Grand Cayman has long been known as a small, charming island and its capital city of Georgetown is no different. Where this picturesque, walkable city is lacking in glitz and glamour, it answers with historic architecture, one-of-a-kind sites and excellent shopping opportunities. Take a walk through Georgetown and you will see why this city and the island of Grand Cayman are unlike any other destinations in the Caribbean.
One of the first stops for most visitors in Georgetown is the Cayman Islands National Museum. Housed in a colonial courts building constructed in 1833, the museum opened to the public in 1990 with a collection of more than 2,000 artifacts. Oddly enough, much of the initial collection was purchased from an intrepid local historian, Ira Thompson, who had amassed one of the Caribbean’s finest private collections over a period of 50 years. The initial collection, much of which is still on display today, included a wealth of historical documents, local flora and fauna samples, rare Caribbean coins and plenty of local oddities.
Today, the Cayman Islands National Museum’s exhibitions focus on the remarkable success of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Together, these three islands measure just over 100 square miles, nearly half of that land occupied by low-lying mangrove swamps. As the Cayman Islands lacked the natural resources of other colonial Caribbean locations, residents once relied entirely on fishing, turtling and the export of thatch rope. However, throughout the late colonial period and well into the 20th century, Caymanians came to be known as exemplary seamen. In fact, until the rise of Caribbean tourism in the 1970s, the income of such skilled sailors drove the islands’ modest economy.
In addition to the fascinating story told within the museum, visitors should also take time to enjoy the views of Hog Sty Bay. With Grand Cayman’s most historic structure set against the picturesque shoreline, the view has become one of the most celebrated and photographed on the island. Before leaving the museum for other sites in Georgetown, visitors can also enjoy the gift shop which features a fine selection of books, jewelry, locally-produced arts and crafts and free walking maps of Georgetown. The Cayman Islands National Museum is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM.
Also near the Georgetown waterfront, visitors will spot the Elmslie Memorial United Church. This peaceful church, named for the island’s first Presbyterian missionary, has long been at the center of Caymanian cultural and religious life. Known as a simple, friendly society, Grand Cayman’s values are reflected in the details of this beautiful, but modest building. Featuring a stunning vaulted ceiling with wooden arches and an austere, but majestic interior, Elmslie Memorial United Church has been revered as a place of peaceful contemplation by locals and visitors alike.
While Grand Cayman’s capital is known as quiet, historic city, shopping has become a favorite activity for travelers. As Grand Cayman has no sales tax and many stores offer duty-free merchandise, there are plenty of great values to be found throughout Georgetown. Throughout the small, independent shops and larger shopping malls, visitors will find everything from designer clothing and accessories to unique artwork and souvenirs. One of the best places to find local products is the Cayman Craft Market located in central Georgetown. Regardless of where you decide to shop in Georgetown or throughout Grand Cayman, tax-free and duty-free shopping will lead you to plenty of incredible bargains.
If you want to experience live music, theatre or the bar and restaurant scene of Georgetown, the Friday edition of the Caymanian Compass is the first place to start. This local paper features listings for all of the island’s upcoming entertainment and highlights the best spots for any type of tourist to find dinner, drinks and fun. The paper is distributed throughout Georgetown, but copies will also be available through the concierge or front desk at most resorts.
Georgetown is one of the most unique cities in the Caribbean and there are plenty of ways to explore its treasures. From the rich history of the Cayman Islands National Museum to the deals found around every corner, Georgetown helps set Grand Cayman apart.