Ardastra Gardens & Zoo

The Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre, located in Nassau, was established in 1937 by the Jamaican horticulturalist Edmund Knowles. Spanning approximately four acres of lush tropical vegetation, it remains the first and only zoo in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The facility gained international recognition for its unique program featuring disciplined marching Caribbean flamingos, which are the national bird of the islands. Beyond the flamingos, the gardens house a variety of regional and exotic species, including lemurs, iguanas, and various parrot species such as the endangered Bahama Parrot. Ardastra serves a critical role in local conservation efforts, particularly regarding the rehabilitation of indigenous wildlife and public environmental education. The botanical aspect of the grounds includes a diverse collection of bougainvillea, hibiscus, and rare fruit trees, creating a dense canopy that supports a rich ecosystem. Today, it stands as a historical landmark that combines botanical science with zoological preservation.

History & landmarks

Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium

The primary sports stadium of the Bahamas, often the venue for international track and field events.

Kendal G. L. Isaacs National Gymnasium

A multi-purpose indoor arena in Nassau hosting sporting and cultural events.

Ocean Atlas Statue

The largest underwater sculpture in the world, depicting a local Bahamian girl.

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral

The first Catholic church built in the Bahamas, featuring impressive Gothic architecture.

Villa Doyle

An impressive historic mansion that today houses the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

Gregory's Arch

A stone arch that forms a picturesque boundary between downtown and the 'Over-the-Hill' settlement.

Straw Market Nassau

A famous open-air market in Nassau for handmade straw goods.

Nassau Cenotaph

A war memorial in Nassau dedicated to Bahamians who fell in both World Wars.

Nature

Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park

An important wetland area on New Providence, designated as a vital habitat for water birds.

More places

Playground near Fort Charlotte

A public playground near the historic Fort Charlotte, providing an area for children to play after exploring the fort.

Arawak Cay Fish Port

A busy fishing and supply point west of Nassau.

Nassau Cargo Port

A key cargo hub for containers and trade goods in Nassau.

Government House

The official residence of the Governor-General of The Bahamas, known for its coral-pink facade.

Old Fort of Nassau Site

The original site of the first fort built to protect Nassau's harbour in the 17th century.

Vendue House

Former marketplace, now the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation.

Graycliff Chocolatier

A chocolate factory in Nassau where kids and adults can take tours and learn to make their own chocolate creations.

Three Queens Statue

A statue in Nassau honoring three important queens in British and Bahamian history.