Island Sights & Museums

Antigua is rich in historic attractions as well. The most visited is Nelson's Dockyard National Park. Built in 1784, this dockyard was the headquarters for Admiral Horatio Nelson. Today you can retrace its history at the Dow's Hill Interpretation Centre or at the complex's two museums: Admiral's House and Clarence House (268-460-1026). The latter was the former home of Prince William Henry, later known as King William IV.

Shopping

The primary shopping area on the island is in St. John's, near the cruise ship terminal. This area doesn't have the charm of many Caribbean shopping districts, and is somewhat littered, smelly, and dirty. Still, it's worth a two- or three-hour excursion to have a look at the goods offered in the small boutiques.

Along the waterfront you'll find the most tourist-oriented shopping, with duty-free wares such as fine jewelry, perfumes, and liquor. Look for Gucci, Colombian Emeralds, Little Switzerland, and other fine shops at Heritage Quay. Besides these pricey gift items, you'll also find a good selection of tropical prints and batik fabric sportswear (made on the island) sold in this area. Caribelle Batik has an excellent selection of shirts, skirts, and shorts in tropical colors.

Nearby, Redcliffe Quay is a more scenic place to shop and have a drink or lunch. You won't see the duty-free shops of Heritage Quay, but you will find plenty of cool shade, brick courtyards, and restored buildings where you can shop for Caribbean items or enjoy a cold beer in a charming atmosphere.

If you'd like to get away from the tourist center, take a walk up to Market Street for shops aimed at the local residents, including many fabric stores offering beautiful tropical prints.
Outside of St. John's, head to Harmony Hall in Brown's Bay Mill. This art gallery, which originated in Jamaica, features work by many Caribbean artists. Original works as well as prints and posters are for sale, accompanied by crafts, books, and seasonings that capture the spice of the island.

Casino gambling is a popular nightlife activity, with several casinos from which to choose. They are, by casino standards, fairly small and casual.

Casinos

Joe Mike's Downtown Hotel Plaza, St. John's, 268-462-1142/3244. Slot machines, table games and a good restaurant and bar with live music make this a favorite stop for visitors.
King's Casino, St. John's, 268-462-1727. Not only does this casino hold the record for the largest casino on the island, but also boasts the largest slot machine in the world. What better reason to visit?
St. James's Club Casino, St. James's Club, 268-460-5000. Table games and slot machines are available to visitors at this newly renovated casino.

Live Music

Most resort hotels offer evening entertainment, which might range from a Caribbean night with traditional music and dance, to local performers singing the latest reggae or soca tunes. You'll also find a fun nightlife atmosphere at these bars which frequently feature live music.

Abracadabra Bar and Restaurant, English Harbour, 268-460-1732. This local hot-spot has it all: dancing, sports, piano bar, live music; a great place to spend an evening.

Big Banana, Historic Redcliffe Quay, St. John's, 268-480-6985. Live music twice a week and a great selection of CDs for the other five nights of the week, along with great food.

Coconut Grove Beach Restaurant, Dickenson Bay, 268-462-1538. This beachside bar has a great menu and live music on the weekends.

Millers By The Sea, Fort James, St. John's, 268-462-9414. Each night of the week comes with a different style of live music. Be sure to stop by on Sundays for Caribbean Night.

O'Grady's Pub, Redcliffe Street, St. John's, 268-462-5392. A local favorite, the pub combines their impressive menu with live music on Wednesday nights.