Introduction
If you’re intrigued by the spooky stories lurking behind Savannah’s charming facades, the Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour might just be your cup of ghostly tea. While we haven’t personally ridden this particular tour, the glowing reviews suggest it’s a popular way to combine history, mystery, and a bit of fun—especially after dark.
What we love about this experience is its unique mix of storytelling and exclusive access — you get to go into historic sites after hours, which adds a layer of authenticity and thrill. Plus, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the stories come alive.
A possible downside is the variable quality of narration; some reviews mention that certain guides speak too fast or in a way that’s hard to follow, which could affect your overall experience. Still, if you enjoy a little spooky entertainment with historical flavor, this tour is likely to please.
This experience is great for evening adventurers, history buffs, and those looking for a lighthearted scare. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy storytelling with a local flavor and don’t mind a group setting.
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Key Points
- Authentic storytelling with tales of Savannah’s haunted past, often delivered with humor and flair
- Exclusive nighttime visits to the Andrew Low House and River Street’s Perkins and Sons Ship Chandlery
- Nearly 90 minutes of fun that blends history, ghost stories, and local legends
- Guides commonly praised for their passion and knowledge, though delivery can vary
- Great value for money considering the access to historic sites and engaging narratives
- Family-friendly but not suited for children under 6 or those easily frightened
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Savannah.
What the Tour Involves
The Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour is a lively mix of narrated history and ghostly tales, wrapped within an hour and fifteen minutes of nighttime adventure. You’ll hop aboard a trolley designed for a spooky vibe—think dim lighting and a somewhat theatrical atmosphere that aims to set the mood.
What You Can Expect
The journey kicks off at 301 E River Street, a historic and bustling spot teeming with Savannah’s character. From there, your guide will take you through the city’s streets, highlighting former battlegrounds, old cemeteries, and stately mansions, many of which are said to be infiltrated with spirits.
A highlight for many is the exclusive nighttime stop at River Street, where you can stroll past the famous pier, often cited as haunted, and see the Perkins and Sons Ship Chandlery—an old warehouse with stories of spirits wandering among the crates. This stop is a firm favorite, especially under the glow of a moonlit sky, as travelers report feeling chills or hearing strange sounds.
One of the most intriguing parts is the visit to the Andrew Low House, built on a trust lot facing Lafayette Square. It offers a glimpse into Savannah’s elegant past, and for those interested in the darker side of history, it’s a chance to see a well-preserved antebellum mansion that’s linked with ghost stories. Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, was born here, adding an interesting historical layer to the spooky tales.
The Experience of the Guides
Many reviews rave about the guides, with names like Olive and Hemlock standing out for their passion and storytelling skills. Olive, in particular, receives high praise for painting vivid pictures of Savannah’s macabre tales. However, some mention that guides can sometimes speak too quickly or in an overly theatrical manner, making it hard to catch all the details.
The narration is a mix of humor and darkness, aiming to entertain without being too frightening. It’s rated PG-13, so it’s suitable for most older kids and adults, but it’s not a scare-a-thon—more of a spooky, fun peek into the city’s haunted lore.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Andrew Low House
This historic mansion offers the rare chance to enter after dark, with a 20-minute guided tour included in the ticket price. You’ll wander through rooms filled with antebellum charm, while stories of ghostly inhabitants and mysterious happenings are woven into the commentary. The house’s connection to Savannah’s elite and Juliette Low adds an interesting historical touch amid the ghost stories.
Stop 2: River Street
The tour’s nighttime visit to River Street is especially atmospheric. The old pier and warehouse are popular spots for reports of ghostly whispers and sightings. Visitors often remark on feeling a spooky presence or hearing unexplained sounds, making this part of the tour memorable.
Stop 3: Colonial and Historic Sites
While the tour doesn’t enter cemeteries due to city ordinances, it discusses notable burial sites and graves under the city, giving you a sense of Savannah’s shadowy underbelly. The stories of unmarked graves and local legends add depth to the experience.
The Value for Your Money
At $41.68 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and experience. Considering the exclusive access to the Andrew Low House and the storytelling over the entire route, it offers more than just a typical ghost tour. The inclusion of historic site visits and the engaging guides make it worth the price for many travelers.
While some might find the stories and delivery variable, the majority of reviews suggest it’s a fun, well-orchestrated experience. Plus, booking on average 12 days in advance indicates strong demand, so planning ahead is advisable.
It’s a practical choice for those who want a guided, entertaining evening without the hassle of self-navigation, especially if they’re intrigued by Savannah’s darker stories.
The Overall Experience
The trolley itself provides a comfortable, if somewhat theatrical, setting for storytelling. The group size is limited to 32, so it remains relatively intimate, allowing for better engagement with the guide. The tour’s timing after sunset adds to the spooky ambiance, and the optional stops at historic buildings deepen the sense of connection to Savannah’s past.
Reviews highlight the vivid storytelling, with many travelers appreciating the mix of history and ghost stories. However, a few mention that some guides spoke too loudly or too quickly, making it hard to follow. Still, the overall consensus leans toward a fun, atmospheric adventure that balances education with entertainment.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for visitors who enjoy ghost stories with historical context, especially those who appreciate a bit of theatrical flair. If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers interested in spooky tales and history, it’s a good fit.
It’s also ideal for couples or groups looking for an engaging, low-key evening activity that showcases Savannah’s haunted persona. But if you’re seeking an intense scare or a very quiet, serious exploration of ghosts, you might find it a bit light.
Finally, those who value local guides passionate about Savannah’s stories will likely find this tour a highlight, especially when they get guides like Olive or Hemlock.
FAQ
Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from 301 E River Street, Savannah, GA 31401, USA.
How early should I arrive?
Check in at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time to ensure a smooth start.
Do we go into cemeteries?
Due to city ordinances, the tour does not enter cemeteries, especially after 8 pm, but it discusses notable graves and unmarked burial sites.
Is the tour accessible for handicapped guests?
It’s not recommended for those who cannot safely navigate stairs. Call ahead to arrange accommodations if possible.
How scary is the tour?
It’s rated PG-13; the stories are spooky but not overly frightening, making it suitable for most older children and adults.
Can I bring food or drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are allowed, but alcohol is prohibited for safety reasons.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are permitted on the trolley. Other pets or emotional support animals are not allowed.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour
Final Thoughts
The Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour offers an engaging way to explore the city’s dark corners and haunted past. It’s a well-rounded experience combining historical insights, spooky stories, and special access to key sites after hours. The guides are generally praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, providing a lively narrative that appeals to a broad audience.
For those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories, this tour is a practical, fun choice. It’s especially worth considering if you’re traveling in the evening and want an activity that’s both entertaining and culturally enriching. The price reflects good value, given the exclusive site visits and storytelling quality.
While not a scream-inducing event, it strikes a good balance for adventurers who want a taste of Savannah’s haunted lore without going overboard. It’s a perfect addition to a well-rounded trip for curious travelers eager to see the city’s spooky side in a comfortable, guided setting.
