I am not sure of why they call this 99 steps, because I've counted 103 steps a few times. Maybe they've added a few over the past 336 years since its creation?
Anyhow, 99 steps, which is the beginning of a pathway to Blackbeard's castle is part of my new favorite morning walk much to the disappointment of my fur baby, that likes to selectively participate in outdoor activity and has protested, vertical climbing exercises.
99 steps starts on Government Hill. While the stair part isn't that difficult, if you climb all the way up to Blackbeard's castle, you will break a sweat and get your heart pumping. I wouldn't say this is a must see, must do activity, although the street that it is on, is a beautiful duplication of European streets in the 1800's. If your cruise ship is docked on Tuesday or Wednesday, it may be worth it for you to do this and go to Blackbeard's castle which is only open on these two days from 9am-2pm.
The views are beautiful from the top of the stairs and its a great selfie spot! You can see all of St. Thomas Harbor and Charlotte Amalie. 99 steps was created from the bricks that comprised of the ballasts of Danish ships in the 1600's. It was used by Blackbeard to get to his lookout tower (now deemed a castle) during his piracy exploits.
For those that dislike vertical climbs like my fur baby, take a taxi to Blackbeards castle and walk down. It's $4-$6 from the docks and most areas in Charlotte Amalie. Parking is sparse as most of Government Hill parking is reserved for the Governor and his staff.
Overall this can be a good mini scenic work out for you and its an excuse for me to reward my inner fat kid with carbs from Daylight Bakery which is 2 blocks away afterwards! read more