Savannahs Finest History Tour: A Walk Through Time

If you’re visiting Savannah and crave a genuine feel for the city’s past beyond just sightseeing photos, this Savannah’s Finest History Tour might be worth considering. It promises an engaging stroll through the city’s most iconic squares, historic landmarks, and stories brought to life by passionate local guides.

What really caught our eye is the emphasis on storytelling from knowledgeable guides like Chris, Greg, and Will — who apparently add a personal touch that makes history come alive. Plus, the tour covers a broad sweep of Savannah’s history, from colonial struggles to Civil War battles and Victorian elegance. On the flip side, the price is quite reasonable, but some travelers have experienced less-than-ideal moments, like last-minute cancellations, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour would suit history buffs, architecture fans, or anyone wanting a structured, casual introduction to Savannah in under two hours. It’s perfect if you prefer walking tours that stay under a mile, making it accessible for most fitness levels. However, travelers seeking a seamless, fully reliable experience should weigh the reviews carefully, especially given some reports of guide no-shows.

Key Points

• Knowledgeable Guides: Passionate storytellers who bring Savannah’s history to life.
• Iconic Stops: Covers major squares, historic cemeteries, and notable landmarks.
• Affordable Price: At $35, it offers a decent value for a 1 hour 45-minute tour.
• Rich Content: From colonial origins to Civil War and Victorian architecture.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, making it manageable but still potentially busy.
• Potential Cancellations: Be aware of the risk of last-minute issues, as seen in reviews.

What to Expect from the Savannah’s Finest History Tour

Let’s walk through what makes this tour interesting — and some things to consider along the way.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point — Johnson Square:
You’ll meet in front of the Nathaniel Greene monument, a fitting place to kick off a history-filled walk. It’s a quick 10-minute stop that sets the tone for what’s to come, with an included admission ticket to get things going.

Wright Square:
Known as the “hanging square,” this spot offers a potent glimpse into Savannah’s darker past. Just a brief 5-minute stop, yet packed with stories. The tour guides tend to discuss its historical significance, possibly including tales of Old Savannah justice.

Chippewa Square:
Most visitors recognize this as the park where Forrest Gump waited for the bus. It’s a fun pop culture nod, and the guide will fill you in on the story behind it while you take in the scenic surroundings.

Madison Square:
An important Civil War site where General Sherman established his headquarters. This stop, lasting about 10 minutes, offers a chance to picture Savannah during one of its most tumultuous eras.

Calhoun Square:
The oldest square with original buildings, providing a sense of walking into 1850s Savannah. This 10-minute stop emphasizes the city’s Victorian charm and historical architecture.

Monterey Square:
Home to General Pulaski’s monument and the Jim Williams house — made famous by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. It’s a favorite for history fans and film buffs alike.

Lafayette Square:
Features the Andrew Low House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The guide may share stories of the first Girl Scouts meeting in 1912 here, adding a fun twist for those interested in local stories.

Colonial Park Cemetery:
The oldest graveyard in Savannah, it offers a tangible link to the past and stories about colonial disputes and early settlements. It’s a short 10-minute visit packed with history.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist:
Inside, you’ll find what’s often called the “Sistine Chapel of the South.” Its breathtaking interior offers a peaceful moment and an architectural highlight.

Oglethorpe Square & Reynolds Square:
These last stops highlight beautiful regency architecture and the monument of John Wesley. The tour ends back where it started, around 10 minutes later—giving you a full but manageable experience.

What We Loved About This Tour

One of the biggest strengths is the guides’ storytelling ability. The reviews highlight guides like Chris, Greg, and Will as passionate, sincere, and knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and engaging. Their local insights help bring Savannah’s history to life, making the stories more memorable than just reading plaques or hearing dry facts.

The stunning architecture and iconic squares are another highlight. Savannah’s city planning with its picturesque squares makes walking enjoyable and visually interesting. You’ll get to see the homes, monuments, and historical sites that give Savannah its unique charm, all within a manageable walking distance.

Also, the inclusion of admission tickets at each stop means less extra thinking for you. It’s a small detail but adds convenience, letting you focus on absorbing the stories rather than hunting for tickets or navigating entry fees.

What’s Not So Great

While the tour sounds wonderful on paper, some travelers have reported disappointing experiences. The most serious issue noted was a guide no-show, which can completely ruin your plans, especially if you’re counting on a guided experience to structure your visit. A reviewer pointed out they had zero notice about this cancellation, which is frustrating and can be a real disappointment.

In this case, it’s crucial to double-check the cancellation policy and ensure your booking is confirmed. The tour does offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before—a good safety net if you’re worried about last-minute issues.

Another consideration is the group size, capped at 30 travelers. While this helps keep the experience manageable, it can still feel crowded, especially during peak times.

Price and Value

At $35 per person, this tour is relatively affordable, especially considering the number of stops and the guided storytelling involved. For less than two hours of walking, you’re getting a detailed overview of Savannah’s core historic sites, along with insights from local guides. It’s a price point that offers decent value, particularly if you’re interested in history and architecture rather than just sightseeing.

However, with reviews mentioning guide no-shows, it’s worth weighing whether a scheduled, guided experience is right for you or if you prefer more flexible, on-your-own exploration.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This walk-through is well-suited for visitors who enjoy storytelling, history, and architecture. It’s a manageable pace, making it accessible for most ages and fitness levels. If you’re a fan of movies filmed in Savannah, the stops like Chippewa Square will add a fun pop-culture layer.

Keep in mind, this tour is during the day, so it’s good for travelers who prefer daytime sightseeing rather than evening ghost tours or boat trips. If you’re visiting Savannah primarily to learn about its past in a relaxed setting, this could be a good fit.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah’s Finest History Tour offers a solid introduction to the city’s story, set against a backdrop of beautiful squares and historic sites. Its main selling points are the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Savannah’s architecture and landmarks up close in a casual, friendly environment.

For those who appreciate storytelling and want a guided experience without the heavy price tag, this tour provides a good balance. Just be aware of the potential for cancellations or no-shows, and check the cancellation policy if your plans are flexible.

Overall, it’s best suited for curious travelers eager to learn about Savannah’s past through engaging guides and scenic stops, rather than those seeking a perfectly seamless experience. If you’re flexible and ready for a bit of storytelling charm, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile window into Savannah’s history.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally accessible, it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. It involves walking and historical stories, so discretion is advised for very young children.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Johnson Square in front of the Nathaniel Greene monument and ends back at the same spot, so you won’t need to commute after.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s included in the price?
Your $35 ticket includes access to all stops, with some tickets for specific sites included as part of the tour.

Are tickets purchased in advance necessary?
It’s recommended to book about 18 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and avoid last-minute issues.

What if the tour guide doesn’t show up?
While rare, some reviews mention guide no-shows. If this happens, contact the tour provider and check your email for any updates or cancellations.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative way to absorb Savannah’s historic charm and enjoy some engaging storytelling, this tour offers a lot for the price. Just stay aware of potential hiccups, and you’ll likely come away with a richer understanding of this beautiful city.