Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour

Exploring Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery: A Guide to the Historic Cemetery Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and have a curiosity for history, art, or just enjoy a good ghost story, the Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and spoken with travelers who have, so I can give you a solid idea of what to expect. It’s a well-known spot, famous not only for its beautiful monuments but also for its spooky reputation and vibrant local energy.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines beautiful, often breathtaking scenery—think sprawling azalea trees and Spanish moss—with stories that bring the past to life. Plus, at just $24 per person, it seems like a pretty good value for a two-hour deep dive into Savannah’s history. A potential consideration is that this is primarily a walking tour, which might be a challenge for those with limited mobility or who prefer more comfortable transportation. Overall, it’s best suited for those interested in history, architecture, or ghostly legends, and who enjoy a leisurely but informative stroll through one of Savannah’s most iconic sites.

Key Points

• Beautiful sceneries like azaleas and Spanish moss create a hauntingly picturesque setting.
• Knowledgeable guides provide well-researched, engaging stories that bring the monuments to life.
• A two-hour walking experience that balances history, culture, and local lore.
• Affordable price point at $24 makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Limited inclusions—no transportation provided, so plan accordingly.
• Best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy walking and exploring.

Why You Might Want to Book This Tour

This tour offers a blend of history and spooky tales that can appeal to many types of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of ghost stories, or someone looking to see one of Savannah’s most famous cemeteries, you’ll likely find this experience worth your time. It’s also a great way to explore a peaceful yet culturally rich part of the city without the hassle of planning your own route or research.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Bonaventure Cemetery

The tour begins at the iconic Bonaventure Cemetery, a sprawling 160-acre site renowned for its monuments, statues, and peaceful vibe. Here, your guide will walk you past the cemetery’s most notable sites, including the Jewish Section, the grave of “Little Gracie,” and the memorials for famous individuals like Johnny Mercer and John Mungen. The scenery alone—the moss-draped trees and centuries-old tombstones—makes this a visual feast.

What’s especially interesting is how the guide will weave stories about the landmarks, giving you context that you might not get if you just wandered around on your own. Several reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, which makes the experience engaging. One reviewer, Silvia, mentioned, “Our guide was very knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating,” which speaks to the quality of the tour leadership.

Stop 2: The Cursed Pillar at 200 5th Ave

The second stop is near the site of the former cursed pillar—an intriguing little story that adds a dash of local legend to the tour. This brief stop, lasting around ten minutes, offers a chance to hear about Savannah’s haunted spots and perhaps a few ghostly tales that have persisted over the years. Though this part is short, it’s often appreciated by visitors who want a taste of Savannah’s spooky side and a quick break before wrapping up.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The main highlight of this tour is the guide—someone who’s well-versed and genuinely friendly. Their research and storytelling are what can turn a simple cemetery walk into an engaging experience. The tour promises a “perfectly haunted evening,” which might be especially appealing if you’re into ghost stories or dark history.

However, it’s good to note what isn’t included: transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point at 330 Bonaventure Rd. and arrange your own way back. Also, there’s no mention of guide tips in the package—a common custom in many tours—so if you appreciate the guide’s effort, consider tipping accordingly.

Meeting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am—a nice morning option to beat the afternoon heat or the larger crowds. Meeting at the designated spot ensures you’re ready to go and can make the most of your two hours exploring one of Savannah’s most historic and beautiful sites.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

From what travelers have shared, it sounds like the experience is both educational and atmospheric. The guides’ thorough research means you’re likely to hear accurate stories, perhaps some lesser-known anecdotes about the people buried here. One review from Silvia noted how her guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the walk not just informative but also personable.

The setting itself—under Spanish moss, among azaleas—is stunning during the right season, especially in spring when the blooms are at their peak. The monuments, some of which are quite elaborate, add an element of artistry to the stroll. For those interested in photography, this cemetery offers countless opportunities for capturing the moss-heavy trees and historic tombstones.

The Atmosphere and Ambiance

While often seen as a place for reflection and history, Bonaventure Cemetery also has a reputation for being haunted. This tour emphasizes that vibe by calling it a “perfectly haunted evening.” If you’re sensitive to ghost stories or enjoy a touch of the supernatural, this aspect might be particularly fun. That said, the overall tone remains respectful and peaceful, making it suitable for those who prefer their spooky stories told with reverence.

Group Size and Duration

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group is small enough to keep the experience intimate and engaging. The 2-hour duration is just right—long enough to soak in the sights and stories without feeling rushed or exhausted. Walking is the main activity, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

The Value of the Tour

At $24, this tour offers a good balance of accessibility and depth. You get a well-guided walk through a historic and visually stunning cemetery, with stories that bring the monuments alive. It’s not an overly commercialized or gimmicky experience but a genuine exploration of a site that’s central to Savannah’s cultural fabric.

While it’s not the most elaborate tour—no transportation or VIP extras—the quality of storytelling and the setting make it a worthwhile option, especially if you’re looking to combine history, art, and some ghostly intrigue.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who like walking tours, enjoy history, and are curious about Savannah’s famous landmarks. It’s suitable for people with moderate physical fitness who don’t mind a bit of walking outdoors. If you’re interested in ghost stories or simply want to see a beautiful, historic cemetery with a knowledgeable guide, this tour checks all those boxes.

It might not be ideal if you’re looking for a more luxurious or private experience, or if mobility is a concern, given that it’s primarily a walking tour. Also, if you’re hoping for a lot of hands-on interaction or transportation, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour offers an engaging, visually stunning peek into Savannah’s past. The combination of beautiful scenery, well-researched stories, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide creates an experience that feels both authentic and atmospheric. It’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, art lovers, or anyone intrigued by local legends.

While it’s straightforward and doesn’t include extras like transportation, the value for money is solid. The small group size and moderate walking make it accessible without being overwhelming. If you’re in Savannah and want a peaceful, contemplative outing that’s rich in stories and scenic beauty, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation isn’t provided. You’ll need to get yourself to the starting point at 330 Bonaventure Rd and plan for your own return.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, making it a manageable outing without requiring a big time commitment.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the moderate physical activity involved suggests it’s best suited for those who can comfortably walk and stand for a couple of hours.

Do I need to tip the guide?
Tipping isn’t included in the price, and while it’s not mandatory, if you enjoyed the guide’s storytelling, a gratuity is appreciated.

Can I expect ghost stories?
Yes, the tour describes itself as “perfectly haunted,” so you’ll hear tales that add a spooky edge to the beautiful setting.

If you love exploring historic sites with a touch of mystery and a good dose of local flavor, the Bonaventure Cemetery tour could be a memorable addition to your Savannah adventure. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and keep an open mind for stories both touching and spooky.