The 16 best things to do with kids in Kingston

This was a great tour! So much history. The tour took an hour. The history and information was great, but there was very little time to enjoy and take in the artifacts. It would have been nice to have some time in the rooms to really look at everything. Although I wouldn't want the tour to be any longer. 1 hour was plenty, but a little time set a side to really take in the art would have been better.

The tour was amazing, Ricky our tour guide was an awesome and very knowledgeable commentator. Well worth the price for a tour to learn the history, and to see the many historical artifacts of the Legendary Bob Marley. My family and I enjoyed the experience.

Visiting the Bob Marley Museum was an incredible experience! Our guide, Irie Sue (Susan), was amazing her energy, humor, and deep knowledge carried us back in time to relive the life and legacy of Bob Marley. She made the tour unforgettable, sharing stories that brought his music and message of love and unity to life. The museum itself is full of history Bob’s home, studio, awards, and personal items are all preserved, giving a real sense of who he was beyond the music. You can feel his spirit in every room. If you’re in Kingston, this is a must-visit. And if you can, ask for Irie Sue as your guide—you won’t regret it!

I learnt so much history on the Greatest of all time. Photography is not allowed inside and I can't blame them, this is something you have to experience in person. Wonderful tour of the premises. Don't worry if you are a smoker there is a little treat at the end of the tour waiting.

Nice place to visit when in Jamaica. Tour guide has amazing energy. It's a tour around the house, not much furniture left though. There's parking spot on premise. The turn into the house is pretty small so don't miss it.

Very good tour and very informative. The only thing was there were too many tour guides there at one time, so it felt a bit rushed. The tour is about an hour . It would have been better if the tour was a bit longer. Jevy was our tour guide who made the tour worthwhile.

Very lovely experience. You will learn a lot. You can take photos and videos in certain places that they allow you to. There is a hidden weed shop and place you can smoke as well. Wasn’t expecting that. Also make sure you check out. Tuff Gong

Well-curated work! This museum excellently contextualizes each gallery while remaining doable in around an hour. Surprisingly relevant and free on Sunday :)

Well worth visiting for the history, the art and the gift shop. $4 entry. Highly recommended

Very good value for money and lots to see - both temporary and permanent exhibitions. We learnt a lot about Jamaica and got to see some really spectacular art. Staff were friendly and helpful. Would strongly recommend.

A must visit if you are downtown Kingston and into the arts and culture of Jamaica. Will be back with my family.

It's a very interesting place to visit. Every Jamaican should at least see this place once, just to see the creations of various Jamaican artists. My only wish is that they should include more works from the rastafarian community as well as recent works from young up and coming artists. But aside from that, this place is great. The entire building is air conditioned and some parts of the floor are carpeted. Also there are seats provided to take a break. It costs only JMD$400 for adults to enter

The National Gallery was amazing. It was so well curated, very informative, and not expensive at all. I actually think they should charge tourists more. The PRESSURE exhibit and Kapo wing were both very impressive.

An amazing place to visit. Last visit was over 20 years ago. The atmosphere has changed slightly. All the works are so amazing and the staff are really helpful. Would recommend all ages to visit.

This magnificent Victorian mansion is extremely well presented. Most of the furniture, lighting fixtures and serving pieces are original to the house. the tour was interesting and informative. Well worth the entrance fee

A place where you can relax and spend the moment with friends and family. It has the best ice cream in Jamaica and also many other shops that you can buy Jamaican souvenirs and breads. There are lots of parking spaces available and once can enjoy some ice cream under a tree.

It's peaceful and a nice place to get something sweet to eat or just hang with ur family or friends. It can be pricey but it's not somewhere you can go everyday unless you are rich.. The renovations to the place are modern but I am still nostalgic for the older version that looked more natural.

It's so great Devon house is a place to hang out with your family and friends

Best ice cream and relaxing atmosphere

One of my fav must stop places 🔥💯

Cotton Tree on Hope Road is a landmark

A bit run down but still A beautiful place to spend an afternoon. With enormous Beautiful exotic trees and curated gardens and lawns with gazebos and shaded places for picnics. The Chinese garden is especially impressive. The maze though cool was closed when I was there (you can sneak in though) the greenhouse also appeared to be in shambles.

It was a good experience. I went on a sunday and surprisingly the place was a bit full. The view was great. It has gazebos but the space is not really big enough for a lot of people. The view is great and the environment is relaxing too.

It was a nice experience, my daughter have seen all the animals there before but finding that one plant that closes up when she touched it was her first experience. I think it’s called shame old lady but I’m probably wrong.

Great for photo or video shoots of nature especially the lily pad ponds in rain during duck migrations, just bring an umbrella.

Was an enjoyable experience , a very good place to take someone on a date.

Very pleased. Great place to take your little one to run some steam off. It can feel a bit off when there are public events but overall, I have enjoyed coming here with the elderly and toddlers

I will say it was really cool to see this place. I was a bit disappointed however as there seems to be so much more that could be done to enhance the experience. There is a water feature at the entrance that was not working when I got there. There were also other pools that were just stagnant water. Beyond those negatives, there is a variety of plants and trees to view. There was no entrance fee, but you will have to pay for parking. Once inside and on the grounds, you are free to walk, take pictures, and ai.pky enjoy the tranquility. I will go back. Maybe charging a small entrance fee could go a long way to help with the general upkeep of such a beautiful place.

It always a pleasure visiting Devon house when I'm in Jamaica. The scoops never disappoint ‼️Just huge and worth the wait....The bakery section however lacked efficiency in their customer service during this visit. The AC was not working and customers were left in sweltering conditions. When I asked if the door could be opened to reduce the heat, my question received blank stares from the workers. I was then asked to go to another section by one of the servers who mentioned that he did not serve from the cake section, which was in fact a lie. If not for the excellent level of service from the ice cream section, I would've rated them lower.

I love Devon House. I've been going since I was a kind every trip to Jamaica. My aunt worked there when I was young. I love the historical background of the place. And the ice cream is really good. You can tell its natural. Im not big on any of the major picks for the locals. But it seems everyone loves the Rum Raisin and Grapenut.

The ice cream is delicious, the scoop sizes are also great. One scoop is more than enough. I was a bit disappointed they didn’t have Praline cream flavor. Some of the flavors are just okay, I had rum and raisin, and bubblegum flavor.

Overrated, don't see and know what the hype is all about. Patties tasted horrible and does not have enough meat.

Brand Jamaica is definitely evident in a scoop of Devon house Rum and Raisin ice cream. I have tje fortunate experience of the Scoops truck by Devon house to drive through my neighborhood on a consistent basis so I literally can wait to hear the ice cream van passing by to get my ice cream scoop!

One of my favorite childhood memories that I still LOVE to enjoy now as an adult. Its a must try if ever in the area!!! Its a but confusing to navigate the entrance, the ordering inside, and pick up of your order. But it's well worth the confusion...lol

I saved this place for last on my list. I was told they had the best ice cream. When I arrived there after their posted opening hours I was greeted with a sign that they'd be closed until 12. They were having some sort of meeting. So, I was pretty disappointed because I couldn't wait around for 2 hours, had a flight at 1:30. Made me wonder why they couldn't just have the meeting somewhere else or... I don't know, BEFORE they opened or AFTER they closed. smh

Right, this one was very interesting. The culture yard is literally 5 rooms and a yard. The entrance fee is 20$ US and we didn't get a receipt. There is a guide there who will tell you the story of how reggae music began in Jamaica and how Bob Marley made it popular all over the world. If you are into this stuff you will find it very interesting. BUT, the guide himself is a 'museum' as he is a very weird person and I marveled at him more than I marveled at the empty rooms in the museum. I am almost certain he was stoned and he gave me the feeling that we are not welcomed there. 🤦 I went there with two guys, but if I were alone, I would have felt very uncomfortable. The culture yard is located in the middle of the worst neighborhood in Kingston. You go there by car. YOU DO NOT WALK!!! You don't get off to take pictures or anything. You don't go there without a local! If you're into reggae music, I don't recommend it. Spend that money at the Downs river.

This tour was pure comedy. We did the basic $20 tour. Black & Proud A.K.A. Mr. Johnson is hilarious. He was under the influence while giving our tour. He basically read the signs in the room and threw in an occassional song for entertainment. He invited me to sit on Bob Marley's bed while telling a story of a lady getting pregnant by Bob's ghost. I'm a scary indivual and not once did I feel threatened in this area. I even walked a bit to capture the wall art. While you're here you may as well visit May Pen Cemetary for the elaborate tombstones. The Tivoli Garden side (next to Tivoli High School) is open allowing you to enter and view up close.

Incredible. I did the full tour and walked through the streets of Trenchtown with my guide. It felt like Guinee, West Africa. The guide told me that every single visitor he gets, whether it be China or Brazil, said it feels just like home. If you know, you know. We are all truly connected, more than you think. I take great pride in knowing how much pride the people of Jamaica have for their people. It was worth every single bit of time and money I spent. Blackie, my tour guide, thank you so much for everything 🙏🏾🥰🌹

A great way to see how it all began for Bob. However, the full guided tour could be too much for some. As it goes into details about other reggae artists that some may not know or fully appreciate all the connections. The museum tour was informing and insightful.

What a visceral telling of where Bob's lyrics come from. Stone man's presentation of our relationship to the natural world, and the wisdom it gives... fully powerful!

Pretty steep price for a short tour of a small area. The guide was passionate about the tour, though his accent was thick and challenging to understand at times. Only waited a few minutes for the tour. Facilities relatively well maintained, though aged.

Good to see where Bob came into his own to do "big man thing". Conditions were very basic. They have done a good job preserving the site lots of photos to see. Suggest one goes with a tour guide as the neighborhood is still rough.

This place has been closed down for about two years or so. However, it would be amazing if they reopened their doors. It's a great location and could be very profitability under the right management.

Good and safe place to go with family and friends to eat, drink and chill.

This place is extremely fun, the staff is friendly and I enjoyed the cup and saucer ride

Was great good customer service lots of fun

It fun and more fun for the entire family

I'm planning on visiting soon, With my family

It was excellent and satisfying fun

I visited Emancipation Park recently and honestly, it’s one of the nicest spots in Kingston. The place is so peaceful and beautifully maintained—perfect for walking, jogging, or just relaxing on the lawns. I really enjoyed the tropical gardens, the fountains, and how clean and inviting everything felt. The Redemption Song statue at the entrance is absolutely striking. Standing there, it really makes you pause and reflect on Jamaica’s history and resilience. I also loved noticing the cultural designs worked into the benches and fences—small details that make the park unique. What stood out most was the atmosphere. There were families, joggers, and tourists all enjoying the space, but it still felt calm and welcoming. It’s a place where you can clear your head, enjoy nature, and also feel connected to Jamaican culture. If I had to suggest one improvement, it would be to add more shaded seating areas and maybe a few more water fountains—it gets really hot during the day! But overall, my experience was excellent. I’d definitely recommend Emancipation Park to anyone visiting Kingston. Whether you want to exercise, relax, or just take in some culture, this park has it all.

Well kept lawn/garden, very clean with lots of mature trees to keep you cool if you decide to relax under one of the many trees. It would be better if there were multiple entries as for those with mobility limitation it's challenging to walk around the park after parking to gain entry. This needs to be changed to accommodate everyone.

Truly incredible to see in person! Disappointed in who they chose to place as the first two statues, lessening the impact of the memorial. The park itself is gorgeous! Aesthetically pleasing, with plenty of room to sit, run, play, and eat. The staff does a great job of keeping everything beautiful and clean. Please support the vendors outside of the park; and the restaurant across the street, Sweetwood Jerk, is amazing!

I recently stopped at Emancipation Park on Labour Day and absolutely loved this small yet relaxing space! A sound-check crew was busy preparing for a gospel concert later that evening, which added to the park’s lively atmosphere. The park is beautifully maintained, with a lovely balance of trees, flowers, and shrubs, enhancing its natural charm. One main point of interest that caught my attention was the breezeway, where I admired the seven National Heroes: Nanny of the Maroons, Paul Bogle, George William Gordon, Samuel Sharpe, Marcus Garvey, Alexander Bustamante, and Norman Manley. Each head monument has an engraved introduction that provides insight into their significant contributions. At the end of the breezeway stands the iconic themed “Tribute to Freedom,” featuring a pair of impressive 11-foot bronze statues titled “Redemption Song.” They depict a Black man and woman gazing towards the sky, located at the south-eastern entrance of the park. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and would wholeheartedly encourage anyone, whether visiting or local, to stop by this iconic park. It’s a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and learn about a piece of Jamaica’s rich history!

Grass? Wet. Ambience? Great. Flowers? Pretty. Trees? Dangerous. Events' setup? Loud. Overall? Good.

Beautiful space, Great for picnic, jogging, workouts and relaxation 😌

Amazing park to jog, walk and relax. Free Wi-Fi too! Very safe and beautiful.

I hadn't realised that it had so many monuments present, was what I said to myself. I've passed Heroes Circle so many times, and I've never really given it a really good look until recently, when I just randomly stopped to walk through the park. As stated previously, there were several large monuments present. Each monument was built in memory of an important figure in Jamaica's history, namely our national heroes. A few other figures were represented as well, like Hugh Shearer and Micheal Manley. I think some heroes and other figures were said to be buried there as well. The stylish looking plaques each giving you a history of each person featured. I was truly impressed with what I had seen. It was also obvious to me that area, namely the parts with the monuments and plaques, were regularly landscaped. The grass was well cut down, and the environment was clean overall. There was one particular plaque that gave you the history of the park itself and how it came to be. National Heroes Park is definitely impressive. I, for one, was indeed impressed by it.

Very Beautiful Scenery however the gov of jamaica can do more to this development of the park.. It has great potentional.. plant more trees over time.. make a good trail park.. like a Emancipation Park

I was expecting more than what I saw... for a place of such significance it should have been well maintained with neatly cut green grass areas and well groomed flowers and esthetic appeal. But it was like a waste land that doesn't have much value place on it.

For the place where some of Jamaica's most treasured are laid to rest. I was expecting more from National Heroes Park. The park is dry and hot, I was wondering if a well could be dug and used to make a park green and attractive. Some of the plaques are worn need to replaced. Overall the park needs to be refurbished to make it the attraction it deserves to be.

Visiting Heroes Park was a delightful surprise! Located just down the street from Emancipation Park, I couldn’t resist stopping by to explore both. I’m so glad I did! The beautifully manicured lawns and well-maintained grounds immediately caught my eye. I was genuinely touched by the stunning monuments honoring our past leaders who fought for change along with a tall white monument with the cross dedicated to the fallen Soldiers in World War I and II. It’s a heartfelt tribute that truly resonates. While there, I took the time to visit the remains of several notable figures interred at the park, including: • Toots Hibbert • Dennis Brown • Sir Alexander Bustamante • Marcus Garvey • Michael Manley • Norman Manley • George William Gordon • Edna Manley • Donald Sangster • Hugh Shearer • Ranny Williams • Paul Bogle • Samuel Sharpe • Lady Bustamante • Herb McKenley • Louise Bennett-Coverley • Mallica “Kapo” Reynolds • Howard and Ivy Cooke • Edward Seaga • Clement ‘Sir Coxsone’ Dodd As I exited the park, I felt a deep sense of pride and honour to have visited for the first time. I even gave a hand salute to express my appreciation! Heroes Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn about Jamaican history while enjoying the lovely botanical landscape.

I love the environment. I am able to not just relax in a peaceful environment but I am afforded the ability to learn more about my heritage and about the Heroes who fought successfully so that I can live the life I now enjoy. I am free to make my own choice and not to under bondage. The Park is a powerful reminder of where we came from, the resilience and wit of our forefathers.

Burial site of Nationalist Leader Marcus Garvey, reggae star Dennis Brown, and former Prime Ministers Michael & Norman Manley (NMIA) located in the Allman Town neighborhood of Kingston, Jamaica. This solemn historic site is a famous tourist spot for knowledgeable visitors because in 1976 the Smile Jamaica mega-concert took place here. Bob Marley, reggae legend performed when just 2 days prior he had an assassination attempt on his life. Redemption Song!!

I was pleasantly surprised, love the decor and it was really informative. Great use of the interactive multimedia, and the short film was a nice addition.

Lots to learn about the life and work of Marcus Garvey. In addition to that some history about our motherland, Africa. The time spent in the museum was too short wish I had more time to really emerse myself in the myriad of info available.

Went there on a art walk to under the legacy of marcus...

Very insightful experience mixed with courage and sanity. .. Appreciation of African Roots and Heritage is something you will certainly know is Garvey's vision ...with Repatriation being his main objective. ..

Very important historical centre for Jamaica. This was the headquarters of the United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) led by the Rt Honourable Marcus Garvey in the 1920s. The property was acquired by the Jamaican government and it is now a museum and cultural centre to further the philosophy of Marcus Garvey. It is a place to visit for educational groups and researchers. The hall features a modern museum dedicated to the work and times of Marcus Garvey.

Must see museum. Mix of hi-tech and traditional. Combination of tribute to Jamaica's first national hero as well as a space for reflection on selfhood and identity. A well-managed, thoughtfully laid out space.

Very informative and uplifting, a people without knowledge of its past is like a tree without Roots. I love my T-shirt from gift shop.

No other local university is as rich in history as the Mico University College. If you value architecture, appreciate history and hope to acquire an education in Teacher training, then this may be your university of choice.

Education that prepares you for life. Graduated in 1977 Mico help me realize that whatever I do if I do it "with my might" and avoid repeated mistakes I will achieve my goals. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.

This compound has some very interesting architecture buildings.

Requesting documents takes forever. My job will be given to someone else by the time my transcript is ready. Why not have an express service? Why not do reprints of transcript? For a university that’s claiming to be the best... need I say more?

Went to support a friend of mines playing cricket for him hall.. I like the fact that the university is very supportive of sports. They have several facilities to support this, such as an indoor volleyball court, outside basketball and netball court, the football field have the cricket pitch in the middle.. they also have a Physical Education dept

The delight of the corridors of Marescaux Road. An Institution that tutored so many students over the decades enduring lots of sweat and tears. This is is the choiced home for teacher training. This University College offers among the long listings a graduate program through the Graduate School of Education, and short customized courses through the School of Continuing Studies. Envelope yourself with me in the memories of hard work doused with the sweetness of success after success. No wonder their ethos remains - Quality, Affordability, Employability. Now is the time, the right timing to make your ambitions reality. Enroll and give success a chance.

The premiere teachers college in Jamaica. My daughter attend there before going on to the University of the east Indies. She always claim Mico as her school and responsible for moulding her into the professional teacher that she is. My daughter in law also attended Mico at the same time as my daughter.

We took our children here for a quick visit this past summer- they loved it. Grosvenor Galleries is one of Kingston's historic galleries and art dealers, specialising in local art. There were many many gems to see and buy, from some of Jamaica's best known artists. We are definitely going back.

It seems I always miss the big displays. It would be nice to see our Jamaican art displays more.

BigUp! Grosvenor Galleries! Great place. Great customer service. Highly recommended.

Looking forward to the next exhibit

Good art and ambience

Interesting

Had a wonderful experience here, the technologist were willing to help me to achieve the outcome I so badly needed, Big Up! to the SRC....

First thing first, I was a little bit disturbed when I called the listed number to get details on the items that were allowed. The young lady on the other end was clearly annoyed, and it came out from the way she answered the phone and how she responded to the questions I asked, abrupt and sharp, and ill mannered. Two security officers at the entrance, one was a little bit rude. I'm not really impressed with the setup. i see no difference with the old and the new other than the cashier at the front. After the long closure and the much anticipated upgrades, I expected more. Fresh water wash off is way too far from the changing rooms, especially when there is no running water in the changing rooms. The food wasn't good. There were only two choices for fish. Escoveitch and steam (only red snapper) and to make matters worse, they only sell 3lb fish, which reduces options for a small group. For example, 3lbs is too much for a 4yr who wants fry fish, and it's the same for a 11 yr old who wants steam, they can't can't share that 6lbs because their choices are different. Yes, there are beach chairs, but I have my own chairs, so personally, that's not a plus for me. I much prefer the old setup that provides different choices or different restaurants for food. There are some good points, the beach is clean and cleaner than when the previous operators had it. guardsman patrols along the beach is visible. However, I was advised that this is to ensure that the people who sell small items like peppered shrimp and peanuts don't access the beach to peddle their wares. The kitchen staff was well mannered, cashier was good, and the other server at counter was also very helpful. Small children and the elderly were allowed to park closer to the beach in the previous set up, this is no longer allowed. There is a lot of potential here to make this a great space, but there are areas that need to be addressed urgently, specifically the food and the customer service.

Secure private beach 30mins outside of Kingston. I had Lobster from the canteen, made to order. Plenty of trees for shade. Was lots of seaweed/safflower on the day we went....rising sea temperatures causing chaos *Plastic is destroying our planet.

The beach is normally great. But it's currently undergoing a seaweed deposit period as of August 23rd 2025.

The amenities are great, beach chair, changing room and restrooms, restaurant and bar. A beach clean up is however needed. There was so much trash on the beach and in the water.

Pros: clean, secure, relaxing, you have shades and chairs to sit on, lovely view, life guards, bathroom (toiletries provided) and shower area, food shack (only one so order food early or bring your own), large parking space. Cons: $1000JMD sadly paid entry, not a lot of shades if beach becomes too full, one food shack so long waiting time (can walk on the beach to next door to get food), lawn chairs limited.

Beautiful scenery, long shore line, clear water and great beach facilities however, the showers 🚿 should not be on the beach, where you have to walk on the sand afterwards, I suggest those are move closer to the changing rooms, overall lovely day you will have at the beach with family and friends. Five star for me.

Arrived for an early swim. I know we were three weeks after Hurricane Beryl, but considering this is a paid-entry venue, they should have made an effort to clear the debris. Or at least some of it! The music didn't start until employees asked what was going on. It just felt like, given they were open and collecting entry fees, more could have been done on the inside. Nevertheless, it was a great day out, lovely water as always.

My friend celebrated her birthday in April at Hollywell. It was lots of fun. The air was cool and fresh with the smell of pine trees . The views were breathtaking. We used the fire pit for grilling potatoes and sausages. Seeing the coffee berries reminded me of spending time in the country with my grandmother . The only drawback was the winding roads .

The park is a beautiful place, the various trails to explore. the weather is nice and cool and is an amazing place to camp. The rangers are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Only downside with camping is that some of the camp grounds are far from the bathroom. Aspects like the waterfall and stream are underwhelming nice but definitely not as nice as the flora.

Waking up to the sounds of nature in the Blue Mountains. Hollywell's beauty is truly something special. #JamaicaCamping #BlueMountains" * Finding peace and tranquility at Hollywell. The perfect escape into Jamaica's natural beauty. #HollywellJamaica #NatureRetreat

Very beautiful location , very helpful park rangers and community facilities were decent . I cant wait to go camping again .

Here’s a polished but warm Google review you can post for Holywell: Holywell is an absolute gem! The fresh mountain air, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking views make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trails are well-maintained, the picnic areas are clean, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Whether you’re there to hike, relax, or just soak in nature, it’s an amazing experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.

10/10 experience, would definitely do it again once I recover from the hike 😂

Always a breath of fresh air. Literally! Take the time! Centre yourself!