After its annual August-to-October hiatus, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is set to reopen its doors to visitors on October 15, marking its 42nd year of preserving and celebrating the island’s storied past.
Founded in 1984, the museum brings Sanibel’s history to life through eight restored historical buildings, including Burnap Cottage, Miss Charlotta’s Tea Room, Morning Glories Cottage, the Post Office, the Old Bailey General Store, the Sanibel Schoolhouse for White Children, Shore Haven, and The Caretaker’s Cottage. Each building is handicap accessible and offers an authentic glimpse into life on the island from the late 1800s through the early 1900s.
While the Rutland House remains closed as restoration continues following Hurricane Ian, Executive Director Pamela Miner confirmed that a new roof is planned and that structural assessments are underway with hopes to reopen the building soon.
Miner shared her excitement for the upcoming season, noting, “We’re certainly happy to be open and available for visitors and guests to come and explore and experience with us.”
What Visitors Can Expect
Guests can enjoy a self-guided tour that includes an orientation video, informative signage, and QR codes providing deeper insights into each building’s history. For those seeking a more interactive experience, guided tours will also be available, offering stories and historical context led by knowledgeable guides and docents.
The Old Bailey General Store, once the island’s hub, remains a favorite stop—now featuring 16 new exhibits introduced last season that showcase early island life through photos, personal stories, and timelines. Visitors can also explore Miss Charlotta’s Tea Room, the Morning Glories Cottage, and Shore Haven, both examples of Sears & Roebuck prefabricated homes relocated from the San Carlos Bay area.
New Schedule and Hours
The museum has updated its schedule to better align with the popular Sanibel Farmers Market on Sundays. The new hours are:
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Oct. 15 – Jan. 4: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Jan. 7 – Apr. 30: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (expanded high-season hours)
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May 1 – July 31: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
(Tickets and gift shop sales close one hour before the museum’s daily closing time.)
Admission Details
Self-Guided Tour
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Adults (19+): $15
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Teens (13–18): $10
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Youth (6–12): $5
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Members and ages 5 & under: Free
Guided Tour
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Adults (19+): $20
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Teens (13–18): $15
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Youth (6–12): $10
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Ages 5 & under: Free
Annual memberships are also available and include discounts at the museum’s gift shop, which offers hats, water bottles, artwork, souvenirs, and a wide range of books by local authors. Visitors can browse without purchasing admission tickets.
Special Reprint for Sanibel’s 50th Anniversary
In honor of Sanibel’s 50th anniversary of incorporation, the museum will release a limited reprint of Betty Anholt’s iconic book, “Sanibel’s Story: Voices and Images from Calusa to Incorporation,” available this December.
Experience Sanibel’s Past
Miner encourages both residents and visitors to take the opportunity to step back in time. “It’s definitely an opportunity, whether you’re a resident or a guest,” she said. “You are able to step back in time to experience a Sanibel of the later 1800s and early 1900s.”
For more information, visit www.sanibelmuseum.org, call 239-472-4648, or email info@sanibelmuseum.org.
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is located at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, Florida.
