Behind The Scenes Movie Tour Midnight in the Garden

A Friendly Guide to the Behind The Scenes Movie Tour in Savannah

If you’re a film buff or just someone curious about Savannah’s cinematic side, the Behind The Scenes Movie Tour: Midnight in the Garden offers a neat glimpse into the city’s role in Hollywood. It’s a compact, 1-hour 15-minute tour that takes you through some of Savannah’s most recognizable spots from the beloved film, giving you insider stories and a chance to see the city’s beauty up close.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on the movie’s filming locations, especially since it celebrates the 30th anniversary of the book that inspired the film. Plus, with a price tag of just $29, it’s a pretty accessible way to indulge in some local and cinematic history. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this tour is quite small, with a maximum of 13 travelers, which can be both a plus for intimacy and a minus if you’re hoping for a bustling atmosphere.

This experience is best suited for those who love movies and are interested in seeing Savannah through that lens. It’s also a good pick if you prefer walking tours that are laid-back yet full of stories, and if you’re fine with a group setting rather than private or transport-based experiences.

Key Points

• Focused on film sites: Perfect for movie lovers wanting a behind-the-scenes look.
• Short and sweet: About 75 minutes, ideal if you’re tight on time.
• Small group size: Max 13 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Accessible price point: $29 per person, including some local snacks.
• Guided by industry insiders: Knowledgeable guides like Whiskey enhance the experience.
• Location highlights: Iconic spots like Forsyth Park, Clary’s Cafe, Jones Street, and the Mercer Williams House Museum.

Exploring the Savannah Film Scene

This tour offers a refreshing way to see Savannah, blending the city’s beautiful architecture with film lore. From the outset, you’re introduced to Forsyth Park—famous for its appearance in the film—where your guide points out the spot where Minerva is first seen. It’s a quick stop, just 15 minutes, but enough to get a sense of the setting’s charm.

Next, the tour swings by Clary’s Cafe, an actual location from some of the movie’s scenes. Here, you get a taste of what it was like on set, and the tour gives you a flavor of the local eateries that also serve as film backdrops. The 30-minute stop at Clary’s is great because it feels like stepping into the actual movie world, not just seeing a pretty town.

A stroll down Jones Street follows, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful streets in America. The 15-minute walk showcases Savannah’s classic architecture and scenic charm—an excellent backdrop for any film or photo. It’s a moment to soak in the city’s charm and perhaps imagine how it would look on screen.

The final stop takes you to the Mercer Williams House Museum, where the story of the film’s real-life inspiration and its infamous murder case is tied into the city’s history. Though the museum admission isn’t included, standing on the same ground as the story’s backdrop gives a compelling end to your cinematic journey.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Know

The tour offers a nice little break halfway through with some local snacks, sourced from the craft service. It’s a small gesture that adds to the behind-the-scenes feel—like a crew break with a view. The tour is conducted on a mobile ticket, making it flexible for last-minute booking, and the meeting point is conveniently located in Savannah near public transit options.

With a price of $29, the value here is quite reasonable, especially when considering that it covers several iconic film locations within a tight timeframe. The guide, Whiskey, has garnered praise for being knowledgeable and personable—something that can really make or break the experience. As Marilyn_B said in her review, Whiskey’s engaging style made her tour “fabulous,” which tells you guides can be a real highlight.

One potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include private transportation, so you’ll be walking between stops or exploring on foot. The group size is small, which keeps things intimate, but if you prefer a larger group or more extensive transport options, this might feel limited.

The Itinerary in Detail

Forsyth Park is your starting point, and it’s a great spot to kick off because it’s instantly recognizable from the film. As you gather here, your guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and maybe some fun facts about the filming. If you’re a fan of the book or movie, this moment feels like stepping into the story.

Clary’s Cafe is where the film’s authentic vibe really comes through. Seeing a real-life diner that doubled as a set makes the experience more tangible. The 30-minute stop allows enough time to take photos, chat with your guide, and soak in the atmosphere of a classic Southern eatery. Plus, you might get a taste of local snacks, which adds a nice touch of Savannah flavor.

Jones Street offers a scenic walk through what many call the most beautiful street in America. Walking here is like strolling through a postcard—carriage houses, lush trees, and well-preserved architecture. It’s a peaceful yet inspiring scene, perfect for film lovers who appreciate cinematic visuals.

Mercer Williams House Museum is the tour’s dramatic finale. Standing on the grounds of this historic house, where a key plot point unfolded, provides a tangible link to Savannah’s storied past. The house itself isn’t included in the ticket price, but the moment outside is enough to make the story resonate.

Authentic Feedback from Tour Participants

The one review on record is glowing: Marilyn_B gave it a full 5 out of 5, praising Whiskey as “extraordinary.” Her words highlight how a knowledgeable, personable guide can elevate the experience from mere sightseeing to storytelling that sticks with you.

Other travelers might find that the short duration suits their schedule but might wish for a bit more depth or interaction. Still, for the price and focus, the tour delivers what it promises—an enjoyable, film-focused walk through Savannah’s streets.

Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?

For film enthusiasts or those with a curiosity about Savannah’s role in Hollywood, this tour hits the right notes. It’s affordable, well-paced, and led by a guide who clearly knows his stuff. The stops are carefully chosen to give a sense of the city’s charm while connecting directly to the movie’s story.

If you’re after a quick, engaging glimpse into the film’s locations with a friendly guide, this is a solid choice. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of snacks makes it feel like a relaxed break rather than a hurried rush.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into film history or extensive museum visits, this might not be enough. It’s more about the highlights and atmosphere than exhaustive stories. Still, the positive reviews and the focus on Savannah’s cinematic appeal suggest it’s a tour worth considering if you’re in town and want a light, fun activity with a local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally accessible for most travelers, given the walking and short duration. Just consider the age of children, as some stops involve walking or standing.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a quick but memorable experience.

What is included in the price?
You get the guided tour, snacks at the halfway point, and the chance to see several iconic Savannah locations from the film. Museum admission isn’t included at the Mercer Williams House.

Are tickets available on the day of the tour?
It’s best to book at least two weeks in advance since the tour tends to be booked around 14 days ahead; last-minute availability might be limited.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Candler Oak in Savannah and ends at the Armstrong Kessler Mansion on Bull Street.

Is the tour accessible for people with service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

What’s the guide like?
Based on reviews, guides like Whiskey are knowledgeable, engaging, and personable—making the stories and locations come alive.

Do I need private transportation?
No, the tour is walking-based, so you’ll explore on foot between stops.

Is this an outdoor activity?
Yes, most of the tour takes place outside, so dress appropriately for weather conditions.

All in all, the Behind The Scenes Movie Tour offers a charming and insightful way to experience Savannah’s film history without overloading your schedule. If you’re a fan of movies, Savannah’s old-world charm, or just want a pleasant walk with stories to tell, it’s worth considering.