City: Aruba
Top Things to do in Aruba
6 Historic Sites in Aruba That You Shouldn't Miss
Aruba is the quintessential Caribbean island, all sun and sea and stretches of powdery white sand. Time will slow to a pleasant crawl as you linger over a tropical cocktail or flutter serenely underwater, where only the parrotfish are in a hurry. The pastel façades of Oranjestad landmarks and shops lend an inviting and playful vibe to the capital city. Enjoy the shade of an Eagle Beach divi tree while the crashing waves of turquoise water create a soothing soundtrack just for you.
Restaurants in Aruba
1. The Antilla
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 792 reviews
The Antilla, which was a German freighter sunk during World War II, is Aruba's most popular dive site.
Reviewed By ArubaSandman
Great history and great dive masters with Aruba Watersports. Alan and Mike were a great team and lead the dive extremely well.
2. Jane Sea
3. Pedernalis
4. Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 839 reviews
Reviewed By nelsa2015 - Gaithersburg, United States
We happened upon these ruins as there is a geocache nearby, but it was very fortuitous. We were the only ones at the ruins at the time and we were able to climb, explore, and take pictures to our heart’s content. This is an interesting historical place as well. It appears many of the 4x4 or off road adventure companies stop here. Of note, this is very close to a new cave pool which is a great experience. If you head towards the coast at about 45 degrees to your right from the ruins there a ladder down that will take you to the pool. Likely you will see other cars parked near there an people coming up and down the ladder.
5. Fort Zoutman Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 262 reviews
The Historical Museum of Aruba is housed within the oldest buildings of Aruba, the Fort Zoutman, that was built in 1798, and the Willem III Tower, built in 1868. Both are protected monuments since 2011 and are our witnesses of the rich history and prosperity of Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad. Once inside Fort Zoutman, you are bound to feel the history seeping through the walls while learning more about Aruba’s heritage. The entrance fee is $5. The Bon Bini Festival, a year-round folkloric celebration, is held every Tuesday night at Fort Zoutman in Oranjestad from 7pm to 8:30pm. The entrance fee is $10.
Reviewed By BillK73 - Basking Ridge, United States
This small museum is housed in the oldest existing structure on the island. You get a great introduction from a knowledgeable guide and then glean as much as you'd like from various exhibits that are well presented with excellent historical notes and descriptions. If you're in good shape, be sure to climb the tower and see how much of the island comes into view. It was also an important lighthouse when the sea was much closer.
6. Old Dutch Windmill
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 293 reviews
Reviewed By donna797 - San Antonio, United States
The Old Dutch Windmill is actually very beautiful, and the rich history is interesting. But for us, the star of this beautiful attraction is a small restaurant called "Delicious" that is just at the base. The food was the best that we had had while on the island, and the service from both the Chef and her staff was top notch. Stop by and see the old Windmill and stay for the most amazing meal that you will have.
