Soaking up the sun from the white sand beaches of Nassau is enough to make anyone feel new, but while you’re visiting, it’s worth your time to create space on the itinerary for admiring a few things from the past as well. Bahamian history is saturated with stunning architecture, intricate stories and people with a passion for maintaining and carrying on the island culture. A trip to the Balcony House is an incredible way to get a sense of Bahamian history, culture and life, all by simply stepping through the front door.
Awe-Inspiring Architecture at this Bahamas Museum
Easily recognized by its salmon pink facade and white wooden shutters, the Balcony House Bahamas is an icon of Bahamian culture in the heart of Nassau. Maintained at its original address on Market Street, this home is believed to be the oldest residence on the island with a construction date reaching back nearly 220-years. A colonial style structure, this home was designed in Loyalist era fashion and is highly renowned for it’s beautiful and fully intact balcony.
A Place Made to Admire
While the outside of the Balcony House is impressive to view, the inside hosts a variety of equally intriguing features. Guests who make their way through the interior will enjoy a peek at a kitchen constructed primarily with stone as well as a beautiful Mahogany staircase that is believed to be the result of salvaged material from a ship. The Balcony House has had several owners over the course of its lifetime and many of the antiques acquired by these owners have been left behind for guest today to admire.
Today, the Balcony House Bahamas is co-owned by The Central Bank of the Bahamas and the Department of National Archives which allows it to run as The Balcony House Museum. A full restoration project in 1985 allowed the museum to be first opened to the public in 1994 and has provided an educational and insightful experience for guests ever since. There is no admission fee for entering the Bahamas museum, but guests are encouraged to leave an at-will donation to help support the continued success of this important historical and cultural destination. While guests are free to make their way independently through the house, guides are also on-hand for a private tour upon request. These expert guides are happy to provide the educational background and insightful stories that truly make the history of this beautiful house come to life.
Make the Most of Your Island Stay
The Bahamas is a destination filled with rich history and modern marvels. Make the most of your stay to this beautiful and intriguing place by booking a vacation home with Island Real Estate. A vast portfolio of customized properties and a team dedicated to providing the ultimate in customer service for the past 40-years makes us your premier vacation home provider.
Contact us today to start planning your next trip to the islands and to reserve your stay in one of our Bahamas vacation rentals.
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