Things to Do at Blue Penny Museum
Complete Guide to Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis
About Blue Penny Museum
This remarkable destination stands as an example of Blue Penny Museum's rich cultural heritage, featuring architectural elements and historical significance that attract thousands of visitors annually seeking authentic local experiences. Entry fees typically range from $8-25 USD equivalent, with guided tours available for an additional $10-15 that provide insider knowledge about hidden details and local legends not found in standard guidebooks. The site showcases distinctive design elements including hand-crafted stonework, traditional building techniques, and decorative features that have been carefully preserved through generations, creating photo opportunities that capture both historical grandeur and artistic craftsmanship. Plan to arrive during early morning hours (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon when golden light enhances architectural details and temperatures remain comfortable for extended exploration, wearing sturdy walking shoes as many historical sites feature uneven surfaces and stone pathways that can become slippery during rainy conditions.
What to See & Do
The Famous Blue Penny and Red Penny Stamps
The star attractions - these incredibly rare 1847 stamps are displayed in climate-controlled cases. Only a handful exist worldwide, making this a genuinely once-in-a-lifetime viewing opportunity.
Maritime History Exhibits
Interactive displays showing Mauritius' role as a crucial Indian Ocean trading post, with ship models, navigation instruments, and stories of the sailors and merchants who passed through.
Colonial Period Artifacts
A thoughtfully curated collection of documents, photographs, and personal items that paint a picture of life under Dutch, French, and British rule - more nuanced than you might expect.
Postal History Collection
Beyond the famous stamps, you'll find the evolution of communication in Mauritius, from colonial post offices to modern mail systems, surprisingly fascinating for understanding how the island connected to the world.
Cultural Heritage Displays
Exhibits exploring how different communities - Creole, Indian, Chinese, European - contributed to Mauritian identity, with personal stories and family artifacts that make history feel immediate.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Sundays and public holidays. Last entry is typically 30 minutes before closing.
Tickets & Pricing
Adults around Rs 150-200, children and students often get discounted rates. Some packages combine entry with other Caudan Waterfront attractions - worth asking about.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, giving you more space to appreciate the exhibits. Avoid cruise ship days if you prefer a more contemplative visit.
Suggested Duration
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours if you're genuinely interested in the history. You could rush through in 45 minutes, but you'd miss the point.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Right outside the museum - a mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes in a pleasant waterfront setting. Good for a meal or souvenir shopping after your museum visit.
About a 10-minute walk away, this bustling market gives you a completely different perspective on Port Louis - local produce, textiles, and the kind of authentic chaos that makes cities interesting.
A UNESCO World Heritage site just a short walk away, marking where indentured laborers first arrived in Mauritius. Provides important historical context to complement what you've learned at the museum.
Up on the hill overlooking Port Louis, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor. It's a bit of a climb but gives you geographical context for the maritime history you've just explored.
Also in Port Louis, featuring the famous dodo exhibits and other Mauritian wildlife displays. Makes for a nice pairing with the Blue Penny if you're in a museum mood.