Savannah: Historic District Guided Bike Tour

Exploring Savannah on a bike is a fantastic way to soak up the city’s charm without missing out on its stories. This guided tour takes you through the heart of Savannah’s historic district, offering a relaxed pace, engaging narration, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. For just $39 per person, it’s an affordable option for solo travelers, couples, or groups eager to discover Savannah’s beauty and history in a fun, eco-friendly way.

One of the biggest perks? The knowledgeable guides, like EJ, who not only share fascinating insights but also keep the ride enjoyable and easy for riders of all skill levels. Plus, the stops at iconic landmarks—like Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square—give you a real taste of Savannah’s soul. The only caveat? Since it’s a bike tour, you’ll want to be comfortable riding on flat streets and be prepared for the weather, which can sometimes be unpredictable.

This experience is perfect if you love active sightseeing, historical stories, and exploring at a leisurely pace. It’s especially well-suited for people who appreciate small group settings (limited to just 10 participants), personalized attention, and the chance to see many highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re after a unique, engaging way to get acquainted with Savannah, this bike tour ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided biking experience suited for all ages and skill levels
• Includes stops at major landmarks like Forsyth Park, Chippewa Square, and historic houses
• Learn about Savannah’s history and notable figures from passionate local guides
• Affordable price point offers great value for a two-hour guided tour
• Opportunity to keep the bike for the rest of the day, exploring further at your own pace
• Small group size ensures a personalized and engaging experience

Why You’ll Enjoy the Savannah Historic District Bike Tour

This tour offers a wonderfully relaxed way to take in the sights of Savannah’s iconic historic district. We loved the way it combines the physical activity of biking with the storytelling of knowledgeable guides. With most riders in mind, the tour emphasizes safety, with guides helping you find the right bike and riding at a gentle, manageable pace. It’s a perfect option for those who might not be the most confident cyclists but still want to see a lot.

What sets this tour apart is the depth of information shared during the stops. For instance, at Forsyth Park, guides explain the significance of the statues and fountains, making each photo op more meaningful. Passing by Chippewa Square, you’ll stand on the same ground where Forrest Gump’s famous bench scene was filmed. The guides, like EJ, aren’t just about showing the sights—they share stories that bring Savannah’s past and present alive in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.

However, the tour is only as good as the weather, and since it runs in light rain, you might want to be prepared with a rain poncho. Also, if you’re traveling with children who can’t ride, you’ll need to consider this, as the experience is geared toward those who can cycle comfortably around flat streets.

In terms of value, $39 for two hours of guided sightseeing is hard to beat—especially when you factor in the chance to keep the bike afterward and explore on your own. Plus, the small group size makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized tips, making your overall experience richer.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point and Starting Details

Your adventure begins at Savannah On Wheels, located conveniently on West Hall Street, with free parking available nearby. Here, the staff helps you select the most comfortable bike for your height and riding style—whether you prefer a traditional bike or a cruiser—and provides a quick safety briefing. With a maximum group size of 10, the tour stays intimate, allowing for friendly interaction and personalized attention.

Exploring the Historic Streets

From the start, you’ll enjoy the flat streets of Savannah, which are perfect for casual cycling. The guides lead you through some of the most picturesque and historically significant parts of the city, ensuring a safe route that avoids heavy traffic. The ride is designed to be comfortable and unhurried, allowing plenty of chances to stop and take photos.

Key Stops and Highlights

• Forsyth Park: A highlight for many visitors, this sprawling green space features the famous fountain and statues. Guides share its history and the stories behind its iconic features, making every photo memorable.
• Chippewa Square: Known for its connection to Forrest Gump, this square has a charming ambiance that captures Savannah’s charm. Feeling the historic cobblestones under your wheels adds to the experience.
• Jones Street: Named one of the prettiest residential streets in America, this quiet, tree-lined avenue showcases Savannah’s classic architecture and Southern elegance.
• Mercer Williams House Museum, Hamilton-Turner House, Green-Meldrim House: These stately homes are landmarks of Savannah’s history, and guides provide engaging stories about their past residents and significance.
• Wright Square, City Market, Washington Square, Columbia Square: These lively squares are hubs of local activity and offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant community life.

The Final Stretch and Optional Extras

After the main stops, you can choose to keep your bike for the day. Many reviewers found this extremely useful, as it allows you to explore further on your own or revisit your favorite spots. Guides also share tips and maps for additional routes, helping you navigate Savannah’s hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, according to reviews, is how guides like EJ and Austin bring history to life with engaging stories. For example, one reviewer appreciated EJ’s pace and storytelling, noting, “EJ was an excellent tour guide and wasn’t too fast so our group could stay together.” Such attentiveness ensures everyone feels included and can absorb the stories at their own speed.

Another reviewer mentioned how much they enjoyed the “great information from a friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging” guide, emphasizing the value of local expertise. The stories about Savannah’s significance in American history, combined with the picturesque streets and architecture, make this more than just a sightseeing ride—it’s an educational journey that leaves you with a deeper appreciation of the city.

Comfort and Practicality

The tour is designed for comfort and safety. Helmets are mandatory for under-16s, but optional for others, and safety instructions are clear and thorough. The flat streets make cycling accessible, even for those who aren’t regular cyclists. Plus, the option to purchase onsite essentials like water, cell phone holders, or rain ponchos adds convenience.

Price and Value

For $39, this two-hour guided bike tour offers excellent value, especially considering the small group size, expert guides, and the chance to explore at your own pace afterward. When compared to other sightseeing options in Savannah, this experience stands out as an affordable and engaging way to get oriented with the city. The inclusion of a bike and optional full-day rental enhances flexibility, allowing you to maximize your time in Savannah.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided bike tour is ideal for history buffs, active travelers, and those seeking a relaxed, personal exploration of Savannah’s historic district. It’s particularly well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want an intimate experience with a local guide. If you’re traveling with children, ensure they can comfortably ride a bike on flat streets, or consider this tour if you’re comfortable with that setup.

It’s also perfect if you prefer small group experiences rather than big bus tours, and if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who share stories beyond the basic facts. The option to keep the bike for the day is a bonus for travelers who want to explore beyond the scheduled stops.

Final Thoughts

This Savannah historic district bike tour delivers a balanced mix of fun, education, and scenic beauty. The guides’ expertise, combined with the relaxed pace and well-chosen stops, makes it a great way to become familiar with the city’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable way to see Savannah, this tour ticks many boxes.

For those who want a value-packed, small-group experience that blends sightseeing with storytelling, it offers an authentic taste of Savannah’s charm. Plus, being able to keep the bike for additional exploration is a major plus for extending your adventure.

If you’re after a friendly, informative, and enjoyable introduction to Savannah, this guided bike tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who love cycling, learning, and capturing beautiful moments along the way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages and skill levels?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels. Guides help you select the most comfortable bike and ensure a safe, easy ride on flat streets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with starting times available based on the day. It’s a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for photos and stories.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Water, cell phone holders, and rain ponchos are available for purchase onsite.

Are helmets provided?
Helmets are mandatory for anyone under 16 and optional for older participants. The guides provide safety instructions to ensure a smooth ride.

Can I keep the bike after the tour?
Yes, you have the option to keep the bike for the rest of the day, which many reviewers found helpful for further exploring Savannah.

What are the meeting points and parking options?
The tour begins at Savannah On Wheels on West Hall Street, with free parking available nearby. The activity ends at the same location.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour runs in light rain. If there’s extreme weather, it may be canceled, and you’ll be notified at least 30 minutes beforehand for a full refund.

Is it a small group tour?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions.

Can I bring children who can’t ride a bike?
This tour isn’t suitable for children who can’t ride, as it requires cycling on flat streets. Consider this if you’re traveling with non-riders.

This bike tour presents a wonderful way to see Savannah’s highlights without the hassle of large groups or bus crowds. It’s a charming, educational experience that fits well into any itinerary, especially if you’re keen to combine activity with culture and history.