Jamestown

One of Accra’s oldest neighborhoods, Jamestown was built around (and named after) the 17th-century James Fort—the British colonial administration’s headquarters and center for the transatlantic slave trade. Over the years, however, Jamestown also became an epicenter of resistance against colonial rule and a place of revolution and freedom, the threads of which can still be seen in the neighborhood’s streets to this day.

While James Fort is still one of Jamestown’s most popular attractions—along with Jamestown lighthouse, the Jamestown fishing harbor, and nearby Ussher Fort (a 17th-century Dutch fort)—the main draw to the neighborhood isn’t so much its historical buildings as its art and culture. In fact, Jamestown has become so well known for its colorful art that it now hosts Africa’s biggest street art festival every August, attracting visitors from around the globe. One of the best ways to explore Jamestown is to join a local walking tour, where you’ll visit all the historic sites and have the chance to learn more about the neighborhood.

• Although Jamestown is generally safe for tourists, there have been reports of robberies and pickpockets, so it’s worth being vigilant and taking the usual precautions.

• Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, comfy shoes, cash, and water. Visiting Jamestown usually involves a fair amount of walking, even if you’re just climbing the lighthouse to check out the view.

• Give yourself lots of time to explore—Jamestown is one of those places that suck you in, and a quick visit can turn into an all-day affair before you know it.

Jamestown is located between Usshertown, Korle Lagoon, and the Gulf of Guinea in central Accra. Travelers can get to Jamestown by using a ride-hailing service or by hailing either a shared or “dropping” taxi, a private ride that will take you straight there. You can also get there by tro-tro—a shared minibus shuttle service that works like a public bus system but without written routes or set departure times. Jamestown is also easily accessible on foot.

Saturdays are the best day of the week to visit Jamestown and see it at its vibrant best, with street vendors, musicians, and dancing. While travelers can visit Jamestown any time of the year, the best time to visit is during the dry season (between November and March). The Chale Wote Street Art Festival, held in Jamestown every August, is also a big draw, though you’re best booking ahead if you want to join the festivities.

Jamestown is a great place to eat and drink in Accra, with everything from street food to high-end patisseries on offer. Highlights include traditional Ga food, like kenkey and banku, which you can order from street stalls, along with fried fish and octopus. If you fancy being adventurous, you can also try a local chop bar, where you’ll be served whatever the cooks have on hand, but if culture is more your scene, then there are some great bars and cafés renowned for their art and music.