Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour

The Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour offers a close-up look at the city’s grand mansions and the stories behind them. Priced at $30 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this tour is ideal for those interested in architecture, history, and local preservation efforts. The tour departs from Warren Square at 10:00 am and features a professional guide who leads you through Savannah’s most beautiful historic district on foot.

While the tour includes several notable stops, some attractions like the Owens-Thomas House and Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace are optional visits with independent admission, enhancing flexibility. With an average booking window of 23 days in advance, this tour appeals to travelers seeking an engaging and informative experience that covers Savannah’s architectural gems and the families behind them.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $30 per person, around 2 hours long.
• Interesting Stops: Includes Davenport House, Green-Meldrim House, Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace, and more.
• Expert Guide: A knowledgeable local guides you, sharing stories about architecture and preservation.
• Flexible Options: Some homes, like Owens-Thomas House, offer hourly tours (admission not included).
• Ideal for Architecture Enthusiasts: Offers insights into both historic and commercial architecture.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 participants for a more personal experience.

Savannah’s Architectural Treasures and Their Histories

Starting Point at Warren Square

The tour kicks off at Warren Square, a central spot in Savannah’s historic district. From here, the guide begins to share stories about the city’s development and the importance of the homes you will see. Walking through this area provides a scenic and accessible backdrop for exploring Savannah’s architectural diversity.

Visiting the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

The first stop is the Owens-Thomas House, an early 19th-century mansion built in 1816. While admission to the house is not included in the tour, visitors can opt for hourly tours. This site is notable for its slave quarters and the story it tells about Savannah’s antebellum era. Its architecture and historical significance make it a compelling beginning to the walk.

Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthplace

Next, the tour visits the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, built in 1818. This historic house remains a golden jewel on the corner of Bull and Oglethorpe Streets. Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts, was born here. The house also has a fascinating connection to William Tecumseh Sherman, who was invited to dinner there—an intriguing footnote in its history.

The Gothic Revival Green-Meldrim House

Your guide then introduces the Green-Meldrim House, an 1853 Gothic Revival mansion. Built at a cost of $93,000, it was once Savannah’s most expensive home. This property exemplifies the Gothic style and offers insight into the wealth of Savannah’s prominent families in the mid-1800s.

The Davenport House and Its Role in Restoration

One of the most significant stops is the Davenport House Museum, built around 1820. This Federalist-style mansion is credited with sparking the restoration movement in Savannah in 1954. The tour includes a voucher for visitors to explore the house at their leisure after the walk, making it a highlight for architecture lovers and history buffs alike.

The Hamilton-Turner House

The Hamilton-Turner House, now a bed and breakfast, is a Second Empire Victorian mansion. It was the first home in Savannah to be illuminated with electricity and served as inspiration for the Haunted Mansion at Disney World. Its grandeur and unique history make this stop particularly notable.

The Guide’s Expertise and Storytelling Style

Knowledgeable and Adaptable Guides

The tour is led by experienced guides, some of whom are native to Savannah and possess extensive local knowledge. Testimonials praise guides like Brad and Zack for their entertaining storytelling and detailed historical insights. Guides are known to amend the tour based on guest requests, incorporating additional information about architecture, local history, and preservation policies.

Personalities and Engagement

Guests frequently mention guides’ warm personalities and ability to answer questions, making the experience more engaging. Despite a few comments about guide conduct, overall reviews highlight guides’ expertise and ability to bring stories to life.

Tour Logistics and Group Experience

Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Warren Square and ends at The Olde Pink House on Abercorn Street. The group is capped at 30 participants, promoting a comfortable and intimate environment. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and easy access near public transportation.

Pacing and Tour Flow

The walk is designed to be well-paced, with stops ranging from 10 to 15 minutes. The tour balances architecture viewing, storytelling, and historical context, avoiding overly long periods in one location. The walking is moderate, and the tour is considered a good first experience for visitors unfamiliar with Savannah.

Optional House Museum Visits

Admission to specific sites like the Owens-Thomas House and Davenport House is not included in the basic ticket, allowing guests flexibility. When available, hourly tours can be scheduled directly at these homes. One notable exception is that the Owens-Thomas House was closed due to weather during some tours, with refunds provided.

Thematic Highlights of the Savannah Homes Tour

Architectural Diversity and Style

The tour showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Federalist, Gothic Revival, and Second Empire Victorian. Guides highlight distinctive features and building materials, enriching understanding of Savannah’s architectural evolution.

Stories of Prominent Families

Many homes are linked to notable Savannah families, adding a personal dimension to the tour. For instance, the Green-Meldrim House’s history reflects Savannah’s wealthy antebellum elite, while Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace connects to the founder of the Girl Scouts.

Preservation Movement Origins

The Davenport House holds special significance as the property that sparked Savannah’s preservation movement in the 1950s. This makes the tour not just about architecture but also about what it takes to preserve historic neighborhoods.

Fun Facts and Anecdotes

Guides sprinkle the tour with little-known facts, including that the Hamilton-Turner House inspired Disney’s Haunted Mansion, and that the Green-Meldrim House was the most expensive home built in Savannah at the time. These stories add a layer of entertainment and depth.

Limitations and Considerations

House Admission and Tour Changes

While the tour includes a voucher for the Davenport House, some sites might be closed or require separate admission, like the Owens-Thomas House. Weather can impact availability—such as the Owens-Thomas House being closed for rain, with refunds issued for that portion.

Guide Conduct and Guest Expectations

A few reviews mention guide conduct issues, including political comments and tardiness. However, guides are generally experienced and knowledgeable, and most guests find their storytelling engaging and informative.

Tour Length and Content Focus

The tour emphasizes architecture and history over extended visits inside homes. Visitors should be prepared for a walking experience that balances outdoor viewing with storytelling, rather than an in-depth inside tour of each mansion.

Savannah’s Historic Homes Tour: An Authentic Architectural Walk

Strengths and Ideal Audience

This tour excels at showcasing Savannah’s architectural variety and telling stories of the families and preservation efforts behind the homes. It’s especially suited for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Savannah’s historic district.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

Guests seeking inside access to every home or a more leisurely exploration might find the experience somewhat limited, as some homes are optional and admission is separate. Weather can also influence the experience, particularly for outdoor sites.

Overall Value

At $30, the tour offers solid value for an engaging, narrated walk through Savannah’s most iconic homes. The expert guides and well-paced itinerary make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at the city’s architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are admission fees included in the tour?
Most house visits offer admission tickets not included in the basic price, but vouchers are provided for some sites like the Davenport House. Some properties, such as the Owens-Thomas House, may be closed due to weather, with refunds available.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the tour involves walking and outdoor viewing. Guides are happy to answer questions, making it accessible for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Can I customize the tour or visit more homes?
The tour is structured with specific stops, but optional house museum visits are available afterward. The guide can suggest additional sites, but the main tour covers the key historic homes.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Since the tour is outdoors and involves walking, be prepared for weather conditions like sun or rain.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 23 days in advance is typical, but availability can vary. Early reservations ensure access to preferred dates, especially during peak tourist seasons.

In sum, the Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour offers a rich overview of the city’s architectural heritage. With knowledgeable guides, a well-chosen route, and flexible options for visiting house museums, it provides a solid introduction to Savannah’s beauty and history—perfect for those wanting a focused, engaging walk through one of America’s most charming historic districts.