelers”) landmark. It’s also a quick, walkable stop — ideal for cruise-ship visitors or a short layover — yet it delivers a surprisingly rich dose of history and atmosphere. Finally, whether for history buffs, casual travelers, or photographers, Queen’s Staircase offers something for everyone: the weight of heritage, a natural retreat, gorgeous photo-ops, and a convenient downtown location that’s easy to reach from the port. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Simply put: a must-see in Nassau.

Suzette S.

Google

Our Driver from Airport Taxi Transfers Rhonda recommended the Queens Staircase- 20 minute walk from the Straw Factory in downtown Nassau, Bahamas. 60 something steps to reach the top. There were roses and petals along the path and stairs. Waterfall was lovely. Very serene.