Nassau Paradise Island is known for its stunning white sand and turquoise waters, but did you know it also has a thriving arts and culture scene? Beyond the beach, there is a vibrant, deep-rooted artistic community just waiting to be discovered. So for all art aficionados, we’ve created a guide to Nassau’s galleries, studios, and cultural centers.

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

Located on West and West Hill Street, the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas houses a collection of art dedicated to promoting and preserving Bahamian Fine Art. The National Collection represents a diverse range of mediums from watercolor and ceramics to photography and mixed media. The current exhibition, From Columbus to Junkanoo highlights the emergence and development of Bahamian art beyond the last century and truly showcases the link between local art and the history and story of The Bahamas.

Antonius Roberts’ Studio and Gallery at Hillside House

Art is deeply connected to the history of The Bahamas, its people, and culture. This is clearly displayed at Hillside House where sculptor and restorer Antonius Roberts has brought new life to a historic house on Nassau’s Cumberland Street, creating a place “where history and art are intertwined.”

Heritage Museum of The Bahamas

British antique collector Hamilton White has amassed a variety of antiques, relics, and treasures spanning the history of The Bahamas, from the days of Columbus, the piracy era, through plantation and slave life, and the early 1900s. Get a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Nassau Paradise Island by exploring the everyday objects on display at the Heritage Museum of The Bahamas at the beautiful Graycliff property on West Street in Nassau.

Heritage Village Artists’ Studio

Immerse yourself in Nassau’s current cultural scene by visiting the Heritage Village Artists’ Studio at Graycliff. This collective displays and sells pieces from contemporary, local artisans. Everything is designed and produced in The Bahamas. It’s a wonderful place to buy a unique gift or memento from your vacation.

D’Aguilar Art Foundation

Launched in 2008 by one of The Bahamas most active art collectors, the D’Aguilar Art Foundation showcases Vincent D’Aguilar’s impressive private collection with the aim of providing access to Bahamian art for scholars and collectors to research and aspiring artists to study. The Foundation center also shares inspiring art from outside The Bahamas; its current exhibition, titled NOMAD of the Golden Hour features the photography of Miami-based artist Greg Pesik.

Bahamian Heritage Center

Also known as Nettie’s Place, this funky building on Cable Beach houses artifacts representing generations of Bahamian Heritage. The collection is meant to connect visitors with the cultural fabric and everyday life of The Bahamas.

Doongalik Studios

For over 30 years Doongalik Studios has been promoting the art and cultural heritage of The Bahamas. Rotating exhibits showcase the talents of local artisans and the onsite shop offers unique art prints and pieces for you to bring a bit of Bahamian culture home with you.

One of the great joys of traveling is learning about a different culture, and the galleries and heritage centers of Nassau are the perfect way to do just that! Visit our travel deals to start planning your Bahamas vacation and check out our unique tours to discover more fun ways to learn about Nassau Paradise Island and its rich culture.