Rawson Square

Located right in Downtown Nassau, Rawson Square is the first site many travelers see. Combining history and a convenient location, it’s worth checking out. 

Rawson Square is the gateway to Nassau for many travelers visiting the Bahamas. It’s right outside the Nassau Cruise Port Terminal and is steps away from several other attractions. As you enter the island on your Bahamas vacation, it’s worth spending a bit of time to visit and understand the square’s history. 

Rawson Square: Enjoy One of Many Nassau Old Town Attractions

Nassau as a settlement came into being in the late 17th Century. During its early days, its name was Charles Towne, and it was nothing more than a humble collection of shacks and palm trees. 

After surviving various adversaries, including pirates and other European colonial powers, Nassau remained under British rule until 1973. Since then, it’s been an independent nation, combining European, African, and New World cultures into a rich melting pot. Travelers can see different parts of this history at Rawson Square, with its name specifically honoring Sir Rawson W. Rawson, the Governor of the Bahamas in the 1860s. 

Nassau Old Town is at the heart of Junkanoo, a massive Bahamian celebration.

While there’s no wrong time to visit Nassau, the most colorful elements of Bahamian culture are on display during Junkanoo. This festival, which takes place at a couple of points throughout the year, is a grand parade with music, dancing, and other performances. Rawson Square, like much of Bay Street Nassau, becomes an even more high-energy location during this time! 

Rawson Square: The Bust of Sir Milo Butler

Travelers can see the bust of Sir Milo Butler at Rawson Square.

Rawson Square houses a bronze bust at its center. This honors Sir Milo Butler, the first Bahamian Governor General of the Bahamas after the country gained independence. 

Sharp-eyed travelers may also recognize his portrait from another source – the Bahamian $20 note. 

Sir Stafford Sands Fountain

The square features a fountain honoring Sir Strafford Sands.

Travelers visiting Rawson Square can also see a fountain. Like the bust in the square, this fountain honors another historical figure – Sir Stafford Sands. 

Nicknamed the “Father of Tourism,” Sir Stafford Sands played a huge role in transforming the Bahamas into the tourism capital of today. He helped numerous resorts, casinos, and free trade zones develop across the country, ultimately becoming the first Minister of Tourism. 

The Christopher Columbus Monument 

The square also features a memorial to Christopher Columbus.

Christopher Columbus has had an impactful albeit contentious legacy in the Bahamas, as in many countries across the world. However, a monument to him at Rawson Square remains.

This dates back to the Bahamas Quincentennial Celebrations of 1992. 

Parliament Square Nassau

Parliament Square Nassau is across the street.

Right around the corner from Rawson Square is Parliament Square Nassau. The political center of the country, the square houses several buildings where the different branches of the Bahamian government meet. 

There are also several historic elements of Parliament Square Nassau, including a statue of Queen Victoria. 

Getting In

Rawson Square is one of the most accessible attractions in Nassau to visit. For travelers entering through the cruise port, it’ll be one of the first things you see, as it’s located immediately opposite the terminal exit. 

Rawson Square and the surrounding Bay Street are full of history.

Travelers staying at a hotel on Paradise Island or a New Providence can take a taxi to Downtown Nassau. Rawson Square is one of many Old Town attractions you can visit via a walking tour of the area. 

The historical sites in the square are open 24 hours a day, so you don’t have to worry about visiting at a specific time. Just keep in mind that some of the surrounding restaurants and attractions have business hours, so if you’re looking to make the most of your time in the area, visiting in the morning or early afternoon is probably a good call. 

Getting Around Bay Street Nassau

Many Nassau tours begin in the Rawson Square area. With Parliament Square Nassau, several forts, and numerous museums just steps away, it’s a great point from which to launch a walking tour of Nassau Old Town.

That said, if you’re looking for a unique way to traverse the island, consider signing up for a ride with Nassau Carriage Tours. These come with narrated sightseeing, allowing you to conserve energy while learning about the island. 

Touring the different things to do in Downtown Nassau by carriage can be a fun experience.

Our Travel Guide Suggests… 

Rawson Square isn’t huge, nor does it have massive amounts of history to absorb. However, taking just a short amount of time out of your day to explore it can help you better understand Nassau’s history and make the most of your time on the island. 

Things to Do in Downtown Nassau: Learn About History 

Rawson Square isn’t huge, but it contains several interesting relics of history. Given that it’s one of the first sites cruise passengers can see in Nassau, taking the time to understand this history is never a bad idea. 

After touring the square, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of Nassau’s top attractions. Consider making your way to the Bahamas Historical Society for more history or the Nassau Straw Market for shopping. The Paradise Island Water Taxi Terminal is also around the corner, as is Pompey Museum. 

Looking to learn more about the top attractions in the Bahamas? Check out our travel posts and our interactive Nassau attractions map!