The Hidden Gem Cemetery Tour of Laurel Grove

If you’re exploring Savannah and eager to peek behind its famous moss-draped trees and charming squares, the Laurel Grove Cemetery Tour offers a wonderful window into the city’s lesser-known yet equally compelling history. This 2-hour guided experience takes you through a sprawling, peaceful cemetery that dates back to 1853, providing a mix of storytelling, impressive tombstones, and historical insights.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? For starters, it’s a daytime outing, making it perfect for those who prefer their history without the spooky night-time atmosphere. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll navigate the 67-acre landscape efficiently, uncovering stories about notable graves and local traditions. The only caveat? It’s a walking tour, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and standing for a while.

This experience is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about Savannah’s ghostly tales—without the chills of a ghost tour. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, the mix of educational content and authentic ambiance makes it a worthwhile addition to your Savannah itinerary.

Key Points

• Guided daytime tour of Laurel Grove Cemetery, established in 1853.
• Focus on history, sculpture, and notable graves rather than ghost stories.
• Knowledgeable guide ensures efficient exploration of the 67-acre site.
• Tour is less crowded and more relaxed than evening ghost tours.
• Cost-effective at $30 per person, offering substantial value.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and pets allowed.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Laurel Grove Cemetery Tour offers a well-rounded peek into Savannah’s past, all in a peaceful, daylight setting. The tour begins at the North Cemetery entrance on 802 W Anderson Street, where you’ll meet your guide—likely someone with deep local roots and a passion for storytelling. From there, the journey unfolds across the vast landscape, with the guide navigating the route efficiently, highlighting key features as you go.

Exploring Laurel Grove North Cemetery

One of the major highlights is the narrated walk through the 1853 cemetery. You’ll see impressive mausoleum crypts, many crafted with Victorian-era ironwork, statues, and symbolic sculptures. The guide will point out details about funerary rites, burial traditions, and cemetery laws that shaped how Victorians memorialized their loved ones.

The tour covers several significant graves, including the burials of Juliette Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, and the “Waving Girl,” a local legend. You’ll learn stories about Civil War sections, Freemasons, and other groups that left their mark on the grounds.

Highlights of the Grave Sites

Guests frequently mention the quality of the narratives. One reviewer raves, “Our guide, Shannon, was absolutely incredible. He told us about the cemetery itself, and we learned a ton about history and interesting stories about many of the people there.” This suggests guides aren’t just narrating dates—they’re sharing engaging stories about the individuals buried there.

The cemetery is also home to graves of notable locals like James Pierpont and Mary Marshall, with the guide explaining their significance. As one visitor notes, “Paschal was a wonderful guide. He was very knowledgeable and the tour was placed out nicely. I would recommend this tour.”

The Peaceful Setting and Less Crowded Experience

Since the tour takes place during working hours, it’s less crowded than many ghostly night tours. This not only enhances the atmosphere but also makes for better photographs and less jostling. The serene ambiance, coupled with towering moss-covered trees, offers a calming backdrop to absorbing the stories.

The Tour Guide’s Role

Many reviews emphasize the expertise and enthusiasm of the guides—particularly Paschal Miller, whose family history in Savannah shines through his storytelling. Reviewers describe him as knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging, often mentioning his ability to share interesting historical facts and anecdotes. This personalized touch truly elevates the experience and makes it memorable.

Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Group Size

At $30 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the depth of information and the expert guidance. The 2-hour duration is just right—long enough to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere conducive to learning and conversation.

Since it’s a mobile ticket tour, you can easily meet at the designated starting point without fuss. The tour is suitable for most physical fitness levels, though walking and standing are involved. Pets are allowed, so it’s a nice outing for animal lovers.

What We Loved

The expert guides make all the difference—they bring the cemetery alive with stories that go beyond simple gravestone descriptions. We also appreciate the daytime setting, which creates a peaceful environment perfect for absorbing history without the nighttime spookiness.

The stunning ironwork, statues, and burial sites are visual highlights that bring a tangible sense of the past to life. The fact that the tour explores famous graves like Juliette Low’s adds an extra layer of cultural significance.

Considerations

One possible downside is that because the tour occurs during the day, it may lack the eerie atmosphere some travelers seek in ghost or night tours. However, if your priority is learning about Savannah’s history and architecture rather than ghost stories, this is a definite plus.

Plus, the moderate physical activity involved means it’s better suited for people comfortable walking and standing for a couple of hours. While pets are welcome, the grounds are expansive, and some areas may require careful navigation.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cemetery tour shines for history enthusiasts and those interested in Victorian funerary art or local Savannah stories. It’s perfect if you prefer exploring during daylight hours or want a more relaxed, crowd-free experience.

If you’re traveling with family, history buffs, or even small groups of friends looking for an authentic, educational outing, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning visuals in a peaceful setting.

In short, if you want to see a side of Savannah that many visitors overlook and gain a deeper understanding of its past, the Laurel Grove Cemetery Daytime Tour is a top-notch choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for pets?
Yes, pets are allowed on this tour, making it a good choice if you want to bring your furry friend along for a peaceful walk.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the cost?
At $30 per person, it offers good value for a guided experience that covers a large area and includes many stories.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Laurel Grove North Cemetery, on 802 W Anderson Street in Savannah.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity suggests it’s best for travelers who can comfortably walk and stand for a while.

What should I bring?
While not specified, bringing bottled water might be wise, especially in warm weather.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s a daylight, less crowded alternative to ghost tours. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making it an educational experience rather than just sightseeing.

In essence, the Laurel Grove Cemetery Tour offers a thoughtful, engaging look at Savannah’s history through its beautiful and meaningful graves. It’s an experience that balances educational storytelling with serene scenery, making it a compelling choice for those seeking authentic insight into Savannah’s past.