American Alligator
ParkGeorgia, US
Jekyll Island Club
The Jekyll Island Club Resort offers a luxurious step back in time to the opulent Gilded Age.
About
The Jekyll Island Club Resort offers a luxurious step back in time to the opulent Gilded Age. This historic landmark, nestled within the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District, was once an exclusive retreat for America's wealthiest families and now welcomes guests to experience its grandeur. Its iconic Queen Anne-style Clubhouse and collection of "Millionaires' Cottages" provide a captivating glimpse into a bygone era of lavish leisure and significant historical events.
Visitors can explore the resort's stunning architecture and beautifully manicured grounds, which include picturesque gardens, fountains, and reflecting pools. Highlights include the magnificent Clubhouse with its signature turret, the intricate details of Crane Cottage's Spanish Revival architecture, and the serene beauty of Faith Chapel, home to a signed Tiffany stained-glass window. Beyond the historic structures, the resort provides access to the island's natural charm, from ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss to the expansive Croquet Lawn where guests can partake in a timeless pastime.
A visit to the Jekyll Island Club is an immersion in history, luxury, and natural beauty, offering a unique escape on Georgia's coast. Whether strolling through the meticulously preserved historic district, enjoying a meal in the elegant Grand Dining Room, or simply relaxing by the riverside pool, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined charm. The resort serves as a gateway to the broader Jekyll Island experience, including access to pristine beaches and the educational Georgia Sea Turtle Center, making it a memorable destination for all. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
The Jekyll Island Club was founded in 1886 when a group of affluent individuals, including prominent figures like the Morgans, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts, purchased Jekyll Island to establish an exclusive hunting and recreational club. The Clubhouse, with its distinctive Queen Anne-inspired architecture, officially opened its doors in January 1888, quickly becoming a winter retreat for families representing a significant portion of the world's wealth. The club fostered a unique, family-oriented atmosphere, unlike many other exclusive clubs of the era, and flourished through the early 20th century, with members constructing lavish "cottages" across the island. During its heyday, the Jekyll Island Club was the setting for several nationally important events, including a secret meeting in 1910 where financial leaders drafted legislation that influenced the Federal Reserve Act. The club, however, faced challenges during the Great Depression and World War II, eventually closing at the end of the 1942 season. In 1947, the State of Georgia purchased Jekyll Island, opening it to the public as a state park in 1948. After decades of dormancy, the historic hotel was meticulously restored and reopened in 1985, eventually becoming the Jekyll Island Club Resort, a National Historic Landmark District attracting visitors worldwide.
What to do here
Take a guided tram tour or horse-drawn carriage ride through the Historic District.
* Rent bikes from Jekyll Wheels and explore over 20 miles of paved trails, winding through forests, beaches, and historical sites.
* Enjoy the resort's pools, or take the complimentary shuttle to Jekyll Ocean Club for beach access.
* Dine in the historic Grand Dining Room or enjoy waterfront dining at The Wharf.
* Participate in seasonal events or daily history tours offered by the resort.
* Visit Driftwood Beach for its unique landscape of weathered trees.
Seasonal info
Summer: Enjoy the resort's pools and beach access. Higher temperatures and humidity.
Fall & Winter: Milder weather makes it ideal for exploring the historic district and trails. Special holiday events like High Tea and festive parties may be available.
Spring: Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, potentially vibrant gardens.
Sea turtle nesting season typically runs from May to October, with hatchlings emerging later in the summer and early fall.
Accessibility
The Jekyll Island Club Resort is committed to ADA compliance, offering accessible entrances, ramps, elevators, restrooms, and guest rooms. Accessible beach access points and beach-going wheelchairs are available on Jekyll Island.
Don't miss
1
The Clubhouse
The magnificent main building, a focal point of the resort and a testament to Gilded Age architecture.
2
"Millionaires' Village" Cottages
Explore the distinctive architecture of the former private residences, such as Crane Cottage, Indian Mound Cottage, Faith Chapel, and Goodyear Cottage.
3
Faith Chapel
Home to a stunning Tiffany stained-glass window, a rare and beautiful artistic highlight.
4
Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum
An interactive museum detailing the island's natural and cultural history.
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Book a History Tour
To fully appreciate the significance of the Jekyll Island Club and its cottages, consider taking a guided tram or carriage tour through the Historic District.
Explore by Bike
Rent bicycles to navigate the island's extensive trail system, which offers picturesque views of the marshes, maritime forests, and historic sites.
Visit Faith Chapel
Don't miss the beautiful Faith Chapel, particularly its famous Tiffany stained-glass window, a true artistic gem.
Dine at The Wharf
Enjoy a meal at The Wharf, situated over the marsh, for delicious seafood and scenic waterfront views, often accompanied by live music.
Check for Special Events
Review the resort's daily events calendar for unique experiences, including curated programs, live music, and holiday-themed activities.
Pack for Comfort
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the historic district and gardens, and appropriate attire for both casual and fine dining experiences.
Frequently asked questions
- The Jekyll Island Club was once an exclusive winter retreat for many of America's wealthiest families, including the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts. It was the site of a secret 1910 meeting that led to the creation of the Federal Reserve System and played a significant role in Gilded Age society.
- Yes, visitors can enjoy various guided tours, including tram tours and horse-drawn carriage rides, that offer insights into the rich history and notable structures of the Jekyll Island Historic District. The Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum also provides interactive exhibits.
- The Jekyll Island Club Resort offers a range of outdoor activities, including playing croquet on the central lawn, swimming in the resort pool, and accessing the beach via a complimentary shuttle to the Jekyll Ocean Club. Guests can also rent bicycles to explore over 20 miles of paved trails across Jekyll Island.
Recent snaps at this place
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Jun 6, 2026
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