Savannah: Battles & Brews Civil War History Pub Crawl

If you’re looking for a way to explore Savannah’s Civil War past that’s both fun and insightful, this Battles & Brews pub crawl might just be what you need. Designed to combine history with local flavor, it takes you on a two-hour walking journey through some of Savannah’s most historic spots, all while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of good drinks, or just want a relaxed way to see the city, this tour offers a balanced mix of all three.

What immediately caught our eye are the knowledgeable guides — reviews highlight how much they add to the experience — and the chance to sample delicious, themed cocktails in stylish, local bars. A small group setting means you get a more personal feel, and the two-hour format makes it manageable even if you’re tight on time.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for under 21 or for those who prefer a more traditional museum or walking-only experience. If you’re after a lively, drinks-included history tour, it’s worth considering. It’s especially ideal for those interested in lesser-known stories of Savannah during the Civil War era and who enjoy a social, relaxed vibe.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a small-group, engaging experience that combines history, local hotspots, and a bit of fun. It’s likely best suited for adults who appreciate good storytelling, and who don’t mind a little walking and standing in historic venues.

Key Points

• Expertly guided: Knowledgeable guides make history engaging.
• Historic stops: Visit locations central to Savannah’s Civil War past.
• Delicious cocktails: Enjoy themed drinks in stylish bars.
• Small group setting: Personalized experience with limited participants.
• Two-hour duration: Perfect for a quick yet meaningful outing.
• Age restriction: Suitable only for guests over 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Savannah: Battles & Brews Tour

This walking tour offers a smart way to learn about Savannah’s Civil War history while enjoying some of the city’s top bars. Starting at the Proof and Provision bar inside the DeSoto Hotel, you’ll meet your guide and kick off with a barrel-aged cocktail paired with southern fare. The atmosphere here sets a refined yet welcoming tone, giving a taste of Savannah’s hospitality.

From there, the route takes you to three carefully chosen establishments, each offering a distinct vibe and cocktail experience. First, at Octane bar, you’ll find a relaxed, friendly setting with expertly crafted drinks. This spot is perfect for settling into the tour’s pace and soaking in the local ambiance. What’s great here, and echoed in reviews, is how guides share stories that go beyond what you might find in a standard history book — “Apollo was amazing,” one reviewer says, “giving lots of facts I’d never heard before.”

Next, the group visits New Realm Distillery, a craft beer spot where you can sample a variety of beers on tap. This stop stands out because it combines the Civil War theme with Savannah’s thriving craft scene, making history feel alive with a modern twist. Many appreciate this mix of old and new, and the distillery’s extensive beer selection keeps things lively and interesting.

Finally, you’ll head to 22 Square Bar inside the Andaz Hotel, which elevates the experience with traditional southern cuisine infused with contemporary flair. Here, the focus on quality food complements the curated cocktails, rounding out a well-rounded experience. The tour wraps up after this stop, leaving you with a deeper understanding of Savannah’s Civil War history alongside some memorable local flavors.

The Stories and Historic Stops

While the tour emphasizes stories less often told, it takes you to locations that played key roles during the Civil War. Your guide fills in the gaps, sharing long-forgotten facts and personal stories that bring history to life. This approach is praised across reviews, with travelers highlighting how engaging and informative the guides are. As one reviewer notes, “Bonita was a wonderful tour guide,” who made history both accessible and entertaining.

The tour’s narrative focus is on uncovering the lesser-known aspects of Savannah’s Civil War experience, providing a fresh perspective that many visitors find compelling. This is especially appealing if you’ve already been to other historic sites and want to deepen your understanding of the city’s backstory.

The Experience in Detail

The two-hour duration is just right—long enough to visit three establishments and hear some stories, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. The small group size (limited to nine participants) ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd, and you can comfortably ask questions, engage with your guide, and enjoy the conversations.

The tour is scheduled in the evening, making it a perfect option to wind down after a day of sightseeing. The meeting point at the corner of Liberty and Bull Street is central and easy to find, right in front of a popular local restaurant.

What’s included: Your guide and the walking tour itself. What’s not included: Drinks, food, or transportation between stops. This means you should budget around $35 for the tour, plus additional cash for drinks, which many find to be good value considering the quality of the guides and the unique stops.

Analyzing the Value

At $35 per person, the tour offers an affordable way to combine history, socializing, and local flavor. Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills, which add a lot of value beyond just visiting bars. The inclusion of three bars with different atmospheres and drinks makes the experience varied and engaging.

Some reviews mention that the cocktails are delicious and themed, enhancing the storytelling and making each stop a memorable part of the overall experience. It’s not just about drinking but about savoring the flavors and the stories behind them, which makes the tour more meaningful.

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Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves walking and standing.
• Bring ID and cash for drinks and tips.
• Dress smart casual — the last stop is a fine dining setup, so looking neat is a good idea.
• Be prepared for rain or shine — the tour proceeds regardless of weather.
• Arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a smooth start.

Final Thoughts

This Civil War-themed pub crawl offers a well-balanced experience with engaging storytelling, local hotspots, and crafted cocktails. The guides are clearly a highlight, making history accessible and fun. If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys learning while socializing and sampling local drinks, this tour hits the spot.

While it’s not ideal for those under 21 and doesn’t include food or transportation, its focus on quality storytelling, intimate group size, and interesting venues makes it a worthwhile addition to your Savannah itinerary. It’s a particularly good option for history enthusiasts who prefer a more relaxed, social setting over traditional museum visits.

All in all, this tour provides a memorable, lively way to explore Savannah’s Civil War past, perfect for those who appreciate a good story combined with a few well-made cocktails.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, this tour is only for guests over 21 due to the alcohol consumption involved.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

Where does the tour start?
Meet your guide on the corner of Liberty and Bull Street, in front of ‘The Public Kitchen and Bar.’

What’s included in the tour?
Your guide and the walking experience are included.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included; you’ll purchase cocktails at each stop separately.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many guests.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your driver’s license, comfortable shoes, casual clothes, and some cash for drinks and tips.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual for a more refined experience, especially since the last stop is a fine dining setting.

What is the vibe of the tour?
It’s relaxed, social, and intimate, perfect for those interested in history, craft cocktails, and local hotspots.

If you’re curious about Savannah’s Civil War stories but want to enjoy a lively, social atmosphere, this Battles & Brews pub crawl could be just the ticket. It’s an engaging way to combine history, great drinks, and small-group camaraderie all in one memorable evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: