A Walk Through The Book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”

A Walk Through The Book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” — Honest Review

If you’re a fan of Savannah’s mysterious charm or the bestselling book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this tour promises to bring the story to life through the streets of Savannah. It’s a walk that combines storytelling with sightseeing, taking you to iconic landmarks and sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes that only insiders or avid readers will appreciate. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of a thoughtful and engaging experience.

What we love about this tour is its focus on Savannah’s visual beauty—the moss-draped trees and historic squares—and its passionate guides who seem genuinely eager to share their knowledge. It’s also priced reasonably at $30, providing a good value for those eager to combine literary love with local exploration. That said, a key consideration is that this is primarily a walking tour, which means comfortable footwear and patience are essential. It also doesn’t include entry into private sites like the Mercer-Williams House, so if you’re hoping to go inside, this tour might not meet that expectation.

This experience works best for book lovers, history buffs, and those curious about Savannah’s darker tales. If you enjoy stories told with a bit of gossip and colorful history, you’ll likely find this tour captivating. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a fast-paced or highly interactive experience, but definitely rewarding for those who appreciate a well-narrated walk through a city steeped in stories.

Key Points

• In-depth storytelling: Guides share fascinating behind-the-scenes details about the book, movie, and real people involved.
• Beautiful Savannah scenery: Expect plenty of time walking under moss-laden trees and through historic squares.
• Affordable for what you get: At around $30, you’re paying for a well-informed guide and a leisurely walk.
• Limited access to private sites: The Mercer-Williams house isn’t included, as it’s a private residence.
• Great for fans of the story: Knowledge of the book or movie enhances the experience significantly.
• Group size matters: With a maximum of 30 travelers, it maintains a personal feel, but can still be busy.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at Oglethorpe Square at 1:00 pm, a central and picturesque spot in Savannah. Expect it to last about an hour and a half, which is perfect for those wanting a solid dose of history and storytelling without a whole day commitment. The group size maxes out at 30, keeping things intimate enough for questions, but lively enough to keep the energy up.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Oglethorpe Square marks the beginning, and from there, your guide will lead you through Savannah’s most historic and visually stunning squares. The city’s iconic trees hanging with Spanish moss set the perfect backdrop for stories full of scandal, mystery, and colorful characters — much of which is drawn directly from the book and movie.

One notable stop is Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous by the book and film as a hauntingly beautiful site. Here, the guide will likely share stories of the characters buried there, making it feel like walking through a living novel. The cemetery is free to enter, which adds to its appeal.

What Guides Are Like

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Brad was well versed and informative,” and others noted guides shared stories and photos that added depth to the experience. It seems the guides really love their work, weaving together historical facts, gossip, and personal insights.

That said, a couple of reviews touched on some sensitive comments made by guides, particularly regarding Northerners—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to commentary of that sort. The guides’ storytelling skills seem to be a highlight.

The Value of the Experience

For $30, you’re getting more than just a walk—you’re getting a narrative that connects you to Savannah’s notorious past and literary fame. Many reviews highlight that guides had a wealth of extra information, including magazine clippings from the movie and stories about the real people behind the characters.

Though some reviews mention that you don’t get access to the Mercer-Williams House, the stories and explanations about the house’s history and its role in the story are still compelling. The fact that the house isn’t open to tours for the group doesn’t detract much for most, but it’s good to know what’s included and what isn’t.

The Experience’s Drawbacks

The main limitation is that this tour is primarily walking, so it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer vehicle-based sightseeing. Also, since the Mercer-Williams house isn’t included, those hoping for an inside peek might find that disappointing.

In terms of logistics, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to arrive at the starting point on your own. Weather can also be a factor—most of the walk is outdoors, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.

Reviews in a Nutshell

Many guests rave about the expert guides and the interesting stories. One said, “Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and interesting. We learned a lot of fun facts about the real story and the movie.” Others appreciated the personal touch, with guides sharing photos and extra details.

However, a few reviews mention issues like the guide being sick (which led to cancellations and refunds) or disappointment that certain key sites weren’t accessible. These are rare but worth noting if timing and access are deal-breakers for you.

Is This Tour Right For You?

If you’re deeply interested in “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”, or simply want a leisurely stroll through Savannah’s scenic squares while hearing captivating stories, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly good if you enjoy guided storytelling and are comfortable walking in the city’s historic district.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for inside access to private homes, or if you prefer tours with multiple modes of transportation or less physical activity. Also, keep in mind that the experience is more about narrative and atmosphere than about visiting specific interiors.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour offers a well-rounded and authentic way to explore Savannah’s connection to one of its most famous stories. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and intriguing stories makes it a worthwhile option for fans and history buffs alike. For just $30, you’re gaining insights into Savannah’s colorful past, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

While it’s not a tour for those expecting inside access to the Mercer-Williams House or a fast-paced adventure, it does a great job of blending literary history and local charm. Plus, the knowledgeable guides’ enthusiasm shines through—making the experience both fun and informative.

If you’re a reader, a movie fan, or simply curious about Savannah’s secrets, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just come prepared for a relaxed, scenic walk and enjoy the stories that have made Savannah’s legend even more captivating.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour begins at Oglethorpe Square. You’ll need to make your own way there.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire and good walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet quite a bit.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but since it’s a walking tour focused on stories and scenery, young children may need supervision.

Can I see inside the Mercer-Williams House?
No, the house is a private residence and not included in this tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is outdoors, so poor weather could result in cancellation or rescheduling. Check the forecast and dress appropriately.

How many people are on each tour?
Up to 30 travelers, which keeps the experience personal but lively.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly walking, so it might not be suitable for everyone with mobility concerns.

What if the guide is sick or the tour is canceled?
In such cases, a full refund is typically issued. Some reviews mention cancellations due to illness, but overall, the process is handled professionally.

If you enjoy stories, Savannah’s charm, and a good walk, this tour is worth considering. It’s a gentle way to see the city through a literary lens, with plenty of local flavor along the way.