Savannah: Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour

Visiting Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery is often a highlight for travelers, thanks to its hauntingly beautiful sculptures, moss-draped oaks, and fascinating stories of those laid to rest there. But with its sprawling size and intricate layout, exploring it on foot can be overwhelming and time-consuming. That’s where this guided golf cart tour shines—offering a comfortable and informative way to see the most iconic sights in just an hour.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized attention you get from knowledgeable guides, like Marcia or Brandon, who bring the cemetery’s history to life with humor and insight. Plus, the small group size (limited to just 10 participants) makes it easier to ask questions and soak up all the details. On the flip side, some might find the one-hour duration a bit brief for a thorough exploration, especially if they’re keen on a more leisurely walk.

This tour tends to suit history buffs, architecture lovers, and families looking for an engaging, stress-free way to learn about Savannah’s most famous cemetery. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper appreciation, you’ll find value in the mix of storytelling, scenery, and convenience.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: The golf cart allows you to cover more ground without tiring, especially on warm days.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Marcia and Brandon are praised for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Learn about notable residents like Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken, along with interesting symbolism on tombstones.
• Small Group Setting: Limiting participants to 10 ensures a more intimate, interactive experience.
• Flexible Pricing & Cancellation: You can reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.
• Ideal for All Ages: The tour’s mix of history and art makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

An Authentic Look at Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah

Exploring Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery on a golf cart guided tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to appreciate this iconic landmark without the fatigue of walking. Spanning over 100 acres, the cemetery’s sprawling grounds feature elaborate statues, distinctive headstones, and the graves of some of Savannah’s most notable figures. The guided tour distills this vastness into a manageable, insightful journey that highlights the cemetery’s most compelling stories and sights.

Why Choose a Golf Cart Tour?

Bonaventure Cemetery’s size can be intimidating for visitors attempting to see everything on foot. With this golf cart tour, you get the benefit of covering more ground comfortably, making it perfect for warm days or those with mobility concerns. The cart whisks you past the most ornate monuments and into the most scenic parts of the cemetery, where you can get a good look at the artistry and symbolism embedded in the headstones.

The duration of about one hour strikes a good balance—enough time to see the highlights and hear some fascinating backstories without feeling rushed. The tour’s small group size (capped at 10) means you won’t be just another face in a crowd; you can ask questions and get personal attention from guides like Marcia, whose reviews describe her as both knowledgeable and engaging.

What Can You Expect During the Tour?

The tour begins at a designated meeting point, where your guide will send specific directions—enter the cemetery, then take the second left on Mullryne Way, and follow it to the visitor parking lot next to the river. From there, your well-informed guide will lead you through the grounds, sharing stories about notable residents, such as jazz legend Johnny Mercer and poet Conrad Aiken.

One of the most praised aspects is how guides weave in stories about the symbolism of the monuments, adding depth to what might otherwise be just a series of impressive tombstones. For example, reviewers mention that guides like Marcia or Brandon bring “life to the stories” with humor and personal anecdotes. This storytelling approach makes the cemetery’s art and history accessible and memorable for visitors of all ages.

Highlights of the Tour

• Famous Graves: Johnny Mercer’s final resting place and the crypt of Conrad Aiken are particular highlights, with guides sharing intriguing details about their lives and careers.
• Artistic Monuments: The tour covers some of the most ornate and symbolically rich gravestones, explaining their meanings and the artistry involved.
• Natural Beauty: The lush grounds, draped with Spanish moss and shaded by ancient oaks, create a calming and picturesque backdrop for the stories shared.
• Hidden Gems: Smaller, lesser-known graves and sculptures often go unnoticed in self-guided visits but are highlighted on the tour, adding layers to the experience.

Authentic Experiences from Guests

Many reviewers emphasize how guides like Marcia or Brandon transform the experience. For instance, one described Marcia as “a wonderful storyteller” who “weaves together facts, folklore, and personal anecdotes” that make the history truly come alive. Others appreciate the entertaining and educational tone of guides like Lucas or Cheryl, who answer questions thoroughly and keep the tour engaging.

The golf cart option also gets high praise. Elizabeth noted that “it saves you a lot of walking on a warm day,” which is true considering the size of the cemetery and the often hot Savannah weather.

Value for Money

At $38 per person, this guided tour packs a lot of value. For just an hour of your time, you gain expert insights, access to areas you might miss on your own, and a comfortable ride. Considering the small group size and the personalized nature of the experience, many reviewers feel they get more than they paid for—especially compared to self-guided walks which can feel rushed or incomplete.

Practical Tips

• Meet early: The directions are specific, so arriving a few minutes early ensures a smooth start.
• Bring questions: The guides are eager to share their knowledge—don’t hesitate to ask about specific graves or symbols.
• Dress comfortably: While the tour is in a golf cart, be prepared for some walking to and from the meeting point.
• Weather considerations: The open-air cart means you’ll want sunscreen or a hat if it’s sunny, and perhaps a light jacket in cooler weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and those who prefer a relaxed way to explore without the fatigue of walking all day. It’s a great option for families, especially with children who might find a traditional walking tour tedious. The guided approach also appeals to visitors who want deep insights without doing a lot of research beforehand.

It’s especially suitable for those with limited time but still eager to see the cemetery’s highlights. If you’re visiting Savannah and want a quick, engaging, and informative experience, this small-group golf cart tour should definitely be on your list.

The Sum Up

The Savannah Bonaventure Cemetery guided golf cart tour offers a fun, insightful, and comfortable way to experience one of the city’s most photographed sites. Thanks to expert guides like Marcia and Brandon, you won’t just see the monuments—you’ll learn the stories behind them in a way that makes the experience memorable. The small group size ensures a personal touch, while the leisurely ride allows you to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat.

This tour is perfect for those who value authentic storytelling and easy access to the cemetery’s highlights. It provides excellent value for the price, blending education with entertainment, and making your Savannah visit all the richer.

If you’re after a convenient, well-led exploration of Bonaventure Cemetery, this guided golf cart tour hits the mark. It’s a smart choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Just bring your curiosity—and your camera—to capture the stunning memorials and moss-draped oaks.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is accessible for most travelers and suitable for families. Kids can enjoy the scenery and stories, but infants must sit on laps.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it manageable for most schedules and attention spans.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the entrance of Bonaventure Cemetery, with specific directions sent via text. The meeting point is at the visitor parking lot next to the river.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is stroller accessible.

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

What’s included in the price?
The price includes the guided Bonaventure Golf Cart Tour.

What guides will I have?
Guides like Marcia, Brandon, Lucas, or Cheryl, all praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Is it a private tour?
No, it’s a small-group experience limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal atmosphere.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

How do I prepare for the weather?
Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen or a hat, and be prepared for open-air exposure during the ride.

To sum it up, this golf cart guided tour is a standout choice for anyone eager to explore Bonaventure Cemetery with ease and insight. It blends storytelling, scenic beauty, and convenience in a way that makes your Savannah visit all the more memorable.