Savannah Stroll: Guided Sightseeing & History Walking Tour of Savannah

Walking through Savannah with a knowledgeable guide can be a delightful way to get a sense of this charming city’s past. The Savannah Stroll is a popular choice, offering a 90-minute journey through some of the most iconic squares and historic sites in the Savannah Historic District. Whether you’re into American history, beautiful architecture, or simply love exploring on foot, this tour promises a meaningful snapshot of Georgia’s oldest city.

What we like most about this experience is how it balances engaging storytelling with the chance to see Savannah’s best-loved sights. Plus, the price point—around $30 per person—is quite reasonable for the quality of insights and the scenic walk you get. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the content can lean more toward the colonial and Revolutionary War periods, with less emphasis on Civil War-era history. If you’re seeking a deep dive into the Civil War or slavery history, you might find this tour a bit light. Still, it’s a solid choice for visitors wanting a friendly overview of Savannah’s founding and early years.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate history-focused sightseeing without the hassle of transportation or overly long walks. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone wanting a good foundation before exploring more specialized tours or attractions. If you’re after a relaxed, informative stroll that uncovers Savannah’s story through its squares and landmarks, this one could be just right.

Key Points

• Concise and Informative: A 90-minute tour that covers Savannah’s fundamental history and architecture.
• Great Value: At $30, you get a guided experience that includes many of the city’s top sights.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ depth of knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Historical Focus: Expect stories about colonial times, the American Revolution, and the Civil War, but note the content is more revolution-centric.
• Beautiful Scenery: The tour visits Reynolds Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, and other picturesque spots.
• Walkable and Accessible: The tour is leisurely with a total duration of about an hour and a half, suitable for most ages and fitness levels.

A Deep Dive into the Savannah Stroll Experience

Choosing a walking tour in Savannah means enjoying the city’s distinct ambiance—tree-lined squares, antebellum homes, and historic churches surround the route. The Savannah Stroll kicks off in Reynolds Square, a fitting start because of its central role in colonial times. As you meet your guide there, they’ll set the tone by sharing stories about Savannah’s colonial government and its significance during the American Revolution.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Learn

Your walk begins at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, an impressive sight that immediately immerses you in Savannah’s religious and architectural history. The guide explains how this area was the hub of colonial governance, even highlighting that the House of Assembly once held the first reading of Georgia’s Declaration of Independence. It’s a good starting point to understand the city’s early importance.

Next, you’ll visit the Colonial Park Cemetery, where some of Savannah’s earliest residents buried their dead. Here, the stories of those who lived and died during the city’s infancy come to life, offering a glimpse into colonial life and the city’s early struggles.

The tour then moves through several notable squares: Johnson Square, Warren Square, Oglethorpe Square, and Chippewa Square. Each of these parks has its own story—some related to military history, others to prominent local figures. For instance, Chippewa Square is famous for its association with the movie Forrest Gump, but beyond Hollywood fame, it’s a well-preserved example of Savannah’s meticulously maintained parks.

The Green-Meldrim House and the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace are next, giving you insights into significant figures in Savannah’s history. The Juliette Gordon Low house, for example, is the birthplace of the founder of Girl Scouts, adding a layer of cultural history to the route.

Further stops include the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, which highlight the city’s complex history with slavery, and the Olde Pink House, a landmark restaurant with a storied past. These sites give a broader understanding of Savannah’s social fabric across centuries.

What Reviewers Say About the Tour

Many guests find the guides engaging and knowledgeable, with reviews consistently praising their ability to tell stories that bring Savannah’s history to life. For example, a reviewer mentioned, “Guide was awsome and very informative and knowledgeable about the cities deep history. Highly recommend!” Others appreciate the scenic walk and how it takes you through sections of Savannah you might not explore on your own.

However, some points to consider are the content focus and guide experience. One reviewer noted, “More history than walking. Lots of Revolutionary War and founding of Georgia, but very little Civil War history.” If Civil War or slavery history is your priority, you might want to consider other tours tailored to that era.

A few reviews mention issues like guides who were hard to hear or moments when the tour started late due to guides being ill. Yet, the overall consensus remains positive, with many feeling the $30 price offers good value given the depth and scenery.

Group Size, Duration, and Logistics

The tour is designed to be intimate—groups are limited to 30 travelers, ensuring you can hear your guide and ask questions comfortably. The tour runs approximately 90 minutes, making it easy to slot into a busy day. It begins at 24 Habersham Street and concludes back at the starting point, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby.

While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point is near public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers. Also, the tour is pet-friendly, so leashed animals are welcome, which is a nice bonus for animal lovers.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting a solid overview of Savannah’s foundational history, this tour offers a lot for the price. The expert guides, many of whom have 15+ years of local experience, bring stories to life and help you appreciate the city’s architecture and historic significance. The stops at key squares and homes make it easy to visualize what life was like in the city’s early days.

If you’re interested in stories from the Revolutionary War and colonial founding, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying. Keep in mind, if your interest lies in the Civil War, slavery, or post-war history, you might find this tour somewhat limited, though the Owens-Thomas House gives some perspective on slavery-era Savannah.

The price point feels appropriate given the quality of the guides and the scenic, walkable route. It’s a great way for first-timers to get familiar with Savannah, and it’s also a good refresher for repeat visitors wanting to connect more deeply with the city’s roots.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This walk is particularly suited for history enthusiasts wanting a manageable, well-guided look at Savannah’s early days. It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time, as it fits comfortably into a half-day itinerary. If you love beautiful squares and want to understand their stories, you’ll enjoy this experience.

Those who prefer more specialized or in-depth Civil War or slavery-focused tours might want to explore other options, but for a broad, engaging overview, this tour hits the right notes. Families with older children should find it educational and interesting, but those with very young kids may find the 90-minute walk a little long.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While primarily a history walk geared towards adults, children with an interest in history or walking will enjoy the sights and stories. Keep in mind, it lasts about 90 minutes and involves some walking.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this is a walking tour, so you’ll need to do some strolling around the historic district on foot.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 24 Habersham Street, Savannah. It concludes back at the same point, making it easy to plan around.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are welcome, provided they are leashed.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is there a minimum number of guests?
Yes, like many tours, it requires a minimum number of participants to run. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund.

What is the price?
It costs around $30 per person, which many think offers good value given the insights and scenery.

What makes this tour stand out?
The knowledgeable guides, scenic squares, and the combination of history and local culture.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Savannah Stroll is a great pick for anyone wanting to understand the city’s early history without a lengthy tour or hefty price tag. It’s well-suited for history buffs, first-time visitors, or those looking for a relaxed way to see the city’s scenic squares and landmarks.

While it may not satisfy those seeking deep Civil War or slavery history, it offers a solid, engaging introduction to Savannah’s colonial roots and architectural charm. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make it a worthwhile experience, especially if you enjoy stories that bring history to life.

For a taste of Savannah’s past, a leisurely walk with a friendly guide can be both educational and fun—especially when you get the scoop on the city’s iconic squares and historic homes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity.

Enjoy your trip to Savannah, and happy exploring!