Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour

Discover the captivating world of Savannah’s Historic District through the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour, offered at $35 per person for a 2-hour journey that immerses you in the city’s storied past and its connection to the famous book and film. Led by a licensed, local guide, this tour is ideal for fans of the story or anyone intrigued by Savannah’s charming architecture and intriguing characters. The tour departs from Reynolds Square next to the John Wesley statue, directly in front of the Olde Pink House Restaurant, making it easy to find and join.

While the tour does not include admission to the Mercer Williams House Museum, it offers a comprehensive look at the landmarks and stories behind the characters depicted in John Berendt’s best-selling novel and its 1997 movie adaptation. The experience is particularly praised for its knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and the stunning backdrop of Savannah’s historic streets. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing to fully enjoy the two-hour walk.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $35 per person for a 2-hour walking tour
• Focus: Locations from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil book and movie
• Guide: Licensed, local guide with extensive knowledge of Savannah’s history and the story
• Stops: Iconic landmarks such as Reynolds Square, Forsyth Park, Johnson Square, Wright Square, and notable mansions like Mercer Williams House
• Highlights: Stories behind the characters, fascinating facts, and insights into events depicted in the book
• Accessibility: Tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those with moderate walking ability

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Starting Point in Reynolds Square

The tour begins at Reynolds Square, a central and historic part of Savannah’s Historic District. The guide waits next to the John Wesley statue, making it clear where to gather. This prime meeting spot is right in front of the Olde Pink House Restaurant, a well-known Savannah landmark. From here, the guide leads the group on a walk through the city’s most notable squares and streets, revealing their importance in the story and history.

Exploring Savannah’s Historic Squares and Iconic Buildings

Throughout the tour, visitors pass through several of Savannah’s oldest public plazas, each with its unique character and history. The group stops at Johnson Square, where you’ll admire magnificent buildings that line the square, and Wright Square, known for its memorial to William Washington Gordon. The Hamilton-Turner Inn draws attention with its elegant architecture, and a walk down Jones Street showcases classic Savannah charm.

Monterey Square offers a peaceful setting, while the Mercer Williams House, made famous by the book and movie, becomes a key highlight. The armstrong House is also visible along the route, adding to the visual storytelling of Savannah’s past residents and history.

Unraveling the Stories Behind the Characters

A major strength of this guided walk is how the storytelling connects the landmarks with the personalities that animated the story. The guide, a long-time Savannah resident, shares fascinating anecdotes about the people involved, from the real-life figures to the eccentric characters featured in the story. These tidbits make the locations come alive and deepen the understanding of the city’s cultural fabric.

The tour emphasizes events and moments in the book and film, providing context that enhances the experience for anyone familiar with the story. For those new to it, the rich narrative still offers entertaining insights into Savannah’s unique character.

Architectural Highlights Along Jones Street and Forsyth Park

A walk through Jones Street showcases some of Savannah’s most beautiful mansion houses, known for their historic architecture and Southern elegance. The Mercer Williams House, in particular, is a standout, with its distinctive style and historical significance.

The tour also includes a scenic stop at Forsyth Park, specifically at the famous fountain, where you can appreciate the stunning landscape and vivid backdrop for the story. The beauty of these landmarks, combined with the stories told by the guide, creates an immersive experience that captures the essence of Savannah.

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The Guide’s Expertise and Engaging Delivery

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledgeable, personable, and engaging storytelling. The guide shares interesting facts, personal insights, and humorous anecdotes that keep the group entertained throughout the two-hour walk. Many mention the pace being well-balanced, allowing for questions and photo opportunities without feeling rushed.

The guide’s familiarity with the city and the story makes a significant difference, especially when explaining the history behind the locations or filling in details not immediately obvious. This personal touch enhances the overall enjoyment and educational value of the tour.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for the Tour

The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating travelers with different mobility needs. It operates rain or shine, so travelers should bring weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

The group is small enough for personalized attention, and the meeting point at Reynolds Square makes it convenient to join before starting. Travelers are encouraged to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the moderate-paced walk.

Comparing This Tour to Other Savannah Experiences

While this tour is focused specifically on sites from the book and movie, Savannah offers other experiences such as ghost tours, trolley rides, and cemetery visits. However, the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour excels at providing a literary and cinematic perspective within the city’s scenic streets.

With a high rating of 4.8 based on 183 reviews, the tour’s popularity reflects its quality and reliability. The positive feedback highlights knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as key strengths.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This guided walk is perfect for fans of the story, book lovers, and movie buffs eager to see the actual locations. It’s also well-suited for history enthusiasts interested in Savannah’s architecture and famous residents. The group size, small and intimate, offers a personalized experience, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a well-paced, informative stroll.

The tour’s affordability and 2-hour duration make it a convenient option for those with limited time, but still seeking a deep dive into Savannah’s cultural landscape.

The Sum Up: A Storytelling Walk Through Savannah’s Heart

The Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour offers an engaging journey through Savannah’s historic streets and famous landmarks, revealing the stories behind the characters that brought the story to life. The experienced guides ensure that each location is filled with intriguing facts and personal insights, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

While not including entrance to the Mercer Williams House Museum, this walking tour provides an immersive overview of the story’s setting and the city’s character. It is highly rated, with positive reviews emphasizing knowledge, storytelling, and scenic beauty.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate history, literature, or film, and who want to explore Savannah at a relaxed pace. Affordable, accessible, and packed with stories, it stands out as a compelling way to connect with Savannah’s unique charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, covering key locations and stories from the book and movie.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Reynolds Square, next to the John Wesley statue, in front of the Olde Pink House.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for walking on Savannah’s streets.

Does the tour include entrance to any museums?
No, the admission to Mercer Williams House Museum is not included.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but travelers should be prepared for rain with appropriate gear.

Can I bring a pet?
Yes, well-behaved pets are welcome.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is designed as a small group, providing a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour different from other Savannah walking tours?
This tour uniquely focuses on sites from the book and movie, with a storytelling approach led by a local expert familiar with Savannah’s cultural and architectural history.

Is this tour good for people unfamiliar with the story?
Yes, even without prior knowledge of the book or film, the stories and landmarks are interesting and educational.

How can I book this tour?
Reservations are available with flexible pay later options and full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby