Two Days In Kingston

Ideas on what to do while in Kingston

Kingston is Jamaica’s capital, is located on the south-eastern of the island, surrounded by mountains to the north and coastline to the south.  It is a metropolis with nearly half of the island’s population.  It is the seat of government and the engine for the country’s development.

Consequently, there is much well worth seeing in Kingston, but you only have two days to spare.  Here are a few suggestions on how to spend the time.

Day 1 - morning
Paint the City Mural tour in downtown Kingston with dramatic murals that reflect the city’s rich cultural history. Take a walking tour to see 59 murals and counting, in Water lane and its environs, part of Kingston’s old town with Georgian architecture.  Meet the artists who were involved in this exceptional project spearheaded by Kingston Creative at this link. https://kingstoncreative.org/paint-the-city-project/

National Gallery of Jamaica is the island’s premier art museum also located downtown Kingston close to the harbour.  Check online beforehand for the latest exhibitions and opening times: http://natgalja.org.jm/

Downtown Kingston Tour is worth doing with a credible touring company.  Besides the murals and gallery museum, a tour will reveal so much about the central role Kingston has in Jamaica’s history and development.  Here is a link that provides some insight on what is on offer: https://www.discoverjamaica.com/tour_a.htm

Afternoon     
Spa at Strawberry Hill Resort for panoramic views of Kingston, while being pampered go to Strawberry Hill’s Spa.  Plan to spend at least an afternoon and enjoy their sumptuous meals: http://www.strawberryhillhotel.com
 
Tracks and Records Did you know that the fastest man in the world is also a businessman? Usain Bolt has a really cool bar in Kingston well worth visiting.  Try to time it when big games are on and get a front row seat while sipping a Jamaican rum punch. There are also great live performances not to miss: http://tracksandrecords.com/

Day 2 - Morning
Port Royal Tour  Ever heard of the famous British pirate called Captain Morgan?  Port Royal became famous because of him.  It was probably his favourite place to stay when he was not pillaging ships on the high seas. Not surprisingly Port Royal became infamous in that era.  Much of old Port Royal has gone but the fort remains with interesting stories. There are also quaint, rustic restaurants with delicious sea food menus.  After the visit you can take a ferry back to Kingston or enjoy the beach at Lime Cay.

Lime Cay Beach This is a choice bathing spot for Kingston residence.  Go there during the weekend and blend in with the local crowd.  At the end of your stay there you will feel thoroughly Jamaican.  You will also find really good seafood dishes on offer.

Afternoon
 Bob Marley Museum  If you like reggae music and Bob Marley’s music, this museum is well worth visiting. You will join the list of world-renowned personalities like former US president Barak Obama who visited this unique venue on his whirlwind trip to Jamaica. The museum is in uptown Kingston and an area popularly referred to as the Golden Triangle, for nearby is the Governor General and Prime Minister’s offices and residence. Check online for more information on opening hours and entry prices: http://www.bobmarleymuseum.com/

Devon House main Georgian style building symbolizes everything of Jamaica’s colonial past.  In addition to seeing a little of the lifestyle of wealthy landowners, Devon House has a delightful range of shops, bars and restaurants.  Make the ‘I Scream’ shop a priority.  They serve a marvellous mango ice cream and the coconut flavour is a strong rival, but rum and raisin is a Jamaican favourite: http://www.devonhousejamaica.com/

For more about Kingston visit these links:

https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

https://www.experiencejamaique.com/blog/downtown-kingston-place-be

https://www.experiencejamaique.com/blog/hope-gardens

https://www.experiencejamaique.com/blog/kingston-once-again

Also visit our gallery for contemporary Jamaican/Caribbean fine art:
https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

Revised April 2021