Oranjestad

Oranjestad is the capital of Aruba on the southwestern coast of the island, where colorful colonial buildings line the waterfront and palm-shaded streets run through the downtown area. Several plazas with benches and shopping streets connect the harbor district with older residential neighborhoods inland.

The settlement began in 1796 as a trading post around Fort Zoutman and gradually developed into the administrative and economic center of the island. The harbor expanded during the 20th century with the growth of the refinery industry and later with cruise tourism.

The Dutch name means Orange Town and honors the royal family of the Netherlands, reflected in architecture with pastel facades and curved gables. Many buildings in the center still carry the features of 19th-century Dutch colonial styles.

A free trolley service runs between the cruise terminal and the main shopping areas and the historic fort from 10 AM to 5 PM. Many shops and restaurants close on Sundays or operate with reduced hours.

The Renaissance area near the harbor was built on reclaimed land and provides bridge access to two private islands with flamingos and iguanas. Many buildings in the center were rebuilt after a fire in 1885 and have carried their current colorful paint schemes since then.