Georgia , United States

Cumberland Island Walking Tour

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(69 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is Cumberland Island’s highest-rated walking tour and the only daily tour of the Dungeness Mansion area!

Available options

Cumberland Island Walking Tour

What's included

Tour price

Detailed itinerary

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

What's not included

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/

Gratuities

Tour fee does NOT include entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore. More info here: https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/fees.htm

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

12 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

57 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.

Important notes

The price of this tour does NOT include the ferry ticket or entrance to Cumberland Island National Seashore. You must book these IN ADDITION to the tour.

To book the ferry, click here: https://www.cumberlandislandferry.com/st-marys-cumberland-island-ferry/

For park entrance fee information, click here: https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/fees.htm

About Georgia

Georgia is a southeastern U.S. state known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling city of Atlanta to the charming coastal islands and the majestic Appalachian Mountains, Georgia offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Georgia Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Attraction 3-4 hours $35-$50

Savannah Historic District

A beautifully preserved historic district with 22 park-like squares, historic homes, and charming streets.

Historical Half-day to full-day Free to explore, guided tours available

Chattahoochee National Forest

A vast national forest offering hiking, camping, fishing, and stunning scenic drives.

Nature Half-day to multi-day Free to $30 for camping permits

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden fried chicken, often served with sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.

Main Course Contains gluten and allergens

Grits

Creamy, savory cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese or shrimp.

Side Dish Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without butter

Peach Cobbler

A sweet, warm dessert made with fresh Georgia peaches, sugar, and a buttery crust.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Zip-lining Spa treatments Beach walks Wine tasting Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Crowds are moderate, and prices are reasonable.

15-27°C 60-80°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Georgia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas

Getting there

By air

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport • 13 km from downtown Atlanta
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport • 13 km from downtown Savannah

By train

Atlanta's Peachtree Station

By bus

Atlanta Bus Station, Savannah Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) offers bus and rail services throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. It is efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Midtown Atlanta Historic District Savannah Little Five Points

Day trips

Tybee Island

20 km from Savannah • Half-day to full-day

A charming coastal island with beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Stone Mountain Park

35 km from Atlanta • Full-day

A massive granite dome featuring a variety of outdoor activities, historic sites, and scenic views.

Dahlonega

100 km from Atlanta • Full-day

A charming mountain town known for its historic gold rush sites, wineries, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Savannah Music Festival • Late March to early April Atlanta Dogwood Festival • Late April Georgia Renaissance Festival • Late September to early November

Pro tips

Visit the Georgia Aquarium early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the marine life at their most active
Explore Savannah's Historic District on foot or by bike to experience the charming streets and parks at your own pace
Take a day trip to Tybee Island for a relaxing beach getaway and a chance to see the Tybee Island Lighthouse
Visit Stone Mountain Park for a variety of outdoor activities and a chance to see the massive granite dome up close
Discover the rich history and culture of Dahlonega with a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum and a wine tasting at one of the local wineries