Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour – 2hr

If you’re visiting Savannah and want a manageable, insightful way to get to know the city’s story, this Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. With a stellar 5.0 rating from over 850 reviews, it’s clearly loved by many who’ve taken it. The tour promises a deep dive into Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks, hidden gems, and stories that bring the city to life.

What we really appreciate is how this tour combines top sights and lesser-known spots, giving a well-rounded picture of Savannah’s historical fabric. Plus, the chance to see where Forrest Gump sat with his chocolates—who doesn’t love that? Another big plus is the flexibility with morning or afternoon times, making it easier to fit into your travel day.

Of course, a two-hour walking tour can feel a bit brisk if you’re the kind who likes to linger. The pace is quick enough to cover a lot but not so rushed that you miss details. If you prefer a more leisurely or in-depth exploration, you might want to consider additional tours or longer experiences. Still, for a solid overview, this is a great choice, especially if you want your first taste of Savannah’s charm without a lot of fuss.

This tour suits travelers who love history, architecture, and stories behind the sights. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a quick orientation or history buffs eager to learn new anecdotes. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy walking and exploring, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, comfortable shoes are a must, and a bit of curiosity goes a long way.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money at just under $35 per person for a comprehensive 2-hour experience.
• Knowledgeable guides are consistently praised for their engaging storytelling.
• The tour hits iconic movie sites like Forrest Gump’s bench, adding a fun pop culture element.
• You’ll visit historic squares, notable homes, and landmarks tied to Savannah’s history.
• The route is walkable, covering about a mile with plenty of benches to rest and enjoy the sights.
• It operates rain or shine, so be prepared for the weather.

Exploring Savannah in Two Hours

This walking tour provides a practical way to get acquainted with Savannah’s most significant landmarks and stories without feeling overwhelmed. Since it’s designed as a quick yet thorough overview, you’ll get a taste of the city’s past and present, helping you decide where to explore further afterward.

The tour begins at Wright Square, a central spot rich with history and significance. Here, you’ll learn about Savannah’s founding, General Oglethorpe, and the Yamacraw chief Tomochichi buried beneath the Gordon Monument. It’s a fitting start that sets the tone of discovery and connects you to the city’s roots. Many reviews mention how informative and lively the guides are, making these stories come alive.

Highlights and Stops

Wright Square

Starting point and a gateway into Savannah’s earliest days. Sitting in the heart of the historic district, Wright Square offers history, architecture, and a picturesque setting. Our sources note that guides share why Savannah was first established on a bluff and how the city’s squares were deliberately designed.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

While you don’t go inside, admiring the birthplace of the Girl Scouts founder offers a peek into local history. The Gordon family’s story adds flavor, and many visitors find it inspiring to see where this influential woman was born. The outside view captures the charm and gives a sense of the town’s history.

Independent Presbyterian Church

This church has a storied past, having been rebuilt multiple times after fires and hurricanes. It’s also notable that President Grover Cleveland was married here. The tour explains the architecture and history behind the steeple, and several reviews highlight how the guide’s stories make the building’s history more engaging.

Chippewa Square

This is the spot most folks recognize thanks to Forrest Gump sitting with his box of chocolates. The square’s centerpiece, the General James Oglethorpe monument, is a favorite photo op. Visitors love the fun connection to pop culture, and guides clarify that the monument depicts the colony’s founder, not the famous movie character.

The Haunted Sorrel Weed House

Though you pass by, the story about the house’s haunted reputation and the fingerprints in the bricks adds a spooky twist to the tour. It’s a brief stop but offers a taste of Savannah’s ghost stories and eerie side.

Madison Square

Once the site of a fierce Revolutionary War battle, this square offers a glimpse into the city’s turbulent past. The stories here are more than just names; they connect you to critical moments in American history.

Green-Meldrim House

Considered Savannah’s finest Gothic Revival home, this house was General Sherman’s headquarters during his march. It’s a highlight for architecture lovers and a reminder of Savannah’s role during the Civil War. Many reviews mention how impressive this home is, even from the outside.

The Mercer Williams House

Famous from the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil, this house’s story is full of scandal and intrigue. While you won’t go inside, just seeing it from the street is worth the photo opp. The story behind Jim Williams and the notorious shooting has helped make Savannah famous.

Forsyth Park

Ending at the iconic fountain, Forsyth Park is a must-see. Sprawling and beautifully landscaped, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and soak in Savannah’s relaxed vibe. The fountain itself, imported from France, is a postcard-worthy backdrop.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

Many guests rave about guide Crystal and Rick, calling them knowledgeable, engaging, and funny. The reviews mention how stories and anecdotes make history accessible and fun, turning what could be a dry narration into a lively experience. The group size maxes out at 30, which helps keep the atmosphere cozy and interactive.

The tour covers about a mile of walking, with benches along the way. If you’re used to walking, you’ll find this perfectly manageable, but if you’re less mobile, it’s worth noting the pace. The tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared with an umbrella or raincoat.

The price point is quite reasonable, especially considering the amount of ground covered and the quality of storytelling. Many reviewers feel they received good value, especially since the guides are praised for their depth of knowledge.

The pros and cons

Pros:
– Strong value for the price
– Engaging, well-informed guides
– A mix of well-known and lesser-known sites
– Ideal for first-time visitors or history buffs
– Fun pop culture touchpoints, like Forrest Gump

Cons:
– The tour is quick, so avid explorers might want more
– Weather can affect the experience, though the tour operates rain or shine
– No inside visits to buildings, just external views

Who Should Book This Tour?

This walking tour is perfect for those looking for a timely, informative overview of Savannah’s main sights and stories. It’s especially good for first-timers who want to get their bearings, history lovers eager for engaging tales, or anyone interested in film locations. If you’re on a tight schedule but want a meaningful introduction to Savannah, this tour packs a lot into two hours.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and culture—all led by guides who clearly love sharing Savannah’s story. At a reasonable price, it’s a solid way to orient yourself and get inspired for more exploring. The mix of famous landmarks and hidden stories keeps it interesting, and the reviews consistently praise the guides’ passion and knowledge.

While it might not satisfy someone wanting an in-depth, long exploration of each site, it does provide a memorable snapshot of Savannah’s character and history. Whether you’re a history buff, a film fan, or just a curious traveler, you’re likely to walk away with new insights and a greater appreciation for this charming southern city.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about a mile of walking.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  Starts at Wright Square and ends at Forsyth Park, specifically at the fountain.

• Can I choose my tour time?
  Yes, you can select a morning or afternoon slot.

• Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
  Yes, it operates rain or shine. Be sure to bring an umbrella if needed.

• Are children allowed?
  The provided info doesn’t specify age restrictions, but considering the walking nature, it’s suitable for most ages with supervision.

• How many people are in the group?
  The maximum is 30 travelers, which helps keep things personal and engaging.

• Do I need to book in advance?
  It’s recommended to book about 15 days ahead, especially in peak seasons.

• Does the tour include inside visits?
  No, most stops are external views; you get stories and photos outside.

• What’s the price?
  It’s $34.86 per person, which many reviewers feel is a good value for the experience.

• What’s the best way to prepare?
  Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water if it’s hot.

If you’re after a lively, well-paced introduction to Savannah’s history and sights, this tour definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a friendly, informative way to start your visit—and leaves you with stories to tell long after you’ve left the city.