Explore our History, Heritage and Culture

USVI Forts

The oldest buildings on the islands are forts that were used by Europeans as a defense against colonizing countries. On St. Thomas, tour the museum at Fort Christian, which was largely completed by 1680. St. Croix’s well-preserved Fort Christiansvaern dates to 1749 and now houses a museum that tells the history of the island.

Historical Sites

The U.S. Virgin Islands are steeped in history, from ancient petroglyphs etched into St. John’s rock faces to centuries-old churches and colonial streets. Wander through Christiansted’s historic district, climb Charlotte Amalie’s stone stairways and view Danish-era architecture. Each landmark — from sacred spaces to civic centers — speaks to the many cultures that have shaped the islands over time.

Houses of Worship

St. Thomas

Marvel at the stone walls at St. Thomas Reformed Church, established in 1660. Take a tour of St. Thomas Synagogue, which is the second-oldest Jewish house of worship in the Western Hemisphere and features a sand floor (a now rare Sephardic-Dutch tradition). These sacred spaces also make for some of the most stunning wedding-ceremony venues.

USVI Farmers’ Markets

On Saturday mornings, visit Rothschild Francis Market Square in Charlotte Amalie, checking out local produce, crafts and food like Johnny cakes and whole fish fried on-site in traditional coal pots. On St. John, head to Franklin A. Powell Sr. Park, conveniently located opposite the ferry dock.

Local Food

Our traditional dishes are comparable to the soul food of the U.S. South — delicious meals made with humble ingredients from recipes handed down through generations. Favorites include Kallaloo soup, with spinach and a mix of chicken, pork or mutton. Fungi is a buttery stew that includes cornmeal cooked into a polenta-like consistency.

USVI Carnivals

During these colorful festivals, each island shows off its own distinctive version of West Indian culture. A rainbow of parade costumes celebrate the tradition of masquerading and calypso lyrics often skewer local politics to a soca beat.

Cultural Performances & Attractions

Catch performances by the Caribbean Dance Company and Cruzan Dance Company, which teach ballet, modern and island styles. The Pistarckle Theater on St. Thomas and the Caribbean Community Theatre on St. Croix regularly stage shows. Among our many talented musicians are the young pan players who are part of the Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra. Try to be on St. Croix when St. Gerald’s Hall presents performances of the quadrille, a formal dance imported by Europeans that resembles a square dance.

Plantations

Across our islands, you’ll see the stone bases of former sugar windmills, reminders that sugar cane was once grown, harvested and processed on nearly every square foot of land. You can see a well-preserved operation at St. Croix’s Estate Whim Museum and explore ruins at Cinnamon Bay and Estate Annaberg on St. John.