Located just 20 minutes from Downtown Savannah, GA, Wormsloe State Historic Site is a destination that may as well have been ripped right from the pages of a fairy tale. The breathtaking oak avenue, extensive nature trails, and rich history have earned this Lowcountry attraction several impressive recognitions, including the most beautiful spot in Georgia by Conde Nast Traveler.
It also has Lady’s paw stamp of approval as one of the best spots to visit in dog-friendly Savannah! The next time you decide to explore the Lowcountry, here’s why you and your pooch won’t want to leave Wormsloe State Historic Site off your list of things to do!
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Brief History of Wormsloe State Historic Site
In 1733, Noble Jones, James Oglethorpe, and the first group of English settlers arrived in Georgia and produced a colony right on the land where Wormsloe Historic Site now stands.
The unpredictable and rugged Lowcountry environment proved to be a challenge for these colonists during their first few years on the land, and they battled hunger, plague, and warfare. Noble Jones took it upon himself to act as the colony’s doctor, constable, Indian agent, Royal Councilor and surveyor. He also laid out the plans for the cities of Augusta and New Ebenezer.
Although Jones passed away before the start of the Revolutionary War, his descendants sustained his beloved Wormsloe estate until the state of Georgia acquired the plantation in 1973. Today, you can view the ruins of Jones’ original plantation, which is also the oldest standing structure in the state!
6 Things to See at Wormsloe State Historic Site With Dogs
1. Oak Avenue
The moment you turn into Wormsloe State Historic Site, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful stone archway before you’re exposed to the jaw-dropping sight of the live oak avenue.
This majestic rural road is lined by over 400 gorgeous oak trees intricately veiled with Spanish moss. Just admiring it makes you feel as if you have been transported into another world.
There are several places to park your car right at the entrance so you can take photos in front of the oak avenue. Before you do so, however, be sure you visit the small cottage to the right of the entrance and pay for your admission ticket. Don’t worry, dogs are allowed inside the cottage and in the oak avenue!
Your admission to the park includes access to the Visitor’s Center, museum, theater, tabby ruins, nature trails, and much more.
*Quick Note* Dogs are not allowed inside the Visitor’s Center, theater, or museum. Don’t let this scare you away! There is so much to see and experience along the nature trails that you won’t even need to visit the indoor exhibits.
2. Tabby Ruins
After driving down the oak avenue and parking your car in the Visitor’s Center lot, you and your pup will be permitted to explore the plantation as much as you please! The nature trails can be found to the left of the Visitor’s Center and traverse through the forest for a short distance before reaching the park’s first attraction, the tabby ruins!
The walls were crafted from oyster shells and lime sand and took nearly six years to complete. In their glory days, they also protected Jones and his family from Spanish and Indian attacks. Although the walls have crumbled and withered away time, they are still a spectacle to see and represent an important era in Georgia’s history.
3. Colonial Life Area
Located just a short walk from the tabby ruins, the Colonial Life Area is a recreation of the daub huts that Jones’ servants and the colonial settlers lived in during the 1700s.
There are a few structures that you and your pup can explore, including primitive covered shelters. If you visit Wormsloe during special events and programs, there will also be demonstrators in period costumes that will exhibit the tools and skills of colonial Georgia.
4. Jones’ Narrows Observation Deck
If you and your dog are in need of a spot to rest your feet or cool down before continuing down the trail, the Observation Deck is the perfect spot.
During the 1700s, Jones’ Narrows was the main waterway in which ships passed through from the Atlantic. The narrows are now clogged with silt and inaccessible for boats, but it’s still beautiful to look at nonetheless.
The observation deck provides a stunning view of the old waterway and the slight breeze makes it ideal for taking a break from the Georgia heat and sharing a snack before exploring the rest of the plantation.
5. Jones Family Gravesite
After Noble Jones’ death in 1775, he was buried on the plantation beside his wife, Sarah. Later, their youngest son joined them at the burial site. The remains of Jones were moved to Bonaventure Cemetery in the 1800s, but a large stone monument was placed at the Wormsloe site to honor the family.
Today, you and your dog can view the very same monument that has stood there for nearly 200 years.
6. Battery Trail
When you visit Wormsloe State Historic Site with your dog, bring your walking shoes! The Battery Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that winds through a large Confederate earthwork on the southern tip of the Isle of Hope. During your journey, you’ll come across several natural features, including Battery Wymberly.
It’s a long and peaceful stroll through the woods that quickly became the highlight of our day at Wormsloe!
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Whether you’re a history buff or looking for a unique attraction to add to your Savannah, GA itinerary, we can guarantee you’ll love exploring Wormsloe State Historic Site.
While you’re in the Lowcountry, why not make the quick journey to another southern gem? Charleston, SC is another very dog-friendly city and boasts plenty of things for you and your pup to enjoy together.
Don’t forget to check out all the other dog-friendly destinations Lady and I have visited, pet health and safety tips, and canine product reviews.
