Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe State Historic Site Tour

The Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe State Historic Site Tour offers an engaging glimpse into Southern history and scenic landscapes of Georgia. Priced at $74 per person and lasting approximately 6 hours, this tour combines cultural storytelling with picturesque stops, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely exploration of Savannah’s iconic sites. The experience includes admission to Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Plantation, plus round-trip mini-bus transfers from Savannah’s historic district.

While lunch is not included in the ticket, a stop at the famous Byrd Cookie Company headquarters for tastings of their signature cookies provides a sweet ending to the day. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who earn rave reviews for their engaging storytelling, with Dennis frequently highlighted as a standout performer. The tour suits visitors who are comfortable with walking and standing for extended periods, as it involves walking through cemeteries and short walks at Wormsloe.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $74, this 6-hour tour delivers a full day of sightseeing, making it a good value for those interested in Savannah’s history.
• Guided Experience: Led by expert guides, especially Dennis, known for his knowledgeable and humorous storytelling.
• Main Stops: Includes Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe Historic Site, and a cookie tasting at Byrd Cookie Company.
• Cultural Highlights: Learn about notable figures buried at Bonaventure, such as Johnny Mercer and Gracie Watson, along with the plantation’s 18th-century Tabby Ruins.
• Logistics: Includes round-trip transportation with a comfortable mini-bus, and admission fees are covered.
• Physical Requirements: The tour involves walking in cemeteries and a short walk at Wormsloe, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

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Starting the Day at Bonaventure Cemetery

The tour begins with a guided walk through Bonaventure Cemetery, established in 1846 and renowned for its ornate monuments and moss-draped oaks. The guide provides insights into the lives of notable residents like Johnny Mercer, a famous songwriter, and Mary Telfair, a philanthropist, as well as sharing poignant stories of poets and children buried there, including Gracie Watson.

Expect the walk to meander along the bluff of Wilmington River, with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenic sculptures and historic gravestones. The guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to make the history come alive, enhancing the experience beyond just the visual beauty.

Exploring Wormsloe Historic Site and Its Live Oak Avenue

After the cemetery, the tour moves on to Wormsloe Historic Site, famous for its magnificent live oak tree-lined driveway. Travelers enjoy the breathtaking drive down this avenue, which creates a perfect photo opportunity.

The visit includes a short walk to view the 18th-century Tabby Ruins, remnants of a historic plantation house, and a visit to the museum of the Georgia State Park Historic Site. The plantation’s architecture and grounds offer a glimpse into early Georgian life, although some visitors feel that the plantation house itself could be more prominently featured or toured.

Lunch Break at a Local Savannah Restaurant

Following the historic site visit, the tour offers time for lunch at a popular local restaurant. While the cost of lunch is not included, the schedule allows enough time for a relaxed meal. Many visitors appreciate trying authentic Southern cuisine, which complements the day’s historical exploration.

Sampling Sweets at Byrd Cookie Company

The tour concludes with a visit to Byrd Cookie Company’s headquarters, where tastings of their famous cookies await. Favorites include Key Lime, Bennie Bits, and Cheddar Cheese, providing a delightful sweet note after a full day of sightseeing. The shop offers opportunities for souvenirs, making it a popular stop for many.

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Logistics and Transportation

Transportation is handled with mini-bus transfers to and from Savannah’s historic district, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The round-trip service makes logistics simple, especially for visitors staying in or near the city center. The admission fees for Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Plantation are included, but parking fees at the Savannah Visitors Center are not covered.

Physical Demands and Accessibility

The tour involves a significant amount of walking, particularly in Bonaventure Cemetery and at Wormsloe. Comfortable shoes are recommended to manage extended periods on foot. The overall pace is manageable, but guests should be prepared for standing and walking during the cemetery tour and the short walk at Wormsloe.

The Expertise of the Guides, Especially Dennis

Review highlights consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with Dennis frequently lauded as exceptional. His storytelling style, blending humor and detailed historical facts, keeps the group interested and entertained. Many reviews mention his extensive subject knowledge and his friendly, approachable manner. Guides are also attentive to weather conditions, with some providing umbrellas in case of rain, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Timing, Pacing, and Group Size

The 6-hour tour generally starts in the morning and runs at a comfortable pace, balancing guided walks with free time for meals and shopping. The group size is suited to small or medium groups, allowing for personalized attention from the guides. The schedule is flexible enough to accommodate the main highlights without feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This experience is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in Southern culture. The combination of cemetery history, plantation architecture, and local culinary treats offers a well-rounded look at Savannah’s heritage. Because of the walking involved, it’s best suited for those in good health and with comfortable shoes. The excellent reviews underline that guests value the guides’ storytelling and the scenic stops.

Final Thoughts on the Bonaventure & Wormsloe Tour

The $74 price provides good value for a full-day exploration of Savannah’s most iconic sites. The expert guides and beautiful locations make this tour stand out, especially for visitors eager to learn about Georgia’s history through engaging storytelling. The lunch and cookie tasting add extra enjoyment, rounding out the experience nicely.

While some may wish for a more comprehensive plantation house tour, the overall balance of cemetery wandering, scenic drives, and cultural insights makes this a highly recommended choice. It suits history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike, with plenty of photo opportunities and informative commentary throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, mini-bus transfers to and from Savannah’s Historic District are included.

Are admission fees to Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Plantation covered?
Yes, admission to both sites is part of the tour package.

How long is the walk at Bonaventure Cemetery?
The tour involves a walking tour that meanders under moss-draped oaks, with standing and walking for extended periods.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, the Byrd Cookie Company shop offers tastings and souvenirs.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a stop at a local restaurant allows for a relaxed meal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking at both sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking and standing, so it is best suited for guests in good health and comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What makes this tour stand out?
The knowledgeable guides and beautiful, historic locations set this experience apart, complemented by delicious local treats and engaging storytelling.

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