Traveling with kids? Stop by the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum, where education meets inspiration. Located in Charlotte Amalie’s Buccaneer Mall, the museum offers interactive, hands-on exhibits that teach kids the principles of science, technology, engineering, art, and math by allowing them to build and play with the exhibits themselves, from water wheels to reading stations, light shows and reading areas.

You’ll learn about famous pirates Blackbeard and Captain Kidd at The Pirate’s Treasure Museum in east Charlotte Amalie’s Buccaneer Mall. A fun and interactive museum perfect for families, you’ll discover the history of piracy in the Caribbean and see treasures and artifacts from shipwrecks in the waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands. See cannons and cannonballs, marvel at Roman coins and learn about life on a pirate ship on the high seas during the golden age of piracy.

In downtown Charlotte Amalie, tour Fort Christian near the Emancipation Garden. Built in the 17th century, this impressive stone fort once housed the Danish militia. Visitors can explore the grounds, see the jail quarters and visit the museum’s exhibits featuring historic furniture, paintings and West Indian artifacts.

History buffs will want to visit St. Thomas Synagogue, the second oldest surviving synagogue in the United States. Dating back to 1833, the building has a grand columned facade that gives way to an impressive domed ceiling and Baccarat crystal candelabra inside. The sand floor is a Dutch-Portuguese tradition that you’ll find in only four synagogues worldwide. It’s an awe-inspiring place!

The Caribbean Genealogy Library is an absolute necessity for anyone interested in researching their family history. The library is located outside the east end of Charlotte Amalie. It has an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials related to genealogy, focusing on the Caribbean region. If you happen to have family ties to St. Thomas or are simply interested in the island’s genealogy, the staff can even help you do your own research. Appointments are required to visit.