Queen's Staircase

The Basics

This steep staircase was built to serve as a direct-access shortcut to Fort Fincastle (New Providence Island’s highest point, on Bennet’s Hill) in case of attacks by the Caribbean’s marauding pirates in the 1700s. When visiting the stone staircase, take in the remarkable construction done centuries ago—all by hand. To carve the steps, slaves had to cut through rocks with axes and other sharp hand tools.

The Queen’s Staircase is included on most Nassau highlights tours that visit the island’s most historic sights. With a tour guide, visit other Nassau attractions such as Fort Charlotte, Rawson Square, and Cable Beach via traditional ground transportation or an all-terrain vehicle. Tours and shore excursions leave regularly from Nassau city or the cruise ship terminal.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Queen’s Staircase is a must-see for all visitors to Nassau.

• The limestone steps of the Queen’s Staircase are steep and a tough climb, suitable only for those with full mobility and proper footwear.

• The staircase can be slick after a rain, so be careful. (The Bahamas’ rainy season is June through November.)

• If the 65-step climb sounds daunting, plan to visit Bennet’s Hill and Fort Fincastle first, then walk down the steps from there.

How to Get There

The Queen’s Staircase is located on the northern end of New Providence Island, on Elizabeth Avenue. Use the staircase as a shortcut to Bennet’s Hill and Fort Fincastle.

When to Get There

The staircase is open daily. If you want less populated photos, be sure to show up in the early morning or around sunset when crowds are scarce (they tend to arrive around midday).

Views from Fort Fincastle and Bennet’s Hill

Since Bennet’s Hill is the highest point on the island, it’s a favorite for photographers and those in search of whole island views. From Fort Fincastle’s perch, visitors can see Paradise Island and the mammoth Atlantis, Arawak Cay (home to the famous fish fry), and Ardastra Gardens, among other landmarks.

What is the Queen’s Staircase in Nassau?

The Queen's Staircase is one of the best known and most significant historical landmarks in Nassau. Part of the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, the 18th-century staircase, comprising 66 steps, was carved out of solid limestone, and dates to the late 18th century. The landmark was later named after Queen Victoria.

Why was the Queen’s Staircase built?

The Queen’s Staircase was created to link Fort Fincastle—an 18th-century fort constructed by the British to protect the city—with Nassau. It was constructed by enslaved people between 1793 and 1794, during the period when the Bahamas was a crown colony of the UK and represents its brutal legacy of slavery.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Queen’s Staircase?

No, there’s no entrance fee for the Queen’s Staircase, and you don’t need to make a reservation to visit. Although the site is easy to explore independently, it’s worth visiting with a guide to learn more about its history. Note that Fort Fincastle is a ticketed attraction, however.

What are the nearby attractions to the Queen’s Staircase?

The closest attraction to the Queen’s Staircase is Fort Fincastle, the 18th-century fort which is a vestige of British colonialism. Other major historical monuments are located nearby, including the Government House (the official residence of the governor-general of the Bahamas), the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas, and more.

Are there guided tours available for the Queen’s Staircase?

Yes, there are numerous tours that visit the Queen’s Staircase (alongside Nassau’s other important historical monuments). Options range from ATV tours of the city to Jeep sightseeing adventures, cultural walking tours, bike tours, and pedicab itineraries. Whichever you pick, it’s worth exploring with a guide to learn more about the history.

How do I get to the Queen’s Staircase in Nassau?

The Queen’s Staircase is located on Greenwich Street, conveniently in the heart of Downtown Nassau. Taxis frequent Nassau, while guided tours take all the hassle out of getting there. It’s also worth exploring on foot—and challenging yourself to walk all the way up and down the stairs.

Ways to explore

This steep staircase was built to serve as a direct-access shortcut to Fort Fincastle (New Providence Island’s highest point). When visiting the stone staircase, take in the remarkable construction done centuries ago as you climb, and pay tribute to the enslaved workers who carved it by hand.

The Queen’s Staircase is included on most Nassau highlights tours that stop by the island’s historic sights. Other attractions that are commonly visited include Fort Charlotte, Rawson Square, and Cable Beach. Most tours and shore excursions depart from downtown Nassau or the cruise ship terminal.

Accessibility

While wheelchair users can view the Queen’s Staircase, the landmark itself is not accessible.

Age limits

While there are no age restrictions, very young children may need assistance climbing the stairs.

What to pack

Sun protection, camera, water bottle

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate layers and walking shoes with good grip.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Information plaques, handrail

Address

The Queen’s Staircase is in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, just east of downtown Nassau. From the cruise terminal, it’s about a 20-minute walk. The area can also be reached by car or taxi, or on a guided tour.

Driving

While it is possible to drive to the Queen’s Staircase, be aware that locals drive on the left side of the road here; unless you’re completely comfortable doing that, you can take a taxi instead.

Public transportation

The #10 jitney bus stops near the Queen’s Staircase; however, it may be simplest to get there as part of a guided tour that includes transportation.

Best times to visit

The Queen’s Staircase can be visited from midmorning until early evening. Arrive earlier in the day to beat the midday heat and crowds.

Best days to visit

No day is better than any other when visiting the Queen’s Staircase, though expect weekend and holiday periods to be busier.

Best months to visit

The high season in the Bahamas is from December to April, and when the weather for outdoor exploring is likely to be best.