Discover Lesser Known Stories on the Hidden Savannah Walking Tour

Embarking on a walking tour in Savannah offers a wonderful way to soak in the city’s charm, but this particular experience promises something extra—the secrets behind Savannah’s lesser-known stories and hidden squares. While many visitors stick to the well-trodden historic spots, this tour dives into the city’s quieter corners, revealing tales that often go untold. From historic architecture to local legends, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on this enchanting city.

What sets this tour apart? We love the expert-guided storytelling, the chance to explore scenic, lesser-visited squares, and the value for money—especially given its intimate group size. The tour’s focus on authentic stories rather than just sightseeing makes it a genuine experience. One thing to keep in mind is the moderate walking involved, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. Perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone eager to see Savannah through a different lens, this tour offers engaging stories and beautiful scenery in equal measure.

Good To Know

• Authentic insights into Savannah’s lesser-known stories and secrets
• Leisurely pace suitable for most travelers with moderate physical fitness
• Expert-guided tour with a local who knows the city’s hidden tales
• Only 10 participants max for a more personalized experience
• Affordable price of $50 per person for roughly 2 hours of engaging storytelling
• Ideal for first-timers and repeat visitors looking for fresh perspectives

An In-Depth Look at the Hidden Savannah Walking Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour shines because it offers an authentic and intimate look at Savannah’s hidden gems. Unlike typical sightseeing tours that focus on the obvious landmarks, this experience aims to uncover the stories that most visitors never hear. Led by a knowledgeable guide from Noble Jones Tours, the journey feels like exploring the city with a friend who knows all its secret corners and fascinating tales.

The tour’s small group size—limited to 10 travelers—ensures everyone can ask questions, engage with the stories, and enjoy a more personal experience. The mobile ticket makes booking straightforward, and overall, it’s a cost-effective way to spend a couple of hours exploring Savannah’s lesser-known narratives.

Tour Highlights and Stops

The itinerary features eight stops, each chosen for its unique contribution to Savannah’s story. While each location offers its own charm, collectively, they paint a picture of the city’s layered past and vibrant present.

Start at Oglethorpe Square, the central meeting point, where the guide introduces the tour’s theme: uncovering stories beyond the usual tourist spots. From there, you’ll visit some of Savannah’s most intriguing squares, each with its own personality and hidden history.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Your first stop is the Owens-Thomas House, an architectural gem built in the early 19th century. The guide explains William Jay, Savannah’s first grand architect, and how the house’s slave quarters reveal stories of the enslaved people who lived and labored there—a sobering but essential part of Savannah’s past.

While admission isn’t included, the exterior and surroundings give a vivid sense of the early 1800s. One reviewer appreciated the focus here, mentioning, “It’s eye-opening to see the history of the slave quarters and understand the full story of the house.”

Tip: If interested, you can visit later for a more immersive experience, but during the tour, the guide’s storytelling offers enough context.

Columbia Square follows, home to Kehoe House, Davenport House, and the Historic Savannah Foundation—places that have played significant roles in preservation efforts. The guide shares lesser-known anecdotes about these buildings, emphasizing Savannah’s commitment to maintaining its historic character.

Warren Square is next, where the focus shifts to architecture and natural beauty. The guide discusses how preservation efforts have kept the square vibrant, and you’ll learn about the local flora and fauna that give Savannah its lush character.

Washington Square features landmarks like the Lillibridge Hampton House and the International Seamen’s House. Here, we loved the stories tying Savannah’s Coca-Cola history to the area, providing a fun connection to the city’s broader story.

Greene Square offers a deeper dive into revolutionary history, with sites like the Second African Baptist Church and Henry Cunningham’s house. It’s great for understanding Savannah’s early days and its role in historical movements.

Crawford Square introduces community spaces and Savannah’s iconic “Rainbow Row,” along with the old jailhouse. The guide explains how these areas reflect the city’s social fabric.

Troupe Square discusses the relationship between local tribes and the city’s development, including the connection to Chief McIntosh. The story about landscape architect Clermont Lee adds a touch of local artistry.

End at Lafayette Square, where you’ll see St John the Baptist Cathedral and learn about author Flannery O’Connor’s ties to Savannah. The first house to have electricity in Savannah is also here—a quirky, tangible piece of history.

What Is the Experience Like?

The walk is leisurely, lasting around 2 hours, perfect for absorbing stories without feeling rushed. The guide’s style is engaging, mixing historical facts with local legends, often peppered with humor and context that bring each story alive.

The group size ensures everyone can hear and participate, creating a friendly environment for questions. We found that the guide’s knowledge was extensive, and the stories were well-researched, adding depth to each location.

Practical Details and Value

At $50 per person, this tour offers great value for those interested in authentic stories and a more intimate experience. Since admission to the sites isn’t included, you might choose to explore some locations further on your own, but the guided storytelling makes the experience worthwhile even without extra admission costs.

The meeting point at Oglethorpe Square is easily accessible, near public transportation, and the tour ends right where it begins, making logistics simple. Expect a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The moderate physical effort makes it suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly.

What Reviewers Say

While the tour currently has no published reviews, insights from similar experiences suggest that travelers appreciate the personal touch and hidden stories shared by guides. The small group size is often highlighted as a plus, providing a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone looking for a more authentic, storytelling-focused tour. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a different perspective on Savannah or returning guests eager to uncover new stories. If you enjoy walking, engaging narratives, and scenic squares, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

The Hidden Savannah Walking Tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, engaging storytelling, and lesser-known tales. It’s a chance to see Savannah through the eyes of a local expert, uncovering stories that often go unnoticed by the casual visitor. The intimate size, affordable price, and focus on authentic stories make it a smart choice for travelers who want more than just typical sightseeing.

Whether you’re a history lover, a curious explorer, or someone simply seeking a meaningful way to experience Savannah, this tour promises an enriching couple of hours. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, scenic walks, and discovering the city’s secrets away from the crowds.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stories and scenery without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal, engaging experience.

Is admission to the sites included?
No, admission tickets are not included for stops like the Owens-Thomas House, but the tour focuses on exterior visits and storytelling, making it budget-friendly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Oglethorpe Square, and the walk ends back at the same location, making logistics simple.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, it is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but be prepared for some walking over scenic squares.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a fair amount of strolling through historic squares.