Savannah: Battles & Brews Civil War History Pub Crawl

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Discover Savannah’s Civil War Secrets on the Battles & Brews Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to combine history, local flavors, and a bit of fun during your stay in Savannah, the Battles & Brews Civil War History Pub Crawl might just be your perfect match. This two-hour walking tour is designed to shed light on the less-glamorous, often-overlooked tales of the Civil War, all while stopping in some of Savannah’s most inviting upscale bars.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides make history come alive with engaging stories that go beyond the typical textbook. Second, the craft cocktails and local brews add a tasteful twist, making history feel more immediate and enjoyable. Third, the small group size ensures a more personal and immersive experience.

A potential consideration? The tour is primarily focused on history and drinks, so if you’re seeking a purely sightseeing-focused experience or aren’t interested in bar-hopping, it may not be for you.

This tour suits history buffs eager to learn new stories, travelers who appreciate local drinks, and anyone looking for a laid-back but insightful way to explore Savannah’s historic districts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

History and Cocktails Combined: Discover stories about Savannah’s Civil War past while sipping themed drinks.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable storytellers like Opollo bring history to life with personality and local insights.
Historic Hotspots: Visit iconic locations that played a role in Savannah’s Civil War story, with stories you won’t find in textbooks.
Small Group Experience: Limited to nine participants, so interactions are personal and engaging.
Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy handcrafted cocktails at upscale bars, experiencing Savannah’s vibrant bar scene.
Rain or Shine: The tour proceeds regardless of weather, so dress for the conditions.

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A Closer Look at the Civil War & Brews Tour

Starting Point: The Perfect Introduction

The tour kicks off at the corner of Liberty and Bull Street, right in front of The Public Kitchen and Bar. Meeting here gives you a chance to settle in and meet your guide, who will be guiding you through Savannah’s lesser-known Civil War stories. With just a small group of up to nine people, you’re likely to get a more personalized narrative, with plenty of chances to ask questions or get extra details.

First Stop: Proof and Provision at the DeSoto Hotel

Your journey begins inside the historic DeSoto Hotel at Proof and Provision, a bar known for its barrel-aged cocktails and southern-inspired fare. Here, you’ll taste your first themed drink—often a barrel-aged cocktail—that sets the tone for the tour’s blend of history and craft. The ambiance is upscale yet relaxed, making it an ideal setting to start your exploration of Savannah’s Civil War role.

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Second Stop: Octane Bar

Next, you’ll head to Octane Bar, famous for its expertly crafted cocktails and welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. This stop offers a chance to chat more with your guide about the lesser-known stories of Savannah during the war, including insights that often aren’t covered in traditional tours. Reviewers like Emily appreciated the engaging storytelling from guides like Opollo, who managed to balance humor with history, making the experience both educational and fun.

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Third Stop: New Realm Distillery

Your third visit is to New Realm Distillery, a modern craft beer spot with an extensive selection of local beers on tap. Here, you can sample a variety of brews, many of which are American craft styles. The distillery’s focus on American craft beers allows you to taste local flavors while hearing about Savannah’s role in wartime industry and brewing history. Reviewers noted that the guide’s local knowledge made each stop feel like a chat with a friend, making history more approachable.

Final Stop: 22 Square Bar inside the Andaz Hotel

Your last stop is the elegant 22 Square Bar, nestled within the Andaz Hotel. This high-end hotel emphasizes Southern cuisine with a modern twist, pairing perfectly with your final cocktail. It’s an excellent place to reflect on what you’ve learned, while enjoying an upscale environment with a relaxed vibe. The guide often shares long-forgotten facts about the people behind the history, adding depth to the experience.

The Tour Experience: What to Expect

Throughout the two hours, your guide will weave stories about Savannah’s Civil War history, focusing on aspects many travelers overlook. You’ll learn about locations that played central roles during the war, such as strategic sites and local hotspots with historical significance. The journey is designed to be both informative and enjoyable, with plenty of time to savor each cocktail and soak in the atmosphere of Savannah’s historic streets.

From reviews, we know guides like Opollo are praised for their personable nature and ability to make history lively. One guest, Emily, called the tour “basically a private history tour with perfect bar stops,” highlighting the personalized feel. Adam appreciated the guide’s local knowledge and storytelling skills, calling him “super informative” and “a great guy.”

Drinks and Atmosphere: The Heart of the Experience

Each bar offers themed cocktails that reflect the historical themes discussed, making the drinks part of the storytelling. For example, barrel-aged cocktails evoke the South’s traditional drink-making methods, tying into Savannah’s historic industry. The craft beers at New Realm add a modern twist, showing how the city’s story continues beyond the past.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $35 per person, which, considering the three high-quality drinks included, offers solid value. The two-hour duration is perfect for a relaxed afternoon or early evening activity, especially since you won’t need to worry about transportation—you’re walking between stops. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, making it easier to engage with your guide and ask questions.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind, and booking in advance guarantees your spot during busy periods. Remember, the tour is not suitable for those under 21, and all bars require proof of ID.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For history enthusiasts, this tour offers a fresh perspective on Savannah’s Civil War, focusing on lesser-known stories that bring the city’s past to life. The combination of engaging storytelling and craft drinks makes the experience both educational and relaxing.

Travelers who appreciate personalized experiences will enjoy the small group setting, which fosters conversation and a more tailored narrative. The inclusion of upscale bars and craft drinks adds a layer of sophistication, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of Savannah’s vibrant bar scene.

While it’s not a tour for those solely interested in sightseeing or outdoor exploration, it’s perfect for curious travelers who want a deeper, more intimate understanding of Savannah’s role in the Civil War—paired with some of the best local beverages.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, the tour is designed for guests aged 21 and over due to alcohol consumption requirements.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since the tour involves walking. Dress appropriately for the weather, and consider smart casual attire for the upscale bars.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included in the $35 ticket price, but three themed cocktails are tasted at different stops, and each is included in the overall experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, with the starting times varying based on availability.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to confirm specifics with the provider when booking.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah: Battles & Brews Civil War History Pub Crawl strikes a great balance between education and entertainment. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Savannah’s Civil War past, along with a few memorable drinks.

This experience is particularly suited to travelers who love stories told with personality, want a relaxed pace, and enjoy combining history with the local bar scene. It’s a wonderful way to see parts of Savannah you might miss on traditional tours, all while savoring cocktails in some of the city’s most historic and stylish venues.

For anyone eager to connect with Savannah’s past in a friendly, informal way—and enjoy some expertly crafted drinks—this tour is a solid choice. It offers real value, authentic storytelling, and a chance to see the city through a different lens, all in just two hours.