Self-Guided ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Solo Walking Tour

Explore Savannah’s Historic Squares at Your Own Pace

The Self-Guided ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Solo Walking Tour offers an affordable way to discover one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. For $9.75 per person, this tour provides a flexible, approximately 55-minute to 1 hour 15 minutes walk through Savannah’s iconic historic squares. With mobile ticketing, it’s easy to start whenever you’re ready, making it ideal for spontaneous plans or personalized pacing.

This self-guided experience is perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own, with the freedom to pause at points of interest or take extra time at favorite spots. The tour is particularly suited for visitors interested in Savannah’s architecture, local history, and filming locations, including the famous Forrest Gump bench scene at Chippewa Square.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Tours start at just $9.75 and are self-paced.
• Includes 7 specific stops: From Reynolds Square to Chippewa Square, covering the city’s historic heart.
• Rich narration for each site: Learn about Savannah’s history, famous houses, and notable figures.
• Highlights Hollywood filming sites: Discover where movies like Forrest Gump and other films were shot.
• Limited group size: Personalized experience with only your group, no large crowds.
• No included museum tickets or food: Entry fees for inside museums are not covered, and food isn’t included, but outside stories are detailed.

Starting Point at Johnson Square

The tour begins at Johnson Square, a central location in Savannah, and ends at Chippewa Square, famous for the Forrest Gump scene with the iconic bench. The tour’s flexible format allows you to start at any time between 12:00 PM and 11:30 PM, thanks to the 24/7 open hours.

The smartphone-based system ensures that you can access the tour anywhere, anytime, once downloaded. This approach combines the convenience of a digital guide with the intimacy of a private experience, limited to just your group.

Visiting Reynolds Square and the Olde Pink House

The first stop, Reynolds Square, is a historic site where stories of Malaria victims and the Olde Pink House are shared. This spot offers insights into Savannah’s early history and can be slightly spooky due to its old-world stories. The stop lasts about 3 minutes and is free of charge.

Nearby, the Lucas Theater gives a quick glimpse into Savannah’s entertainment history, further enriching the walk’s cultural context. Although this is a brief stop, it sets the tone for the city’s lively and storied past.

Outside the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters

Next, the tour features a stop outside the Owens-Thomas House, a renowned historic mansion. While the house is a museum that visitors can explore separately, the tour only includes a brief outside view and a short narration of its history and the slave quarters. Entrance tickets are not included, but the exterior story adds a significant layer to understanding Savannah’s pre-Civil War past.

This stop takes about 2 minutes, making it a quick but informative glimpse of one of Savannah’s most significant historic homes.

Exploring Davenport House Museum and Colombia Square

The Davenport House, another pivotal landmark, is discussed from outside, revealing its role in Savannah’s restoration movement. Afterward, the tour takes you into Colombia Square, where the historic fountain is a highlight. This stop also lasts about 3 minutes and offers an appreciation of Savannah’s early 19th-century architecture.

While inside the house is not included, the exterior viewing and narration provide a meaningful look into Savannah’s urban development.

Wright Square and Chief Tomochichi’s Legacy

A key highlight is Wright Square, where the story of Tomochichi, the chief who helped establish Savannah, is shared. Visitors learn about his grave and the statue that now stands in the square’s center. The 5-minute stop is valuable for understanding Yamacraw culture and the founding of Savannah.

Interestingly, the tour includes a stop at the Wright Square Vintage & Retro Mall, where the connection to Georgia’s film industry is explained. Many movies are said to have been filmed in Georgia, making this stop a fun insight for film buffs.

Art and Culture at Telfair Academy

The tour moves on to Telfair Square, home to Telfair Academy, the oldest art museum in the South. The guide describes its founding story and the five statues out front. This 3-minute stop is an excellent way to appreciate Savannah’s artistic heritage without entering the museum, as admission is not included.

The focus remains on the outdoor statues and the history behind this cultural institution, adding depth to Savannah’s artistic scene.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace and Historic Figures

Finally, the tour stops outside the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, known as the founder of the Girl Scouts. This 3-minute exterior visit is an inspiring note on Savannah’s notable residents who contributed to American social history.

Filming Locations and Savannah’s Movie Industry

A special feature of this tour is the stop at Wright Square Antique & Retro Mall, where the Georgia film industry is highlighted. Georgia’s status as one of the biggest filming locations in the world is emphasized, connecting visitors to the city’s modern cultural relevance.

This adds an extra dimension, showing how Savannah continues to be a hub for filmmaking, with many popular movies shot in the area.

Practical Details and Tour Limitations

The self-guided tour is entirely digital, with the code provided in your booking ticket or sent via text. It does not include entrance tickets for inside museums, nor does it provide food or beverages.

While most travelers can participate, some reviews indicate that navigation can be tricky if location permissions aren’t granted on your device, as the tour relies on GPS tracking for storytelling. The tour starts and ends in accessible locations, and the private group setting ensures a personalized experience without crowds.

Honest Feedback and Common Challenges

Reviews highlight that the narration style varies; some find it informative and engaging, while others feel it could use editing for clarity and tone. A few reviews mention issues with directions or app usability, particularly if location permissions are not enabled.

Despite these minor issues, the overall value for money and the opportunity to see Savannah’s squares at your leisure make this tour appealing, especially for those interested in history, architecture, and film.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for independent travelers who want a cost-effective, flexible way to explore Savannah’s historic squares. It suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and film enthusiasts eager to see locations associated with movies like Forrest Gump.

However, those seeking inside museum access or guided commentary might find the self-guided format less satisfying. Still, the personalized pacing and the affordable price make it a worthwhile option.

Final Thoughts on the ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Self-Guided Tour

At just $9.75, this self-guided walking tour provides a cost-effective introduction to Savannah’s most famous squares and landmarks. The flexible timing and digital delivery are strong points, allowing for a personalized pace and spontaneous start. The tour’s highlights—such as Wright Square, the Juliette Low birthplace, and filming sites—add unique touchpoints to your visit.

While some reviews suggest that narration quality and navigation could improve, the overall value and content remain compelling. This tour suits those comfortable with self-guided touring and interested in a deep dive into Savannah’s history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is self-guided and can be taken at any pace, making it suitable for families. However, some stories may be more appropriate for older children due to historical and spooky themes.

Do I need to download any app?
Yes, the tour is accessed via your smartphone and requires downloading the tour content. Make sure to allow location permissions for GPS functionality.

Are museum entries included?
No, the tour only includes outdoor viewing and narration. Entrance tickets to museums like the Owens-Thomas House or Telfair Academy are not included.

Can I start the tour anytime?
Yes, the tour is available 24/7 between 12:00 PM and 11:30 PM and can be started at your convenience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, though some stories might be more engaging for adults or older children.

How long does the tour take?
The total walking experience lasts approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on your pace.

What if I have technical issues?
The tour code is provided in your booking or via text. If you encounter issues, ensure location permissions are enabled, as GPS tracking is essential.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking outdoor squares, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s accessible for most participants.

Can I do the tour at night?
Yes, the tour is available any time in the evening or night, offering a different ambiance of Savannah’s illuminated squares.

What makes this tour different from guided options?
This is a self-guided experience, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace without a guide, ideal for independent travelers or those on a tight schedule.