Things to Do at Government House

Government House sits on the banks of the Belize River like a piece of colonial history that somehow survived everything Belize City could throw at it. Built in 1814 as the residence for British colonial governors, this two-story wooden mansion actually managed to weather hurricanes, political upheavals, and the general chaos that tends to follow port cities around. The mahogany structure, painted in classic white with green shutters, gives you a genuine sense of what life might have been like when Belize was still British Honduras. These days, Government House operates as a museum and cultural center, which honestly feels like the right second act for a building with this much character. The interior houses a collection that spans Belizean history, from Maya artifacts to colonial-era furniture, and you'll find yourself getting drawn into stories about everything from logwood cutters to independence movements. It's one of those places where the building itself tells as much of the story as the exhibits inside.

Government House sits dead center on Regent Street in downtown Belize City. Most downtown hotels put you within walking distance, and any taxi driver knows the spot without explanation. Just say "Government House." The white facade and riverside location make it impossible to miss. If you're already walking downtown, toss it onto your route with the Swing Bridge and St. John's Cathedral. Easy addition to any foot tour.