Overlooking the sea at the end of Regent Street in downtown Belize City is one of the most magnificent buildings in the country. Elegantly timbered from native hardwoods, this mansion was once the seat of government for the British during Belize’s long history as a colony.

Widely known simply as “Government House” for most of its existence, the government of Belize repurposed the building after gaining independence from Great Britain in 1981. Today, it is officially titled the Belizean House of Culture and functions as a museum filled with colorful displays of local art and other exhibits, making it one of the most popular Belize City attractions. The lush gardens around the mansion are also worth a visit and include a small boat formerly belonging to Baron Bliss, the country’s most munificent and eccentric benefactor.

If you’re interested in visiting Government House and are looking for Belize City hotels, consider Black Orchid Resort. While not exactly inside the city limits, Black Orchid is a better alternative than other Belize City airport hotels because it is located just a 15-minute drive from the international airport.

Situated on the banks of the Old Belize River in the idyllic village of Burrell Boom, Black Orchid is an excellent place to stay for travelers because of its opulent ambiance, lovely rooms and suites decorated with hand-carved furnishings, and gourmet restaurant that specializes in authentic Creole cuisine.

Black Orchid offers free wireless internet and the use of bicycles and canoes for all of its guests. The resort has its own swimming pool, spa facility, and conference center as well. Being situated approximately halfway between the international airport and all of the attractions in historic downtown Belize City, Black Orchid is an excellent base of operations for international visitors.

Black Orchid Resort also offers guided tours and activities, including romantic cruises on the Old Belize River, visits to ancient Maya sites, tours of Belize City that include Government House and tastings at Belikin Brewery and Traveler’s Rum, and expeditions to explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, a sacred space once used by ancient Maya priests to perform gruesome human sacrifices.

The Belize resort also organizes adventure activities like cave tubing in Barton Creek Cave, zip lining in the jungle, horseback riding, and trips to the Belize Barrier Reef to enjoy activities like fishing, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and stand-up paddling.