Queen's Staircase & Fort Fincastle

The Queen's Staircase is one of those rare attractions that's both genuinely historic and instantly captivating for kids. Carved out of solid limestone between 1793 and 1794 by 600 enslaved people, these 65 steps were cut to create a direct route between Fort Fincastle and the town below. Today, they're one of Nassau's most photographed landmarks — and climbing them is a rite of passage for every visitor.

The staircase sits in a deep limestone gorge, with walls rising 66 feet on either side, draped in tropical vines, ferns, and banyan tree roots. Walking up feels like entering a lost world — the temperature drops noticeably, birdsong echoes off the walls, and the green-draped limestone creates a cathedral-like atmosphere. Kids immediately start counting steps and racing each other to the top.

At the summit, you'll find Fort Fincastle, a small but interesting fort built in 1793 in the unique shape of a paddle steamer. The views from the ramparts are the best in Nassau — you can see the cruise port, downtown, Paradise Island, and the ocean in every direction. Admission to the fort is just $2, and there's a small display about the fort's history inside.

The staircase itself is completely free and always accessible. Local guides station themselves at the base and offer engaging historical tours for tips — $5-10 is appropriate. They add context about the enslaved workers who carved the steps and the colonial history of the fort, making it educational for older kids.

Practically, this is a quick visit — 30 to 45 minutes covers the climb, the fort, and the views. It pairs perfectly with a downtown walking tour that includes the Pirates of Nassau Museum, Bay Street shops, and the Straw Market. The steps can be slippery after rain, so shoes with grip are important, and it's not stroller-accessible — use a carrier for babies.

The staircase was named in 1901 for Queen Victoria, who reigned during the emancipation of enslaved people in the British colonies. The history is heavy but important, and older kids often have meaningful conversations about it on the walk up.