Botanical Tour (by Walk With Me Savannah Tours)

If you’re wandering through Savannah and want to see the city through a different lens, the Botanical Tour offered by Walk With Me Savannah Tours is a delightful option. This two-hour walk isn’t your typical sightseeing stroll; it’s a chance to connect with Savannah’s lush greenery, historic ironwork, and charming gardens—all with an expert guide leading the way.

What we love about this tour is how knowledgeable guides make the natural history of Savannah come alive. Plus, the chance to see iconic landmarks like Columbia Square and Forsyth Park from a botanical perspective adds a fresh twist to the usual historic tour. On the downside, it’s a walking tour that covers about a third of a mile at a moderate pace, so it might not suit those with mobility issues or very young children. Still, for anyone interested in plants, history, and architecture, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate detail and enjoy observing the everyday beauty in a city famed for its live oaks and ironwork.

Key Points

• You’ll learn to identify Savannah’s plants and flowers, from azaleas to magnolias.
• The tour visits several iconic squares, parks, and historic sites.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling skills.
• It’s a budget-friendly experience at $40 per person, with good value for the depth of info.
• The tour is about two hours long, walking through some of Savannah’s most beautiful and historic areas.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including well-behaved pets and service animals.

An In-Depth Look at the Botanical Tour Experience

An Introduction to Savannah’s Ironwork and Botanical Charm in Columbia Square

The tour kicks off in Columbia Square, which is a lovely starting point for discovering Savannah’s famous cast iron architecture. Your guide will introduce you to the square’s cast iron ornamentation, providing context on the largest historic Georgia foundry and the modern ironwork of Ivan Bailey. As they point out the intricate details of the historic iron fences and fountains, you’ll also start to learn about the plant life that thrives here, such as Star Jasmine, Bottlebrush, Tea Olive, Privet, Azaleas, and Rhododendron.

This initial stop sets a tone for the tour: a blend of natural beauty and craftsmanship. The guide’s storytelling makes these local features come alive, turning what might seem ordinary into extraordinary. Expect about 15 minutes here, enough to get a good introduction without feeling rushed.

Colonial Park Cemetery: A Living History of Spanish Moss and Trees

Next, the group moves toward Colonial Park Cemetery, a historic site that offers more than just tombstones. While strolling through, your guide will discuss Spanish Moss, which drapes lazily from live oaks, creating that quintessential Southern ambiance. You’ll also learn about Palmetto Trees, Crepe Myrtles, and the possibility of spotting the city’s oldest Crepe Myrtle—a tree that has witnessed centuries of Savannah’s story.

This stop is particularly engaging because it combines botanical education with local history, making it clear how Savannah’s greenery is intertwined with its past. The walk to and through the cemetery takes some time, but it’s manageable and well worth the insights offered.

Lafayette Square: Gardens and Architectural Views

The stroll then leads to Lafayette Square, a gem in Savannah’s historic district. Here, you’ll see Variegated Shell Ginger, Green Leopard Plants, and Japanese Holly Fern—plants that are both striking and typical of the area. The square provides beautiful views of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and historic homes, along with a charming fountain.

Guide commentary here shines when they describe the flora and how it complements the architecture, creating a picturesque scene. It’s just a quick stop—about five minutes—but packed with visual and botanical appeal.

The Secret Garden at the Andrew Low House

One of the tour highlights is the garden of the Andrew Low House, lovingly cultivated by Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. Though the garden might be closed based on the schedule, most of it can be seen from outside the fence. You’ll spot Crepe Myrtles, Camellias (Juliette’s favorites), Narcissus, and other blooms.

Reviewers praise guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge here, with some noting that they learned about plants they hadn’t realized played such a role in Savannah’s landscape. It’s a quiet, intimate space that offers a glimpse into historic gardening traditions.

Madison Square: A Botanical and Architectural Showcase

Next, the tour takes you through Madison Square, where the guide points out Big Leaf Hydrangeas, Reed Canary Grass, and Japanese Cherry Blossoms. The large Lacy Tree Philodendrons and Shrimp Plants add tropical flair. From this vantage point, you can enjoy views of Savannah’s beautiful homes and the stunning Cathedral.

The guide will also share details about plant varieties and how they thrive in Savannah’s climate. It’s a quick stop but offers a blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Jones Street and the Neighborhood Ironwork

Walking along Jones Street, often voted the “prettiest neighborhood in the U.S.,” the guide shares insights into the private gardens and ironwork that make Savannah so charming. The lush canopy of live oaks overhead, draped with resurrection fern, provides an iconic Southern scene.

Here, you’ll appreciate the combination of botanical and architectural beauty, and some guides even share stories about the ironwork craftsmanship seen on some of the historic homes.

Monterey Square and Local Flora

Your guide then points out Georgia’s olives, juniper, and gardenias in Monterey Square, along with more examples of Savannah’s well-preserved ironwork. This stop seamlessly connects flora and architecture, offering a final burst of botanical knowledge before the tour concludes.

Forsyth Park: The Grand Finale

The tour wraps up at Forsyth Park, Savannah’s largest green space, famous for its spectacular fountain and old live oak. Here, you’ll learn about the resurrection fern, a plant that seems to cling to the oaks in a way that’s almost magical. The Scent Garden for the Blind is another highlight, emphasizing Savannah’s inclusive spirit and attention to sensory experience.

This final stop leaves you with a sense of Savannah’s lush landscape and how plants have shaped its identity.

The Group and Practicalities

This tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which keeps it intimate and allows guides to answer questions thoroughly. It’s suitable for most, with the caveat that you should be comfortable walking about a third of a mile and standing in shade or sun as needed. Well-behaved pets and service animals are welcome, making it accessible for many travelers.

Starting at Columbia Square and ending at Marine Corps Memorial, the tour is well-situated for exploring further or grabbing a meal afterward. The $40 price point is quite reasonable considering the expert storytelling, the variety of stops, and the insider knowledge about plants and architecture.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Reviewers consistently praise Sargon, the guide, for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling flair. One reviewer called it “not just a botanical tour,” emphasizing how the guide wove in history and local lore. Several mention that even those with no prior plant knowledge found the tour engaging and educational.

People appreciated the personalized attention—stopping in shaded areas on hot days, answering questions, and sharing insights about ironwork and local flora. Many consider it the best tour in Savannah, especially for those who enjoy detailed, authentic experiences.

Is It Worth It?

At $40, this tour offers excellent value. For that price, you get a two-hour exploration with a knowledgeable guide, access to some of Savannah’s most beautiful squares, and an in-depth look at the city’s botanical heritage. The combination of natural beauty, architecture, and storytelling makes it stand out from more conventional sightseeing options.

It’s particularly ideal for plant enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who want a relaxed, informative walk rather than a hurried or overly commercial experience. The tour’s pace and small group size ensure you can ask questions and truly absorb what you’re seeing.

The Sum Up

The Botanical Tour by Walk With Me Savannah Tours is a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines botanical education, historic architecture, and local storytelling. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours discovering parts of Savannah you might not notice on a self-guided walk. With enthusiastic guides and carefully curated stops, it’s a journey into the city’s lush side that appeals to curious travelers of all backgrounds.

If you love learning about plants, enjoy historic neighborhoods, or simply want to see Savannah through a fresh lens, this tour offers value and authenticity wrapped into one memorable package. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water—Savannah’s charm is best enjoyed at your own pace.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, covering about a third of a mile on foot.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $40 per person, which is a solid value for the guided insights and access to historic sites.

Is the tour suitable for pets?
Yes, well-behaved pets are allowed, making it a good choice for travelers bringing dogs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially on hot days.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those who cannot walk or stand for about 20 minutes might find it challenging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What stops are included?
Stops include Columbia Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, Lafayette Square, Andrew Low House garden, Madison Square, Jones Street neighborhood, Monterey Square, and Forsyth Park.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Sargon for their enthusiasm, storytelling, and deep plant and local history knowledge.