Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe State Historic Site Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want to see the city’s most evocative sights without the stress of figuring it all out yourself, this guided tour offers a compelling option. It takes you beyond the usual city streets to two landmarks that capture the spirit of Georgia’s history and natural beauty: Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Historic Site. Along the way, you’ll learn stories of notable Savannah residents, marvel at the centuries-old Tabby Ruins, and even sample some famous local cookies.

What we love about this tour is how it combines meaningful storytelling with beautiful scenery. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making history feel alive. Plus, the chance to walk among moss-draped oaks and see the live oak-lined drive of Wormsloe is a visual treat. A potential snag is that the tour involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, it’s geared towards those who enjoy history, nature, and a bit of local flavor—if that sounds like your kind of day, you’ll find this tour well worth the cost.

This experience works best for travelers who want a well-rounded half-day outing without the hassle of transportation logistics or ticketing. It’s especially suited for those new to Savannah or visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing in a manageable timeframe. If you’re after a detailed look at local history, stunning views, and some authentic Southern charm, this tour ticks several boxes.

Key Points

• Guided tour covering Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe Historic Site, and the Byrd Cookie Company
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off from Savannah’s Historic District
• Expert guides with positive reviews for enthusiasm and knowledge
• Opportunities for authentic experiences and photo-worthy scenery
• The tour is approximately six hours, balancing sightseeing with relaxation
• Includes walking at Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe, so wear comfortable shoes

A Deep Dive into the Savannah Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins at 223 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, a central spot in Savannah’s Historic District. The main advantage here is the included hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you from parking hassles or navigating busy streets. This means you can relax from the moment you step outside your accommodation, knowing your transportation is sorted.

The Bonaventure Cemetery Visit

Bonaventure Cemetery is a highlight for many visitors, and this tour makes sure you see why. Open since 1846, it’s more than just a cemetery—it’s a landscape of moss-laden oaks, hauntingly beautiful statues, and historic graves. The guides do a good job of weaving stories about its more famous past residents, like Johnny Mercer, the Oscar-winning songwriter, and Georgia’s first governor, Edward Telfair. You’ll also hear about figures like Mary Telfair and the poignant tales of poet Conrad Aiken and Gracie Watson, whose childhood statue is a well-known photo spot.

Reviews reveal that many find Bonaventure surprisingly beautiful, even if cemeteries aren’t usually their thing. One reviewer admitted, “I usually don’t like cemeteries but this one is gorgeous,” which sums up how well-maintained and scenic it is. The guided walking tour of about an hour and a half allows for close-up views of the mausoleums and sculptures, making it easy to appreciate the artistry and stories behind each monument.

What makes the experience especially meaningful is the guide’s skill in storytelling—adding context to the graves and personalities that decorate the landscape. This turns a stroll among graves into a walk through Savannah’s soul.

Wormsloe Historic Site’s Live Oak Drive and Tabby Ruins

Next, the tour heads to Wormsloe, famous for its sweeping drive flanked by towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss. It’s an iconic Savannah sight, and you’ll drive down this avenue, experiencing its grandeur firsthand. The sight of centuries-old trees arching overhead creates a tunnel of green that’s hard to forget.

On foot, you’ll visit the 18th-century Plantation Tabby Ruins, which give a tangible glimpse into early colonial life in Georgia. These ruins date back to the 1700s, and the site includes a small museum that helps contextualize the history. Reviewers frequently remark on the beauty of the drive and the historical significance of the ruins. One noted, “The plantation ruins are a great peek into the past,” emphasizing how well the site preserves its heritage.

The walk to see the ruins is brief but enough to appreciate the construction techniques and the effort required to build with tabby—a mixture of oyster shells, lime, and sand. The scenery here combines natural beauty with a touch of history, making it a favorite stop for those wanting a scenic and educational experience.

Sampling a Savannah Classic: Byrd Cookie Company

No visit to Savannah feels complete without a taste of its sweet side. The tour concludes with a stop at Byrd Cookie Company headquarters, where you’ll enjoy tastings of their famous cookies. This part is a hit for many, especially those who enjoy a good local treat. You’ll also have a chance to browse their shop for souvenirs.

Reviews praise this stop as a perfect sweet ending, with one reviewer saying, “Great tour and beautiful photo ops,” highlighting the photo opportunities and delicious samples. It’s a relaxing way to wind down and indulge before heading back to your accommodations.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour costs around $74 per person, which includes all entrance fees, guided access, and the cookie tasting. It’s booked about 27 days in advance on average, indicating good popularity. The six-hour length strikes a nice balance—enough time to see the sights without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to 25 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows guides to tailor their storytelling.

While most reviews are enthusiastic, a few mention minor issues, such as the bus air conditioning not working on one day. Given the warm Savannah climate, wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and good walking shoes is essential. The tour does involve some walking, mainly at Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe, so comfortable footwear will improve your experience.

The day is flexible enough to allow for lunch on your own, giving you the chance to explore local eateries before or after the tour. The tour is also timed to maximize sightseeing and minimize downtime, with the departure and return times clearly structured.

The Value Proposition

At $73.83, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Savannah’s historic sites with guided commentary, which enhances your understanding far beyond guidebook snippets. The inclusion of hotel pickup, entrance fees, and tastings makes it a good deal—especially since many reviewers find the experience “well worth the time spent.”

Authenticity and Atmosphere

This tour provides a taste of Savannah’s authentic charm—moss-draped trees, historic graves, and colonial ruins—all delivered by enthusiastic guides who really know their stuff. The stories about Bonaventure’s notable inhabitants and the setting of Wormsloe’s drive help visitors connect emotionally with the city’s past.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

If you’re interested in exploring Savannah outside the typical walk-around, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for history buffs, photo lovers, and those who appreciate natural beauty and historic architecture. It suits travelers who prefer guided tours that balance sightseeing with storytelling, without dragging on too long. And if you enjoy sampling local treats, the cookie stop is a delightful bonus.

This experience is not for you if you dislike walking or are looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. It’s also more suited for those who value educational commentary and scenic photo ops over purely leisure activities.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes. The tour offers complimentary pickup and drop-off from Savannah’s Historic District hotels, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about six hours, providing enough time to enjoy each site comfortably.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes guided access at Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe, admission fees, transportation, and tastings at Byrd Cookie Company.

Are there any walking requirements? Yes, you’ll walk at Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I buy lunch during the tour? Lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, so you’re free to explore local restaurants before or after the tour.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a fine balance of history, scenery, and local flavor, making it a practical choice for visitors wanting to see some of Savannah’s most beautiful and meaningful sites. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the stunning landscapes of moss-draped oaks and historic ruins, create an experience that’s both educational and visually captivating. Plus, the inclusion of a sweet cookie tasting adds a lighthearted touch that keeps the day fun and memorable.

It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer a structured, guided outing over wandering on their own. The value here goes beyond just seeing sights—you’re gaining insights into the stories and people that shaped Savannah. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone looking to enjoy the city’s natural beauty in a relaxed setting, this tour offers a compelling way to spend half a day in Savannah.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized experience that combines scenic views, meaningful history, and a touch of local flavor, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to wear your comfortable shoes and bring your camera—those moss-draped oaks and historic gravestones are waiting to be captured.