Real Savannah: History, Ghost, and True Crime Tour

If you’re visiting Savannah and craving a tour that balances history, ghost stories, and true crime tales, this experience promises to deliver all three. The Real Savannah: History, Ghost, and True Crime Tour offers an immersive walk through the city’s most haunted and historically significant spots, led by guides with a combined century of teaching and guiding experience. Whether you’re a history buff, ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a captivating evening, this tour has a lot to offer.

One of the great perks is the knowledgeable guides—they’re not just storytellers but historians trained to deliver accurate, well-researched information with a touch of humor. The tour’s duration of about two hours strikes a good balance, providing enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed. An excellent feature is the small, private group setting (though some reviews mention it’s not strictly private), which makes for a more personal, engaging experience.

A potential consideration is the walking aspect—wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on warm days, as you’ll cover several beautiful squares and historic sites on foot. Also, the price point of $38 per person offers excellent value, given the depth of storytelling and expert guidance. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, ghost lore, and true crime stories, and who appreciate a guide that combines factual accuracy with lively narration.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Trained by a 30-year veteran, guides bring a mix of historical knowledge and storytelling skill.
• Authentic Stories: Focus on real history, true crime, and ghost stories rooted in Savannah’s past.
• Small Group Feel: Despite some reviews mentioning it’s not strictly private, the experience remains intimate.
• Historic & Haunted Sights: Stops include Savannah’s beautiful squares, colonial cemetery, and notable haunted houses.
• Value for Price: At $38, this tour offers a rich experience packed with stories that go beyond surface-level sightseeing.
• Accessibility & Practicality: Moderate physical activity required; wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Start Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 124 Abercorn St, right in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. The total journey lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable activity even for those on tight schedules. The duration is just right—not too long to tire out, but enough to explore key sites and hear intriguing stories.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

The tour primarily covers Savannah’s historic squares, each with its own character and stories. These squares, such as Oglethorpe Square where the tour begins and ends, are the city’s defining features—lush, historic, and full of stories.

A highlight is the peek into Colonial Cemetery, where you’ll learn about some of Savannah’s earliest inhabitants and the legends attached to their graves. Expect to hear about notable figures like John Wesley, Nathaneal Greene, Joseph Bryan, and Pierce Butler—all of whom played significant roles in the city’s history.

Haunted Houses & True Crime Tales

The tour features Savannah’s most haunted houses—buildings with stories of spirits lingering and histories of tragic events. Reviewer Susan describes the guide, Vanessa, as “wonderful, energetic, and full of info,” which suggests you’ll get engaging, lively narration. One story that sticks out is about Alice Riley, a tragic figure whose story still resonates, and the infamous Weeping Time Slave Auction, a disturbing yet vital part of Savannah’s past.

The Guides and Their Stories

The guides are a standout element. With over 100 years of combined guiding and teaching experience, they’re skilled at balancing factual history with entertaining storytelling. One reviewer called Vanessa “fabulous,” highlighting her ability to add humor and facts seamlessly. Another praised Wayne, a guide from a different tour, as “excellent,” underscoring the consistency in quality among the guides.

The Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

Most reviews mention a small group setting—often just a few people—which enhances the personal feeling of the tour. While it isn’t strictly private, most travelers felt like they had a personal experience, especially with guides tailoring stories to their interests. The tour is designed to be engaging, with a mix of laughter, chills, and heartfelt moments.

Practical Considerations

Comfortable walking shoes are a must because you’ll traverse cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces in the historic district. The tour is near public transportation, which helps if you’re staying further out. Bring a water bottle, especially if visiting during warmer months.

Pricing and Value

At $38 per person, the tour offers significant value. You’re paying for a well-researched, guided experience that combines history, ghost stories, and true crime tales. The knowledgeable guides and intimate group size mean you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Savannah’s layered past.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, ghost story lovers, and true crime fans. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate authentic storytelling backed by research but delivered in a lively, engaging manner. Given the moderate walking involved, it’s best for those with average physical fitness and comfortable footwear.

If you’re looking for an educational yet entertaining way to explore Savannah’s haunted past, this tour hits the mark. It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer a small, personalized experience rather than large, impersonal bus tours.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For those interested in Savannah’s dark stories, historic landmarks, and ghostly legends, this tour offers an engaging, well-led experience. The expertise of the guides, combined with the compelling stories, makes it a worthwhile activity, especially at the reasonable price of $38. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation of Savannah’s complex past, blending facts with storytelling, humor with history.

The two-hour format keeps things lively without overextending, perfect for a city exploration break. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, you’ll likely find this tour both informative and entertaining.

If you love stories that reveal the city’s hidden depths and dark corners, this is a tour you’ll want to carve out time for. It’s also great for those who enjoy authentic, guided narratives rooted in real history, with just enough spooky tales to keep the night interesting.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, allowing plenty of time to see key sights and hear stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 124 Abercorn St, Savannah—right in the heart of the historic district.

Is this a private tour?
While marketed as a private tour, some reviews indicate it might be a small group experience. Still, it offers a more personal touch than large group tours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be covering several historic squares and streets on foot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most of the stories are suitable for mature audiences, especially those involving true crime and ghost tales. It’s best for kids with a moderate physical fitness level.

How much does it cost?
The price is $38 per person, which offers good value considering the depth of stories and guide expertise.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations later than that are non-refundable.

Are water or snacks provided?
No, snacks are not included, but bringing a water bottle is advised, particularly on warm days.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making the tour accessible for guests with disabilities.

In summary, the Real Savannah: History, Ghost, and True Crime Tour offers a captivating look into the city’s haunted streets and storied past. Guided by expert storytellers, it provides an authentic, engaging, and reasonably priced way to experience Savannah’s darker history. Whether you’re a history buff or a ghost story aficionado, this tour promises an evening full of surprises and insights—all wrapped up in a small-group atmosphere that feels more like sharing stories with friends.