As you enjoy all that your Tortola house rental has to offer, be sure to visit the island's museums and historical sites as well. Tortola is an island that is a part of the Atlantic Ocean's British Islands; and people come to the area to enjoy activities such as golfing, swimming, beach combing and surfing. Since it offers so many fun activities, Tortola is a popular vacation spot.
North Shore Shell Museum and the Virgin Island Folk Museum
Located in the Carrot Bay area of the island is the North Shore Shell Museum. The museum is very rustic and it focuses on the island's local culture. The exhibits include a collection over 1,000 conch shells, model boats and archeological objects. Admission is free. The museum is open daily.
The Virgin Island Folk Museum is located on Tortola's Main Street. It is also dedicated to preserving and exhibiting local culture. Specifically, the museum details island life from its prehistoric times to the end of the 20th century. Displayed in an 20th century shipwright's house, the exhibits feature Arawak and Carib pottery, ancient stone tools and other historical arts and crafts. The remains of the H.M.S. Rhone and H.M.S. Nymph are on display at the museum as well as many plantation items and information about the island's reef conservation. Admission is free, and it is open daily.
A visit to either museum would be a nice day trip from your British Virgin Islands vacation rental.
VI Maritime Museum and Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum
Located on the island's east end is the VI Maritime Museum. The museum details the history and legacy of the British Virgin Islands' maritime pursuits. Recovered shipwrecks and marine-related artifacts are some of the exhibits the museum has. In addition to displaying artifacts, the museum seeks to educate its visitors about local trades. One of the permanent exhibits showcases the techniques of the island's boat building industry. The museum also has outreach programs for the local residents. Admission is free, and the museum is open daily.
The Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum is in Road Town. Originally, the building was a sugar factory. Now it is a cultural and fine arts museum. Many of the exhibits detail the island's culture and history, while others showcase paintings and sculptures. The museum also has temporary exhibits that feature the work of local artists. Admission is free; the museum is open daily.
Old Government House Museum and the Zion Hill Chapel
Also in Road Town is the Old Government House Museum. Until 1996, this building served as the official residence of the British Government administrator. Now, the museum houses various artifacts and the complete collection of the Virgin Islands' official stamps. Admission is free, and it is open daily.
On the island's west end is the Zion Hill Chapel. The chapel is the
site of the island's 1834 Emancipation. It has served as a Methodist
church and a school. The building is a perfect example of West Indian
architecture and is set at the foot of Zion Hill. Visitors can learn
about the island's Emancipation and religious ties at the site.
Admission is free and the site is open daily.