Savannah History Walking Tour

If you’re heading to Savannah and looking for a way to really get under the city’s skin, the Savannah History Walking Tour might just be what you need. It’s a two-hour stroll through the heart of the historic district, guided by someone who’s been part of Savannah’s story for generations. While it’s not a marathon of sightseeing, it’s packed with insights, stories, and local color that make the city come alive in a way that a simple map or guidebook can’t match.

What’s especially appealing about this tour is how it brings a truly local perspective. The guide, a sixth-generation Savannahian, shares stories about the city’s Native American, African, and Irish inhabitants—something you don’t often find in generic tours. Plus, the focus on six historic squares means you’ll see a variety of landmarks, benches, monuments, and shady spots that give Savannah its old-world charm. On the flip side, the tour’s reliance on walking means you should be comfortable with a moderate pace and some outdoor weather.

If you appreciate engaging guides, local stories, and a look beyond the typical tourist highlights, this tour is likely to resonate with you. It’s especially good for those who want a meaningful, personal touch to their Savannah experience without the clutter of larger group tours or hop-on-hop-off buses. However, if you’re after a more comprehensive history or want to explore beyond the downtown area, this might feel a bit narrow in scope.

Key Points

• Authentic local perspective from a sixth-generation Savannahian guide
• Focus on diverse cultures, including Native American, African, and Irish histories
• Short and manageable at around 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet meaningful visit
• Accessible for most travelers, with most participants able to join comfortably
• Insightful commentary that goes beyond just landmarks, sharing stories and context
• Limited group size (up to 20 travelers) for a more personal experience

Exploring the Savannah History Walking Tour

Choosing a walking tour in Savannah is a smart way to soak up the atmosphere, and this particular experience hits the right notes. It’s designed to be both engaging and educational without feeling overly formal or academic. We loved how the guide’s deep roots in Savannah translated into stories that felt authentic and personal.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour begins at Wright Square, a historic spot filled with stories and shaded by large trees. The first stop is Tomochichi’s Boulder, dedicated to the chief of the Yamacraw Tribe, which played a crucial role in Savannah’s early days. This monument, although just a small feature, offers a poignant glimpse into Native American history in the area. The guide explains the significance of this site, emphasizing the importance of understanding Savannah’s original inhabitants.

From there, the tour meanders through six squares, each with its own story and character. The route is designed to showcase the city’s architectural beauty, but also its layered history. Expect to see monuments, benches, and shady spots perfect for resting or taking photos. The guide’s commentary is engaging—full of historical tidbits as well as personal anecdotes.

The Guide and Experience

What sets this tour apart is the guide’s background. As a local who’s been part of Savannah’s story for generations, they bring an insider’s view that’s both heartfelt and insightful. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Arthur and Cody Shelley, noting their professionalism, humor, and deep knowledge. One reviewer remarked, “Arthur is an awesome tour guide! Very informative, down to earth and just funny!!! Everyone should definitely take this tour!”

The conversational style means you’re encouraged to ask questions and comment, making it feel less like a lecture and more like a friendly chat. The guide’s ability to pivot, such as when a church was closed, shows a flexibility that visitors really appreciate.

Value for Money

At $34 per person, this is a reasonably priced way to learn about Savannah. It’s not a massive tour but offers good value—especially considering the depth of local knowledge and the small group size. The experience is straightforward: professional guides, a local perspective, and a route through some of the most photogenic and historically significant squares.

You’ll want to book in advance—most people reserve their spot about five days ahead—and keep in mind that most travelers find the timing (starting at 10:30 a.m.) fits easily into a morning or early afternoon plan. Parking around the squares is available but paid, and the tour remains mostly accessible via public transit.

The Walk and What to Expect

This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. The route covers six squares, which means you’ll be on your feet for about two hours. The pace is generally relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to rest on benches or shady spots along the way. Expect to see a mix of historic monuments, local landmarks, and some hidden gems.

The tour’s focus on history from diverse perspectives—Native American, African, and Irish—means you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of Savannah’s cultural fabric. It’s a more personalized experience, thanks to the smaller group size (max 20 people), which encourages interaction and questions.

Reviews and Real People’s Thoughts

All 25 reviews give this tour a perfect 5-star rating, and that’s rare. Leslie_J raves about Arthur, calling him “an awesome tour,” noting he’s “very informative, down to earth and just funny.” Natasha_G appreciated the conversational tone and the flexibility when landmarks were closed, adding, “I also appreciated the suggestions for places to eat, other landmarks to visit, and weekly activities.” Bartley_a simply called Cody Shelley “great” and praised his nonstop history lessons, recommending him for doing the squares.

These reviews reinforce that the guides’ knowledge and personality are the highlights—something that makes the experience memorable and worth the price.

The Practicalities

• Duration: About 2 hours
• Price: $34 per person
• Availability: Book about 5 days in advance
• Start Time: 10:30 a.m. at Wright Square
• Group Size: Up to 20 travelers
• Inclusions: Professional, local guide
• Exclusions: Parking fee, food and drinks (unless purchased)
• Weather: Good weather required; if canceled, full refund or reschedule offered

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in a personalized, story-driven tour that highlights diverse cultural influences, this walking experience is perfect. It’s ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to understand Savannah’s complex past beyond the usual landmarks. The focus on native and local perspectives adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers crave.

It’s also suitable if you prefer small-group experiences that allow for questions and interactions. But keep in mind, this tour is mainly about the historic downtown squares, so if you want to explore beyond that or see more modern sights, you might want to supplement this with other tours.

The Bottom Line

The Savannah History Walking Tour offers a thoughtful, local-led glimpse into the city’s past, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants more than just a surface-level visit. With highly knowledgeable guides and a route through six charming squares, it’s a meaningful way to spend a couple of hours. The small group size and conversational style make it engaging and personal, especially if you’re eager to hear stories that connect Savannah’s past to its present.

While it’s not the cheapest tour around, the price reflects the quality of local insight and personalized storytelling. It’s best suited for those who value authentic experiences and are interested in exploring the city’s layered history through the eyes of someone who’s truly part of its fabric.

If your goal is to walk away with a richer understanding of Savannah’s diverse roots and a few great stories to tell, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and since it’s a walking tour, younger kids should be comfortable walking for about two hours.

Can I join if I don’t have a car?
Yes, the tour starts near public transportation options, and parking is available around the squares for a fee.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and be prepared for the weather—bring sunscreen or bug spray if needed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers a professional, local guide and the tour itself. Food, drinks, and parking are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about five days ahead, especially during peak seasons.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable walking and are supervised, the tour can be enjoyed by families interested in history and culture.

If you’re looking for a way to connect with Savannah’s soul—beyond the typical tourist spots—this walking tour might just be the perfect fit. It’s a chance to walk, listen, and learn from someone who truly knows the city inside out.