Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour

Discover Savannah’s Civil War Past for $40

The Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour offers a compelling deep dive into Savannah’s role during the Civil War. At $40 per person, this 2-hour walking experience takes you through the city’s historic district, focusing on its Civil War involvement and antebellum architecture. With multiple departures daily, it’s designed to fit various schedules, making it an accessible way to enrich your understanding of Savannah’s wartime story.

This tour is well-loved for its knowledgeable guides and the use of headsets, which ensure every narration is clear, even in a busy street environment. It’s a fully narrated experience that covers over 150 years of history, from secession debates to Sherman’s famous march. While the walking pace is leisurely, expect to spend about two hours on your feet, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Although the tour focuses on history, it also offers beautiful views of Savannah’s historic squares and cultural landmarks, making it both educational and visually appealing. This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Savannah’s unique Civil War story.

Key Points

• Price: $40 per person for a 2-hour guided walking tour
• Includes: Professional guide, comprehensive Civil War history, and headset audio
• Departure point: Reynolds Square at 32 Abercorn St, Savannah
• Highlights: Visit Sherman’s headquarters, see Robert E. Lee’s frequent visiting sites, and walk through the antebellum district
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Booking: Most bookings are made 22 days in advance, so plan ahead

The Tour Starts at Reynolds Square with Expert Guides

The tour begins at Reynolds Square, a central location in Savannah’s historic district. The professional guides lead you through a comprehensive 2-hour walk that provides guided commentary throughout. The guides are praised for their wealth of knowledge and the ability to make complex historical issues understandable and engaging.

Starting at Reynolds Square, the tour covers key Civil War sites, including Sherman’s headquarters and General John Geary’s and General Oliver Howard’s roles. The guide also discusses Savannah’s cultural and political climate leading up to secession, offering context for the city’s wartime decisions. The use of headsets ensures clear communication, even in the lively streets.

Exploring Savannah’s Civil War Highlights

During this walk, you’ll visit important locations tied to Savannah’s Civil War story. The guide points out where Sherman’s headquarters was located and shares stories about Special Order No. 15, a critical piece of wartime history. Along the way, you also see where Robert E. Lee visited during his trips to Savannah.

The route takes in the Antebellum district, where Georgia’s cultural and political leanings are explained, helping visitors understand why Savannah was famously spared during Sherman’s March to the Sea. The tour emphasizes the balance between history and architecture, with several beautiful squares providing scenic spots for brief rests and photos.

The Use of Headsets Enhances the Experience

One of the tour’s standout features is the headset system, which travelers praise for clarity and ease of hearing. This allows everyone to catch every detail from the guide, especially in the bustling streets. The guides are also noted for their thoughtfulness in pacing the walk so that all can comfortably keep up.

The tour’s small group size (max 15 people) makes for an intimate experience, enabling questions and personalized commentary. Travelers report that the guides, especially Champ and Savanah, are friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the history come alive.

Walking Through Savannah’s Historic Squares

The tour takes you through several of Savannah’s iconic historic squares, each offering a glimpse into the city’s pre-war elegance. These squares serve as both scenic stops and educational points, where guides describe Savannah’s architecture and urban planning during the antebellum era.

Participants appreciate the leisurely pace, which allows for photo opportunities and simply soaking in the sights. The beautiful scenery combined with informative commentary makes this walking tour an engaging way to experience Savannah’s historic core.

Insights from the Guide’s Narration

The guides are highly praised for their depth of knowledge about Savannah’s Civil War history and local stories. Comments highlight Champ’s storytelling skills, blending entertainment with education. The guides also address sensitive issues like slavery with straightforward honesty, which many find refreshing and necessary.

The tour covers critical questions such as Reconstruction versus Retribution, providing visitors with a nuanced understanding of the post-war period. The commentary on Sherman’s March and Special Order No. 15 is particularly engaging, giving a vivid picture of wartime strategy and local impact.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from Reynolds Square, located at 32 Abercorn Street. The walk concludes at 127 Abercorn Street, near Oglethorpe Square. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate and most service animals allowed.

It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes given the leisurely walking pace. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic city walks. It’s also conveniently located near public transportation options.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

Booking can be canceled free of charge if done at least 24 hours in advance. For cancellations within 24 hours, the full amount paid is non-refundable. The tour requires good weather to operate, and if canceled due to weather, travelers are offered a different date or full refund.

Most bookings are made 22 days in advance, indicating strong interest and popularity. The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized experience, making it a popular choice among visitors.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Savannah

This Civil War walking tour excels in combining comprehensive narration, scenic stops, and personalized attention. With expert guides like Champ and Savanah, the storytelling is lively and informative. The use of headsets enhances clarity, especially in Savannah’s bustling streets.

The focus on Savannah’s unique position during the Civil War, especially why it was spared during Sherman’s March, offers insights that are both interesting and educational. The tour also balances history and architecture, offering a well-rounded look at Savannah’s past.

While the two-hour duration suits most, travelers should be prepared for a fair amount of walking. The tour is perfect for those interested in American history, Civil War strategies, and Southern architecture. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help make each experience memorable.

Guided Savannah Civil War History Walking Tour: Final Thoughts

This tour provides a highly engaging and informative look at Savannah’s Civil War story. The $40 price point is justified by the quality of narration, the scenic route, and the expert guides. Visitors interested in historical detail and city scenery will find it a rewarding experience.

Strongly recommended for history enthusiasts, especially those eager to understand Savannah’s unique wartime role. The small group setting and use of headsets ensure that every detail is accessible and the experience feels personal. This tour offers a balanced mix of education, storytelling, and sightseeing—a solid choice for exploring Savannah’s Civil War past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Reynolds Square, located at 32 Abercorn Street in Savannah.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all taxes, fees, the guide’s narration, and headset audio.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate; however, comfortable shoes for walking are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Are there any stops along the route?
Yes, you’ll visit key sites like Sherman’s headquarters, Robert E. Lee’s visit locations, and stroll through Savannah’s historic squares.

Who are the guides?
The guides are professional, with highly praised guides including Champ and Savanah, known for their knowledge and storytelling ability.

Is the tour accessible?
The tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, with most service animals allowed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised due to the leisurely walking pace.

Will I learn about the broader context of the Civil War?
Absolutely, the tour discusses secession, Sherman’s March, Special Order No. 15, and Reconstruction or Retribution debates, providing a well-rounded understanding.