Savannah is a city that breathes history, charm, and a touch of the supernatural. Its cobbled streets, centuries-old oak trees draped with Spanish moss, and countless historic buildings make it a perfect setting for walking tours. Whether you’re eager to explore haunted tales, marvel at architectural beauty, or uncover secret spots, Savannah’s compact size and walkable layout make on-foot adventures ideal. We especially enjoy tours that combine history with a bit of spooky fun, like the Ghosts, Asylums, Voodoo, and Horror Walking Tour, which offers a thrilling peek into Savannah’s haunted corners. Imagine photographing apparitions or hearing tales of spirits refusing to leave—these stories add a fascinating layer to your visit.
Beyond spine-tingling ghost stories, Savannah’s historic districts, architecture, and cultural stories come alive on guided walks, giving you a chance to see the city through local eyes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or just in search of some eerie fun, Savannah has a walking tour that fits. To help you choose, we’ve put together a list of the top nine walking experiences, each with its own flavor and appeal.
Quick Overview
Our list features tours that cover paranormal investigations, historic architecture, and offbeat discoveries. For those intrigued by Savannah’s ghostly side, the Ghosts, Asylums, Voodoo, and Horror Tour and the Terrors, Ghosts, and Ghouls Tour deliver chilling stories and spooky encounters. History buffs will enjoy the History Walking Tour and Civil War Tour, exploring key landmarks and stories from America’s past. For a more local and scenic experience, the Highlights Off the Beaten Path Tour showcases Savannah’s best architecture and quiet streets. And if you’re interested in literary and cultural tales, the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Walk offers insights into the city’s most famous story. Finally, the History and Homes Walk emphasizes Savannah’s grand mansions and hospitality history.
1. Savannah: Ghosts, Asylums, Voodoo, and Horror Walking Tour
At number 1, this 2-hour spooky adventure takes you through Savannah’s most haunted locations, combining ghost stories with supernatural insights. The tour is particularly praised for its photography opportunities, with guests capturing sightings of apparitions and orbs around the city. What sets this tour apart is its focus on paranormal activity, including stories of spirits that have refused to leave and gruesome tales of murders, decapitations, and other ghostly phenomena. The guide explains local superstitions, root magic, and the occult, giving a cultural context to Savannah’s haunted reputation.
The tour starts at Monterey Square, takes you past historic districts, and includes a photo stop at Forsyth Park. Reviewers consistently praise Nathan for his knowledge, personable style, and punctuality, calling it “probably the best ghost tour I’ve experienced.” This tour is perfect for those eager to explore Savannah’s dark side and enjoy a spooky, fun experience for just $29.
Bottom Line: If ghost stories, apparitions, and the supernatural pique your interest, this tour provides a well-rounded, thrilling experience that blends history with the paranormal.
2. Savannah: Highlights Off the Beaten Path Guided Walking Tour
Looking for a local’s view of Savannah? At number 2, this 2-hour guided walk focuses on hidden corners, quieter streets, and lesser-known landmarks. Led by a Savannah local, the tour emphasizes stunning architecture, Spanish moss, and the city’s authentic neighborhoods. It’s ideal if you want to feel like a resident, strolling down quieter side streets and learning about the city’s ongoing story beyond the tourist spots. Guests appreciate the smaller group size, which allows for more personalized conversations, and guide Dee’s wealth of knowledge about Savannah’s secrets and history.
This tour balances visual beauty with storytelling, showcasing famous landmarks and offbeat sights. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a more intimate and less crowded experience, especially if you’re interested in architecture and local color. Priced at $25, it offers excellent value for a personalized introduction to Savannah.
Bottom Line: For visitors seeking quiet streets, local insights, and stunning architecture, this tour offers a relaxed and authentic way to explore Savannah’s charm.
3. Savannah: Terrors, Ghosts, and Ghouls Walking Tour
If you’re after a shorter, fast-paced ghost adventure, number 3 ranks high for its 1 to 1.5-hour duration and authentic spooky tales. This tour explores Savannah’s dark history, focusing on violent incidents and haunted sites linked to figures like Yellow Fever victims and local legends. The guide shares true accounts of Savannah’s ghosts and the scandals of socialites, making it perfect for those who love a blend of history and ghost lore.
Guests praise guides like Sophie and Miranda for their engaging storytelling and knowledge of dark secrets. The tour includes stops at haunted parks, squares, and historic houses, with stories about spirits that still linger today. The price is $27, making it a cost-effective option for a spooky night out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a compact ghost tour packed with stories about Savannah’s most notorious spirits and sinister past.
4. Savannah: History Walking Tour
Number 4 on our list is a 1.5-hour tour led by a local historian, focusing on Savannah’s role in major American events like the Revolution and Civil War. The tour features key landmarks such as the Mercer-Williams House, Owens-Thomas House, and Colonial Park Cemetery. It’s perfect for travelers interested in deep historical insights and cultural stories that shaped Savannah.
This tour is highly rated, with all reviews praising its informative narrative and engaging guide. The guide brings 200 years of history to life, explaining how Savannah’s architecture and neighborhoods reflect its past struggles and triumphs. For a well-rounded understanding of the city’s historical significance, this walk offers great value at $29.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of Savannah’s pivotal moments and architectural treasures.
5. Savannah: Civil War Walking Tour
The Civil War era is vividly brought to life on this 105-minute tour dedicated to Savannah’s strategic importance during the conflict. Walking past homes of prominent generals and battle sites, you’ll learn about military strategies, key battles, and the city’s scarred landscape. At just $20, the tour offers an affordable, straightforward way to deepen your understanding of how Savannah contributed to the Civil War.
The tour appeals to those interested in military history and battle tactics, with the guide sharing detailed stories about Union and Confederate strategies. It’s a shorter tour but packed with content, ideal if your schedule is tight.
Bottom Line: If Civil War history fascinates you, this tour delivers clear, engaging stories in a compact format.
6. Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Walk
Number 6 explores the world made famous by John Berendt’s bestselling book. This 105-minute walk takes you through the locations tied to the story, with newly uncovered facts and stories behind the characters. You might even see characters who inspired the book or experience the city as the author described.
This tour provides insights into Savannah’s eccentric personalities and notorious sites, making it a must for fans of the book or anyone curious about Savannah’s literary fame. For $20, it’s a cost-effective way to see the city through a literary lens.
Bottom Line: Perfect for literary lovers and those wanting a deeper understanding of Savannah’s colorful characters.
7. Savannah: History and Architecture Homes Walk
At number 7, this 2-hour tour concentrates on Savannah’s famed architecture and hospitality. It takes you past stately mansions and famous houses that showcase 18th and 19th-century culture. This tour appeals to those wanting to see beautiful homes and learn what made Savannah a hospitality hub.
Guests are enchanted by the exemplary architecture and the stories behind the homes, which reflect two centuries of Southern leisure and gentility. The $30 price tag offers a solid value for anyone interested in architecture and social history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for architecture buffs and lovers of Savannah’s elegant side.
8. Savannah: Grave Tales Walking Tour
Number 8 is a family-friendly ghost tour focusing on Savannah’s haunted cemeteries and squares. It’s a 1.5-hour walk that emphasizes historic stories, haunted sites, and eerie tales. It’s suitable for all ages, making it a good choice for families wanting a light spooky experience.
Reviewers note that while the stories are entertaining, some might wish for more ghost sightings, but overall, it’s a fun way to explore Savannah’s haunted past without excessive scares. At $25, it’s an affordable option for a family outing.
Bottom Line: A good pick for families or travelers wanting a gentle ghost walk with a historical twist.
9. Spirit Xperience: Paranormal Walking Ghost Tour in Savannah
Finally, number 9 offers an interactive and personalized ghost tour. Limiting the group size, the Spirit Xperience enables real paranormal encounters, hands-on investigations, and interactions with Savannah’s spirits. The tour includes mini investigations with supplied equipment, making it a unique, high-engagement experience.
Guests praise the friendly guides and the personalized approach, often describing it as the best paranormal tour they’ve ever taken. For $30, it provides an immersive experience that combines storytelling with hands-on investigations.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous spirits eager to participate actively and experience Savannah’s paranormal activity firsthand.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Savannah
When selecting your walking tour, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you’re eager to experience Savannah’s haunted side, the Ghosts, Asylums, Voodoo, and Horror Tour and Terrors, Ghosts, and Ghouls Tour are excellent options, offering immersive stories and spooky encounters. Budget travelers might prefer the shorter Civil War Tour or Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Walk for their affordability and unique perspectives.
For those interested in architecture and local culture, the History and Homes Walk or the Highlights Off the Beaten Path Tour will satisfy your curiosity. And if you’re looking for interactive paranormal experiences, the Spirit Xperience offers hands-on investigations in a small-group setting.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Savannah’s walking tours offer a wide range of experiences that suit different interests and styles. From the spine-tingling stories of ghosts and ghouls to the beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, you’ll find something to enrich your trip. If you love ghost stories and paranormal investigations, the Ghosts, Asylums, Voodoo, and Horror Tour and Spirit Xperience are especially recommended. For a deeper dive into Savannah’s history and architecture, the History Walking Tour or Homes and Architecture Walk will satisfy your curiosity.
Ultimately, planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching and fun experiences. Whether your interest lies in history, architecture, or ghostly tales, Savannah’s walkable streets and friendly guides make exploring both the haunted and the beautiful an unforgettable part of your trip.