A Walk Through The Book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”

If you’re heading to Savannah and are intrigued by the stories that surround Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this walking tour offers a compelling peek behind the scenes. It promises to connect the dots between the novel’s famous scenes and Savannah’s historic streets. For fans of the book or those curious about Savannah’s colorful past, it’s a solid choice—especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a bit of local gossip.

What we like most about this tour is how it brings Savannah’s story to life through storytelling and historic sights. The tour’s focus on the infamous Bonaventure Cemetery and the Mercer-Williams House adds a tangible sense of place for book lovers and history buffs alike. Also, the emphasis on storytelling rather than just sightseeing makes it engaging.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include a visit inside the Mercer-Williams House, which might disappoint those expecting a more in-depth look at the setting of the book’s pivotal scenes. It’s purely a walking tour, so no transportation or private house tours are involved.

This experience suits those who want an accessible, guided stroll through Savannah’s storied past with a literary twist. It’s perfect for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and historic ambiance but aren’t necessarily looking for a deep dive into private residences.

Key Points

• This walking tour is centered around the famous book and movie, connecting literary detail with Savannah’s streets.
• It’s a 1.5-hour guided walk through historic squares and notable sights.
• The tour focuses on storytelling and local gossip rather than inside access.
• Guides are praised for their knowledgeable explanations about the book, the characters, and the city.
• The Mercer-Williams House is a highlight, but no interior visits are included, only exterior viewing and stories.
• The tour price of $30 offers good value, especially considering the depth of storytelling and sights seen.
• It’s ideal for fans of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and those interested in Savannah’s scandalous past.
• Be prepared for walking in the historic district—good shoes are essential.
• The tour operates with small group sizes, usually up to 30 travelers, making it more intimate.

A Close Look at the Tour Itself

The tour begins at Oglethorpe Square, a beautifully preserved colonial-era square that instantly transports you to Savannah’s early days. From here, your guide will lead you through the historic district, weaving stories about Savannah’s infamous scandals, notable residents, and how the city’s past influences the novel.

Expect to learn about the real-life drama behind the characters, the scandals, and the locales that inspired the book. The guide’s storytelling style is a key strength—many reviewers comment on their guide’s vast knowledge and ability to bring the stories alive. One reviewer noted, “Bill had such a vast knowledge of the book and the movie, it was really a great afternoon spent with him!” This level of expertise makes the tour more than just a walk; it’s a narrative journey.

The Bonaventure Cemetery

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Bonaventure Cemetery, where many scenes from the book and film were filmed, and where the tombstones and moss-covered oaks evoke a moody, almost cinematic ambiance. The guide shares stories about notable graves and the personalities behind them, adding layers to your understanding of Savannah’s quirky and sometimes dark history. Admission is free, making this a very cost-effective experience.

The Mercer-Williams House and Surroundings

While many expect to step inside the Mercer-Williams House, the reality is that the house is a private residence and doesn’t offer tours to the public. Instead, the tour focuses on viewing the house from the outside while sharing stories about its role in the book and the murder case that made it famous. Some reviewers expressed disappointment in not being able to enter, but most understood that this is a limitation beyond the tour’s scope.

The Rest of the Route

As you wander through Savannah’s picturesque squares—Abercorn, Wright, and others—you’ll enjoy the Spanish moss hanging from the trees and the charming architecture that defines this Southern city. The guide points out other notable sights, sharing tidbits that enrich your understanding of Savannah’s unique character.

The Guide’s Role and Guest Experience

Guides are crucial in making this tour memorable. Many travelers praise their guides for being well-versed and engaging. As one reviewer shared, “Our guide was excellent and gave a ton of information. He definitely knew the story and shared a lot of details we weren’t aware of.” This suggests you’ll get more than just a scripted narration; you’ll learn stories and gossip that aren’t in every guidebook.

Some reviews reflect a bit of variability—while most praise the guides, a few mention less positive experiences, such as inappropriate remarks. It’s worth noting that the tour’s focus is on storytelling and local lore, which can sometimes include candid or unfiltered comments, so go with an open mind.

Timing, Cost, and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of exploring Savannah. The price of $30 per person is reasonable considering the guided nature and the sights covered. Since the tour is booked on average 24 days in advance, it’s advisable to secure your spot early, especially during peak travel times.

A mobile ticket makes for easy access, and the tour meets in a convenient central location. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be strolling through historic streets and squares. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for fans of the book or movie looking to deepen their connection to Savannah’s local color. It’s also suitable for history enthusiasts who enjoy stories of scandals, famous residents, and the city’s more colorful moments. If you appreciate guides who can tell a good story and reveal insider gossip, you’ll find this tour fulfilling.

However, if you’re expecting inside access to private homes or a comprehensive historical overview of Savannah’s entire history, this isn’t the right fit. It’s a specialized segment of Savannah’s attractions—focused on one book and its setting.

The Sum Up

This walking tour of Savannah centered around Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil offers an engaging way to experience the city’s storied streets through the lens of a bestselling book. The knowledgeable guides, the vivid storytelling, and the chance to see landmarks like Bonaventure Cemetery make it a worthwhile option for those with literary or local interest.

At $30, it offers a good value, especially given the intimacy of the experience and the depth of stories shared. While it doesn’t include interior visits to the Mercer-Williams House, it compensates with a lively narrative and scenic views that help you understand why Savannah became the literary and cinematic setting for this mysterious tale.

This tour is best suited for fans of the book and movie, history buffs, and travelers who enjoy guided storytelling. If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic walk through Savannah’s vibrant past with a literary twist, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

Does the tour include inside visits to any houses?
No, the Mercer-Williams House is a private residence and isn’t part of the tour. The experience focuses on viewing from outside and sharing stories.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for a sightseeing afternoon.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $30 per person, which is reasonable considering the guide’s storytelling and sightseeing.

Are there any restrictions on who can participate?
Most travelers can participate. Just wear good walking shoes and be prepared to walk through the historic district.

Is the tour suitable during bad weather?
Yes, but since it’s outdoors, poor weather may affect the experience. You might be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most likely yes, but considering the historic and possibly scandalous stories, parental discretion is advised.

What kind of group size should I expect?
Small groups up to 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

How do I meet the tour?
At Oglethorpe Square, 127 Abercorn St. in Savannah. The tour ends at Wright Square, 14 W State St.

In short, this Savannah tour offers a lively, story-driven glimpse into the city’s connection with Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. It’s a fine choice for readers, history lovers, and anyone curious about Savannah’s more scandalous stories. Just show up with good shoes and an open mind, and you’ll have a memorable walk through one of America’s most charming southern towns.