Amelia Island Museum of History Fernandina Beach
Explore Amelia Island's rich past, from Timucuan Indians to the shrimping industry, in a former jailhouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Amelia Island Museum of History Fernandina Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Amelia Island's rich past, from Timucuan Indians to the shrimping industry, in a former jailhouse.
"A worthy stop with hands-on exhibits and a fun scavenger hunt for all ages!"
🎟️ Buy tickets online
Purchase tickets online for faster check-in. Look for free admission days!
🕵️♀️ Join the scavenger hunt
Engage with exhibits using the free scavenger hunt for a fun, prize-winning experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Nassau County Jail Cell
Inside the museum
Step back in time by exploring a preserved jail cell from the museum's former life as the Nassau County Jail.
Birthplace of the Shrimping Industry
Florida History Displays
Discover the fascinating origins of Amelia Island's shrimping industry and its impact on the local economy.
Interactive Soda Fountain Exhibit
Inside the museum
Experience a hands-on exhibit showcasing a historic soda fountain, offering a taste of past daily life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Interactive Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy tickets online
Purchase tickets online for faster check-in. Look for free admission days!
🕵️♀️ Join the scavenger hunt
Engage with exhibits using the free scavenger hunt for a fun, prize-winning experience.
🕰️ Explore the jail cell
Don't miss walking through the preserved jail cell, a unique part of the museum's history.
🛍️ Browse the gift shop
Discover local products and unique souvenirs in the museum's charming gift shop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy tickets online
Purchase tickets online for faster check-in. Look for free admission days!
🕵️♀️ Join the scavenger hunt
Engage with exhibits using the free scavenger hunt for a fun, prize-winning experience.
🕰️ Explore the jail cell
Don't miss walking through the preserved jail cell, a unique part of the museum's history.
🛍️ Browse the gift shop
Discover local products and unique souvenirs in the museum's charming gift shop.
🗣️ Chat with volunteers
Friendly volunteers are happy to share insights and stories about Amelia Island's past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Amelia Island Museum of History for its engaging exhibits, particularly the preserved jail cell and interactive displays like the soda fountain. The free scavenger hunt is a highlight for families, making learning fun. While some find the admission price a bit high, most agree it's a worthwhile and informative experience, enhanced by friendly and knowledgeable volunteers.
"The museum was awesome!! Tickets are $10 and you can purchase online to make check in faster :) there’s a free scavenger hunt to do as well! It helps incorporate the trivia and really makes you think (there’s a free prize at the end too for completion). The gift shop was lovely and had local products! The museum was the old county jail and still has a full jail cell you can walk around in! Highly recommend for all ages!"
Sarah Saunders
"Excellently done. As a White House Master Chef I was thrilled to see the soda fountain and the birthplace of the Shrimping Industry!!!"
Martin Christopher Mongiello
"The museum was really nice. We learned a lot about Amelia Island since it was our first time coming there for our date day. It was very hands-on and that’s what we like. Wasn’t very busy. It was a Saturday, We were the only people in there so you pretty much felt like you have the place to yourself which is nice so you’re not having to bump into a whole lot of people trying to see the same thing! Very informative!! The lady who works at the front desk is very nice also! The only downfall is it was a little on the expensive side, I think, it was $10 per adult."
Billy O'Dell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Fernandina Beach at 233 S 3rd Street. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors also enjoy biking to the museum from their accommodations, as it's close to the historic district and beaches.
Yes, there is typically street parking available in the vicinity of the museum in downtown Fernandina Beach. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions.
Absolutely! The Amelia Island Museum of History is situated in the heart of downtown Fernandina Beach, making it a convenient walk from most hotels and accommodations in the historic district.
Public transport options in Fernandina Beach are limited. It's generally recommended to drive, bike, or walk to the museum, especially if you are staying in or near the historic downtown area.
Many visitors combine a museum visit with exploring the charming shops and restaurants of historic downtown Fernandina Beach. You can also easily bike to the nearby beaches. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $10 per adult. While some visitors find it a bit expensive, many agree it's a worthy stop for the information and interactive exhibits provided.
Yes, you can purchase tickets online through the museum's website. This is recommended to expedite your check-in process.
The museum occasionally hosts Community Appreciation Days with free admission, often featuring children's activities and live music. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Amelia Island Museum of History website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly! They offer a free scavenger hunt with a prize, and interactive exhibits that kids enjoy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum covers Amelia Island's history from the Timucuan Indians to more recent times. Highlights include the preserved jail cell, exhibits on the shrimping industry, and interactive displays like a historic soda fountain.
Yes, there's a free, hands-on scavenger hunt that makes learning about the island's history fun and engaging for all ages. Completing it often earns a prize!
The museum is housed in the former Nassau County Jail, which operated for 100 years before becoming a museum. You can still explore a full jail cell.
The museum frequently hosts special exhibits, Brown Bag Lunch presentations on various historical topics, and even Halloween Ghost Tours in October. Check their schedule for upcoming events. 
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the museum, especially if they participate in the scavenger hunt. Some may stay longer if attending a special presentation.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
The preserved jail cell offers a unique photographic opportunity. The interactive exhibits, like the soda fountain, and displays on local history also make for interesting shots.
Yes, the historic downtown Fernandina Beach area surrounding the museum is very picturesque, with charming architecture and shops perfect for capturing the island's ambiance. +1
While not a primary focus, historical displays often include old photographs that offer a glimpse into the island's past. Check for any temporary exhibits that might feature photographic elements.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is usually sufficient for capturing the exhibits. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider bringing a versatile lens for varied shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the scavenger hunt, the museum's exhibits, like the preserved jail cell and the interactive soda fountain, are captivating for younger visitors. The friendly volunteers are also great at making the experience enjoyable for kids. Consider checking for their Community Appreciation Days, which offer free admission and extra family activities.
📚 History Buffs & Lifelong Learners
Don't miss the 'Brown Bag Lunch' lecture series, which provides in-depth discussions on specific historical topics and figures. These presentations are a great way to gain a more nuanced understanding of the region's past and its connections to broader historical movements.
+1📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Beyond the museum's interior, the surrounding historic downtown Fernandina Beach is a treasure trove for photographers, with its charming Victorian architecture and quaint streets. Capturing content here can offer a well-rounded look at Amelia Island's heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Amelia Island's Rich History
+1Beyond the broader historical narrative, the museum shines a light on specific local industries and cultural contributions. A significant focus is placed on the birthplace of the shrimping industry, showcasing its economic impact and the lives of those who worked in it. The interactive soda fountain exhibit offers a tangible connection to daily life in earlier eras, allowing visitors to imagine a different time.
Furthermore, the museum acknowledges and celebrates the African American history of Amelia Island, including its connection to historic American Beach. These exhibits are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the island's social and cultural fabric, highlighting resilience and community.
The Museum's Unique Building: A Former Jail
Visitors have the rare opportunity to explore a preserved jail cell, offering a stark and memorable glimpse into the past. This hands-on element allows for a more visceral understanding of the building's history and the lives of those who were once incarcerated there. It’s a feature that many visitors find particularly compelling and unique to this museum.
The architectural elements of the former jail are often preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate the building's original structure while learning about its new purpose. This blend of historical architecture and curated exhibits creates a distinctive atmosphere that sets the Amelia Island Museum of History apart.
Engaging the Community and Visitors
+1 These events provide deeper dives into specific aspects of local and regional history, fostering a sense of shared heritage. For families, the museum offers a free scavenger hunt that turns a visit into an interactive adventure. This activity encourages exploration and learning, making history accessible and fun for children. The promise of a prize at the end adds an extra layer of excitement.
Community Appreciation Days are also a highlight, providing free admission and family-friendly activities, including children's crafts and live music. These events underscore the museum's commitment to being a vibrant cultural hub for both residents and tourists.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit