Learn About Jekyll Island History

Jekyll Island is the perfect vacation destination for people of all ages and interests. There’s so much to do in this Georgian paradise, from looking out over the gorgeous blue waters to enjoying the local food or grabbing a fun souvenir from the shops. One place where Jekyll Island thrives is in its history. The rich background of the area can be enjoyed by all, even if you’re not a history buff! There are plenty of places for you to learn about and enjoy the history of the island, all right near our Jekyll Island rentals.

jekyll island sunset
Photo: Shutterstock

Jekyll Island Tours

Jekyll Island offers several different tours that you can take to give you different perspectives of the island’s history. For example, the Faith Chapel Tours allow you to explore this important chapel in Jekyll Island history, complete with terra cotta gargoyles, gorgeous stained-glass windows, and whimsical animal carvings. The Faith Chapel is located at 375 Riverview Drive. Tours take place daily from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

You can also partake in the Landmark Tour, which is a guided tram tour that will take you all throughout the 240-acre historic district. The store departs from Mosaic Gallery and includes entry to the Faith Chapel as well as two cottages. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, and tours take place three times per day. 

Finally, check out the Rockefeller Experience Tour, where you can step inside the vacation home of William and Almira Rockefeller. You will also receive a visit to Faith Chapel with this tour, included with your admission price of $12 for adults or $6 for children. Tours are held daily every hour from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Mosaic, The Jekyll Island Museum

If you’re looking to learn about the history of Jekyll Island, you simply have to visit Mosaic. Mosaic gives you an inside look into the cultural and natural history of the island with tons of interactive exhibits and stunning visuals. There are both rotating and permanent exhibits, as well as tons of artifacts and a multi-purpose room. This is an affordable way to learn about Jekyll Island’s history and makes an especially great attraction for a rainy day.

Mosaic is located at 100 stable Road. They are open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission costs $9 for adults and $7 for children.

Jekyll Island Historic District

For an up-close-and-personal look at Jekyll Island history, the Jekyll Island Historic District is the perfect place to go. Of course, you’ll be able to visit historical sites to get in touch with how the island originated, but there are also tons of shops and boutiques for you to browse. Step into Remember When for a historically inspired gift, or visit Just by Hand to find a handcrafted item to remember your trip by. The Commissary offers tons of jams, sauces, and other specialty food items, while The Cottage is perfect for picking up anything from pottery to books to glassware and more. You can do your sightseeing and shopping while experiencing the history of the island at the same time!

The shops of Jekyll Island Historic District are along Pier Road. Contact individual stores for hours.

It’s no doubt that the rich history of Jekyll Island is abundant around every corner. Even if someone in your group isn’t that interested in history, there will be something in Jekyll Island that will fascinate them. All of these exciting exhibits are all just minutes away from our Jekyll Island vacation homes, leaving you able to get out the door in a moment’s notice. We have budget-friendly rentals that will suit every size group, and our experienced team is ready to handle any need or request. For more information on our Jekyll Island lodging, contact us today!