1. National Archaeological Museum Aruba
Schelpstraat 42, Oranjestad
+297 582 8979
The Archaeological Museum of Aruba is located at Schelpstraat 42 in downtown Oranjestad. The renovated historic Ecury complex in downtown Oranjestad has been transformed from a family home to a modern museum that preserves Aruba’s Amerindian cultural heritage. This 21st century museum is especially designed to preserve valuable artifacts dating back to the Pre-Ceramic period of 2500 BC.
The permanent exhibit showcases archaeological objects and conveys modern exhibition techniques information on the origin and culture of the first inhabitants of the island. The new permanent exhibit gives the visitor an insight into the cultures that inhabited the island in Pre-Historical and Early Historical times. The museum regularly hosts public seminars, special exhibitions and workshop for visitors to enjoy.
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9 am till 5 pm.
2. Etnia Nativa Art Gallery & Museum
Westpunt 37-A, Noord
+297 592 2702
Etnia Nativa plays a role in preserving and sharing the island’s true history, shedding light on indigenous knowledge that may often be overlooked. The stories told are rooted in the island’s spirit and connect visitors to Aruba in a profound way.
As a co-founder of significant local projects like Arikok National Park, the Archaeological Museum, and the Artisan Foundation, Etnia Nativa contributes to the preservation and promotion of Aruba’s cultural and environmental heritage.
By visiting Etnia Nativa, you not only gain valuable knowledge but also engage with the community that works to keep these stories alive and accessible to the public.
For more information or to arrange a visit, you can reach out to Etnia Nativa via:
WhatsApp: +297 592 2702
Email: etnianativa03@gmail.com
3. Museum of Industry
Watertoren, Torenstraat, San Nicolas
+297 584 7090
This museum presents the history of gold, aloe, phosphate, oil and tourism through elaborated displays and multimedia installations.
The Museum of Industry is situated in the Water Tower and narrates Aruba’s industrial history which began in the 19th century. The Water Tower was built in 1939 and consists of three sections: the substructure, the high-rising vertical shaft, and the tank at the top. The Water Tower was purchased by the Monuments fund in 2003 so it could be restored and preserved as one of Aruba’s monuments. The Museum of Industry is part of Aruban Museum Foundation (FMA), which is a foundation that maintains, preserves, and protects the Aruban cultural sector, history, and nature.
The museum of Industry is open daily from 9 am till 6 pm.
4. Community Museum
Bernard van de Veen Zeppenfeldstraat 27, San Nicolas
+297 280 0018
The Community Museum shares the stories of the community as we know it. It is the “real” contact that the Community Museum in San Nicolas will foster. It will serve as a gathering place for the community, a space of stimulation for shared values.
The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.
5. Historical Museum of Aruba
Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad
+297 588 5199
Despite its small size, The Historic Museum guards a rich depository of the commercial, military and social history of Oranjestad, offering a glance into how the social culture of the town came to be. If you are interested in history and want to learn more about Aruba, then Fort Zoutman should definitely be included into your itinerary.
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9am-6pm, and Saturday from 10am-2pm.
