239-472-4648
Sanibel
Historical Museum & Village
CLOSED Will Reopen Oct. 15
950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957
About the Museum
Preserving, Sharing and Celebrating Sanibel’s History
Sanibel Historical Museum and Village was founded in 1984 with a mission to preserve and share Sanibel history. The story of Sanibel is told from the Calusa and Spanish eras to the early pioneer families who settled on the island in the 1800s. It tells of warriors, adventures, fishermen, farmers and proprietors.
Nine historic buildings were moved from their original sites. Each building has been restored to its original state. We also have a replica of a Packing House and Bailey’s garage. Volunteer docents share the stories of Sanibel with almost 10,000 visitors a year.
Join us as we follow the footsteps of the past.
Museum & Village Happenings
The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is Pleased to Introduce its New Executive Director Ms. Vacharee Howard
The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village Board of Directors is pleased to announce its new Executive Director, Ms. Vacharee Howard (Vah-shah-REE).
Sanibel Historical Museum and Village Announces Seasonal Closure and Future Enhancements
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village announces it will close to the public starting April 27, 2026. Tours will be available again on October 15, 2026.
Sanibel Historical Museum & Village Announces Interim Leadership and Strategic Assessment
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village has engaged Soukup Strategic Solutions, a Southwest Florida–based consulting firm that advises nonprofit organizations nationwide on governance, fundraising strategy, and organizational leadership, to conduct an organizational assessment and provide interim executive leadership support.
“Long-time resident, historian, and author Elinore Dormer is the one that really rounded up the old house that was available at the time, which was the Rutland house. She is the one that started it all.”
Deb Gleason, Sanibel Resident and Author
Sanibel’s Heritage Trail
Sanibel’s heritage is based upon the resourcefulness, persistence, hard work and strong values of its people. You can further your knowledge and enjoyment of Sanibel’s heritage by visiting the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village at 950 Dunlop Road and by also using the interactive map that will help guide you along the Heritage Trail of Sanibel.
Heritage Trail