Last Updated on June 19, 2023
Belize City is a port city on the Caribbean Sea, which has a population just shy of 60,000 people. It is the largest city in the country and served as the capital until it was replaced by Belmopan in 1970. The city is a real industrial hub and serves as the country’s main financial area.
If you are interested in spending time in this incredible city, you may be looking for things to do during your stay. In this article, we are going to look at some of the best things on offer, which will ensure you have a trip that will be memorable and enjoyable.
1. Museum of Belize
If museums are your thing then a visit to the Museum of Belize in Belize City is a great stop off on your trip. This building houses both an art gallery and a history museum giving visitors the chance to experience a whole range of interesting exhibits.
Built in the 1800s, it was first used as a prison before it was discontinued in 1993, and later converted into the museum we see today.
2. Baron Bliss Lighthouse
Looking for something a little more nautical on your Belize City adventure? Check out the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, an interesting and eye catching red and white lighthouse, which has stood on the coastline since the late 1800s.
The lighthouse was used as a marker for the grave of its namesake, who had never actually been to Belize but was an avid sailor who wanted to be buried next to the ocean.
3. San Pedro Water Taxi
Hop aboard one of the water taxis heading to San Pedro. The trip takes around 75 minutes giving guests the chance to take in the water-based scenery and enjoy the ride.
On arriving at your destination, you are free to explore some of the wonderful and vibrant cafes and bars located in the area.
4. St Johns Cathedral
This beautiful stone-built church is an eye-catching feature and certainly one that should be appreciated by anyone visiting the area. The church is fully functional so guests can attend one of the services or simply come for a look around.
Built in the early 1800s, St John’s Cathedral was the first church to ever be erected in the area of British Honduras. The church also features the oldest cemetery in the entire nation of Belize.
5. Fort Street Tourism Village
This colorful and welcoming area is designed for anyone paying a visit to Belize City and is filled with some great things to see and do. There are a wealth of eateries and places to relax with a coffee or a beer.
Located right on the harbor, giving beautiful ocean views, the village features many quirky and quaint souvenir shops so that you can browse and buy a little reminder of your visit to this brilliant city.
6. The Belize Sign Monument
There are many monuments all over Belize City, but one of the more modern and colorful ones in is its very own version of the Hollywood sign. The word Belize is displayed in different colored letters with a backdrop of the stunning ocean.
There is a children’s play area and plenty of places to enjoy a picnic here. For a relaxed afternoon out in Belize City, this is the ideal location.
7. Albert Street
For those who love a little retail therapy, a trip to Albert Street is well worth it. This is one of the most prominent shopping streets in Belize City and is frequented by locals, as well as anyone visiting. You can find a whole host of stores here including clothing, food, and hair salons.
There is also a wonderful variety of bars, restaurants, and cafes to rest your feet after wandering around the shops.
The street has been said to be “the only place to shop in Belize City.”
8. Celebrity Restaurant
Of course, knowing the best places to eat can really make a difference to a trip and whilst in Belize City, why not try out a meal at the Celebrity Restaurant, famed for its tasty yet affordable menu and brilliant selection of drinks.
There are varieties of cuisines available on the menu, including local dishes as well as ones from Mexico, Turkey, and various other places in the world. The staff are friendly, dedicated, and are sure to offer you a great service.
9. Old Belize Cultural and Historical Center
There is more to this one than meets the eye. This place features a water park, a museum, places to eat, a train ride, and much more. This is a brilliant day out for families, especially those with small children.
There is so much to explore here and the reviews are nothing short of excellent.
Some of the activities have to be paid for separately from the entrance fee but that should not be a deterrent as this is one you don’t want to miss.
10. Maritime Museum
This is another one for those who have an interest in all things nautical and naval. The maritime museum in Belize City was founded in 1996 and is located within an old fire station.
The goal of the museum is to give those visiting a good education in the history of shipbuilding and seafaring in Belize.
It is certainly a place where you will come to know a lot of information and the adjoining coastal zone museum can be enjoyed on the same visit.
11. Belize Zoo
If you are an animal lover or interested in the conservation projects run by the zoo then coming to the Belize zoo is a great idea. There are 29 acres dedicated to educating visitors on the animals themselves and their habitats in the wild.
The zoo is situated around 20km outside of the city and so requires a little extra travel but is certainly worth it for a memorable day out, especially if you are travelling with children.
12. The Great Blue Hole
If you are into diving and exploring marine life then the great blue hole is something that should not be missed on a trip to Belize City. This ginormous marine sinkhole is believed to have been formed over 150,000 years ago, has since become submerged, and thrives with a variety of life, which has to be seen to be believed. The hole forms a smaller part of the huge Belize barrier reef, which is also a popular tourist hot spot.
13. Belize Barrier Reef
Following on from the great blue hole, ocean enthusiasts might also be interested to explore more of the 300km long Belize barrier reef, which is made up from hundreds of smaller coral reefs and is a sight for sore eyes. It is a great spot for scuba diving and attracts over a quarter of a million visitors every year. Charles Darwin loved the area and it is little wonder since there are hundreds of species of fish and coral living here.
14. Lamanai
Belize has a deep historical connection to the ancient Mayan civilization and there are many Mayan archaeological sites dotted around the country. One such site is Lamanai, where visitors can discover the history of the Mayans and explore the ruins of this temple. The site is believed to have been around for over 3,000 years making for a very in-depth history.
15. Belizean Beach
Perhaps a day spent enjoying the beautiful Belize sunshine and taking in the tropical seascapes is your idea of perfection, if so then visiting the Belizean beach is a great way to do this.
This gorgeous tropical paradise provides you with a place to simply relax and enjoy your surroundings. Beautiful, clear blue ocean meets a white sandy beach dotted with palm trees—this is the epitome of an idyllic beach.
Conclusion
Belize City has a lot to offer those who choose to visit. Whether your interests lie in nature, dining, or history, you are sure to find something that will interest you in this delightful city. The locals welcome tourists with open arms and so not only will you experience everything the city has to offer but you will feel as though you belong there too.
