Historical Bike Tour of Savannah and Keep Bikes After Tour

If you’re considering a way to see Georgia’s oldest city that’s both active and engaging, this Historic Bike Tour of Savannah might just be your best bet. It promises a leisurely ride through tree-lined squares, historic homes, and iconic landmarks—all guided by local experts who bring Savannah’s stories to life.

Plus, the added perk? You get to keep your bike after the tour ends, allowing you to explore on your own or revisit favorite spots.

What we love about this experience is its perfect blend of guided storytelling and free time to roam. The tour’s knowledgeable guides keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a comfortable, authentic introduction to Savannah. The bikes themselves—hybrid and cruiser styles—are high quality, ensuring a smooth ride through the city’s flat terrain.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some stop-and-go biking, which might be less suitable for those with limited mobility or for travelers expecting a more continuous ride. Also, the tour’s duration can stretch from just two hours to a full day, depending on how much you want to explore afterward, offering flexibility for different itineraries and energy levels.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers—history buffs, casual cyclists, solo explorers, or families looking for a fun, active way to see Savannah. If you enjoy learning and exploring at your own pace after an engaging guided experience, this tour is definitely worth considering.

This experience made our article of 9 Best Bike Tours In Savannah.

Key Points

• Authentic Savannah Experience: Combines guided storytelling with free exploration.
• High-Quality Bikes: Hybrid bikes with gears and hand brakes for comfort and ease.
• Flexible Duration: From a quick 2-hour tour to a full day of biking.
• Post-Tour Freedom: Keep your bike for several hours or a whole day to explore independently.
• Comprehensive Route: Visits top historic sites, charming squares, and scenic streets.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance your understanding of Savannah.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The tour kicks off at 405 W Hall St, where the guide sets up the bikes and shares safety tips. This initial 10-minute period ensures everyone is comfortable and ready. It’s a relaxed start, perfect for those new to biking or visitors unfamiliar with Savannah’s streets.

Mercer Williams House Museum

Just a short stop, but packed with stories about who founded Savannah and the significance of the city’s famous squares. The Mercer Williams House itself is legendary, thanks in part to the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. While the admission isn’t included, the guide’s stories make this stop memorable, especially for fans of local lore.

Hamilton-Turner House

Another highlight, this elegant mansion is not only a sight to behold but also has ghost stories attached—adding a layer of spooky fun. The guide shares the history behind this beautiful home and its prime location, giving insights into Savannah’s architectural and social history.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

This stunning cathedral is one of Savannah’s architectural gems. With its intricate stained glass and impressive façade, it’s a favorite photo stop and a peaceful place to absorb some of Savannah’s spiritual ambiance—free to enter and admire.

Green-Meldrim House and Savannah College of Art and Design

This stop offers a look at a historic house that played a role in notable events, plus a connection to Savannah’s bustling arts scene through the SCAD. The guide explains its historical importance, providing a glimpse into how Savannah balances its past and present.

Chippewa Square

Famous for the scene from Forrest Gump, this square draws visitors eager to see where the iconic bench scene was filmed. The guide explains the history of Savannah Theatre and the square’s significance, making it more than just a pretty park.

Wright Square

Less crowded and more mysterious, Wright Square has stories of early inhabitants and eerie tales of its past. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in the city’s darker side.

Johnson Square and City Market

These stops reveal more about Savannah’s development and notable figures like Nathanael Greene. City Market, with its lively vibe and colorful history, is perfect for soaking in local culture.

Forsyth Park

No visit to Savannah is complete without a stop at this lush oasis. The iconic fountain and sprawling lawns make for a memorable photo, and the guide shares insights into its history and significance.

End of Guided Tour & Free Exploration

After the guided route, you’re encouraged to keep your bike for up to six hours or even a full day. This flexibility means you can visit less accessible neighborhoods, revisit favorites, or simply relax in the city’s charming streets at your own pace.

Experience Quality and Value

For just $49 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The cost includes a guided 2-hour tour, high-quality bikes, locks, and a detailed map for your self-guided exploration later. Reviews consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides—many mention that guides like EJ and Linda make the experience special with their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling.

The opportunity to keep the bike after adds tremendous value. Several reviewers noted how they used their bikes to explore neighborhoods outside the historic district or to revisit spots they loved. This alone could save you money on transportation or bike rentals elsewhere.

The small group sizes—max 10 travelers—mean a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Plus, the use of headsets ensures everyone can clearly hear the guide, even in busy streets, adding to the comfort and safety.

The Practical Side

Timing is flexible; you can book the tour 19 days in advance on average, which is helpful for planning your trip. The meeting point at Savannah on Wheels is centrally located, and the tour is accessible via public transportation.

Participants are encouraged to arrive 10-15 minutes early, and the tour is suitable for most travelers. Service animals are permitted, and the city’s flat terrain makes riding accessible to many.

Weather is a consideration—poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. So, keep an eye on the forecast, and be flexible if needed.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience truly shine is the combination of expert storytelling, top-notch equipment, and post-tour freedom. Many reviewers mentioned how the guides—like Linda and EJ—are personable and knowledgeable, making the city’s stories come alive. The stops are well-chosen, offering a balanced mix of architecture, history, and local culture, with enough breaks to rest and absorb the sights.

The bikes themselves are highly praised for their condition and ease of riding, which is crucial for a city like Savannah, where a relaxed, comfortable ride makes all the difference. For families or solo travelers, the ability to continue exploring independently afterward is a significant plus.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Savannah’s highlights. It’s also perfect for history enthusiasts eager to learn about the city’s past stories from local guides. Casual cyclists will appreciate the flat terrain and high-quality bikes, while those wanting a flexible, self-guided day will find the bike loan and detailed map invaluable.

Active travelers who enjoy combining sightseeing with gentle exercise will love the experience. It’s also a good option for those traveling with kids or seniors—especially since the pace is relaxed, and safety is prioritized.

The Sum Up

This Historical Bike Tour of Savannah offers a fantastic balance of guided insight and independent exploration that makes it stand out. The combination of knowledgeable guides, well-maintained bikes, and the freedom to explore afterward creates a memorable way to appreciate Savannah’s historic charm. It’s especially valuable for those who want to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed or exhausted.

At just $49, the experience delivers excellent value, allowing you to see key sights comfortably and continue your adventure at your own pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual cyclist, or simply looking for a fun way to get around Savannah, this tour is sure to leave you with great stories and plenty of inspiration.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for those comfortable with moderate biking. The flat terrain and relaxing pace make it accessible for many.

How long does the tour last?
The guided portion is approximately 2 hours. After that, you can keep your bike for up to 6 hours or a full day to explore on your own.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are available upon request but are not required for riders over 16.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy. If canceled at least 24 hours in advance due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, water, and a camera. Baskets on bikes are available for shopping or small items.

Is the tour group large?
No, the maximum group size is 10, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 19 days in advance to secure their spot.

Is the price of $49 per person a good deal?
Absolutely. It includes guided instruction, high-quality bikes, and a full-day freedom afterward—making it a very cost-effective way to see Savannah.

Can I keep the bike after the tour?
Yes, you can keep your bike for a few hours or up to a whole day, giving you ample opportunity to explore independently.

This bike tour in Savannah balances fun, education, and freedom. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the city’s sights at a relaxed pace with plenty of local stories and the flexibility to continue exploring afterward. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the city’s most charming neighborhoods and historic sites.