Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour

If you’re thinking about experiencing Savannah during the holiday season, the Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour might catch your eye. This popular tour has been part of Savannah’s holiday traditions for 25 years, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s historic beauty decked out for the season—all from the comfort of an old-fashioned trolley. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, as well as some of the pitfalls, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your holiday plans.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the lively, engaging guides who sing carols and tell stories, and the unique stop at the American Prohibition Museum, which adds a fun historical twist to the evening. However, a notable consideration is that, based on reviews, the amount of actual holiday lighting might not meet everyone’s expectations—some visitors have expressed disappointment over the limited lights and the overall festive display.

This tour tends to suit those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with a mix of history, holiday cheer, and a bit of entertainment. It’s especially good if you’re after a guided experience that combines storytelling, singing, and some historic sightseeing in a cozy setting, rather than an extensive decorated city tour.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation on a vintage trolley makes the experience accessible and relaxed.
• Engaging guides who sing carols and share stories help create a festive, friendly atmosphere.
• Stops at historic sites, including the Prohibition Museum and City Market, add cultural and seasonal interest.
• Limited holiday lights might mean less of a “Christmas light show” than some expect.
• Price point around $38.50 per person offers reasonable value, especially with included snacks.
• Weather can impact visibility, as rain or poor weather may limit what you see from the trolley.

What to Expect from the Tour

This two-hour experience kicks off at the Old Town Trolley Depot on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in Savannah. From there, you’ll hop aboard a festive trolley decorated with holiday finery. The atmosphere is warm, lively, and designed to get everyone singing along, with the guides often leading with Christmas carols and fun stories about Savannah’s holiday traditions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: American Prohibition Museum
Here, you’ll step back into the 1920s, into a recreated speakeasy where costumed docents will tell you about how holidays were celebrated during the Prohibition era. This stop is quite well-received, with the tour including a 30-minute admission, so you’ll have some time to explore and soak in the history. Reviewers like Elizabeth praised the guide Biscuit, noting that “it was so much fun,” and appreciated the added historical context — a nice touch that sets this tour apart from just a sightseeing drive.

Second Stop: City Market
After the museum, the trolley makes its way to Savannah’s bustling City Market, which during the holidays is decorated festively. Here, you can meet Father Christmas, take some photos, and enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Entry to this stop is free, and you’ll typically spend around 30 minutes soaking in the sights, sounds, and holiday cheer. Several reviews mention that this part of the tour keeps things engaging, with guides encouraging singing and interaction, which adds to the festive spirit.

Included Snacks & Drinks

Onboard, you’ll enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic punch bowls and treats, which adds a cozy, communal feel to the ride. While alcohol is available for purchase, the inclusion of festive non-alcoholic drinks makes the experience more family-friendly and accessible. Some reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm in leading singing and providing a cheerful vibe that enhances the overall experience.

The Guides & Atmosphere

One of the recurring themes in reviews is the importance of the guide. Many guests mention guides like Biscuit, Crystal, and Ben, praising them for their energy, humor, and storytelling. Several reviewers note that guides who sing, share stories, and create a lively environment make the tour memorable. Conversely, some reviews point out that a less enthusiastic guide or a guide who seemed disengaged can dampen the experience.

Weather & Visibility

Weather conditions are a factor to consider. Rain or poor weather can impact visibility since the trolley has open sides with plastic flaps. Multiple reviews mention that rain limited what they could see, which is understandable. If rain is forecast, be prepared for a potentially less visual spectacle, but remember that the guides make up for it with their storytelling and lively antics.

The Pros & Cons of the Tour

Pros:
– Engaging, lively guides who sing and tell stories
– Unique stop at the Prohibition Museum offers a fun historical element
– The cozy trolley ride is a relaxed way to see parts of Savannah without much walking
– Affordable price considering the included snacks, treats, and some sightseeing
– The holiday decorations at City Market create a festive vibe

Cons:
– Some reviews mention limited holiday lighting, with a few feeling it’s not as “festive” as expected
– Weather can impact visibility and overall enjoyment
– A few guests felt the tour was not worth the cost if they were expecting more elaborate light displays
– The trip to the Prohibition Museum, while interesting, may feel disconnected from the holiday theme for some

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $38.50 per person, this tour is reasonably priced, especially considering the included snacks, the historical stop, and the lively entertainment. For those seeking a laid-back, guided experience with storytelling and holiday cheer, it offers a good value. However, if your main goal is to see elaborate Christmas lights or a Christmas-themed light show, you might find this tour a little underwhelming.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for those who enjoy lively guides, musical holiday traditions, and a mix of history and festive fun without the hassle of navigating Savannah’s streets on your own. It’s a good choice for couples, friends, or even small groups looking for a cozy, social activity. While children might enjoy the singing and stories, families should be aware that the focus is more on storytelling and less on elaborate light displays.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour offers a charming, relaxed way to spend an evening soaking in Savannah’s holiday spirit. With enthusiastic guides, a mix of history and cheer, and some festive decor, it captures the essence of holiday fun in the city. That said, if you’re expecting a dazzling Christmas light spectacle, you might be disappointed, as many reviews mention the limited lights and the challenge of weather conditions.

This tour shines when it comes to the personality of the guides and the inclusiveness of the experience. It’s a warm, social event that’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, singing, and a bit of festive history. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and go into it with relaxed expectations about the lights. For a cozy, engaging holiday activity in Savannah, it can be a delightful choice.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to the Old Town Trolley Tour Depot at 250 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in Savannah.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and children under 4 are considered lap children. The tour is generally family-friendly, especially with its focus on storytelling and singing.

Is admission to the Prohibition Museum included?
Yes, the 30-minute visit to the museum is included in the price, giving you a chance to learn about holiday celebrations during the Prohibition era.

What should I wear?
Since the trolley has plastic flaps over open sides, dress warmly if the weather is cold or rainy. Be prepared for potentially limited visibility in bad weather.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

In the end, this tour is a cozy, friendly way to enjoy Savannah’s holiday charm—if you’re not hung up on a dazzling display of lights, you’ll likely find the lively guides and historic stops make it a worthwhile seasonal outing.