Explore Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour with Bonus Unlimited Shuttle Service

If you’re heading to Savannah and looking to get a quick, informative, and comfortable overview of the city’s historic sights, the Explore Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour with Bonus Unlimited Shuttle Service might just be your best bet. This tour offers an easy way to see the key landmarks without the fatigue of walking or the hassle of driving yourself. It’s particularly appealing if you want a mix of guided commentary and flexibility to customize your experience.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of live narration from friendly guides and the added bonus of unlimited shuttle service. The shuttle means you can hop on and off at different stops, giving you a bit more freedom to explore specific sites on your own. Plus, the price point — around $32 — makes it a budget-friendly way to cover a lot of ground. That said, some travelers report the actual duration can feel a little shorter than advertised, so managing expectations about the 90-minute tour is wise.

This tour is especially well-suited for first-time visitors eager to get oriented, or travelers who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to point out the hidden gems of Savannah’s historic district. If your goal is to quickly familiarize yourself with the city’s layout and major sights without a strenuous pace, this ride hits the mark.

Key Points

• The tour provides a great overview of Savannah’s historic district in about 90 minutes.
• Live narration makes it easy to learn about the landmarks without straining to hear or read.
• The included unlimited shuttle service adds flexibility, allowing you to explore more on your own.
• The tour covers highlights like Forsyth Park, River Street, Chippewa Square, and historic homes.
• The price offers good value considering the guided commentary, shuttle service, and central pick-up.
• It’s a suitable option for those wanting a relaxed, guided introduction to Savannah.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, right in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. From here, the guide takes you on a smooth ride through the city’s most famous sights. You’ll learn about Savannah’s layout, its founding by General James E. Oglethorpe, and the story behind the city’s distinctive grid plan of squares.

One of the first stops is the beauty of Forsyth Park. Encompassing 30 acres, it’s often called the city’s front yard and is famous for its iconic fountain. You’ll stroll through the park’s live oak and azalea-lined paths, admiring Victorian mansions that display the city’s wealth from the 19th century. With the open-air trolley, you get a panoramic view while your guide shares stories about Savannah’s antebellum architecture and history.

Next, the tour heads toward River Street, a lively strip paved with 200-year-old ballast stones from ships that once carried cotton and other goods. This waterfront area is now dotted with restaurants, boutiques, and historic monuments. It’s a favorite spot for visitors who want to soak in Savannah’s maritime past and enjoy views of the Savannah River. According to reviews, many find this part especially charming, noting that the old ballast stones lend a tangible sense of history to the street.

As you continue, the tour covers more of the city’s squares, including Chippewa Square. Known for its role in the film “Forest Gump,” where the bench scene takes place, this square also has historical significance related to the Battle of Chippewa in 1814. The guide’s commentary often highlights these stories, making the stops more meaningful. Savannah’s squares are laid out in a grid pattern, each with its own character and history.

Another stop is Lafayette Square, home to a historic home that visitors can view from the outside. It’s one of several notable homes along the route that showcase Savannah’s antebellum elegance. The guide often shares insights about the architecture, prominent families, and the city’s social life during the 19th century.

Finally, the tour offers a glimpse of the city’s commercial and social hub, giving visitors a chance to see where Savannah’s vibrant downtown activity takes place. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or just soaking up the southern charm, these stops are carefully chosen to give a well-rounded impression of Savannah.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The main draw is the 90-minute trolley ride with live narration. Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and wit, making the journey both educational and enjoyable. The bonus is the unlimited shuttle service, which means you can disembark at any stop to explore further or grab a bite, then hop back on the next trolley. This flexibility is a real plus, especially if you want to linger at certain sights like Forsyth Park or River Street.

The tour’s starting point is centrally located, making it accessible for most downtown hotels. The inclusion of free hotel pickup is convenient if you’re staying within the historic district. However, if your accommodation is outside this area, parking fees or additional transportation may be necessary, which is worth considering when planning your day.

Pricing at just over $32 per person offers good value, considering the guided narration and shuttle flexibility. For travelers on a tight schedule, this tour distills the essentials efficiently. It’s also worth noting that most travelers book their tickets about 10 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons.

While the tour is designed for most travelers, be aware that the actual duration might sometimes fall short of the full 90 minutes, as some reviews mention tours ending around 60 minutes. The guides usually offer to drop you off at specific stops if you wish to continue exploring on your own, which can be a benefit or a slight disappointment depending on your expectations.

The Experience on the Ground

Expect a friendly, professional atmosphere. Guides are often praised for their knowledgeability and casual, witty style. Their stories bring Savannah’s historic squares, homes, and landmarks to life. Many reviewers mention that guides like Kathleen and Shirley made their experience memorable with their wit, professionalism, and depth of knowledge.

The open-air trolley allows you to see Savannah from a comfortable perch, with unobstructed views of the architecture, parks, and riverfront. The stops are well-chosen to show the city’s diverse facets—from Victorian mansions to bustling market streets.

The shuttle service, which is included in the ticket price, is a notable advantage. It gives you the freedom to explore individual sites at your own pace. As one happy traveler noted, “Great way to see Savannah. Dan was our driver, and he did a great job making sure we knew where all the shuttle stops were and how to call and get a ride.” This added flexibility often results in a richer, less rushed experience.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

This trolley tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly introduction to Savannah. It’s an excellent option for first-timers, couples, or small groups who want an overview without committing to a full-day tour. The live narration enhances the experience, making the city’s stories come alive, while the unlimited shuttle allows for personalized exploration.

The price is reasonable, especially considering the convenience and the insights provided. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights and get a feel for the city’s layout and character. The tour’s flexibility makes it a good choice if you’re traveling with family or friends who may want to explore certain sights more thoroughly.

That said, if you’re seeking a very in-depth, slow-paced exploration or visiting outside the historic district, you might want to supplement this with other tours or activities. The tour’s primary strength lies in quick orientation and scenic overview, rather than detailed historical exploration.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

What is included in the package?
You get a 90-minute trolley tour with live narration, plus unlimited shuttle service for flexibility during your sightseeing.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour starts at 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, a central location within the historic district, convenient for most downtown hotels.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour depends on good weather, it may be canceled in poor conditions, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the guided narration, scenic stops, and shuttle flexibility, many travelers find it offers good value, especially for an introductory overview.

Final Thoughts

The Explore Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour with Bonus Unlimited Shuttle Service strikes a neat balance between comfort, education, and flexibility. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Savannah’s most beloved sights without rushing. The shuttle service allows you to tailor the experience further, making it particularly suitable for visitors with limited time or those new to the city.

While some may find the tour shorter than advertised, the overall experience remains a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting a friendly, informative introduction. The mix of scenic views, stories, and the ability to explore at your own pace makes this tour a good investment for anyone eager to get acquainted with Savannah’s charm.

In short, if you appreciate guided insights with the freedom to customize your day, this trolley tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to start your Savannah adventure.

Additional Information

• Most bookings are made about 10 days in advance
• Tour operates with a maximum of 35 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Suitable for most ages and physical abilities
• The tour emphasizes safety following CDC guidelines and legal requirements related to COVID-19

Enjoy your time in Savannah, and make the most of this friendly, flexible tour to start your journey with a clear picture of what makes this city so unique.