Belize City: Adventure And Relaxation In One Trip

Belize City is the country's largest city and former capital. While it may not be the first destination for most visitors, there is still plenty to do in this urban centre.

Belize City is known for its rich history and melting pot society. The city is home to stately colonial-era homes, lively shopping districts, beachfront amusement parks, and a flotilla of graceful sailboats.

For those interested in history, the Museum of Belize, St. John's Cathedral, and the Government House are all worth visiting. The Museum of Belize is housed in the historic Queen Elizabeth Prison and features exhibits on the country's history and culture, including Mayan relics and an insect gallery. St. John's Cathedral is Central America's oldest Anglican Church, brimming with British colonial architecture. The Government House is one of Belize's most well-preserved colonial buildings and was once used to host foreign dignitaries.

For nature lovers, the Belize Zoo is a must-visit. The zoo is home to an impressive array of large cats, primates, reptiles, and birds, all native to Belize.

Other popular attractions include the Belize Tourism Village, a popular entry point for cruise ship passengers; the Old Belize Beach, an artificial beach a few miles outside the city; and the Fort Street Tourism Village, a safe and well-patrolled area for visitors.

While Belize City may not be known for its beaches, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained.

Explore the Belize Zoo

The Belize Zoo is a must-see for anyone visiting Belize City. Located just 29 miles from the city, it is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including large cats, primates, reptiles and birds. With over 150 animals representing 43 native species, the zoo offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Belize's prolific wildlife.

The zoo was founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola, who started caring for a handful of wild animals that had been used in a natural history documentary. When filming ended, she decided to turn her "backyard zoo" into a world-renowned wildlife education centre. Today, the zoo is a non-profit organisation that cares for rescued, confiscated, and rehabilitated animals. The habitats are designed to reflect natural settings, providing an immersive educational experience for visitors.

The zoo is committed to conservation, education, recreation, and research. It was the first nature destination in Belize to become accessible to visitors with physical disabilities. The zoo generates funding through admission fees, tours, donations, and adoption and membership programs, as it receives no financial support from the Government of Belize.

The zoo offers a variety of experiences, such as the "Lindo Link," where you can get up close to a rescued jaguar. You can also feed the inquisitive Keel-billed Toucan or get your photo taken with a Tapir. For a truly unique perspective, sign up for a nocturnal tour and explore the zoo as the forest comes alive at night.

The Tropical Education Center, located a mile from the zoo, offers accommodations and meals for those looking to extend their stay. With its commitment to wildlife conservation and education, the Belize Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore and learn about Belize's diverse wildlife.

Visit the Museum of Belize

Belize City is the largest city in the country and its former capital. While it may not be the first destination for most visitors, there is plenty to explore in this urban centre.

One such attraction is the Museum of Belize, which is located in the historic Queen Elizabeth's Prison. The museum is perfect for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of Belize. Here are some reasons why you should visit:

Explore Belize's History

The Museum of Belize showcases the country's rich history, particularly its colonial past and the hardships of slavery. The museum also provides insights into piracy in the colonial era, with text and sketch depictions.

Discover Mayan Relics and Archaeology

The museum exhibits several Mayan relics, although some reviewers mention that the best pieces are stored in a vault and not always on display. Nevertheless, you can explore the fascinating archaeology of this ancient civilisation during your visit.

Admire the Building's Architecture

The Museum of Belize is housed in a heritage-style building with a grand outward appearance. The rectangular structure, with its nice lawn in front, provides a great view from either end. The building itself has an interesting history, having been constructed in 1857 as the main jail.

Enjoy Temporary Exhibits and Art

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum features rotating temporary exhibits. During some visits, travellers have encountered exhibits on the slave trade in Belize and British Honduras, as well as a showcase of beautiful works by the Belizean contemporary artist Pen Cayetano.

Learn About Ecology and Wildlife

The museum also has exhibits on the ecology and wildlife of Belize, including native birds and insects. You can admire stuffed birds and learn about various species that call this country home.

Practical Information:

The Museum of Belize is located in a safe section of downtown Belize City. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday, with hours ranging from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, and has a nominal entry fee. There is street parking available outside, and the museum is handicap accessible with minimal stairs and slight inclines.

Tour St. John's Cathedral

Belize City, the largest city in the country, may not be the first destination for most tourists. However, there is plenty to do in this urban centre, including visiting the oldest Anglican Church in Central America, St. John's Cathedral.

St. John's Cathedral, located in the heart of Belize City, is one of the few physical reminders of the country's long history as a British colony. The cathedral was built between 1812 and 1820 and is constructed from bricks that were once used as ballast aboard ships. It is the oldest surviving building constructed by Europeans in Belize.

The cathedral is located in downtown Belize City, just a few hundred feet west of the Government House, at the intersection of Albert and Regent Streets. It is open seven days a week for worship or visits from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, with no entrance fee. There are no guided tours, but visitors can explore the colonial-era tombstones, the hardwood interior, the antique pipe organ, and the lavish accouterments.

The interior of the cathedral is fitted with mahogany and sapodilla, and features a central chandelier, a brass eagle bible stand, and a stained glass likeness of Jesus on the cross. The surrounding grounds include the oldest cemetery in the country, Yarborough Cemetery, which was built by the British using slave labour.

St. John's Cathedral is a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture, offering a glimpse into the colonial past of Belize.

Visit the Government House

Belize City has plenty to offer visitors, from its lively shopping districts to its beachfront amusement parks. But if you're looking for a glimpse into the city's colonial past, a visit to the Government House is a must. Here are four to six paragraphs on why you shouldn't miss this historic site:

The Government House, also known as the House of Culture, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved colonial buildings in Belize City. Located on Regent Street, it was erected in 1812 or 1814 when Belize was under British rule as British Honduras. The building served as the residence of the Governor-General, the monarch's representative, and hosted foreign dignitaries. With its combination of Caribbean vernacular and English urban architecture, it is said to have been designed by the illustrious British architect Sir Christopher Wren.

The Government House played a significant role in Belize's history. In its halls, the emancipation of slaves in 1834 was celebrated, and in 1981, the Union Jack was lowered, and the Belize flag was raised for the first time, marking the country's independence. After the government moved to Belmopan following Hurricane Hattie in 1961, the house became a venue for social functions and a guest house for visiting VIPs. It also served as the backdrop for weddings and other events.

Today, the Government House is a creative community centre and historical museum. Visitors can admire the colonial-era furnishings, including polished silver, rich mahogany finishes, antique musical instruments, and period art. The grounds are just as impressive, featuring Baron Bliss' restored wooden vessel, "Sea King," and cannons flanking the front doors. The building has undergone renovations over the years, but its colonial charm remains intact.

A visit to the Government House is typically included in tours of Belize City, and it's within walking distance from the McFadzean and Z-line bus stations. It's also just a 30-minute drive from the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport. Be sure to check the schedule before your visit, as the house may be closed for ongoing renovations or special events.

With its rich history and stunning architecture, the Government House offers a fascinating glimpse into Belize's colonial past and its journey towards independence. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the country's cultural and political landmarks.

Discover Old Belize

Belize City is the country's largest city and former capital. While it is not known for its beaches, there is plenty to do and see, including the Old Belize Beach, a man-made beach a few miles outside the city.

Old Belize is a great place for families to spend the day. It is a popular marina where sailors from all over the world dock their yachts. On-site, there is a man-made beach, a zipline, a waterfall, a restaurant, and a private museum dedicated to Belize's history and culture. It is a convenient location for cruise ship passengers to visit, and you can even rent a motor scooter to get there.

Old Belize is part of a wider marina area, which also includes a restaurant and bar, and is home to airboat tour companies. The marina is located on the coast, behind a tangle of mangrove swamps.

Belize City itself has a rich history and is known for its colourful characters, colonial-era homes, lively shopping districts, beachfront amusement parks, and graceful sailboats. The city is divided by Haulover Creek, with the north side considered the safest and most prosperous area. Here, you will find good hotels, casinos, and the Museum of Belize, as well as the cruise ship and marine terminals. The south side has a couple of tourist attractions, including the historic St. John's Cathedral and the House of Culture.

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