A Guide to Enjoy Gullah Heritage Tour in Hilton Head Island with the Entire Family

Besides its stunning beaches, the best-in-class golf courses, and wildlife exploration, Hilton Head Island is home to the Gullah culture. So, if you have already explored the scenic beauty of this island, it’s time to explore the culture of the West African descendants living in this island and explore the best sightseeing destinations that reflect the gullah heritage with your family. Your kids would immerse in the uniqueness of gullah history, music, language, food, and different traditions.

So, if you are ready to embark on family-friendly gullah heritage trail tours, here is what you may discover during the trip.

 

1. Gullah Museum

Situated at the heart of Hilton Head Island, the Gullah Museum is one of the must-visit destinations for people who are keen to learn about the culture and history of the gullah geechee people. The museum that was founded by a local gullah features artifacts and exhibits showcasing the language, crafts, and traditions of this community.

The museum is one of the places that are part of family tours in Hilton Head Island; especially for the kids, discovering the exhibits of a community that has resided in the island for several decades creates interest. From historical photographs to traditional sweetgrass baskets, and the tools that used, it is almost like getting the first-hand account of the lives of these people. Additionally, the museum also organizes cultural events and educational programs, making it of one of the most vibrant places for every family making it to this island.

2. African Baptist Church

When enjoying cultural tours for families in Hilton Head Island, the first Baptist Church should be in the sightseeing list. The church, though old still holds services as it has been a place of worship since long. Besides, the church is one of those places of social activism as well as community gathering. Being one of the first churches that the freed slaves along this island established, it is a destination that no family should skip during a trip to this island.

Luckily, the church has still retained its historic charm and beauty. Upon hearing the stories related to the religion and its role to resist slavery in the southeastern part of the United States. No wonder, it is an important stop during the gullah tour for families traveling to Hilton Head Island.

3. Sweet Grass Basket Weaving

Sweet grass basket weaving is one of the most recognized forms of art that the gullah community practices. When you go for gullah geechee tours in Hilton Head Island, you will get an opportunity to see how local artisans from this community are engaged in making sweet grass baskets.

Besides sweet grass, the other things used for making baskets are bulrush and pine needles. You will also come across basket-weaving workshops where skilled artisans describe the significance of this craft. You can also buy them as souvenirs that you can carry back home for your loved ones.

4. Mitchelville Freedom Park

Mitchelville Freedom Park is one of the most famous historical sites in Hilton head activities and marks the formation of the first self-governed town for the West African slaves in this part of United States. Established in 1862, it became a place for the freed African Americans to stay during the Civil War and also in the post war era.

The park has gained significance since then and reflects the resilience of this community and the role of Mitchelville to continue the fight for freedom. It is a must-have spot for visitors who are keen to know about the freedom struggles of this community.

5. Catching on Gullah cuisine

During Hilton Head Vacation for kids, one of things your children would love is the culinary tradition of the gullah geechee people. Food is one of the focal points of gullah culture and Hilton Head Island boasts of several eateries and restaurants where you can try a sample of traditional dishes of this community. Many of their dishes incorporate, Southern, Carribbean, and West African flavors and also have ingredients like seafood, rice, and seafood that are present in Lowcountry.

Some of the most popular dishes of the gullah community include grits and shrimp, Lowcountry boil, and fried catfish. You can dine at local places from where you are going to get the authentic taste of gullah traditions.

6. Heritage trail tour

One of the best parts of visiting Things to do in hilton head is exploring the trail tour. These tours usually take place under the guidance of locals and takes families through the historically significant locations in the island. Through this trip, visitors get glimpses of the legacy and heritage of the gullah community and their role in shaping the development of Hilton Head. There are several markers that tell the story of gullah geechee people and their efforts to preserve the culture and tradition since the days of slavery.

7. Sea Island tours

Hilton head tours is a part of Sea Islands that talk about the deeply rooted culture of this island. These tours go in-depth to explore the history of the community while revealing the natural surroundings. During the sea island tours that are led by local gullah guides, you can hear stories of their ancestors and the importance of the island’s marshes. Besides, you also come to know about fishing and farming the two most important practices of gullah people. During this trip, you may visit the remote areas of the island and the natural habitats.

8. Gullah language workshops

The Gullah geechee culture community speaks the unique “creole” language that the descendants of African slaves speak. Although it is not widely spoken across the globe, constant efforts are on to preserve it through language workshops. So, during family tours in Hilton Head, your kids would learn to speak a few words and phrases that people of this community speak.

 

A family trip to Hilton Head Island reveals a wealth of opportunities that explore the rich and vibrant culture of this community. The above mentioned attractions allow the visitors to gain a deep understanding of their history and how they have become a cultural identity of this island situated in the southeastern part of United States. If you are keen to take this tour, visit Gullah Heritage https://gullaheritage.com/ to block your slots right away.