Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want a way to see the city without the hassle of walking or figuring out public transport, a hop-on hop-off trolley tour might be just what you need. This experience promises to cover the city’s most popular sights with the convenience of a flexible schedule, allowing you to explore at your own pace while enjoying engaging narration along the way. From historic homes to scenic parks, it’s a solid way to get oriented with Georgia’s first city.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the 15 stops that cover everything from Forsyth Park to River Street and Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace. Plus, the narration offered is a nice touch—informative without being overwhelming—and many reviews highlight guides who are both knowledgeable and entertaining. The price point, around $44.89 per person, feels reasonable considering the convenience and the chance to get a solid overview of Savannah’s highlights.

However, there are a few considerations. Some travelers have mentioned the lack of air conditioning on the open-air trolleys, which can make the ride less comfortable in very hot weather. Plus, during busy times, the trolleys might be crowded, and waiting for the next one isn’t always quick. This tour suits those who want a flexible, accessible way to see the city without heavy walking or complicated planning, especially first-timers or visitors short on time.

If you enjoy guided city tours that let you set your own pace, this could be a good fit. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a group that appreciates the mix of sightseeing, narration, and the ability to hop off at places that pique your interest. Just keep in mind the weather and the potential for crowding—these are small details that can make a difference in your overall experience.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing with 15 stops to hop on or off as you please.
• Engaging narration that shares stories, history, and fun facts.
• Reasonably priced at around $44.89 per person, offering good value.
• Easy to use mobile tickets with no need for paper.
• Crowding can be an issue during peak times, and some trolleys lack air conditioning.
• Travel duration varies from 2 to 8 hours, making it adaptable for different schedules.

The Experience of the Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Let’s get into what makes this tour worth considering—and where it might fall a little short. First off, the main attraction is how it transforms exploring Savannah from a potentially overwhelming task into a manageable, enjoyable ride. With 15 stops located at major points of interest, you get a curated snapshot of the city’s most iconic spots, all while sitting comfortably on a trolley.

The route passes through Savannah’s historic district, showcasing beautiful mansions, oak-lined streets, and the famous Spanish moss that makes this city so photogenic. The narration, which runs during the ride, offers context and stories about each location. Several reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and humor, making the ride both educational and entertaining. One reviewer remarked, “Cash kept us engaged with his history knowledge and jokes,” emphasizing that a lively guide can elevate the experience.

The Stops in Detail

Start at the Savannah MLK Visitor Information Center—a logical starting point for first-timers, offering free tourist info and orientation. From there, the route takes you to the Juliette Gordon Low Historic District, home of the Girl Scouts’ founder. Visiting the birthplace and the historic carriage house gives you a glimpse into Savannah’s role in American social history.

Next up, the Mercer Williams House Museum is a highlight for those interested in Savannah’s more mysterious stories—famously linked to the book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Just a few minutes away, Forsyth Park is a must-see with its iconic fountain and sprawling green space—perfect for a quick walk or a photo stop.

The Colonial Park Cemetery is another stop with a lot of history, dating back to 1750, and offers a quiet moment to reflect on Savannah’s colonial past. For a charming green space, Columbia Square features historic homes and a lovely fountain with mature live oaks framing the scene.

The Cultural and Market Stops

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is an architectural highlight, with its stunning basilica standing prominently in Lafayette Square. A quick hop to City Market offers a bustling atmosphere with plenty of shops, eateries, and art galleries—ideal for browsing or grabbing a quick bite.

Further along, Madison Square is a picturesque spot with its monument to Revolutionary War hero William Jasper, surrounded by historic homes. The Isaiah Davenport House nearby provides insight into early 19th-century architecture and Savannah’s development.

Riverfront and Maritime Experience

River Street Market Place is one of the tour’s lively highlights, offering a mix of cafes, shops, and street performers. It’s a hub of activity, perfect for a meal or souvenir shopping. The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum offers a deeper dive into Savannah’s maritime history, housed in a historic building with ship models and maritime artwork.

The Ellis Square is another lively spot, with fountains and a chess set, great for families or those wanting a relaxed vibe after sightseeing.

How It Works and Practical Details

The trolleys run approximately every 20 minutes, making it easy to plan your day. The tour operates from 9 am to 5 pm (with slight seasonal variations) and is limited to 15 travelers per trolley—which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, though some reviews mention crowding during peak times. You can buy a 2-day ticket, which many recommend, especially if you want to explore without rushing.

The narration is a key feature, providing stories and historical tidbits that bring Savannah’s streets to life. Be aware that most trolleys are open-air, which can be a bonus for fresh air but less ideal if it rains or in the heat—some vehicles are heated and enclosed in winter, but during summer, you might prefer earlier or cooler hours.

The Value for Money

At just under $45, this tour offers a lot of flexibility and convenience. The ability to hop on and off at 15 stops means you can customize your day, focusing on what interests you most—whether that’s historic homes, parks, or shopping districts. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and clean buses, adding to the overall value.

Some travelers, however, note that crowding and the lack of air conditioning in hot weather can detract from the comfort. Still, if you’re prepared for a bit of heat and crowds, the tour’s coverage and engaging narration make it a solid choice for an overview of Savannah.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting a broad introduction to Savannah, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially good for those who prefer not to walk long distances or want the flexibility of hopping on and off. History buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about Savannah’s stories will find the narration engaging.

It might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to heat, noise, or crowds, or if you prefer air-conditioned transportation. But for most travelers, especially those who enjoy guided city tours with the freedom to explore on your own terms, this trolley delivers a practical and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

This Savannah hop-on hop-off trolley tour is a dependable way to get a feel for the city’s highlights without the stress of navigating on your own. Its 15 stops cover the main sights—historical, cultural, and scenic—and the narration adds context that enriches your understanding of Savannah’s story. The tour’s flexible nature, combined with the ability to hop off at places that catch your eye, makes it especially appealing for travelers who want a mix of guided insight and independent exploration.

While some may find the crowding or lack of air conditioning less appealing, many reviews underscore the kindness of guides and the value of the coverage. It’s a good choice for first-timers, history lovers, or anyone short on time but eager to see as much as possible.

Overall, if you’re looking for an easy, engaging, and reasonably priced way to introduce yourself to Savannah, this trolley tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring water, dress appropriately, and be prepared for some potential busy moments during peak hours.

FAQ

How long is one full rotation on the Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour?
A full loop takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes if you stay on without hopping off. It’s a good way to get the lay of the land.

Are the drivers knowledgeable about Savannah?
Yes, the guides narrate with a fun mix of trivia and stories. Many guests mention guides who are both informative and entertaining, making the ride more engaging.

Is the tour narrated?
Absolutely. The narration covers Savannah’s founding, Civil War history, and movies filmed here, providing helpful insights during your ride.

Are food and drinks allowed?
Yes, snacks and drinks are welcome. Just keep in mind that alcohol isn’t permitted for safety reasons.

Are pets allowed on the trolley?
Only service animals are permitted. Other animals or emotional support animals are not allowed onboard.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
Some trolleys are equipped with hydraulic wheelchair lifts. If needed, indicate this when booking so they can assist.

Are the trolleys enclosed or open-air?
Most are open-air, which is great for fresh air but less ideal in rain or extreme heat. Some are heated and enclosed in winter.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What are the operating hours?
Tours run daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with departures approximately every 20 minutes.

Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, collapsible strollers are allowed and stored with the conductor. Non-collapsible strollers are discouraged for safety reasons.

In the end, this trolley tour offers a practical way to see Savannah’s best without breaking the bank or exhausting yourself walking. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided storytelling and flexible sightseeing. Just plan ahead for the weather, and you’ll likely leave with a good sense of what makes Savannah so special.