99 Steps & Blackbeard's Castle
Old steps paved with bricks that were once ship ballast from the Danish era. At the top stands the stone tower where the pirate Blackbeard supposedly watched the harbor. It is part of a pirate-themed attraction.
The 99 Steps were built in the 18th century and paved with bricks brought over as ballast by sailing ships. In reality there are about 103 steps. They link the old town with Government Hill. The stone tower at the top was built in 1679, and legend says the pirate Blackbeard watched the harbor from here. Today it forms the Blackbeard's Castle complex, along with the nearby Hagensen House and the Three Queens statue, overlooking the harbor and cruise terminal. The steps are free to climb. The castle complex charges admission, and its opening hours often change. It gets hot, so bring water and climb slowly.
Opening hours
Steps open all day; castle area per on-site notices
Nearby sights
- Emancipation Garden
- Fort Christian
- Charlotte Amalie Historic District
- St. Thomas Synagogue
- Drake's Seat
- Frenchtown
- Hassel Island
- Skyride to Paradise Point