Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, Georgia, and have a soft spot for architecturally stunning homes and captivating stories behind them, then the Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour might just be a highlight of your visit.

While we haven’t participated ourselves, this tour consistently draws positive reviews and is often booked well in advance—about 23 days on average—indicating it offers good value and authentic insights into Savannah’s architectural treasures.

What we love about this experience is the expert guidance—a knowledgeable local who can bring history vividly to life—and the chance to see some of Savannah’s most beautiful and historically significant homes. Plus, at just $30 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of the city’s story.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour includes several stops where admission is not included, and some homes may be closed during certain times—so managing expectations about access is wise.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy walking, architecture, and stories of how Savannah was built. It’s perfect for history buffs, preservation enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the families behind these grand buildings. If your goal is to see every mansion up close, be aware that some sites, like the Owens-Thomas House, offer optional tours at additional cost.

Key Points

• Expert-guided tour focused on Savannah’s historic homes and architecture.
• Affordable price point makes it a good value for the experience offered.
• Includes visits to iconic homes like the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace and Davenport House.
• Good for those interested in preservation, history, and architecture—not just sightseeing.
• Tour length of roughly two hours makes it manageable for most schedules.
• Some homes require separate admission tickets if you want to go inside.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at Warren Square, a scenic spot in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. From there, you’ll stroll through the streets, guided by someone who knows the city’s stories and architecture intimately. The itinerary includes several notable stops, each offering a different window into Savannah’s past.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Your first stop is the Owens-Thomas House, a circa 1816 mansion with fascinating stories about its original owners and the enslaved people who built and lived in it. The guide will explain what materials the house was built from and why it has endured for over two centuries. Although tours of the interior are available every hour, note that admission isn’t included in the tour price, and if you wish to go inside, you’ll pay extra.

This stop is particularly insightful because it highlights the complexities of Southern history—showing how wealth was built on both grandeur and the painful realities of slavery. Reviewers mention that this house is a key highlight, with many appreciating the detailed stories shared about both the architecture and the lives of those who lived there.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum

Next, you’ll visit the house where Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, was born in 1860. The home, built in 1818, remains on the corner of Bull and Oglethorpe, a charming reminder of early Savannah. Your guide shares anecdotes about Juliette’s life and the home’s role, including an amusing tidbit about William Tecumseh Sherman being invited to dinner—something that surprises many visitors.

This site is a favorite among reviews, with many describing it as a “golden jewel” of Savannah’s history. Since it’s a private residence now, the tour stops outside, but it’s still a striking piece of Savannah’s story.

Green-Meldrim House

The tour also includes the Gothic Revival Green-Meldrim House, built around 1853. It was once Savannah’s most expensive home, costing $93,000 at the time. Your guide will introduce you to the Green family and discuss its architectural features, such as pointed arches and towering windows, which make it stand out.

Reviewers often mention the house’s grandeur and how it offers a window into the wealth and style of mid-19th-century Savannah. This stop, like others, is mostly appreciated for its storytelling rather than interior visits.

Davenport House Museum

One of the most beloved stops is the Davenport House, built circa 1820, which played a pivotal role in Savannah’s restoration movement of the 1950s. Here, you get to step inside and explore Federalist-style architecture, with a tour included for visitors, providing a deeper appreciation for preservation efforts.

Many reviews highlight the significance of this house in saving Savannah’s architectural heritage, and the guided tour here is often described as “thorough and engaging.” The fact that it’s included in the tour offers excellent value, as you’ll see why this house became a symbol of historic preservation.

Hamilton-Turner House

Finally, the tour concludes with the Hamilton-Turner House, a Second Empire style mansion now operating as a bed and breakfast. The guide shares stories of its role in city history and mentions that it was the first in Savannah to be lit by electricity—an exciting detail about innovation. It also served as the inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion, adding a touch of pop-culture intrigue.

While you won’t go inside this home, the guide’s storytelling makes it a memorable ending point, and the grandeur of the exterior is worth noting.

What to Expect During the Tour

This walking tour lasts approximately two hours, covering a manageable distance through the historic district. Expect to walk at a relaxed pace, suitable for most fitness levels. The group size is capped at 30 people, fostering a more intimate experience where questions are encouraged. The guide, often a native of Savannah, brings a wealth of local knowledge, mixing historical facts with storytelling and a touch of humor.

Most of the stops are outside, with some houses offering optional tours at extra cost. The tour concludes at The Olde Pink House, a historic restaurant where you might decide to continue your Savannah experience.

The Guide’s Role and Style

Reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and storytelling ability. Some reviewers mention guides like Brad and Zack, who are described as “incredibly knowledgeable,” “funny,” and “full of interesting facts.” Their ability to adapt to audience questions and include personal stories adds a layer of authenticity that appeals to travelers seeking genuine insight.

On the flip side, a few reviews note guides who may have shared opinions or made comments that didn’t sit well with everyone. It’s worth remembering that guides are human and sometimes their personalities vary.

Access and Cost Considerations

While the tour is very affordable—only $30 per person—be aware that admission to some homes is not included. For instance, the Owens-Thomas House and Green-Meldrim House require separate tickets if you want to go inside, which could add to your costs. The Davenport House tour is included, making it a standout for value.

If you’re particularly interested in visiting multiple homes, it’s wise to have some extra funds ready for admissions. The tour ends with suggestions for additional house visits, giving you some flexibility.

Overall Value and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

Considering the price, the knowledgeable guides, and the focus on architecture and stories, this tour offers excellent value for anyone wanting more than just pretty facades. It’s especially suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those interested in Savannah’s preservation movement.

The two-hour format strikes a good balance—long enough to see several homes and hear engaging stories, but not so long that it becomes tiring. The group size keeps things personable, and the outdoor walking means you’ll get fresh air and good views along the way.

Reviewers consistently mention how informative and fun the experience is, with some calling it “one of the best tours they’ve taken.” The opportunities to see iconic homes, learn about the families behind them, and hear stories about Savannah’s development make this a worthwhile outing for most visitors.

However, if you’re keen to go inside every house or prefer a tour with fewer walkable stops, this might not suit your needs perfectly. Also, for those sensitive about guides sharing personal opinions, it’s useful to note that some reviewers observed comments that they found inappropriate or political.

Final Thoughts

The Historic Homes of Savannah Guided Walking Tour delivers a mix of architecture, storytelling, and local history that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The guides’ expertise and engaging manner make the experience memorable, and the inclusion of the Davenport House makes it especially good value.

While it’s not a visit-all-the-houses tour, it’s a well-chosen selection of Savannah’s finest. It’s a perfect way to see the city’s architectural gems while gaining insights into the lives of the families who built them—and those who preserved them.

If you love history, architecture, and a genuine local perspective, this tour should be on your Savannah itinerary. Just be prepared for some optional extra costs if you want to explore the interiors further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible and manageable for most travelers. It involves walking for about two hours, so comfortable shoes and moderate stamina are recommended.

Do I need to book in advance?
Since the tour is booked an average of 23 days ahead, it’s a good idea to reserve your spot early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Are the homes inside accessible?
Most stops are outside, and interior visits depend on separate admission tickets. The Davenport House, included in the tour, offers an interior tour, but others like Owens-Thomas House require additional purchase.

What is the tour group size?
The maximum is around 30 travelers, making it a fairly intimate experience where your guide can answer questions and share stories.

How much extra should I budget for house admissions?
Prices vary, but expect to pay for entry if you wish to go inside certain homes. The Davenport House is included, but others like Green-Meldrim and Owens-Thomas are extra.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and your curiosity! An umbrella might be handy if rain is forecast—but the weather policy notes that tours are canceled or rescheduled if the weather is poor.

To sum it up, this guided walking tour of Savannah’s historic homes offers a well-balanced mix of architecture, stories, and local flavor. Perfect for those looking to deepen their appreciation of Savannah’s past while enjoying a leisurely stroll. It’s a solid choice for history enthusiasts and anyone wanting a meaningful glimpse into the city’s storied streets.