Telfair Museums Savannah Guide: Tickets, Hours & The Bird Girl 2026

If you are planning a trip to Savannah with kids or a solo art tour, visiting the Telfair Museums is often at the top of the list. It’s the oldest public art museum in the South, established in 1886. But here is the confusing part for first-time visitors: Telfair is actually three separate buildings under one ticket.

• One Ticket, Three Sites: Your admission covers the Jepson Center, Telfair Academy, and Owens-Thomas House.
• Validity: Tickets are valid for one week, so you don't have to rush everything in a single day.
• Ticket Price: Approx. $25 for adults. (Check official site for discounts).
• Primary Location: 207 W. York St. (Jepson Center).

Many travelers arrive expecting a single building, pay the admission, and then realize they missed the best parts because they didn't know how the logistics work. Whether you are here to find the famous Bird Girl statue, explore the haunting history of the Owens-Thomas House, or admire modern art, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.

The Bird Girl Statue: Where Is It Now?

Let’s address the biggest question first. Many visitors come looking for the iconic Bird Girl statue, made famous by the cover of the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Originally located in Bonaventure Cemetery, the statue was moved to the museum for its protection. Today, you can find the Bird Girl at the Jepson Center, usually located on the upper floor in a dedicated space. You don't need to wander through the cemetery to find her—she is safe here. Just remember, while photos are allowed, flash photography is strictly prohibited.

The Three Sites of Telfair Museums

Your ticket grants you access to three distinct experiences, all within walking distance of each other in the Historic District.

1. Jepson Center for the Arts

Best for: Modern art lovers, families, and seeing the Bird Girl.

Opened in 2006, the Jepson Center is a stunning modern contrast to Savannah’s old-world charm. Designed by Moshe Safdie, this white building is filled with natural light.

• The Art: Features contemporary works by artists like Jasper Johns, Roy Lichtenstein, and Richard Estes. Some visitors find the collection a bit sparse compared to major NYC museums, but the rotating exhibits often bring fresh perspectives.
• For Kids: If you are visiting with family, head straight to the ArtZeum. It is an interactive, hands-on space where children can explore art creatively. It's a lifesaver for parents.
• Food & Drink: The cafe here serves decent food (the roasted mushroom dish is popular but salty), and the ice cream is a hit on hot Savannah days.

2. Telfair Academy

Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and 19th-century art.

Located just across the square from the Jepson Center, the Telfair Academy is a neoclassical mansion built in 1819. It was the family home of Mary Telfair. Inside, you will find the Rotunda Gallery and the Sculpture Gallery, which feel like stepping onto a movie set of the Gilded Age. The collection focuses on American Impressionism and the Ashcan School. Even if you aren't an art historian, the building’s interior is worth the walk.

3. Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Best for: History buffs and understanding the realities of the antebellum South.

This is arguably the most impactful part of the tour. The site includes the main house and the original slave quarters, offering a dual perspective on history.

• The Experience: Unlike the other two buildings, this is a guided tour experience. It explores the complex relationship between the wealthy Owens family and the enslaved men, women, and children who maintained the household. The tour doesn't gloss over the harsh realities of slavery, making it a powerful educational stop.
• Important Logistics: You cannot just walk in. Tours are timed and must be booked in person at the museum shop. They fill up very fast. We recommend heading here first thing in the morning to reserve your spot for later in the day. Do not leave this for the last hour of your trip, or you will likely miss out.

Ticket Strategy: Getting Your Money's Worth

Tickets can feel a bit pricey (approx. $25), especially if you only visit one building. To make it worth the cost:

1. Use the 7-Day Pass: Your ticket is usually valid for a full week. You don't need to cram all three museums into one afternoon. Do the Jepson and Academy on day one, and save the Owens-Thomas House tour for day two.
2. Check for Discounts: Students, seniors, and military personnel often get a discount. There are also occasional free museum days for locals, so check the calendar.
3. Accessibility Note: The Jepson is fully accessible. The Telfair Academy has elevators to most areas. However, the Owens-Thomas House has limited accessibility due to its historic nature (stairs, uneven ground), so keep this in mind if you have mobility concerns.

How to Get There

The museums are located on Telfair Square in the heart of the Historic District, easily accessible if you are staying downtown.

• Walking: It is a short, pleasant walk from Forsyth Park or the riverfront.
• Parking: Street parking is available but strict. Meters run Mon-Sat, 8 AM - 8 PM. The nearest parking garage is the Robinson Parking Garage (132 Montgomery St), which is often less stressful than hunting for a street spot.
• Shuttle: The free DOT Express Shuttle stops near the museums, saving you the hassle of parking fees entirely.