Savannah Strangled not Stirred Pub Crawl

A Closer Look at the Savannah Strangled Not Stirred Pub Crawl

If you’re seeking a different way to experience Savannah after dark, this Savannah Strangled not Stirred Pub Crawl promises more than just drinks. It offers a chance to uncover the city’s hidden, haunting stories of crime, murder, and ghosts while enjoying a handful of local pubs in a cozy, small-group setting. While we haven’t personally attended, the tour’s solid 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews suggests it’s a favorite for those intrigued by Savannah’s darker side.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life, and the ease of the whole experience—no fussing with pub choices or navigating unfamiliar streets. Plus, the tour’s intimate group size (maximum 10 guests) makes for a more personal, engaging vibe. On the flip side, some reviews mention that it’s more of a brisk walk between bars than a true pub crawl, which might be a consideration if you’re after a longer or more leisurely pub experience.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history and mystery, and who aren’t shy about a few spooky tales. If you’re a fan of true crime or haunted history, this could be right up your alley. But if your main goal is to spend time sampling a variety of drinks, you might find this tour more story-focused than drink-heavy.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personal feel.
• Guides are often praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge.
• Itinerary includes iconic Savannah sites with dark histories.
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but engaging activity.
• Price point around $35, which is reasonable for the content and guide quality.
• Age restriction 21+ due to alcohol, but service animals are allowed.

What to Expect from the Savannah Strangled not Stirred Pub Crawl

This tour offers a two-hour stroll around Savannah’s historic streets, focusing on its most foreboding stories from the past. You’ll meet your guide at Dub’s Pub, located on River Street, a lively area with a colorful history. The tour then takes you through several historic squares—Johnson Square, Reynolds Square, and Wright Square—each with their own dark tales of duels, executions, and betrayals. You end the night with a visit to Factors Walk, a haunting corner full of tales of crime and greed.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the narrative style of the guides. According to reviews, guides like Apollo and Morris not only know the facts but also keep the mood lively and engaging. One reviewer noted that Apollo “taught us more in two hours than most other tours in Savannah,” which speaks volumes about the storytelling quality.

The stops are carefully selected to be both scenic and spooky. For example, Dub’s Pub on River Street isn’t just a lively bar but a spot where stories of smugglers and bloodshed linger beneath the surface. At Reynolds Square, you’ll learn about the haunted reputation of the Olde Pink House, a place that exudes both elegance and mystery. Wright Square is known locally as the “Hanging Square” because of its history of executions—an ideal spot for a chilling tale.

Each stop offers roughly 20 minutes for stories and photos, giving you a taste of Savannah’s darker past without feeling rushed. The tour is designed to be walkable and manageable, with most of the stories rooted in the city’s history and folklore rather than pure entertainment.

The Pivotal Stops and Their Stories

Dub’s Pub on River Street is the opening act, where your guide will share tales of smuggling and maritime crime along Savannah’s waterfront. Walking down the Stone Stairs of Death, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a noir film, with stories of sailors and criminals that still echo below the surface.

Johnson Square is Savannah’s oldest square, and by night, it reveals its darker edge. Think duels ending in bloodshed and scandals that shook the city’s high-society circles. The stories here are evocative of a city with secrets lurking behind its moss-draped oaks.

Reynolds Square is home to the Olde Pink House, an elegant 18th-century building with a reputation for being haunted. The guide might mention flickering candles and ghostly whispers, adding a supernatural layer to the tour. It’s not just a pretty building but a piece of Savannah’s haunted lore.

Wright Square has a somber history of public executions. Locals call it the “Hanging Square,” and stories of those who met grim fates here—criminals and the wrongly accused—bring a chilling edge. Some believe the spirits of those executed still linger in the shadows.

Factors Walk completes the tour with gritty tales of commerce and crime. Its cobblestone streets and iron bridges once bustled with cotton traders and shady dealings. Today, they’re a reminder of Savannah’s dark history of greed and betrayal, with ghost stories and whispers to match.

The Experience and the Guides

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ storytelling abilities. One reviewer called Apollo “phenomenal,” highlighting his humor, captivating manner, and deep knowledge. Others appreciated guides like Morris, who was described as “informative, fun & entertaining.” The guides turn what could be a simple walk into a lively storytelling session that makes history feel alive.

Most guests find the tour’s value to be excellent for the price—about $35 per person. You get not just stories but a learning experience that’s both entertaining and educational, with the added bonus of a hassle-free route that eliminates the guesswork of pub choices and navigation.

However, some reviews note that the pub stops aren’t necessarily the ones listed on the tour description. One reviewer pointed out that the tour visited different pubs than those initially mentioned, which didn’t detract from their overall enjoyment but is worth keeping in mind if you’re expecting a specific pub experience.

The group size maxes out at 10, which fosters a more intimate environment, perfect for asking questions or just feeling more connected with your guide and fellow travelers.

Price and Value

At $35, this tour offers a pretty good deal considering the amount of storytelling and the historic depth. It’s not a pub crawl in the traditional sense—there’s no dedicated focus on drinking at each stop—but rather an experience where you can enjoy a couple of drinks if you wish, after or before the tour, in the vicinity. The tour itself is more about the stories and atmosphere than the quantity of drinks.

Since alcoholic beverages are not included, if you’re someone looking to sample a variety of local brews or cocktails, you’ll need to plan that separately. Still, the experience provides a rich narrative backdrop that enhances your appreciation of Savannah’s history—worthy of the ticket price.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Savannah’s darker past. If you enjoy stories of ghosts, murders, and historic scandals, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer a small, intimate group rather than large, noisy tours.

Keep in mind, it’s a 21+ experience, so it’s not suited for children or teenagers. The focus on alcohol, historical crimes, and ghost stories make it more appropriate for adult travelers wanting a spooky, engaging evening.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Strangled not Stirred Pub Crawl offers a compelling blend of history, crime, and ghostly tales in a cozy, manageable setting. The guides are consistently praised for their storytelling skills, adding authenticity and fun to the experience. While it’s not a pub crawl in the traditional sense—more a walk-through of Savannah’s darker corners with a beverage in hand—it delivers a memorable night for those interested in the city’s haunted past.

If you’re in Savannah and looking for something different from the usual sightseeing, this tour provides a lively, informative, and slightly spooky journey through the city’s secret stories. It’s especially good if you prefer small groups, engaging guides, and a mix of history and mystery. Just remember, it’s a quick two hours, so plan accordingly if you want to extend your night in the area.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
This experience is strictly 21+ due to alcohol, so it’s not suitable for children or teenagers.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but engaging activity for an evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 11 days in advance, especially if you want a private group larger than 10.

Can I join as a private group?
Absolutely, you can book a private tour if your group has more than 10 people.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You’re welcome to bring your own or purchase drinks at the pubs.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Dub’s Pub on River Street, with the specific address at 225 W River St, Savannah.

In all, this tour offers a lively, story-rich look at Savannah’s mysterious past. Perfect for those who enjoy history, ghost stories, and a touch of crime, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening exploring the city’s shadowy corners with friendly guides and a small group.