Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour

If you’re thinking about getting a quick, enjoyable overview of Savannah’s historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, the Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour might just be what you need. Designed as a relaxed, informative ride, it offers a charming way to get familiar with the city’s cobblestone streets and lush squares without the hassle of walking or navigating on your own.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines entertaining narration with beautiful scenery – from moss-draped oaks to elegant mansions. The multiple departure times make it flexible for any schedule, and the cost is pretty reasonable for what you get. That said, a slight drawback could be the limited window coverage in some guides’ speech, which might make it a bit tricky for those who prefer a slower, clearer delivery.

This tour is well-suited for visitors who want a broad overview of Savannah’s historic district without committing to a full-day excursion. Families, first-timers, or anyone wanting to get a sense of the city’s highlights in a fun, laid-back setting will likely find it a good fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation combined with engaging narration offers a practical way to see Savannah’s sights.
• Great value for the price at around $35 per person, especially considering the duration and coverage.
• Knowledgeable guides bring the city’s stories alive, adding humor and local insights.
• The itinerary covers major landmarks, squares, and historic homes—perfect for orientation.
• Operates rain or shine, so you can plan regardless of the weather.
• It’s a non-stop 75-minute tour, making it ideal for a quick overview without overwhelming.

What to Expect from the Savannah Trolley Tour

The tour kicks off at a centrally-located stop, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. Once aboard, you’ll settle into a relaxed ride through one of the largest National Urban Historic Landmark Districts in the U.S., with your guide narrating the city’s tale as you go. The route is carefully chosen to showcase Savannah’s most scenic spots, giving you a broad understanding of its layout and history.

The ride lasts about 75 minutes, with no stops—just a continuous, engaging narration. You’ll pass by hundreds of years of history, from colonial roots to modern-day Savannah, with stories about the old South that stick with you long after the tour ends.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

The tour is packed with sights, and while it’s primarily a pass-by experience, the commentary makes each landmark come alive. Here’s what you’ll see along the way:

Historic Savannah District

The tour begins by winding through the historic district, which is one of the largest in the country. Here, the guide shares stories about some of the city’s most beautiful historic homes and cobblestone streets, giving you a sense of what life was like in Savannah centuries ago.

Chippewa Square

Famous from the movie Forrest Gump, this square is often a highlight. The guide clarifies that while the square is iconic, it might seem slightly underwhelming in person because the actual movie scene was shot elsewhere. Still, it’s worth passing by for the photo opportunities.

The Haunted Sorrel Weed House

Known as one of the most haunted homes in the country, the Sorrel Weed House makes an intriguing stop in the narration, especially if you’re into ghost stories. While you don’t go inside during this tour, hearing about its haunted reputation adds a spooky flavor to your ride.

Forsyth Park

One of Savannah’s most recognizable features, the park’s grand fountain and lush greenery are visible from the trolley. The guide points out the fountain, which famously turns green around St. Patrick’s Day—a fun fact that adds to its charm.

Savannah’s Historic Squares

You’ll pass by several squares, including Reynolds Square with its John Wesley statue and moss-covered live oaks, and Franklin Square, designed in 1790. The narration provides context on how these squares served as social and political hubs for centuries.

Architectural and Cultural Highlights

From the Old Sorrel Weed House museum to the Telfair Academy, the ride touches on Savannah’s rich architectural heritage. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Pirates’ House add layers of cultural significance, from religious sites to historic taverns.

Water Views and Waterfront

The tour moves towards the Savannah River, offering glimpses of the water and the lively scene along River Street Market Place. You’ll learn about its history as a bustling trading hub and how it’s transformed into a favorite shopping and dining area.

Iconic City Landmarks

The Old City Exchange Bell and Savannah City Hall are passed, each with stories of their historical importance. The guide shares little tidbits—like the bell being Georgia’s oldest—that make these landmarks more memorable.

The Guides and Their Stories

Reviews highlight the importance of a knowledgeable, engaging guide. Many mention guides like Denise, Lillie, and TJ, praising their ability to mix humor with historical facts. For example, one reviewer loved how Denise’s pride in her hometown made her narration lively and authentic.

Some reviews note that audio clarity can be an issue with guides who speak quickly or softly, especially for non-natives or if the trolley’s windows are closed or noisy. However, most found the guides informative and personable, capable of answering questions and sharing fun anecdotes.

The Experience and Comfort

Most travelers find the trolley comfortable and easy to ride, with some mentioning the fold-up stroller accessibility for families with small children. The open-air design offers good visibility, though you should dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates rain or shine.

At around $35, the price is reasonable given the length and scope of sights covered, and many reviewers agree it’s a good value. It’s ideal for those wanting a quick but thorough orientation of Savannah’s historic core—especially if you’re short on time but want to get a sense of what the city offers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trolley experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Savannah’s highlights without the hassle of walking long distances. It’s also a good choice for those with limited time or who prefer a relaxed, narrated experience over self-guided exploration.

Families with older children or teens might enjoy the storytelling and scenic views, but those with very young children should consider the weather and the potential for noisy guides. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates local stories, humor, and an easy-going pace.

Final Thoughts

The Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour offers a reliable, enjoyable way to see some of Savannah’s most photogenic spots and hear stories that bring the city’s history to life. It’s well-priced, with knowledgeable guides adding personality and depth to the experience.

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, flexible tour that covers the major attractions without feeling rushed or overly formal, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want an overview to guide your subsequent explorations on foot or by other means.

For those who value comfort, convenience, and local insights, this trolley tour hits the right notes. While it may not go inside buildings or explore every detail—so if you’re a history buff seeking more depth—you might want to supplement this with additional tours or visits. Still, for a fun, scenic, and practical overview, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so you should dress appropriately. Just be prepared for the possibility of rain or sun, depending on the forecast.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 75 minutes of continuous narration, making it a nice, manageable intro to Savannah.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Canceling within that window means no refund.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
Service animals are permitted, but emotional support animals and pets are not.

What if I arrive late?
Guides like Eddie have been known to wait for latecomers if arrangements are made, but punctuality is recommended to make the most of the experience.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for families, especially with older kids, but consider the weather and the length of the ride.

What landmarks are included?
You’ll pass by iconic spots like Chippewa Square, Forsyth Park, the Pirates’ House, and the Savannah River, among others.

Can I hop on and off?
No, this is a non-stop tour. It’s meant for a complete overview rather than exploring specific stops.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size is limited to 38 travelers, providing a comfortable, intimate setting.

Is the guide’s narration professional?
Most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, humor, and ability to keep the ride lively and informative, though some mention occasional difficulty with audio clarity.

In the end, if you’re after an easy, friendly way to get your bearings and hear some stories about Savannah’s past, this trolley tour could be a worthwhile addition to your trip. It’s practical, reasonably priced, and offers a nice blend of sights and stories that will leave you with a good sense of the city’s character.