Cumberland Island Walking Tour

St Marys, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (92 reviews)
Self-guided - entry to attractions not included

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Tour price

Excluded

  • exclusion
    anding and/or facility fees
    This tour fee does NOT include the ferry ticket. Recommended ferries to book for this tour are the 11:45 departure and 2:45 return. You may book the ferry here: https://www.cumberlandislandferry.com/
  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Entrance fees
    Tour fee does NOT include entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore. More info here: https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/fees.htm

Meeting Point

We meet at the Dungeness Dock at 12:30 upon the arrival of the 11:45 ferry to Cumberland Island. You must book the ferry ticket and entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore SEPARATELY. Be aware there is NOTHING to purchase once you arrive on the island.

Meeting point

Coleman Ave, St Marys, GA 31558 , United States

End point

End Point

The tour ends at 2:30, giving you time to return on the 2:45 ferry, if it is running. We finish near the Dungeness ruins, allowing you to continue exploring on your own.

Meeting point

St Marys, GA 31558 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Dungeness Dock

Here we begin our tour and discuss how high society guests of the Carnegie family would have arrived on the Island.

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Included
2

Dungeness Ruins

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Seated in the shade, we discuss the first several hundred years of this islands' inhabitants, from the Native Americans and Spanish to British and Americans, and we visualize the now-demolished four-story mansion that the family of Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene built here.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Greene-Miller Cemetery

We visit this scenic marsh front cemetery where Greene family members as well as Revolutionary War General "Light-Horse Harry" Lee were buried. Learn why this famous American was buried here far from his home and family.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Included
4

Dungeness Ruins

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We wander the vast servants' quarters where up to 100 servants lived and catered to the Carnegie family. We enter the historic laundry facilities, admire ancient live oak trees, and even marvel at centuries-old olive trees planted by the Greene family over 200 years ago!

Duration 20 minutes
Admission Admission Included
5

Dungeness Ruins

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We end with the grand finale of the massive ruins of the Carnegie mansion, built in the late 1800s. We learn about this mega-rich family, how they ended up on Cumberland, and how they lived and played here, not just at the mansion but also at the spectacular nearby Pool House, which you may view and even enter.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Molly's Old South Tours

What our experts say

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    Book ferry tickets separately in advance.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Consider visiting the nearby beach after.
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    Bring water, as no purchases are available.
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    Explore the Dungeness ruins after the tour.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Cumberland Island on this exclusive walking tour of the Dungeness Mansion Historic Area. Immerse yourself in the stories of high society guests and the prominent Carnegie family as you explore this picturesque island. From the moment you step off the ferry, you'll be transported to a bygone era, discovering the fascinating tales of the island's inhabitants from Native Americans to Spanish, British, and American settlers.

What to expect?

During this two-hour tour, you can expect to visit key landmarks and areas of interest, learning about their historical significance and how they shaped the island's past. From the arrival point at the Dungeness Dock, you'll embark on a journey through time, starting with the grand entrance of high society guests to the island. Seated in the shade, you'll hear captivating stories about the centuries of inhabitants and visualize the magnificent mansion that once stood here. A visit to the marshfront cemetery will give you insight into the green family, along with Revolutionary War General "Light-Horse Harry" Lee's burial site. As you wander the vast servants' quarters, you'll imagine the bustling life that revolved around catering to the Carnegie family. The tour culminates with the awe-inspiring ruins of the Carnegie mansion, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the past.

Who is this for?

This captivating tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and curious explorers of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Cumberland Island, this tour offers a unique perspective on its rich heritage and natural wonders. The tour is suitable for individuals, families, and groups, welcoming everyone who has an interest in delving deeper into the island's captivating history.

Why book this?

Embark on this extraordinary walking tour to uncover the secrets of Cumberland Island's illustrious past. Delve into the lives of high society guests and the influential Carnegie family, gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on the island. With expert guides leading the way, you'll gain insights and anecdotes that you won't find in guidebooks. Step back in time as you explore the ruins and imagine the grandeur that once graced the island.

Good to know

To make the most of your experience, be sure to book your ferry ticket and entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore separately. Keep in mind that there are no purchasing opportunities on the island, so make sure to bring any necessary supplies. Remember to respect the island's natural beauty by adhering to the pack-in, pack-out policy for trash. The tour concludes at 2:30, allowing you time to catch the 2:45 ferry back if it is running. Feel free to continue exploring near the Dungeness ruins at your leisure.

Reviews

Previous visitors have praised the informative and engaging nature of this walking tour. Guests were captivated by the stories shared by knowledgeable guides, appreciating the depth of historical insight provided during the tour. The opportunity to explore the ruins of the Carnegie mansion left a lasting impression, making for a truly memorable experience. Visitors raved about the combination of fascinating history and stunning natural surroundings, highlighting the tour as a must-do activity for anyone visiting Cumberland Island.

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