Located at the top of Frederick Street in Port of Spain—just south of Queen's Park Savannah and opposite Memorial Park—the National Museum and Art Gallery is the national museum of Trinidad and Tobago. Established in 1892 as the Royal Victoria Institute, the site offers you a chance to explore a stunning example of Victorian-era colonial style architecture characteristic of the British West Indies. Inside, the museum manages a vast collection of roughly 10,000 items distributed across seven major galleries.
When you visit, you can immerse yourself in the permanent national art collection, which features works by renowned artist Michel-Jean Cazabon. You will also discover specialized exhibits highlighting the country's petroleum and geological history, alongside a dedicated small gallery showcasing Trinidad's vibrant Carnival arts. The facility even includes an audio-visual room that supports an active educational programme.
Furthermore, the museum oversees several branch locations throughout Port of Spain, including the Museum of the City of Port of Spain at Fort San Andrés, the Museum of the Police Service of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Money Museum. It offers a rich, specific look at the island's cultural and natural heritage.
What to see at National Museum and Art Gallery
- Housed in an 1892 Victorian-era colonial building
- Collection of paintings by Michel-Jean Cazabon
- Exhibits on petroleum, geology, and Trinidad's Carnival arts
- Seven major galleries with roughly 10,000 collection items
- Manages local branch museums, including the Money Museum and Police Service Museum
Visiting tips
Be sure to check out the museum's audio-visual room, which is actively used for educational programming during visits.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
National Museum and Art Gallery is easy to reach on Port of Spain’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Port of Spain. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Port of Spain travel guide.
See the full Port of Spain travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.