Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour

Savannah’s intriguing past comes alive on the "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour." Led by knowledgeable locals, visitors explore the historic district’s key sites featured in the captivating novel and film. From the stately Johnson Square to the Mercer-Williams House Museum, this 2-hour journey uncovers Savannah’s rich culture and captivating stories. With flexible booking options and an affordable price, it’s an engaging way to discover the charming city’s darkest secrets.

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Key Points

A 2-hour small group tour exploring historic Savannah locations featured in the novel and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil".
Led by a licensed local guide, providing insightful commentary and showcasing key sites like Johnson Square, Wright Square, and Colonial Park Cemetery.
Includes visits to the Mercer-Williams House Museum and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, offering deeper insights into the story’s real-life connections.
Offers flexible booking with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and operates rain or shine.
Culminates in the picturesque Forsyth Park, providing a memorable conclusion to the tour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour is a 2-hour small group tour that takes visitors on an exploration of the historic Savannah district.

Led by a licensed local guide, the tour highlights key locations featured in the novel and its movie adaptation. Priced from $35 per person, the tour departs from Reynolds Square and covers sites like Johnson Square, Wright Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, and the Mercer-Williams House Museum.

Along the way, the guide shares captivating stories behind the characters and events, providing an insightful look into Savannah’s rich history and culture.

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Booking Information

Although no upfront payment is required, travelers can reserve their spot on the Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour.

Booking is flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour runs rain or shine, but if bad weather forces a cancellation, guests can choose a different date or receive a full refund.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off at Reynolds Square, where guests gather near the statue of John Wesley, in front of the Olde Pink House Restaurant and Tavern. Over the next two hours, the group visits several historic locations that inspired the famous novel and film.

| Stop | Duration |

|——|———-|

| Johnson Square | 10 minutes |

| Wright Square | 15 minutes |

| Colonial Park Cemetery | 10 minutes |

The tour continues to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Mercer-Williams House Museum before concluding at the picturesque Forsyth Park. Along the way, guests see additional sites like 222 Drayton St and 404 Abercorn St, all while learning the stories behind the characters and events.

Tour Experience

On the Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour, guests embark on a captivating journey through the city’s historic district, seeing the world of John Berendt’s celebrated novel and its cinematic adaptation.

Led by a long-time Savannah resident, the tour provides insightful commentary and captivating anecdotes that bring the story to life. Guests discover the key locations featured in the book and film, from the elegant Mercer-Williams House Museum to the historic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Throughout the experience, the guide skillfully weaves together the narratives, offering a deeper understanding of Savannah’s rich history and culture.

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Exploring Johnson Square

As the tour group arrives at Johnson Square, the guide points out the monument at the center, dedicated to General Nathanael Greene, a key figure in the American Revolutionary War.

The guide explains that Johnson Square is one of the largest and oldest of Savannah’s 22 historic public squares.

The guide highlights the elegant townhouses and commercial buildings that surround the square, emphasizing the architectural significance of this well-preserved example of urban planning from the 18th century.

The elegant townhouses and commercial buildings that surround the square exemplify the architectural significance of this well-preserved 18th-century urban planning.

The group then moves on to Wright Square, eager to learn more about the history and intrigue associated with Savannah’s captivating past.

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Visiting Wright Square

Next, the tour group makes its way to Wright Square, one of Savannah’s most historic public spaces. The guide provides an overview of the square’s significance, noting it was named after Georgia’s colonial governor, James Wright.

Visitors learn about the statue of Tomochichi, the Yamacraw chief who welcomed General Oglethorpe and the first settlers to Savannah. The group explores the adjacent colonial-era County Courthouse, admiring its elegant architecture.

The guide shares intriguing stories about past events and notable figures associated with the square, captivating the group with insights into Savannah’s rich history.

Walking Through Colonial Park Cemetery

After departing Wright Square, the tour group makes its way to the nearby Colonial Park Cemetery.

This historic graveyard dates back to the 1750s and contains over 9,000 graves. The guide shares poignant stories of the cemetery’s past, from the yellow fever epidemic to the city’s colonial heritage.

Visitors wander among the moss-covered tombstones, taking in the somber atmosphere. The guide points out notable graves, including that of Button Gwinnett, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

The tour group spends around 10 minutes exploring this uniquely Savannah landmark before heading to the next destination.

Discovering the Mercer-Williams House Museum

The tour group then makes its way to the captivating Mercer-Williams House Museum, one of Savannah’s most famous landmarks.

The tour group makes its way to the captivating Mercer-Williams House Museum, one of Savannah’s most famous landmarks.

Here, they’ll explore the elegant 19th-century home where the notorious Clutter murder was featured in the book and movie. The guide shares intriguing details about the home’s history and its connection to the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil story.

Visitors marvel at the beautiful architecture and furnishings, seeing the same spaces where the real-life characters once lived.

This stop offers a compelling glimpse into Savannah’s past and the enduring legacy of Berendt’s iconic tale.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no specific dress code. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves outdoor exploration of the historic district.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide beforehand, as some locations may have restrictions. The guide can provide guidance on appropriate photo-taking opportunities throughout the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It focuses on adult themes and topics from the novel, which could be inappropriate or uninteresting for younger participants. Families are advised to consider the content before booking the tour.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No special equipment is needed for this tour. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Participants should bring any personal items they may need, such as water, sunscreen, or a camera to capture the sights.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers a private tour option. Private tours can be booked for those who prefer a more intimate, personalized experience with just their own group and a dedicated guide.

The Sum Up

The "Savannah: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Tour" offers an immersive experience for fans of the novel and film. With its engaging storytelling and exploration of key historical sites, the tour provides a unique glimpse into Savannah’s rich culture and captivating past. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour is a must-do for anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the Hostess City.