Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour

If you’re considering a ghost tour in Savannah, this one is often on many travelers’ lists. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough insights from reviews and descriptions to give you a solid idea of what to expect. It’s a 90-minute trolley ride that promises a mix of spooky stories, historic sights, and a dash of humor—a package that appeals to those looking for a fun, slightly eerie experience without it being overly intense.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines entertaining storytelling with some exclusive access—you get nighttime entry into notable historic spots. Plus, it seems to strike a good balance between dark tales and lighthearted fun. On the flip side, a potential downside is that the stories can sometimes feel rushed or theatrical, which might not be everyone’s taste. Still, if you’re into ghost stories with a historical twist and enjoy a lively guide, this tour is likely to be a good fit.

This experience is best suited for adults and older teens who enjoy a bit of spooky storytelling and are comfortable with some mature content. It’s not meant to be a scare-fest but rather a historical ghost tour with a playful edge. If you’re after something more intense or family-friendly, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re eager to learn about Savannah’s haunted past in a fun way, keep reading.

Key Points

• Narrated trolley ride with a knowledgeable guide taking you through Savannah’s spooky spots
• Exclusive nighttime access to historic sites like the Andrew Low House and River Street’s Perkins and Sons Ship Chandlery
• Stories of murder, mayhem, and mysterious happenings woven into Savannah’s history
• A blend of dark tales and humor that keeps the mood light while delivering chills
• Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes long, making it a manageable evening activity
• Price around $41.68, which offers decent value considering the access and storytelling

What You’ll Experience on the Tour

The tour begins at the meeting point on E River Street, where you’ll board the trolley of the doomed. From there, your guide will kick things off with tales of Savannah’s sinister past—stories of nefarious characters, murders, and mysterious occurrences that have left their mark on the city. It’s a storytelling style that many reviews praise, with guides like Olive and Hemlock painting vivid pictures of Savannah’s macabre side. One reviewer mentions, “Olive was excellent. She painted a vivid picture of the darker side of Savannah history,” which gives you a sense of how engaging the narration can be.

The First Stop: Andrew Low House

Your journey includes a 20-minute stop at the Andrew Low House. This historic mansion, built on Lafayette Square, offers a glimpse into 19th-century Savannah’s genteel life. Interestingly, Juliette Magill Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts, was born here. The house, enhanced by its original garden, is a prime example of Savannah’s classic architecture and provides some spooky after-hours ambiance.

A review notes, “The house tour was well orchestrated,” and it’s unique because you get to see it after dark—adding a bit of extra eeriness to the experience. Keep in mind that entry into the house is included but that the tour doesn’t specify if there’s any specific haunted activity inside, so it’s more about the historic vibe.

Walking Through River Street

Next, the tour makes a nighttime stop at River Street, famous for its spirits (both bar and ghostly). It’s a good spot to soak in the historic waterfront atmosphere, lit by the moon and lanterns, making the ambiance suitably spooky. One reviewer joked about seeing a “witch outside,” which hints at how lively and fun the storytelling can be—though, of course, these stories are part of the entertainment.

The Ship Chandlery and Other Spots

The Perkins and Sons Ship Chandlery on River Street is another highlight. This historic business building is said to be haunted, adding to the mystery and allure of the tour. While you can sometimes explore these spots, keep in mind that due to city ordinances, the tour can’t enter cemeteries after 8 pm, so the focus is on exterior views and stories.

The Final Combine: Humor and Darkness

One aspect that many reviews underscore is how the guides balance dark stories with humor. This keeps the experience from feeling too heavy, especially after hearing about some pretty grim tales. For example, a reviewer mentioned that Olive’s narration was “very vivid,” and another said the stories were “fun and entertaining,” with some jump scares that added a thrill factor.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Most reviews are positive, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and entertaining storytelling. For instance, one reviewer said, “Our guide, Hemlock, was passionate and made the trip unforgettable,” highlighting the importance of a good narrator.

However, some reviews point out delivery issues—particularly concerning sound quality and volume. Phrases like “difficult to hear” or “guide spoke too fast” come up occasionally. One reviewer was disappointed when stories felt “not very spooky or consistent,” or found the narration “more theatrical than creepy,” suggesting that the delivery style can vary depending on the guide.

The group size is manageable, with a maximum of 32 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere. Given that, expect some moments of crowd noise, which can make hearing difficult if your guide isn’t clear.

Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At around $41.68 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the exclusive access to historic sites and the engaging storytelling. It’s not a full-blown haunted house or immersive experience, but it’s a solid option for those wanting a lighthearted ghostly adventure without breaking the bank.

The Practicalities

Starting at 301 E River St, you’ll want to check in at least 15 minutes early. The tour runs in most weather conditions, with a full refund available if canceled due to poor weather. Keep in mind it’s not recommended for children under 6, and service animals are permitted, but pets and emotional support animals are not.

If you’re looking for a short, engaging, spooky experience that combines history with ghost stories, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for adults and older teens who don’t mind some theatrical storytelling and enjoy hearing about Savannah’s haunted reputation.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trolley tour can be a great evening activity if you want to combine sightseeing with a spooky twist. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate history mixed with ghostly tales and don’t mind a guide who might sometimes speak loudly or rapidly. The exclusive access to historic sites after dark adds a special touch, making it more than just a standard ghost walk.

If you’re after a fun, light-hearted ghost experience—and don’t expect a haunted house or terrifying scares—this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s a good value considering the storytelling quality and site access, and it’s a solid way to add a bit of mystery and history to your Savannah trip.

However, if you’re looking for something more intense or family-friendly, or if you’re sensitive to theatrical storytelling, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 301 E River St in Savannah. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in.

Do we go into cemeteries?
No, due to city ordinances, tours after 8 pm can’t enter cemeteries. The focus is on exterior views and storytelling about haunted sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 aren’t permitted, and the stories are rated PG-13. It’s geared more toward adults and older teens who enjoy spooky tales.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the narrated trolley ride, nighttime site visits, and access to places like the Andrew Low House. Food, drinks, and drinks are not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a mix of history, haunted stories, and a bit of fun, the Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour offers a lively, memorable way to explore the city’s darker side. Just go in with open ears and an appetite for a good ghost story.