exploring aruba road

Museums and Cultural Events in Aruba


Fort Zoutman, Willem III Tower & Historical Museum

willem III tower oranjestad arubaFort Zoutman, the oldest building on the island, and one of the most important landmarks, was built in 1796. Originally built on the coast, shifting currents have moved the coastline so much over the centuries that it is now over 300m (984ft) from the water. The attached Willem III Tower was built 72 years later, and served as both a lighthouse and town clock. bon bini festival arubaA historical museum is inside of the old fort, and is open Mon-Fri 9am-12 and 1:30-4:30pm, admission of US$1.15. Every Tuesday night, enjoy the tourist oriented Bon Bini Festival. Runs from 6:30 - 8:30pm with an admission of US$3.00, you'll experience tradition dance and music, along with crafts and local dishes all in the outside courtyard of the historic fort.



Numisatic Museum

Go east one block from the fort, and you'll find the Numismatic Museum. Open Mon-Fri 7:30am - 12 and 1pm to 4pm. Free Admission. You'll see over 30,000 coins from Aruba (and around the world), from the past 2200 years. You'll see a variety of currency, from shells and beads used as currency by both Aruban and North American Indians, and bills of linen and silk material.

Archeological Museum

This free admission museum offers a large selection of local pottery and other artifacts. Includes 4000 year old stone tools and 1500 year old pottery all unearthed here on the island.