When planning a trip to Aruba, many travelers tend to fill their itineraries with activities that revolve around the sea, like kitesurfing, parasailing, or lounging on the beach. After all, the island is known for its always-sunny climate, so it’s not surprising that many people would want to spend their day outside soaking up the sun. However, this Caribbean island has so much more to offer beyond its white-sand beaches and gorgeous blue waters. It also boasts a range of indoor activities that capture the island’s spirit and make one’s trip to Aruba truly memorable.
At VacationAruba, we want to ensure that you’ll have the time of your life during your trip to the island. As such, we’re more than happy to create a unique itinerary that highlights Aruba’s best indoor activities you’re sure to enjoy. As a locally owned and operated business, we have insider knowledge of the island’s hidden gems and can offer you authentic, personalized experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. Here are a few of the indoor activities we highly recommend for an unforgettable Aruba experience.
Explore the Island’s Best Malls
Apart from being home to the best beaches in the Caribbean, Aruba is also known for being a shopper’s paradise. The island features a range of shopping destinations that not only offer you a chance to discover unique local crafts and souvenirs but also luxury finds. Renaissance Mall, for example, is Aruba’s premium luxury shopping destination, featuring high-end international brands like Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada. Located in Oranjestad, this mall is one of the best places to spend a day engaging in high-end retail therapy in the heart of the island. If you want to get a head start on your luxury shopping spree, book one of VacationAruba’s vacation rentals. Our properties in this area are just minutes away from Oranjestad, giving you easy access to the island’s finest shopping options.
For a more laid-back yet equally enjoyable shopping experience, The Cove Mall at Palm Beach is a great option. This boutique-style mall features a mix of trendy stores, local shops, and charming cafés. The Cove Mall offers an intimate shopping experience with an emphasis on unique and locally made products. Here, you can find art, jewelry, clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs that reflect Aruba’s vibrant culture. With its relaxed atmosphere and variety of shops, The Cove Mall is an excellent spot for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and sightseeing.
Take an Educational Tour in Aruba’s Many Museums
If you’re seeking to dive deeper into the island’s rich heritage, a visit to one of Aruba’s many museums is a must. These educational attractions offer fascinating insights into the island’s history, colonial past, and cultural evolution, providing you with enriching experiences that will give you a new perspective on the island.
The National Archaeological Museum Aruba is an essential stop for history enthusiasts. Located in downtown Oranjestad, this museum showcases a comprehensive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Aruba’s first inhabitants. The museum’s exhibits feature pottery, tools, and relics from Aruba’s pre-Columbian era, as well as displays that explain the island’s role in regional trade and cultural exchanges. You can learn about Aruba’s history through interactive exhibits and get a deeper understanding of the island’s past and its connection to the broader Caribbean region.
Another museum you can’t miss in Oranjestad is the Fort Zoutman Historical Museum. Originally constructed in 1798, this museum is one of the oldest buildings in Aruba. It was used to protect the island from pirates and other hostile elements, but today, Fort Zoutman Historical Museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Aruba’s colonial past. The museum’s exhibits focus on Aruba’s history from the Dutch colonial era to modern times, with a particular emphasis on the island’s role in the development of the Caribbean.
Experience Local Art in Aruba’s Art Studios and Galleries
Aruba’s thriving art scene can provide you with a glimpse into the island’s creative spirit. The island’s art studios and galleries feature works that range from traditional to contemporary, giving you the perfect opportunity to engage with Aruba’s artistic community. ArtistA Gallery, for instance, is a vibrant hub for contemporary art on the island. The gallery, which is located in San Nicolas, showcases works of local and international artists, with a focus on unique and thought-provoking pieces that reflect the island’s multicultural heritage. The gallery also often hosts exhibitions and art events, providing you with a chance to meet the artists and experience the island’s dynamic arts community.
You can also visit Sala de Arte in Noord. This art gallery serves as a cultural hub featuring paintings, photography, and mixed-media pieces by emerging and established artists. What’s more, you can book a guided tour with a licensed gallery keeper, who’ll share insightful details about various forms of art, Dutch art influences, and the broader history of art, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind the works.
Drink and Dance the Night Away
When the sun sets on Aruba, the island comes alive with a festive atmosphere that invites both locals and visitors to light up the dance floor. Aruba has plenty of bars and nightclubs that serve up great music and a high-energy vibe, so you can definitely find a spot to join in on the fun and keep the party going until the early hours of the next day.
One of the best places to start your night in is Kalibra Bar & Restaurant, located on Aruba’s vibrant Palm Beach strip. Known for its Latin Caribbean ambiance, expertly crafted cocktails, and lively music, Kalibra is just the perfect place to relax and to have high-energy fun later in the evening. The place, after all, transforms into a hotspot for amazing musical performances and dancing as the night progresses.
Another option is MooMba Beach, a popular beachfront bar and restaurant that is also known among the locals for being laid-back daytime spot that transitions to a lively nightlife venue when the sun sets. Located between the Marriott and Holiday Inn resorts in Noord, along J.E. Irausquin Boulevard, it typically features live music, DJ performances, and an energetic dance floor.
While both Kalibra Bar & Restaurant and MooMba are not strictly indoor venues, they offer lively, open-air environments under thatched roof structures that are quite perfect for enjoying Aruba’s nightlife.
Be a High Roller at the Island’s Most Exciting Casinos
Looking to try your luck while on vacation? Aruba offers several world-class casinos where you can enjoy an exciting night of gaming. The island’s casinos combine the thrill of traditional table games, slot machines, and poker with the fun of an upbeat atmosphere and live entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned high roller or just looking to have some fun, Aruba’s casinos are the perfect places to enjoy a little adventure after the sun goes down.
The Wind Creek Seaport Casino at the Renaissance Marketplace in Oranjestad, for instance, offers a high-energy, vibrant gaming experience, boasting a wide range of gaming options, from slot machines to table games like blackjack and roulette. With its contemporary design, multiple gaming stations, and welcoming atmosphere, the casino has become a favorite spot for both beginners and experienced gamers.
If you’re looking for a spot in Palm Beach, however, head down to the Stellaris Casino at the Marriott Resort. This is one of Aruba’s largest and most luxurious casinos, featuring over 500 slot machines and a variety of table games, including poker, blackjack, and craps. Plus, with its glamorous setting and lively atmosphere, Stellaris Casino provides an unforgettable gaming experience that will test your luck in style.
Aruba is more than just its stunning beaches and sunny climate. It also offers an array of indoor activities you can enjoy. From exploring its vibrant shopping malls and historical museums to dancing the night away in one of the island’s most happening nightclubs, Aruba boasts endless opportunities to help you create an unforgettable adventure in the Caribbean. To ensure that your trip to Aruba remains seamless from the start, book a vacation rental with Vacation Aruba today. We have properties in Eagle Beach, Gold Coast, and Tierra del Sol—key locations that place you near Aruba’s top attractions and cultural hotspots. Moreover, we offer discounted stays regularly, so you can rest assured that you can find a vacation rental that fits your budget without hassle.