Wormsloe State Historic Site - Savannah, Georgia

Introduction to Wormsloe State Historic Site

Nestled along the scenic coastline of the Isle of Hope in Savannah, Georgia, lies the Wormsloe State Historic Site, a gem that beautifully intertwines history, nature, and recreation. Established in 1973, this 303-acre state park and museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families seeking a fun and educational day trip. Let's delve into the rich tapestry of experiences that Wormsloe State Historic Site offers.

Main Services

• Historic Site and Museum: Wormsloe's crowning jewel is its 18th-century colonial tabby ruins, the oldest standing structures in Savannah. These ruins serve as a testament to the early colonial life in Georgia and offer a glimpse into the lives of the early settlers. The site also houses an interpretive museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the founding of Georgia.
• Nature Trails: The park boasts an extensive network of nature trails that wind through maritime forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. These trails offer excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. The 1.5-mile tabby ruin trail is a must-do, leading visitors to the historic site's centerpiece.
• Recreational Facilities: Wormsloe State Historic Site caters to those seeking outdoor recreation with picnic areas, a group shelter, a playground, and a fishing dock. The park also offers primitive camping sites for those who wish to extend their visit.
• Educational Programs: The park hosts a variety of educational programs, living history demonstrations, and special events throughout the year. These programs help bring Georgia's colonial history to life and provide engaging learning experiences for visitors of all ages.

Location and Access

Address

Wormsloe State Historic Site is located at 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406, United States. Situated along the Skidaway River, the park offers a tranquil setting just a short drive from downtown Savannah.

Transportation

The park is easily accessible by car, with on-site parking available for a fee. There are no public transportation options that directly serve the park, so visitors are advised to drive or arrange transportation.

Parking

Wormsloe State Historic Site offers wheelchair-accessible parking, with spaces available near the visitor center and museum. Parking fees apply, with discounts for senior citizens and disabled visitors.

Featured Characteristics

• Tabby Ruins: The most iconic feature of Wormsloe State Historic Site is its tabby ruins, constructed in the late 1700s by the Noble Jones family. Tabby is a concrete-like building material made from lime, sand, water, and oyster shells, which was commonly used in coastal Georgia during the colonial era. The ruins include the foundations of several structures, including a house, kitchen, and slave quarters, providing a tangible connection to the past.
• Nature and Wildlife: The park's diverse ecosystems are home to an array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, raccoons, armadillos, and over 170 species of birds. The salt marshes and tidal creeks provide crucial habitat for various fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, making the park an excellent destination for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
• Living History Demonstrations: Throughout the year, Wormsloe State Historic Site hosts living history demonstrations that bring Georgia's colonial past to life. Visitors can witness period-appropriate crafts, weapons demonstrations, and military drills, providing a hands-on and immersive experience of life in 18th-century Georgia.

Practical Information

• Admission: Admission fees apply, with discounts for senior citizens, military personnel, and disabled visitors. Children under the age of 6 receive free admission. Parking fees also apply.
• Hours of Operation: Wormsloe State Historic Site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during daylight saving time. The park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
• Facilities: The park offers wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a gift shop, and a theater. Picnic tables, a group shelter, and a playground are available for visitors' use.Primitive camping is available with reservations.
• Tours: Guided tours of the Tabby Ruins are offered daily at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. Self-guided tour brochures are also available. Special group tours can be arranged with advance notice.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Wormsloe State Historic Site has received an impressive 4.5/5 rating on Google My Business, with over 4,300 reviews. Visitors consistently praise the park's beautiful and well-maintained grounds, the wealth of history and educational opportunities it offers, and the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Many families appreciate the park's suitability for children, with its playground, nature trails, and engaging exhibits. The living history demonstrations and special events are also frequently cited as highlights of the visitor experience.

Conclusion

Wormsloe State Historic Site is a hidden gem that combines rich history, stunning natural beauty, and engaging recreational opportunities. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a fun day trip with the family, Wormsloe State Historic Site offers an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed. With its well-preserved tabby ruins, diverse wildlife, and immersive living history demonstrations, this state park and museum is a true treasure on the Georgia coast.

👍 Reviews of Wormsloe State Historic Site

Maricela M.

5/5

Wormsloe State Historic Site is a must-see when visiting Savannah. From the moment you enter the breathtaking oak-lined drive, you know you’re in for something special. The grounds are both peaceful and full of history, with plenty of opportunities to learn and explore at your own pace. I really appreciated that visitors can choose to walk the full trail system or hop on the trolley for part of the journey—it makes the experience accessible for everyone. The weather was perfect during our visit, which made wandering through the shaded paths even more enjoyable. To top it off, there’s a charming little shop with unique gifts and keepsakes, a nice way to end a truly memorable outing.

Justine V.

5/5

I had just been to Bonaventure Cemetery and was completely eaten up by mosquitoes so I almost didn't get out when I pulled in. But I'm glad I did! You do have to pay to get in but they had a veteran discount for me which was nice. 😊 I chose to walk the 1.5 mile long live oak, Spanish moss, tree lined avenue. I was alone at the time, nobody was really there yet. It was peaceful and just so gorgeous. Would have loved to have spent more time hiking the trails there. Also, in my 1.5 hours there, I got only one mosquito but at the very end. I was so surprised but thankful! This beautiful place is definitely worth visiting. Completed shaded the whole time pretty much too!

Lila B.

4/5

You HAVE to visit! This place is incredible. The stunning live oak avenue is just the start. At the visitor center, you get a quick history lesson, a fascinating museum, and a great gift shop. But the real magic is outside: walk to the 1737 tabby ruins (oldest in Savannah!), explore trails with gorgeous marsh views, and catch the living history demonstrations in the Colonial Life Area (afternoons, weather permitting). Plus, five more miles of nature trails if you're up for it. For only $12 an adult, this is an absolute steal for a day of history and nature!"
Parking is free

Dillon L.

5/5

Awesome experience for an outdoor outing for the whole family. Tons of trails and history. We road the tractor wagon back to the museum then walked back. Wish we would have rented bicycles. The row of over 400 oaks is breathtaking and seems like it never ends.

Lily O.

5/5

This was a must see for me while on a short trip to Savannah. The walk was great with lots of nature - deer, birds, trees, mushrooms, etc. Definitely bring bug spray. I arrived right at opening and practically had the whole place to myself. I only wish they had more information on local indigenous knowledge and history.

Kristin L.

5/5

Absolutely stunning place to visit for a sense of Georgia's past and beautiful live oaks draped with Spanish moss, incredible beauty!! We took the shuttle to and from the museam on the tree lined drive and our driver on the way back gave us tons of history including telling us about the car races that brought hundreds of people on the road to the main driveway with markers still there. We walked to the ruins of the original Plantation where you can hear the popping noises of the pistol shrimp, never heard about them before!

Nicolas E. R.

5/5

Stopped by for some photography. Great customer service by park staff. They have a shuttle that runs throughout the park for easy access around.

Beautiful fields and backgrounds for photography. Oh, NO DRONES ALLOWED!

Brooke L.

5/5

Wormsloe Historic Site is absolutely gorgeous and is definitely a must-see spot in Savannah. The oak lined driveway with Spanish moss is beautiful and we really enjoyed the tractor drive through the property. I feel the small museum could use some updating, but the new entry building gift shop area is very nice. Overall, this is a must for those visiting Savannah.