Oranjestad is the capital of Aruba. The older buildings are in Dutch Colonial style, but the Spanish influence of balconies and gardens, and the Caribbean influence of bright colors makes them unique to The Netherlands Antilles.
The city has many historic sites and museums, as well as gardens and a busy shopping street.
Wilhelmina Park in Oranjestad is best seen in June, September or October when the tropical foliage is in bloom. The park was created in 1955 in honor of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. There is also a marble sculpture of Wilhelmina, the queen mother, created by Arnoldo Lualdi of Italy.
The Aruba Historical Museum is located in the Tower at Fort Zoutman. The museum displays artifacts related to the entire history of the island of Aruba.
Address: The Historical Museum of Aruba, Fortzoutmanstraat z/n, Oranjestad, Aruba , Aruba
The Atlantis Submarine takes visitors on a tour through the Barcadera reef to see the marine life, coral formations, and ship wrecks. Although the tour is just under two hours long, guests spend only 45 minutes in the submarine.
Tips: People under 36 inches tall are not permitted.
Ticket office is located across from the Renaissance Hotel in Oranjestad.
The Butterfly Farm in Oranjestad houses butterflies from around the world in an enclosed tropical garden. Displays at the site illustrate each stage of a butterfly's development from larva to adult.
Address: The Butterfly Farm Aruba N.V., J. Irausquin Boulevard Z/N, Oranjestad, Aruba , Aruba
Hours:
9am-4:30pm
Tips: Your admission ticket is good for your entire stay in Aruba.
The King Willem III Tower stands at Fort Zoutman. It was built as a lighthouse and to sight pirates. On Tuesday evenings from May to December the Bon Bini Festival welcomes guests to enjoy Aruban cuisine and entertainment.
The King Willem III Tower also houses the Historical Museum.
The Numismatic Museum of Aruba displays world currency dating as far back as 221 BC and includes coins, Aruban shell artifacts, wampum, shell-beads and bills made from linen or silk. This was once the private collection of Mr. Mario Odor.
Address: The Numismatic Museum of Aruba, Zuidstraat 7, Oranjestad, Aruba , Aruba
Strea Charters offers cruises and snorkeling excursions out of Oranjestad. A typical trip involves a morning sightseeing cruise with stops for snorkeling, along with a lunch. The company also offers private charters with a captain and crew.
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