A 15-minute drive from the historic district will get you to one of the most beautiful estates in all of Savannah – the Wormsloe Historic Site.
Not only does the Wormsloe have trails branching out through the woods, but it also has historic ruins and paths that run along the edge of the forest, where you can get breathtaking views of the Isle of Hope. You can take a guided tour or adventure out on your own through the trails, which can extend up to 2.3 miles.
The Wormsloe Historic Site was once the colonial estate of carpenter Noble Jones, who came to Georgia with James Oglethorpe in 1733.
This former plantation is the site of the oldest standing structure in Savannah. The ruins of Jones’ tabby house was built in 1745. Noble Jones took several roles in the colony and fought against the Spanish. The land stayed with Jones until he died and continued with his descendants until the state acquired it in 1973.
You’ll barely get through the gates before you have to stop and take a picture. Upon entering you’ll see two rows lined with huge live oaks. Sweeping branches create a spectacular mile-long archway over the road, as you drive in!
A small fee will get you into this majestic estate, where you’ll find several photos stops and activities.
Inside the museum, you can learn about the beginnings of Georgia. Watch a 13-minute film about its founding by General Oglethorpe. You can grab a map and venture out on your own. Or, you can choose to follow a costumed guide on the nature trails. There’s even a colonial life area on one of the trails. During special events, demonstrators, dressed like colonials, show what life was like back then.
Jones’ 500-acre plantation was strategically located on the Skidaway Narrows to defend against Spanish ships. To access Savannah, vessels had to pass the watch station on Pigeon Island and Jones’ tabby house.
There are several annual events that the Wormsloe Historic Site hosts. “The Colonial Faire and Muster” takes place in February. “The War of Jenkins’ Ear” is on Memorial Day. “Georgia’s First Fourth” is in August. “Tools and Skills that Built a Colony” takes place on Labor Day. And the popular “Colonial Christmas “runs in December.
Wormsloe is open daily. It is located at 7601 Skidaway Rd. For more information, you can call (912) 353-3023 or go to their website.
