Things to do in  Port of Spain

Among the oldest botanic gardens in the West Indies, Port of Spain’s Royal Botanic Gardens showcases trees, shrubs, and colorful flowers from Trinidad and around the world, including African tulip trees and fragrant magnolias. The gardens also attract plenty of birds and are a popular spot for picnicking during the dry season.

Located in Port of Spain, the Red House is the seat of Trinidad and Tobago’s parliament. The original building was constructed in the middle of the 19th century, yet later burnt to the ground during the 1903 Water Riots, a response to increased water costs and the use of water meters in private homes. It was rebuilt in the Beaux-Arts style in 1907.

In the heart of downtown Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Woodford Square is home to many of the city’s most important buildings, including the Red House and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. It was here that Dr. Eric Williams, the country’s first prime minister, addressed the public at political meetings that led to the nation's eventual independence.

Emperor Valley Zoo is Trinidad and Tobago’s largest zoo, located north of the Queen’s Park Savannah on the island of Trinidad. The zoo houses familiar animals, such as lions and giraffes, and also showcases flora and fauna unique to the area, including crab-eating raccoons, boa constrictors, and Trinidad motmots—an endemic bird species.

Spread out over 260 acres (110 hectares), Queen's Park Savannah is the largest green space in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Once part of a sugar estate, the park today is a popular spot for picnicking, hogging, and getting a bit of fresh air. Many annual Carnival events—including King and Queen shows—are also staged in the park.