I am not sure of why they call this 99 steps, because I've counted 103 steps a few times. Maybe they've added a few over the past 336 years since its creation?
Anyhow, 99 steps, which is the beginning of a pathway to Blackbeard's castle and starts on Government Hill. While the stair part isn't that difficult, if you climb all the way up to Blackbeard's castle, you will break a sweat and get your heart pumping. I wouldn't say this is a must see, must do activity, although the street that it is on, is a beautiful duplication of European streets in the 1800's. If your cruise ship is docked on Tuesday or Wednesday, it may be worth it for you to do this and go to Blackbeard's castle which is only open on these two days from 9am-2pm.
The views are beautiful from the top of the stairs and its a great selfie spot! You can see all of St. Thomas Harbor and Charlotte Amalie. 99 steps was created from the bricks that comprised of the ballasts of Danish ships in the 1600's. It was used by Blackbeard to get to his lookout tower (now deemed a castle) during his piracy exploits.
For those that dislike vertical climbs, take a taxi to Blackbeards castle and walk down. It's $4-$6 from the docks and most areas in Charlotte Amalie. Parking is sparse as most of Government Hill parking is reserved for the Governor and his staff.
Overall this can be a good mini scenic work out for you and its an excuse for me to reward my inner fat kid with carbs from Daylight Bakery which is 2 blocks...
Read more99 Steps offers a captivating journey through history that every visitor to St. Thomas should experience. As you ascend these well-worn steps, flanked by charming historic buildings, you can't help but feel transported back in time. The cobblestone path and aged facades evoke a sense of nostalgia that is both charming and enchanting.
Reaching the summit, one is greeted by the crowning jewel of this climb – Blackbeard's Castle. This iconic structure stands tall, a testament to the rich maritime history of the Caribbean. The panoramic views from this vantage point are nothing short of breathtaking. The lush greenery and azure waters stretching out in every direction create a scene straight from a postcard.
For any tourist, this excursion is an absolute must. 99 Steps not only provides a physical journey but also a voyage through time and culture. It's a chance to immerse oneself in the stories of the past while enjoying the stunning beauty of the present. Don't miss out on this unique and unforgettable experience when...
Read moreIt was 99 steps, but now.? It's 103! Lol!!!
It is the most famous of the 45 Step Streets in St. Thomas. Similar to what exists in the Mediterranean for the same purpose as theirs.
The 99 Steps leads to: gorgeous views of the Anglican Episcopalian Church (1848), Skytesberg 1674, Crown House 1740 and the oldest man made structure on the island. Maybe a tour with CARIBBEAN HISTORICAL TOURS can provide more information if you need some entertainment. Remember real life is more interesting than fiction.
While you walk up the 99 Steps, you will pass: Bougainvillea, Kanchoe Pinnata, Christmas Palm, aloe, and our cross hatched grass that can affect your golf ball direction on our driving range down at the University of the VIRGIN ISLANDS while our actually golf course (Mahogany Run) is up for sale at a whopping $49,000,000. I think the condos come with that price.
We digress a lot and we apologize about that. In any case folks. The bricks on the 99 Steps are special and they have their...
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