Savannah Small Group Walking Tour

Exploring Savannah is like flipping through a living history book, and this Small Group Walking Tour promises to bring that story to life. For $114 per person, you get a three-hour adventure that combines walking through iconic neighborhoods with a scenic cruise along the Savannah River. With a maximum of just 10 travelers, this tour aims to offer a more intimate, personalized experience—something many travelers crave when exploring a city packed with charm and history.

One aspect that stands out immediately is the inclusion of a narrated river cruise. This addition offers a relaxing breather from the walking, while the attention to local guides’ storytelling makes history feel relevant and engaging. A potential consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, so if mobility is a concern, it’s worth considering how much walking is involved—though the itinerary is well-paced.

This tour is a great fit for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those wanting a rundown of Savannah’s most beloved sites. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper dive, this experience packs in a lot of highlights in a manageable timeframe, making it a practical choice for a broad range of travelers.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour offers a personal and engaging experience.
• Variety of Experiences: Combines walking tours of historic sites with a scenic river cruise for well-rounded exploration.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides bring Savannah’s stories to life with captivating tales.
• Inclusive Admission: River cruise is included, adding value to the overall experience.
• Balanced Pace: The itinerary is thoughtfully planned, balancing sightseeing with relaxation.
• Ideal for: History lovers, first-time visitors, and those seeking an authentic, small-group adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Savannah Small Group Walking Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at The Sentient Bean on E Park Ave, an eclectic coffee shop that’s a favorite local hangout—an excellent spot to meet your guide and fellow travelers. The small group size immediately promises an intimate atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and hearing local stories without feeling lost in a crowd.

Savannah Riverboat Cruises: A Relaxing Welcome

The adventure kicks off with a 1 hour 30-minute narrated cruise along the Savannah River, included in the ticket. This part is especially appreciated by travelers who enjoy scenic views and interesting commentary about Savannah’s port, river traffic, and history. Guests often comment on the stunning views of the river’s activity and the informative narration—a great way to set the tone for the rest of the day.

Forsyth Park: A Classic Savannah Scene

From the river, your guide will lead you to Forsyth Park, perhaps Savannah’s most iconic green space. The park’s famous fountain and lush lawns are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the Southern atmosphere. Our reviewer notes that the guide’s insights into the park’s history and significance make it more than just a pretty spot—it’s a core part of Savannah’s identity.

The Olde Pink House: A Historic Landmark

Walking past the Olde Pink House, you’ll get a chance to admire one of Savannah’s most storied buildings. The guide shares tales of its past, including how it has served as a private home, restaurant, and sometimes a haunted site (though ghost stories are not officially part of this tour). It’s a photo-worthy stop and offers a glimpse into Savannah’s colonial-era architecture.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Next, the tour takes you by the Owens-Thomas House, a beautifully preserved example of Regency architecture. The nearby slave quarters are a sobering reminder of Savannah’s complex past. While the tour doesn’t include interior visits here, the guide’s storytelling makes the exterior viewing meaningful, offering context about the lives of enslaved people and the historic significance of the site.

Savannah City Hall and St. John the Baptist Cathedral

The walk continues past Savannah City Hall, a grand example of civic architecture, and then to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The latter stands out with its stunning stained glass and impressive façade. Our sources note that the guide often shares interesting facts about the cathedral’s design and history, enriching your appreciation of this spiritual landmark.

Johnson Square and City Market

A stroll through Johnson Square offers a glimpse into Savannah’s early planning and public life, while the nearby City Market buzzes with local shops, galleries, and eateries. While this tour doesn’t include shopping, the guide will likely point out notable spots and provide suggestions for further exploration.

Ending with a River Cruise

The tour concludes with a second river cruise—this time as a relaxing way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. Many travelers find the cruise’s narration and vistas a perfect way to reflect on Savannah’s vibrant history and modern charm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides play a crucial role in elevating this experience. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the knowledgeable local guides who are eager to share fun facts, historical context, and personal anecdotes. Their storytelling makes the sights more meaningful and helps connect the dots of Savannah’s layered past.

The combination of walking and cruising offers variety—both in pace and scenery. The river cruise is a real highlight, providing scenic views of the river and port activity, along with informative narration that many find engaging. It’s an excellent way to add a leisurely dimension to the tour without feeling rushed.

Authentic sites such as Forsyth Park, The Olde Pink House, and the Owens-Thomas House give a real sense of Savannah’s architectural and cultural heritage. These stops are chosen for their iconic status and historical significance, giving travelers a well-rounded impression of the city.

Price and value are also important considerations. At $114, the cost covers not only the guided walking tour but also the river cruise, which adds substantial value. For travelers wanting a rundown without booking multiple tours, this package makes good sense.

Practical Details

The tour begins at The Sentient Bean, an accessible spot near public transportation, and ends at the River Street area, where the river cruise departs. The moderate physical activity involved should suit most travelers with decent mobility, but those with mobility challenges should consider the walking distances. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with a comfortable pace designed to maximize sightseeing without exhaustion.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of a river cruise makes it an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate both land-based and water-based sightseeing. Since the tour is limited to 10 people, booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot.

Final Thoughts

This Savannah Small Group Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenic views, and cultural insights. The inclusion of the narrated river cruise adds a unique element, making the experience more memorable. The guides’ storytelling prowess helps bring Savannah’s past alive in a way that feels personal and engaging.

Travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who want a rundown of Savannah’s most beloved sites without the rush or crowds of larger tours.

If you’re after a well-rounded, intimate exploration of Savannah, this tour hits the mark. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to understand the city’s history and character, all while enjoying beautiful scenery and expert storytelling.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you have moderate physical fitness, most ages can enjoy the walking and cruise parts.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the guided walking tour, admission to the riverboat cruise, and all the stops listed.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, including the river cruise.

Where do I meet the guide?
The tour begins at The Sentient Bean located at 13 E Park Ave.

Does the tour involve a lot of walking?
Yes, but it’s paced carefully to be manageable for most travelers with moderate fitness.

Is the river cruise narrated?
Yes, both cruises are narrated, providing interesting insights about Savannah and the river.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Is this tour good for history buffs?
Absolutely. The guides share detailed stories and context about Savannah’s historical sites.

Do I need to book in advance?
Given the small group size, it’s recommended to reserve your spot early to secure availability.

This tour combines the best of Savannah’s sights with insightful storytelling, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a condensed yet enriching exploration of this charming southern city.