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Trinidad and Tobago

Things to Do in Trinidad And Tobago

Choose from 23 Fun Things to Do in Trinidad And Tobago

House of Parliament (Red House)

During the Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897, Trinidad and Tobago decided to paint the government buildings of Port of Spain red in preparation of the celebrations. This resulted in the House of Parliament government building developing its nickname "Red House." Unfortunately, the original red painted House of Parliament burnt down in the 1903 from a fire that was an effect of the town's Water Riots. After the fire, the Red House was rebuilt and reopened in 1907, once again painted red.

Today, the Red House is still home to Trinidad and Tobago's House of Parliament and though government proceedings happen there, visitors can still visit it. One of the top aspects to see in the building is the ceiling in the Chamber, which has striking Wedgewood blue with white gesso work.

Practical Info

Trinidad and Tobago's Parliament House is centrally located in Woodford Square in the island's capital city of Port of Spain. Once in the square, it is hard to miss due to its red hue. If staying in Port-of-Spain, it's easy to walk to Woodford Square. Those staying elsewhere on the island can opt for a day tour excursion to Port of Spain or rent a car to get there.

Red House, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Daily

From USD 40

Woodford Square

Woodford Square is the main square of Trinidad and Tobago's capital city of Port of Spain, which is located on the island's west coast. Woodford Square has historical significance in Trinidad and Tobago as it is where Dr. Eric Williams gave a speech that helped lead the island to declare its independence from Great Britain. He later became Trinidad and Tobago's first prime minister. Woodford Square was formerly known as Brunswick Square and is home to some of Port of Spain's most prominent sites plus shopping and restaurants.

The top sights to see in Woodford Square include the Red House, which is home to the House of Parliament; the Hall of Justice, where judiciary proceedings occur; Trinity Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral; Trinidad's City Hall; and the National Library of Trinidad and Tobago.

Practical Info

Woodford Square is located near the center of Port of Spain and can be walked to quite easily from most areas of Port of Spain. Many hotels are located near Woodford Square and are popular to stay in due to their convenience to the square's sights. If staying outside Port of Spain, you can visit Woodford Square on an escorted day tour or take public transportation or a rental car into Port of Spain for the day.

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

Daily

From USD 40

Emperor Valley Zoo

The Emperor Valley Zoo was opened in 1952, just five years after the founding of the Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago Inc. Named for the blue Emperor butterflies that once frequented the valley, the Emperor Valley Zoo's exhibits cover more than seven acres, and while the exhibits include exotic animals like lions, ocelots and giraffes, the emphasis is on regional flora and fauna, including local crab-eating raccoons, boa constrictors and birds like the Trinidad motmot. The beautifully cultivated grounds offer winding footpaths through flamingo ponds, hummingbird gardens and African and South American exhibits.

Practical Info

The zoo can be found on the northern edge of Queen's Park Savannah, just west of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., every day of the year except Christmas Day, and the Monday and Tuesday of Carnival. Admission costs adults $30, children 12 and under $15.

Adjacent to the Botanical Gardens, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago

9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Adults: TT$30, Children 12 and under: TT$15

From USD 40