Best of Cultural Activities

Activities

The Cayman National Museum is a

great introduction to Cayman’s culture. The museum houses permanent exhibits, themed displays and artefacts promoting Cayman’s art, traditions and natural history, including boats, furniture, textiles, paintings and ceramics. Many of the museum’s exhibits are interactive and innovative, and will be fascinating for

children. SEE PAGE 111

The Mastic Reserve and Trail is the

largest area of untouched, old growth dry forest remaining on the Island. It represents some of the last remaining examples of the Caribbean’s subtropical, semi-deciduous dry forest, and is home to a wide variety of animals unique to the Cayman Islands. Tours are available for CI$52 for adults and CI$30 for children age 8 to 12 years old. Minimum of six people per group. (345) 749 1132.

The National Gallery is home to the

Cayman Islands’ national art collection. It hosts a range of exhibitions each year showcasing a variety of Caymanian and international artists. Admission is free. Located on the Esterley Tibbetts Highway. (345) 945 8111. SEE PAGE 82

Pedro St. James was built in 1780 and is set in over seven acres of beautifully manicured gardens. Explore the Castle, learn about its history, watch the multimedia show and walk the grounds. SEE PAGE 124

The Mission House is a unique replica of one of Cayman’s oldest buildings. It showcases original artefacts from the house dating from the 19th century. Uncover Cayman’s history and take a walk back in time to hear about the teachers, preachers and families who lived in the Mission House. CI$10 for adults, CI$4 for children ages 5 to 12 years old. Call (345) 945 3769 for opening hours and to arrange a visit.

The Cayman Islands National Gallery

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a 65-

acre site made up of woodland, walking trails, a lake and wetland for wildlife, and a heritage and colour garden. You’ll see butterflies, birds, turtles and the endangered Blue Iguana. The new Children’s Garden opened in 2022. SEE

PAGE 125

Mind’s Eye Tour of the home of the late Miss Lassie Bush, Cayman’s acclaimed visionary and intuitive artist. The tour provides valuable lessons on what inspired the artist and her work, along with information about traditional Caymanian architecture, Caymanian shipbuilding and pivotal moments in the history of the Cayman Islands. Visit www.artscayman. org/minds-eye.

Festivals & Carnivals abound in

Cayman. Pirates Fest is a three month festival culminating in November with pirates invading Cayman’s shores. Cayman has two annual carnivals, Batabano (May) and CayMas (July) which are both hugely popular and include a colourful street parade where people dress up in stunning costumes and dance to pulsating Soca music. The carnivals celebrate the Caribbean’s diverse African and religious roots, and they reflect the Island’s rich heritage.

INSIDER Tip

For more information on cultural events, festivals and other entertainment across the Cayman Islands, download the What’s On Cayman app.