The Bull Street Experience

If you’re planning a visit to Savannah and considering a quick overview of its historic downtown, the Bull Street Experience might be on your radar. This small-group walking tour offers a gentle way to get acquainted with the city’s past, starting from Johnson Square and ending at Forsyth Fountain. While it’s not the most extensive or in-depth tour out there, it can serve as a decent introduction—especially if you’re short on time or want a laid-back way to ease into Savannah’s charm.

What we like about this tour is the opportunity to see several key squares and get a sense of the city’s layout, paired with the friendly local guides who are eager to share stories and recommendations. Plus, the tour is fairly affordable at $35 per person, making it an accessible option for many travelers. However, a potential downside is that, with only about 30 minutes spent at each stop, you won’t get an in-depth history lesson; it’s more of a broad overview.

This tour is probably best suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick orientation or for those who prefer a relaxed pace while exploring Savannah on foot. If you’re keen on deeper historical insights or themed tours, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a casual stroll with some local flavor, the Bull Street Experience can be worthwhile.

Key Points

• Accessible price point makes it easy for most travelers to try without much planning.
• Short duration suits those with limited time or wanting a light intro.
• Friendly guides are highlighted for their local knowledge and hospitality.
• Stops at major squares offer visual and historical points of interest.
• Limited depth means it’s more of a quick overview than an exhaustive tour.
• Cancellations can happen late, so flexibility is limited.

A Closer Look at the Tour

The Bull Street Experience is a 2-hour guided walk along Savannah’s downtown, focusing on five historic squares. Priced at $35 per person, this tour is a straightforward way to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s operated by Damsels & Divas Tours—Theodora Ash Tours, and features a mobile ticket that makes checking in simple.

Starting Point: Johnson Square

Your journey begins in Johnson Square, which is one of Savannah’s most prominent public spaces. The guide will kick things off with stories from the 1700s and 1800s, giving you context about Savannah’s early days. The fact that this stop is free and lasts about 30 minutes makes it a logical starting point for those wanting a brief introduction.

Wright Square and Chippewa Square

Next are Wright Square and Chippewa Square, each offering a window into different eras of Savannah’s history. At Wright Square, you’ll learn about stories stretching from the 1700s to the 1800s. Chippewa Square is particularly well-known thanks to the famous bench scene from Forrest Gump—though the tour doesn’t emphasize pop culture, it highlights the square’s long past.

Madison and Monterey Squares

The tour continues through Madison Square and Monterey Square, both with their own unique histories from the 1800s to the present. These areas are filled with stately architecture and lush greenery, and your guide will share tidbits about their significance. Monterey Square, for example, is home to the Famous Forsyth Fountain, which many consider a highlight of the city’s visual appeal.

The End at Forsyth Fountain

The tour wraps up at Forsyth Fountain, providing a natural finish point. If you’re interested, this iconic fountain might be the perfect spot to snap a few photos or continue exploring on your own. The group size is small, which is great for getting personalized attention, and the guide’s local knowledge is often praised.

What Does the Tour Feel Like?

Based on reviews, the experience is generally pleasant. One traveler mentioned that even with just themselves and their partner, the guide made it feel like a private tour, which can be a real treat. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge seem to be the standout aspects, making the typical 30-minute stops at each square feel engaging rather than rushed.

However, not everything is perfect. There was a notable complaint about the late cancellation—a miscommunication about a food allergy caused the tour to be called off just hours before the scheduled start. This is a reminder that last-minute changes can happen, so it’s wise to keep your plans flexible.

Group Size and Flexibility

Since only your group participates, the tour is customizable to some extent, which many travelers value. The duration of 1 to 3 hours also suggests some flexibility depending on how long you want to linger at each stop or chat with your guide.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

Starting at Johnson Square, the tour is easy to find and is near public transportation, making it accessible for many visitors. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, so it’s quite inclusive.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $35, this tour doesn’t break the bank. For that, you get a guided walk through some of Savannah’s most recognizable squares, along with local insights that you might not get exploring alone. The value lies in the personalized experience and the ease of having a knowledgeable guide handle the storytelling.

But remember, the tour is quite surface-level. If you’re after a deep dive into Savannah’s history, this might leave you wanting more. For a quick orientation, however, it’s a fair deal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re new to Savannah and want a laid-back introduction to its squares and history, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you prefer light walking and meaningful interaction with guides rather than long, crowded bus tours. Budget-conscious travelers will also find it appealing.

Conversely, if your schedule allows and you’re eager for more detailed stories or thematic explorations, you might prefer other options or self-guided explorations.

Final Thoughts

The Bull Street Experience offers a straightforward, friendly way to familiarize yourself with Savannah’s historic downtown. Its main strengths are the knowledgeable guides and the convenient stops at key squares, making it a reasonable option for those seeking a gentle, informative stroll. The mid-range price makes it accessible, but don’t expect an in-depth history session—this is more about getting a taste of Savannah’s atmosphere and layout.

If you enjoy small-group walks with local insight and a relaxed pace, this tour is worth considering. Just be aware that cancellations can happen late, so keep your plans flexible and have backup options in mind.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically designed for kids, most children who can walk comfortably should be fine. However, it’s a leisurely walk, so very young children or those with mobility issues might find it less engaging.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 2 hours, but it can extend up to 3 hours depending on the group’s pace and interest.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Johnson Square and concludes back at the same point, near Forsyth Fountain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour itself. No admission fees are required at the stops, as they are public squares.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

What if I have allergies or special needs?
Service animals are allowed, but be sure to communicate any specific needs beforehand. Keep in mind that late cancellations have occurred due to misunderstandings about allergies.

In the end, the Bull Street Experience can be a pleasant, no-fuss way to start your Savannah trip. It’s not a deep dive into history, but it offers a friendly, local perspective that’s perfect for those wanting a gentle introduction to the city’s core.