Things to Do
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
Who It's For
Couples
First-Time Visitors
Groups
History Buffs
Indoor
Luxury Experience
Photography
Seniors
Solo Travelers
Location
Savannah Historic District
Best Time To Visit
Afternoon
Morning
Duration
1-2 Hours
Best Seasons
Year Round
Environment
Indoor
Type of Experience
Historic Site
Museum
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of English Regency architecture in the United States. Located on Oglethorpe Square in Savannah’s Historic District, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore both the elegant lifestyle of the home’s owners and the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property.
Beautifully preserved interiors, formal gardens, and thoughtfully interpreted exhibits make this one of Savannah’s most meaningful historic attractions. Whether you’re passionate about architecture, history, or preservation, the Owens-Thomas House provides an experience that is both visually stunning and historically significant.
Why We Recommend It
The Owens-Thomas House stands apart because it presents a complete picture of Savannah’s history. Visitors experience not only one of America’s most beautiful historic homes but also gain important insight into the people whose labor made that lifestyle possible.
We recommend the museum because of its exceptional interpretation, beautiful architecture, and honest storytelling. It offers one of the most comprehensive and educational historic house tours in Savannah.
History
Completed in 1819, the Owens-Thomas House was designed by renowned English architect William Jay, whose work helped introduce Regency architecture to the young United States. The home’s innovative design included features well ahead of its time, including indoor plumbing and advanced ventilation systems.
Today, the property is operated by Telfair Museums and includes the restored main house, original carriage house, formal gardens, and one of the country’s best-preserved urban slave quarters. Through guided interpretation, the museum examines both the luxury enjoyed by wealthy Savannah families and the experiences of the enslaved individuals who lived on the property.
What We Like
The Owens-Thomas House is one of Savannah’s most thoughtfully curated museums. Every room reflects extraordinary craftsmanship, while the tour provides meaningful historical context that goes well beyond architecture alone.
We especially appreciate the balance between preservation and education. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of Savannah’s social history while also admiring one of the city’s architectural masterpieces.
Things To Know Before You Go
Purchase Tickets Ahead of Time
Guided tours often reach capacity during busy travel seasons, so advance reservations are recommended.
Plan for a Guided Experience
Visits are conducted through guided tours that provide valuable historical interpretation throughout the property.
Don’t Skip the Slave Quarters
The preserved slave quarters are among the museum’s most important and impactful exhibits.
Allow Time for the Gardens
The beautifully maintained gardens provide a peaceful setting before or after your tour.
Combine Your Visit With Other Telfair Museums
Many visitors choose combination tickets to explore additional Telfair Museum properties during their stay.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking through multiple historic buildings, gardens, and staircases during your visit.
FAQs
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters provides one of Savannah’s most meaningful museum experiences, combining remarkable architecture with thoughtful historical interpretation. It’s a destination that enriches any visit to Savannah’s Historic District and offers a deeper understanding of the city’s complex past.
Our Savannah Historic District Vacation Rentals place you just minutes from the Owens-Thomas House, River Street, City Market, Forsyth Park, and many of Savannah’s most celebrated museums and historic landmarks.
Continue Exploring Savannah
While you're here, check out nearby attractions and our favorite restaurants.