Andrew Low House

If you’re wandering through Savannah and want to step inside one of its most captivating historic landmarks, the Andrew Low House tour offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s past. Priced at just $15, this one-hour experience promises to unveil stories about one of the city’s most notable families, stunning architecture, and lush gardens. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just curious about Savannah’s genteel past, this tour could be well worth your time.

What makes this experience especially appealing are its knowledgeable guides who bring the house’s story to life and the chance to explore a beautifully preserved Italianate mansion built in 1848. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively quick—about 40 minutes—and, interestingly, the house doesn’t include the original kitchen or help’s quarters on the first floor, which some visitors might expect. Still, this tour is a solid pick if you’re after a straightforward, informative visit with a focus on architecture and family history. It’s best suited for those who enjoy guided storytelling, historic homes, and a peek into Savannah’s past.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-placed for a quick cultural experience
• Engaging guides who enhance storytelling with their knowledge
• Beautiful architecture and gardens to admire
• Focus on the Low family and the home’s history
• Limited access to some areas (like the kitchen and help’s quarters)
• Good for history enthusiasts and architecture fans

An In-Depth Look at the Andrew Low House Experience

Why Book the Andrew Low House Tour?

This tour strikes a nice balance between affordability and value. At just $15, you get a solid hour exploring one of Savannah’s most picturesque historic homes, combined with insightful commentary from docents. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the guides, with some describing them as “excellent” or “very informative,” which significantly enhances the experience. These guides don’t just recite facts—they tell stories that help you connect with the house and its inhabitants.

You’ll appreciate the stunning architecture of the Italianate mansion, which was designed by a sought-after architect from New York, John Norris. The house’s design and interior details give you a real sense of the wealth and style of the Low family, cotton merchants who once played a prominent role in Savannah’s economy.

The gardens are also a highlight, providing a peaceful setting to stroll and take photos. Since the house has been preserved rather than fully restored, about 30% of its contents are original, giving a genuine feel of the 19th-century lifestyle. The fact that the house is near public transportation makes it accessible, and the flexible hours (Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM) make it easy to fit into your Savannah itinerary.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at the Andrew Low House, where guided groups depart roughly every 30 minutes, giving you flexibility in planning your visit. Expect to spend around 40 minutes exploring the interior, where your guide will share stories about the Low family—William Low, Andrew’s son, and Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts. Hearing about the family’s life, the architecture, and the home’s design offers a well-rounded perspective of Savannah’s antebellum period.

The guides also touch on the labors of enslaved workers who lived and worked at the house, adding a sobering but necessary dimension to understanding the full history of the site. The tour emphasizes the house’s architecture and the way the Low family lived, providing a more intimate understanding than just viewing from the outside.

The House and Its Features

While the interior features are well-preserved, some visitors noted that the first floor does not include the kitchen or help’s quarters, which are often part of historic homes. If you’re interested in working or servant spaces, you might find this a bit disappointing. However, the house’s main living areas are beautifully restored, and the guide will point out significant architectural details that give insight into the period.

The Gardens and Exterior

A stroll through the gardens is a lovely way to end the tour. They are a significant part of the mansion’s charm, offering a tranquil escape and a chance for photos. These gardens reflect the classic landscaping style of the time, complementing the architectural beauty of the house itself.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $15, the tour packs in a lot of value. You’re getting admission to a historic house, a guided experience, and the chance to explore beautiful gardens—all in about an hour. Compared to other Savannah attractions, this is quite affordable, especially given the positive reviews about the quality of the guides and the house’s aesthetic appeal.

Summary of Visitor Experiences

Many visitors leave the tour feeling they’ve gained a meaningful understanding of Savannah’s history. One reviewer called it “an hour we’ll spent,” praising the well-restored state of the house and excellent guides. Others appreciated the background on the Low family, saying it helped contextualize Savannah’s past residents.

That said, some found the tour a bit brief or felt that some areas, like the basement and kitchen, weren’t part of the visit. One reviewer mentioned that it’s a quick tour with few actual Low family items, which might be a downside if you’re expecting a house filled with original memorabilia.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance: Since tours are popular and depart every 30 minutes, securing your spot ahead of time guarantees entry.
• Arrive early: This allows you to settle in and choose your preferred departure time.
• Prepare for no bathrooms inside: There are no bathroom facilities on site, so plan accordingly.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The tour involves some walking and outdoor garden time.
• Focus on the architecture and stories: The guide will highlight these aspects, making it a more enriching visit.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits history and architecture enthusiasts who want a concise, guided look at a significant Savannah mansion. It’s ideal if you enjoy engaging storytelling and learning about local families’ lives. If you’re after a deep, comprehensive exploration or original family artifacts, this might feel a bit limited. It’s also a good choice for those traveling on a budget, as this tour offers a lot of value for the price.

However, if you’re hoping to explore more of the house’s original working areas or prefer a longer, more in-depth experience, you might find this tour somewhat brief. Still, for a quick cultural fix and a chance to walk through a beautiful historic home, it hits the right notes.

FAQs About the Andrew Low House Tour

Is there a guided tour available?
Yes, a docent-led tour is included, with guides departing every 30 minutes to give you a detailed, narrated experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, offering a focused look at the house and its history.

What is the price?
It costs $15 per person, making it an affordable way to experience a key Savannah landmark.

Are there any bathroom facilities on site?
No, there are no bathrooms available at the house itself, so plan for that before your visit.

What are the opening hours?
The house is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 4 PM, all year round.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are not issued if canceled within 24 hours of the tour.

Is the house wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the house is near public transportation and generally suitable for most travelers.

Does the tour include the kitchen or help’s quarters?
No, these areas are not part of the tour; only the main living areas are included.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Would this tour be good for families or children?
While not specifically geared toward children, the guided tour could be engaging for older kids interested in history or architecture. Keep in mind the house environment and respect for the site.

The Andrew Low House tour offers an excellent snapshot of Savannah’s antebellum charm, especially if you’re after a guided experience that emphasizes architecture and family stories. For just $15, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of the city’s past and some beautiful photos of the house and gardens. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the visual appeal of the mansion, make this a worthwhile stop for most visitors.

If your schedule allows and you’re interested in learning about Savannah’s history through the lens of a prominent local family, this tour is a solid choice. It balances value, education, and aesthetics without overloading your itinerary, perfect for those who prefer a focused, well-presented visit. Just remember to book ahead, and don’t expect a lengthy or in-depth exploration of every corner—this is a quick but charming peek into Savannah’s storied past.