5 (853)
Savannah
Savannah History Walk: Squares, Stories & Southern Charm
120
Overview
Heart of Savannah History Walking Tour - 2hr whisks guests through the heart of Savannah, from Wright Square to Forsyth Park. This isn't just a walk; it's an introduction to true Southern hospitality and the city's captivating stories. Visitors will stroll under live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, discovering the unique layout of Savannah's squares and the people who shaped its history. The tour covers significant historical periods, including the American Revolution and the Civil War in Savannah, offering insights into the city's rich past and its place in American history.
Expect to uncover the secrets of iconic landmarks. Guests search for the bench where Forrest Gump shared his chocolates, the house featured in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil,' and more. The tour showcases architectural gems like the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the Independent Presbyterian Church, and the Mercer Williams House. It also highlights the artistic influence of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and the historic charm of places like The Gryphon Tea Room.
This experience includes a professional local guide, ensuring an informative and engaging tour. Gratuities are not included. The tour emphasizes a personal touch, treating each participant as a 'guest' in Savannah, rather than just a tourist. The tour visits key spots such as Chippewa Square, the Sorrel Weed House, Madison Square, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, Armstrong-Kessler House, and Forsyth Park, all contributing to a memorable exploration of Savannah's historic core. 
Highlights
Uncover Savannah's History: Walk through the heart of historic Savannah with a local expert.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour with true Southern hospitality.
See Iconic Landmarks: Discover famous spots like Wright Square and Forsyth Park.
Hear Captivating Stories: Learn about the people and events that shaped Savannah.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally rave about this tour, highlighting the engaging guides, historical insights, and intimate group setting. While some desire a slower pace, the overall experience is highly rated.
Guests love the knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring Savannah's history to life.
Many appreciate the small group size, which allows for a more personalized experience.
Visitors enjoy learning about the city's history and seeing famous landmarks.
Customers frequently mentioned the tour being the perfect introduction to Savannah
Some found the tour pace to be a bit quick.
A few visitors wished for more time at certain locations.
The Journey
Wright Square
Begin your Savannah experience in Wright Square, a cornerstone of Oglethorpe's original city plan. Discover the story of Savannah's founding on a 40-foot bluff and the ingenious design of its squares. Learn about Tomochichi, the Yamacraw chief interred beneath the Gordon Monument, and understand the vital role of the Port of Savannah, now the third-largest in the nation, in the city's growth and prosperity.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Admire the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the visionary founder of the Girl Scouts, born on October 31, 1860. While we'll appreciate this historic home from the outside, delve into the legacy of the Gordon family and the current purpose of this significant landmark. Discover the story behind this remarkable woman and her lasting impact on generations of young girls.
Independent Presbyterian Church
Visit the Independent Presbyterian Church, a resilient landmark with a history dating back to 1755. Learn about its tumultuous past, including relocations and rebuilds due to fire and hurricanes. Discover the US President who was married within its walls in 1885 and the fascinating story behind its iconic steeple, making it a cherished landmark in Savannah's skyline.
Chippewa Square
Stand in Chippewa Square, famous for its appearance in 'Forrest Gump,' and discover the monument dedicated to General James Oglethorpe, the founder of the Georgia colony. Uncover the story behind this influential figure and the significance of his monument, while enjoying the unique Savannah tradition of to-go cups in this picturesque square.
Sorrel Weed House
Pass by the Sorrel Weed House, one of Savannah's most notorious haunted homes. Hear chilling tales and learn about the unique Savannah gray brick wall surrounding the courtyard. Uncover the mystery behind the fingerprints embedded in the brick and discover the origins of this historic material, adding a layer of intrigue to this eerie landmark.
Madison Square
Reflect on the history of Madison Square, once the site of one of the bloodiest battles during the American Revolution: the Siege of Savannah. Learn about the strategic importance of this location and the intense conflict that unfolded here, shaping Savannah's role in the fight for independence.
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
Marvel at the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture completed in 1853. Discover why this house was the most expensive in Savannah during the 1800s, costing $93,000 (equivalent to $3.2 million today). Learn about its pivotal role as General Sherman's headquarters during his March to the Sea, marking a significant moment in Civil War history.
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Building
Pass by a historic building now owned by SCAD, originally constructed as the Savannah Volunteer Guard building. Appreciate the architectural beauty and learn about its transformation from a military facility to a center for artistic education, showcasing Savannah's commitment to preserving its past while fostering creativity.
The Gryphon Tea Room
Discover the Gryphon Tea Room, nestled within the historic Shriner's Building. Step inside this charming establishment, once Solomon's Apothecary, and admire the original mahogany cabinetry and cubbies still used to store medicines. Consider enjoying lunch or a relaxing cup of tea in this unique setting, where history and hospitality blend seamlessly.
Mercer Williams House
Visit the Mercer Williams House, made famous by John Berendt's 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' Uncover the true story of Jim Williams, the home's owner, and the events surrounding the shooting of his assistant, Danny Hansford, in 1981. Explore how the book and subsequent movie put Savannah on the map as a must-see tourist destination, captivating visitors with its intrigue and Southern charm.
Armstrong-Kessler House
Behold the Armstrong-Kessler House, a breathtaking 26,000+ square foot mansion that elicits gasps of admiration. Learn about the history of this magnificent private residence and the prominent figures who have called it home. While not open for tours, its stunning architecture and grandeur make it an unforgettable sight in Savannah.
Forsyth Park
Conclude your tour in Forsyth Park, Savannah's beloved Central Park. Originally established in 1848 with just 10 acres, it now spans 30 acres, offering a green oasis for all to enjoy. Don't miss the Forsyth Park Fountain, a mail-order masterpiece from France installed in 1858. Capture the perfect photo in front of this iconic landmark, a symbol of Savannah's enduring beauty and charm.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a professional local guide who will lead you through the historic streets of Savannah. Please note that gratuities for the guide are not included in the tour price. Meet at the designated starting point to begin your exploration of Savannah's rich history.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking! Also, bring water, especially on warm days. Ask your guide questions – they love sharing their knowledge of Savannah.
5
120
Charleston
Unveiling Charleston's Charm: A Historic Walking Tour
Charleston Gardens & Architecture Tour: Explore Charleston's history through its architecture, from colonial times to the Civil War. Visit iconic sites like Dock Theatre and St. Michael's Church. Discover hidden gems and graveyards with a local guide on cobblestone streets. Entrance to historic sites included.
From
$ 29
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5
120
Savannah
Savannah's Architectural Secrets: 2-Hour Walking Tour
The 2 Hours Savannah Architectural Tour is a walking adventure that shows off the beauty and history of Savannah. This tour lets guests learn about the architects who helped make Savannah one of the prettiest cities. With a small group of ten or fewer, everyone gets a chance to ask questions and learn a lot about the city's buildings. Guests will walk through the historic district, looking at homes and buildings built from 1817 to 1923. They will hear stories about William Jay, Charles Klusky, and John Norris and visit places like the Harper Fowlkes House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The tour guides tell how these architects shaped Savannah's look. The tour gives a map that guests can take home, so they can keep exploring on their own. Plus, Noble Jones Tours uses special tech so everyone can hear the guide clearly, even from far away. This tour includes a take-home map and listen-to-talk technology. House museums are not included, as this is an outdoor walking tour.
From
$ 50
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4
0
Savannah
Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Adventure
Savannah's Historical District Audio Tour invites you to explore the city's rich history and charm. Discover the stories behind iconic landmarks, from the Gordon family home to Forrest Gump's bench. Uncover haunted tales and pivotal battles, all at your own pace, whether on-site or virtually.Perfect for history buffs and casual tourists.
From
$ 12
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5
0
Charleston
Charleston Ghost Tour: Spooky Smartphone Adventure
Charleston's Haunted Ghost Tour offers a chilling smartphone-guided walking experience through Charleston's most haunted locations. This tour is perfect for ghost enthusiasts of all ages who want to explore the city's spooky side at their own pace. Instead of a tour guide, you use your smart phone, so the experience is all yours. Discover eerie tales at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, where restless spirits linger. Hear the tragic story of Nettie Dickenson at her grave and feel the sorrow of the Weeping Woman near the cemetery entrance. Brave the Pirates Courtyard and imagine the ghosts of hung pirates. Visit Poogan's Porch, known for its ghostly pooch, and learn about the spooky past of Haint Blue. Walk by the Old Charleston City Jail (Outside Gate), once home to the infamous Lavinia Fisher, and discover the site where the Woman in Black haunts. This self-guided audio tour brings Charleston's haunted history to life. The tour uses the WalknTours app. Just go to the Old Exchange, open the tour, enter your experience code from Viator, and press play. After the Charleston tour, you can listen from home to remember the spooky stories. The app even has a built-in EMF reader to detect ghosts!
From
$ 10
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