Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center

The Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center (Waterfront, 340/776-6201, www.nps.gov/viis [1], 8 a.m.–4 p.m.) is a good first stop for visitors to the island. A permanent exhibit describes the human and natural history of St. John [2], and there is a three-dimensional map that helps you get your bearings. Park rangers are always on duty to answer questions and hand out maps and brochures.

Outside, the visitors center has shaded picnic tables and public restrooms. A public playground is right next door.

The Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center is located in a large, high-ceilinged West Indian-styled building on the waterfront. It is on the extreme northern end of Cruz Bay [3], past the car and Tortola [4] ferries.