Savannah 101, a History Tour (by Walk With Me Savannah Tours)

Taking a stroll through Savannah’s historic streets can feel like stepping back in time. This guided walking tour promises an engaging overview of the city’s remarkable past, from its founding days to Civil War impacts, all told through the eyes of a local guide. It’s a favorite among travelers, boasting a perfect 5-star rating and consistently high praise for its knowledgeable guides and authentic insights.

What we especially like about this tour is the way it balances history and architecture, making the city’s story come alive with vivid narratives and stunning visuals. Plus, the tour’s flexible scheduling and intimate group size—limited to 20 travelers—ensure a personal experience that can be tailored to your pace and interests.

However, keep in mind that this is about a 2-hour walk, so those with mobility issues or who prefer a more leisurely or driven tour might want to consider other options. But if you’re eager to learn about Savannah’s roots while exploring its charming squares and historic buildings, this tour is a perfect fit.

This experience suits history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys learning on foot while soaking in the ambiance of a Southern treasure.

Key Points

• Expert local guides bring Savannah’s history alive with enthusiasm and detailed storytelling.
• The tour offers a solid overview of Savannah’s key squares, landmarks, and historical figures.
• It’s a two-hour, approximately 0.25-mile walk—compact but packed with meaningful insights.
• Affordably priced at $40, providing excellent value for a guided educational stroll.
• Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience.
• Ideal as an introductory tour or a way to orient yourself before exploring independently.

A Deep Dive into Savannah 101: The Perfect Intro for History Buffs

This tour acts as a walking primer, guiding you through Savannah’s most iconic spots while weaving in stories about its founding, influential figures, and key events. It’s a lively, educational jaunt that doesn’t just tick boxes but makes history feel immediate and relevant.

Starting at Johnson Square: Savannah’s Foundation

The tour kicks off at Johnson Square, the oldest and most central square in Savannah. Here, your guide will introduce you to the city’s founding principles and layout, helping you understand why Savannah looks the way it does today. Expect to hear about Nathaniel Greene’s role and see his monument—an impressive tribute to a Revolutionary War hero. Visitors often comment on how this first stop provides a clear sense of Savannah’s early days, making subsequent stops more meaningful.

Factors Walk and River Street: Commerce and Controversy

Next, you’ll learn about Factors Walk and River Street, the historic hubs of Savannah’s cotton trade. Guides will explain how the cotton economy shaped the city’s prosperity, and also touch on more complex topics like the slave trade and the Civil War. This part of the tour offers insight into Savannah’s economic roots and the darker chapters of its history, which many travelers find eye-opening. One reviewer noted, “It was great way to get a better understanding of the city,” appreciating how these stories add depth to the city’s charm.

Reynolds Square and Early Georgia

Your guide will introduce you to John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, who once visited Savannah, and highlight the Olde Pink House, one of the city’s oldest and most famous buildings. The discussion about early agricultural experiments during Georgia’s formative years offers a glimpse into the city’s rural roots and how they evolved into the thriving port we see today.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: Architecture and History

While the house tour itself isn’t included, the Owens-Thomas House makes a compelling stop. Your guide will discuss the architecture of this neoclassical mansion and its architect, William Jay. The nearby slave quarters shed light on the complex social history of Savannah, making it a highly recommended stop for those interested in the full story behind the grand facades.

Colonial Park Cemetery: Burial, Disasters, and Union Occupation

Walking through Colonial Park Cemetery, you’ll hear about burial practices in Savannah and some of the disasters that challenged the city’s resilience. The guide will also touch on Savannah’s experience during the Union occupation in the Civil War, giving context to how the city’s past conflicts shaped its present.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist & Lafayette Square

Moving on, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist highlights Savannah’s religious history and architectural beauty. Then, a stop at Lafayette Square introduces you to notable homes—like the Hamilton-Turner Inn, the first in Savannah with electricity, and famous residents such as Flannery O’Connor and Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. These stories connect Savannah’s architectural charm with influential personalities and technological innovations.

Madison Square & Green-Meldrim House

Your guide will point out key landmarks like the Savannah Volunteer Guards’ Armory and the Scottish Rite Temple, adding layers to your understanding of local civic pride. The Green-Meldrim House stands out for its innovative architecture and its role during Sherman’s occupation, including a discussion on Field Order 15 and its impacts on Black communities. While an interior visit isn’t included, the exterior alone sparks curiosity about Savannah’s Civil War history.

Chippewa Square and Wright Square: Civil War, Founders, and Notables

The tour wraps up with Chippewa Square, where the city’s founding by James Oglethorpe is explained, along with stories about Savannah’s numerous fires and the history of the Savannah Theater. Finally, at Wright Square, you’ll learn about Juliette Gordon Low, her childhood home, and her family’s influence. You’ll also hear about Tomochichi and Mary Musgrove, key figures in Savannah’s early Native and settler relationships.

Practicalities and Value

Pricing at $40 per person makes this tour a worthwhile investment, especially considering the expertise of guides who bring Savannah’s story to life. The two-hour duration strikes a good balance, offering enough depth without feeling rushed. The small group size means more opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention—a real plus for curious travelers.

The tour is accessible via public transportation and allows service animals and well-behaved pets, making it flexible for different travelers. However, the 0.25-mile walk could be a consideration if mobility is a concern, as it’s not a leisurely sit-down experience.

The reviews consistently highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, with comments like “Sandron was a wonderful tour guide” and “Sargon’s energy and enthusiasm” making it clear that the human element is what elevates this experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts eager to understand Savannah beyond the postcard image. It’s also great for architecture buffs who enjoy seeing historic buildings and hearing about their stories. Families or small groups wanting an intimate, educational experience will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re visiting Savannah for the first time and want a solid foundation of the city’s past, this tour acts as a perfect orientation. It’s also a good choice for those interested in civil war history, early American history, or Southern culture.

Final Thoughts

Savannah 101, a History Tour by Walk With Me Savannah Tours offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s past with knowledgeable guides leading the way. The storytelling is lively, and the stops are carefully chosen to showcase Savannah’s most significant squares, landmarks, and stories. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture fan, or simply curious about Savannah’s origins, this tour provides a meaningful and enjoyable introduction.

With its reasonable price point, small group size, and expert guides, it represents excellent value for those looking to deepen their understanding of Savannah in a short, walkable format. The engaging narratives make history accessible and fun, helping you appreciate Savannah’s charm far beyond its beautiful facades.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, covering roughly 0.25 miles of walking through Savannah’s historic squares. It’s a manageable pace that allows enough time for stories and questions.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Johnson Square and concludes at Wright Square, both located within Savannah’s historic district, making it convenient for travelers to continue exploring afterwards.

Is the tour suitable for children or pets?
Most travelers can participate comfortably, and well-behaved pets are allowed. However, if you can’t walk or roll 0.25 miles without resting, this might not be the best fit.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the guided walk and the use of a mobile ticket. The house tour of Owens-Thomas is highly recommended but not included. Entrance to other stops is free, apart from specific house or building visits.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexible planning and peace of mind.

Are there different tour times to choose from?
Yes, you can select from various departure times to fit your schedule, making it easier to incorporate into your Savannah itinerary.

In summary, if you want to walk with an engaging, knowledgeable guide who can make Savannah’s history come alive—this tour offers a perfect blend of storytelling, sight-seeing, and authentic local insights. It’s a smart choice for anyone eager to understand the city’s roots, layered stories, and architectural beauty without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.