Segway Tour in Historic Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah

Exploring Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery on a Segway

If you’re considering a unique way to see one of Savannah’s most iconic sites, a Segway tour of Bonaventure Cemetery might be just the ticket. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve spent plenty of time researching and chatting with travelers who have. What stands out is how it combines the fun of riding a Segway with the chance to learn about Savannah’s fascinating past and to see some of its most famous residents.

What I really love about this experience is how accessible it is — perfect even for those who’ve never ridden a Segway before — and how it covers more ground in less time than a walking tour. Plus, the small group setting means personalized attention from your guide. But, on the flip side, there’s a chance of delays, as some reviews mention late starts, so timing is something to keep in mind.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure. If you’re into history, quirky stories, and don’t mind a guided ride, you’ll probably find this a memorable way to spend part of your Savannah visit.

Key Points

• Easy to learn: The tour includes safety and instructional training, making it accessible even for first-time Segway riders.
• Efficient sightseeing: Cover a large, 100-acre cemetery in much less time than walking.
• Rich stories: Guides share fascinating facts about notable graves and local characters.
• Small group vibe: Tours are limited to just 10 people, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Great views: The cemetery sits on the Wilmington River, offering beautiful river vistas.
• Flexible for most: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Start: Meeting at Bonaventure Cemetery

Your adventure begins at the main entrance, 330 Bonaventure Road, Thunderbolt. The tour kicks off around 9:30 am, which is a good choice for avoiding the crowds and the heat later in the day. When you arrive, expect a brief safety and riding instructions session. Our guides are quite adept at making even complete beginners comfortable, which is a relief if you’ve never been on a Segway before.

Riding Through History

Once everyone is comfortable, the real fun begins. The guide leads you through the sprawling cemetery, stopping at notable graves such as Gracie Watson, Johnny Mercer, and Conrad Aiken. You’ll learn about their stories and the significance of various tombstones and monuments. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Neil and Carolyn are — they seem to genuinely enjoy sharing Savannah’s stories.

Highlights Along the Way

One of the best parts is how the terrain and views enhance the experience. The cemetery is on the banks of the Wilmington River, so you’ll see not only the beautifully preserved graves but also picturesque river scenes. Several travelers mention dolphins swimming in the river during their tour, which is a bonus if you’re lucky.

The Experience of Riding a Segway

If you’ve never used a Segway before, don’t worry — most reviews praise how easy they are to operate. The training session ensures you’re confident before heading out, which can be a big relief. Many mention that even with physical limitations or nervousness, they found Segways easy to control. It’s a smooth, comfortable way to cover ground without getting tired or overheating, especially in warmer weather.

Length and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which feels just right — enough time to see a lot but not so long you lose interest. A few reviews mention that the tour sometimes runs over the allotted time, so plan accordingly. Since the tour starts on time, arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.

Small Group and Personalization

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate vibe. This means your guide has time to answer questions, share stories, and ensure everyone feels comfortable, which many guests appreciate.

The Value of the Tour

At $80 per person, this experience offers a lot in terms of convenience, fun, and insight. Covering so much ground efficiently means you get a comprehensive look at Bonaventure Cemetery without the fatigue of walking. Plus, the small group size and guided narration add to the value, making it more than just a ride. Many reviews note that guides like Neil and Carolyn are both personable and extremely knowledgeable, which adds depth to your visit.

What Could Be Better?

The main caveat is the potential for late starts. One reviewer mentioned arriving late because the tour was delayed by vehicle issues, which is something to keep in mind when planning your day. Also, the tour doesn’t include transportation from downtown Savannah, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy learning local stories while actively exploring a historic site, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a quicker, more dynamic way of seeing the cemetery instead of walking for hours. It’s perfect for people who are open to trying a Segway for the first time, as the instructions are straightforward and beginner-friendly.

But if you’re a history buff wanting an in-depth, full-length exploration of Savannah’s cemeteries or prefer quiet visits without guides, this might not be your best fit. Also, if you’re not comfortable on a Segway or have physical limitations, check with the provider about alternative options, like a bicycle, which they mentioned as available.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The Cemetery Grounds

Bonaventure Cemetery is a sprawling 100-acre site, and walking it would take hours. The Segway allows you to see a lot without exhaustion, gliding between notable graves and scenic spots. The guide points out specific graves and shares stories, making each stop meaningful. Highlighted graves, like those of Johnny Mercer and Gracie Watson, are not only famous but also beautifully preserved, serving as poignant reminders of Savannah’s history.

River Views and Extra Encounters

Beyond the graves, the cemetery’s location offers stunning views of the Wilmington River. Several reviews mention the chance to see dolphins in the river — a delightful surprise that adds an extra layer to the experience. The peaceful setting combined with the gentle sounds of the river makes for a calming, almost meditative ride.

Learning Opportunities

Guides like Neil and Carolyn are praised for their knowledge and storytelling abilities. They share details about cemetery symbolism, art, and the lives of those buried there, making the tour educational as well as entertaining. One reviewer even called Neil “so knowledgeable about every corner of the cemetery,” highlighting how much insight they brought to their stories.

Safety and Comfort

The safety instructions are clear, and the guides ensure everyone feels confident before heading out. Many reviews mention how easy it is to ride a Segway, even for first-timers or those with limited mobility. It’s a good option if you want to see the cemetery comfortably while avoiding walking long distances.

Final Thoughts

The Segway tour of Bonaventure Cemetery offers a lively, informative way to experience one of Savannah’s most picturesque and historic sites. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of fun and learning, with the bonus of covering a large area efficiently. The small group size ensures a personalized touch, and the scenic river views provide a peaceful backdrop to the stories shared.

While the tour is well-regarded, be mindful of possible delays and plan your transportation accordingly. It’s a fantastic option for first-time Segway users and those looking for a memorable, hassle-free way to see the cemetery. With knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace, this experience makes exploring Savannah’s haunted and historic graves a memorable part of any visit.

FAQ

Is the Segway tour suitable for first-time riders?
Yes, the tour includes safety and instructional training, making it accessible for those who have never ridden a Segway before. Most travelers find it easy to pick up.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes long, giving you enough time to see key sights without feeling rushed.

Are there any physical limitations that would prevent participation?
Most travelers can participate, and the guides can offer alternative options like a bicycle if needed. If you have specific concerns, check with the provider beforehand.

Does the tour start on time?
It generally begins at 9:30 am, but a few reviews mention delays. Arriving a bit early helps ensure you’re ready when the tour begins.

Is transportation from downtown Savannah included?
No, the tour starts at the cemetery, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best part of the experience?
Many guests rave about the guides’ knowledge and the scenic river views, as well as how fun and easy the Segway ride is.

This Savannah Segway tour of Bonaventure Cemetery offers a distinctive blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and light adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun way to see the city’s iconic graves, it’s worth considering for your trip.