If you’re visiting Savannah and love a mix of history, storytelling, and a good drink, the Midnight in the Garden Walking Tour and Pub Crawl might just catch your interest. We’ve looked into what this experience offers—combining the intrigue of true crime with the lively atmosphere of Savannah’s local nightlife—and here’s what you should know before signing up.

One thing we really appreciate is how guides bring the stories to life, making history feel personal and immediate. Plus, the chance to hop from one charming bar to another, with a drink in hand, adds a relaxed, social vibe to the tour. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the tour can feel disorganized or that some stops aren’t as welcoming as you might hope, so it’s worth keeping expectations balanced.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling, local history, and a lively pub scene. It’s not ideal for those under 21 or anyone looking for a quiet, purely historical experience. But if you’re after a fun, engaging way to learn about Savannah’s past while enjoying its nightlife, this tour could be a good pick.

Key Points

Combines history and nightlife in a walk through Savannah’s streets rooted in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Guides bring stories to life, making the experience more engaging than a simple pub crawl.
Enjoy a relaxed pace hopping between some of Savannah’s best bars, with a focus on local charm.
Open carry laws in Savannah mean you can bring your drink outside, adding to the laid-back atmosphere.
Price point at $35 offers a decent value considering the guided storytelling and bar visits, but drinks are not included.
Limited group size, typically just 9 participants, helps keep things intimate and manageable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: Where and How It Begins

The tour kicks off at the John Wesley Monument in Reynolds Square, a central, picturesque spot that’s easy to find. From there, your guide will lead you into the heart of Savannah, walking along streets that have seen centuries of stories unfold. The small group setup (capped at 9 people) means you’re less likely to get lost in the crowd, and it fosters a more personal experience.

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The Core of the Tour: Stories & Sites

The main draw here is the connection to the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. You’ll hear about Jim Williams, a prominent figure in Savannah’s preservation scene, and the tragic murder of Danny Hansford, which still sparks curiosity today. The guide’s role is critical—they’re usually praised for their knowledge, making the stories compelling and vivid.

One reviewer specifically mentions how knowledgeable their guide Janie was, saying she made the story come alive. Another highlighted that the tour included fascinating facts like psychics, exorcisms, and local drag queens—adding layers of local color to the narrative.

Visiting Notable Bars

The pub crawl aspect is seamlessly integrated into the storytelling. The tour visits some of Savannah’s best local bars, each with its unique charm. From historic taverns to lively neighborhood pubs, the stops are selected for their ambiance and connection to the city’s nightlife.

Many reviews rave about the bars themselves—“really neat and unique,” as one put it. Some guides even incorporate the stories of each venue, turning a simple drink stop into a mini tour of Savannah’s drinking history.

Drinking in Savannah’s Open Carry Laws

A notable perk is Savannah’s open carry law, allowing you to carry your drink outside legally. This means if you’re on the street with your beverage, you’re not breaking local ordinances, which adds a relaxed, almost festival-like feel to the experience. It also encourages a true citywide pub crawl vibe, where you can stroll and sip at your leisure.

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The Atmosphere: Casual, Fun, and Sometimes Chaotic

The overall vibe is relaxed and social—perfect for travelers who want a mix of storytelling and mingling. We’ve seen reviews from those who had a fantastic time, praising guides’ enthusiasm and the interesting venues. However, a few reviews point out moments of disorganization or unenthusiastic bar staff, which might make parts of the experience less smooth.

One reviewer, Shannon, had a less favorable impression, citing disorganization and awkward interactions at some stops. That said, many others found the tour lively and engaging, emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and the fun of raising a glass to Savannah’s stories.

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Duration and Price: Is It Worth It?

At just $35, the tour is reasonably priced for a two-hour experience filled with stories and bar visits. Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so your out-of-pocket costs depend on how much you choose to sip along the way. It’s a good value if you’re interested in storytelling paired with a lively pub crawl, but don’t expect a free-flowing bar tour—your budget should account for drinks.

The two-hour duration makes it a manageable evening activity, especially if you’re looking to combine it with dinner or other attractions in Savannah.

Ready to Book?

Savannah: Midnight in the Garden Walking Tour and Pub Crawl

4.3

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Practical Tips for Participants

Arrive early at the meeting point (John Wesley Monument in Reynolds Square). It’s easy to find, and punctuality keeps everything running smoothly.
Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking around for roughly two hours.
Bring cash for tips and perhaps some extra drinks.
ID or passport is necessary—this is a standard requirement for alcohol-related activities.
Weather considerations: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly—an umbrella or rain jacket might be helpful.

If you love stories, history, and a good pub atmosphere, this tour is a fun way to experience Savannah’s darker tales and vibrant nightlife simultaneously. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided walks, storytelling, and the freedom of carrying drinks outdoors.

This isn’t the tour for under-21s or those seeking a purely historical, quiet experience. It’s also not ideal if you’re sensitive to disorganization or prefer a more curated, polished experience—some reviews mention moments of confusion or less-than-welcoming bars.

This Savannah tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore the city’s connection to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. You get immersed in stories about Jim Williams and the city’s infamous murder case, all while hopping into some of Savannah’s most charming bars.

The knowledgeable guides make a difference, turning a simple pub crawl into a storytelling adventure. Plus, with Savannah’s open carry laws, it’s a relaxed, street-party vibe that sets this apart from more traditional tours.

While a few reviews mention disorganization or less welcoming venues, most travelers seem to enjoy the mix of history and nightlife. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of Savannah’s darker past paired with a lively social scene.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, informal way to learn and drink your way through Savannah, this tour strikes a good balance of entertainment and storytelling—just go with an open mind and a spirit ready for a good time.

Is there a specific dress code for this tour?
No strict dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking around for about two hours.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to buy your own beverages at the bars you visit.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the John Wesley Monument in the middle of Reynolds Square.

Can I bring my own alcohol outside?
Yes, Savannah’s open carry laws allow you to carry your drink outside, so feel free to sip as you walk.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours.

Is this tour suitable for families?
No, it’s intended for those aged 21 and over, due to the focus on alcohol and the nature of the pub crawl.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, cash for tips and drinks, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Does rain affect the tour?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Will I learn about Savannah’s history?
Yes, the guide shares stories about Jim Williams, the murder case, and other local tales, blending history and entertainment.

Is it a good value for the price?
Considering the guided storytelling and visits to popular bars, many find it reasonably priced, although drinks are extra.

Navigating Savannah’s darker stories with a drink in hand, this tour offers an amusing and insightful way to experience the city. If you enjoy engaging guides and lively atmospheres, it’s worth considering for your trip.