Best For
Quick photo opportunities and panoramic harbor views.
VI
Tourist Attraction·Historic, Scenic, Active
99 Steps is one of Charlotte Amalie’s most recognizable landmarks, built by the Danes in the mid-1700s to navigate the city's steep terrain. The staircase is constructed from ballast bricks once carried by European ships and leads upward toward Blackbeard's Castle. While the name suggests 99 steps, observant visitors often count 101 or 102. At the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and the bustling harbor below. It is an ideal stop for history buffs and photographers looking for a classic St. Thomas vista. The climb is short but provides a light physical challenge, making it a rewarding addition to any walking tour of the city.
99 Steps is one of Charlotte Amalie’s most recognizable landmarks, built by the Danes in the mid-1700s to navigate the city's steep terrain. The staircase is constructed from ballast bricks once carried by European ships and leads upward toward Blackbeard's Castle. While the name suggests 99 steps, observant visitors often count 101 or 102. At the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and the bustling harbor below. It is an ideal stop for history buffs and photographers looking for a classic St. Thomas vista. The climb is short but provides a light physical challenge, making it a rewarding addition to any walking tour of the city.
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Address
St Thomas,Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00801, USVI
Hours
Open nowOpen 24 hours
Highlights
Stunning panoramic views of the Charlotte Amalie harbor.
Historic Danish ballast brick construction from the 1700s.
Conveniently located just a short walk from the downtown area.
Leads directly to the iconic Blackbeard's Castle watchtower.
Popular spot for travel photography and scenic vistas.
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Locals, Solo
Reviews
4.3
Great415 reviews
99 Steps is widely regarded as a quick and rewarding tourist stop in Charlotte Amalie, offering stunning panoramic views of the harbor and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors often find the climb to be a decent workout, noting that while the name suggests 99 steps, the actual count is typically 101 or 102. The historic brickwork, dating back to the 1700s, adds a layer of colonial charm to the experience. Some recent reviews mention that portions of the staircase may be closed for maintenance, requiring a short detour through the nearby neighborhood past the Governor's House. Those who reach the summit are rewarded not only with vistas but also proximity to Blackbeard’s Castle and a local resort area that occasionally features live music and refreshments. Overall, it is highly recommended as a picturesque photo spot and a must-see landmark for those exploring St. Thomas.
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Location
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
