New Providence Island attractions

With its pink exterior and unusual octagonal shape, the Nassau Public Library is a well-loved local landmark. Although you might not think to visit a public library while on vacation, a detour to see this building is well worth the effort. The library once served as the town’s jail, and the books are housed inside the former jail cells.

The largest seaport in the Bahamas, Nassau Cruise Port is the gateway to the Bahamas' capital city, Nassau, and its most populous island, New Providence. Located just 180 miles (290 kilometers) off Florida’s southern coast, Nassau Cruise Port is a jumping-off point for water sports experiences, island tours, and more.

With tropical birds, lemurs, jaguars, iguanas, and more, the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre in Nassau is educational fun for the entire family. The zoo is also home to a marching flamingo show, where the salmon-colored birds show off their marching skills, and popular lory and other animal feedings.

The Marine Habitat at Atlantis is the largest open-air marine habitat on earth, with over 50,000 animals and 250 different species, from rays to alligator gar. The aquarium features 14 lagoons, which contain roughly eight million gallons of ocean water and are filled with picturesque caves and underwater ruins.

Learn the history of one of the most storied set of Caribbean islands at the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas. See relics of the plantation era, when many slaves were brought to the islands; artifacts from the days when pirates patrolled nearby waters, and memorabilia from days of the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson.

The sprawling Aquaventure water park is spread out over 141 acres (57 hectares) of the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island. Head there for a day trip to enjoy a huge variety of water slides, which range from kid-friendly options to exhilaratingly fast drops, as well as lazy rivers and dozens of pools and play areas.

From December 26 through New Year’s Day, the streets of Nassau erupt with live music, festive floats, and costumes for Junkanoo—a festival akin to Mardi Gras and Carnival. Located in an old customs warehouse on the wharf, the fun Junkanoo Expo Museum, offers visitors who can’t make the trip during the holiday season a chance to experience the wonderful event.