Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour

A visit to Bonaventure Cemetery is often listed among Savannah’s top attractions, and for good reason. This 160-acre sprawling memorial park has gained fame for its stunning monuments, hauntingly beautiful Spanish moss, and the stories buried within. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal that it’s a memorable way to uncover Savannah’s history and its slightly spooky charm.

What makes this tour worthwhile? First, the knowledgeable guides seem to bring the cemetery’s stories alive, making history both accessible and engaging. Second, the well-researched commentary enriches your visit beyond just strolling among the tombstones. Third, the atmosphere—with azaleas, moss, and quiet beauty—creates a captivating backdrop that’s both peaceful and eerie. That said, a potential drawback is that this is a walking tour (not a golf cart experience as originally expected), which might be a consideration for those with limited mobility or preferring a more relaxed pace.

This tour appears best suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting to see one of Savannah’s most iconic sites with a touch of ghostly intrigue. If you like stories about notable residents, impressive monuments, or simply enjoy exploring historic cemeteries with a guide, this experience delivers solid value.

Good To Know

• Well-informed Guides: Expect knowledgeable hosts who provide detailed stories about the monuments and the cemetery’s past.
• Authentic Savannah Atmosphere: The landscape is filled with Spanish moss, azaleas, and historic graves that create a mood both peaceful and spooky.
• Focused on History and Landmarks: Highlights include locations like the Jewish Section, “Little Gracie,” Johnny Mercer, and John Mungen.
• Accessible and Well-Organized: The tour lasts just over two hours, with a meeting point that’s easy to reach.
• Cost-Effective: At $24 per person, it offers a chance to explore a famous site with expert commentary, making for great value.
• Limited Group Size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience and more personalized attention.

Detailed Review of the Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour

First Impressions and Logistics

Starting at 330 Bonaventure Rd in Thunderbolt, GA, the tour begins promptly at 10:00 am. The use of a mobile ticket makes check-in smooth. The group size is capped at 20, which means you’ll likely get a more engaging and less crowd-heavy experience. The tour lasts around 2 hours and 10 minutes, which strikes a good balance between depth and pacing, especially considering Savannah’s sprawling cemetery.

While transportation isn’t included, the location is near public transit and easy to access if you’re staying in Savannah. Travelers with moderate physical fitness levels will find this walk manageable, although it is primarily a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are advisable.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

Your ticket covers the guided experience—a professional and courteous guide will lead you through the grounds, sharing stories and insights. The guide’s research is praised for its thoroughness, which can turn a simple walk into a captivating story session. Tips for the guide are not included, so if you appreciate personalized service, consider tipping at your discretion.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The main part of the tour focuses on Bonaventure Cemetery itself, where you’ll learn about its history and notable monuments. The guide will take you past key locations like the Jewish Section, home to historic graves, and the grave of “Little Gracie,” a beloved local figure. Other highlights include Johnny Mercer’s monument—an homage to the famous songwriter—and the grave of John Mungen.

A standout stop is the site at 200 5th Ave, the former location of a cursed pillar—a story that lends a ghostly edge to the experience. Though brief (about 10 minutes), this stop is packed with lore and adds to the cemetery’s haunted reputation.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

One reviewer highlighted the guide’s ability to make the stories come alive, describing her as knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. The atmosphere is enhanced by the lush greenery, Spanish moss draping over the tombs, and the scent of blooming azaleas. This creates a setting that feels both serene and slightly mysterious—perfect for those interested in the spooky side of history.

The Experience’s Value

At $24, this tour offers good value for those who want more than just a selfie at a famous site. The focus on history, architecture, and storytelling enriches the experience far beyond a casual stroll. You’ll learn about Savannah residents buried here, and the stories behind their monuments, which some reviews note are surprisingly fascinating.

The Human Element: Guides and Reviews

A notable aspect of this tour is the praise for the guides’ knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was very friendly and informative, making a potentially walking-only experience engaging through her storytelling. Even with a minor miscommunication about the mode of transportation (originally expecting a golf cart), the guide’s professionalism kept the experience positive.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, or anyone curious about Savannah’s past residents. It also appeals to those who enjoy ghost stories and haunted locations, thanks to the cemetery’s reputation and stories like the cursed pillar. If you prefer bus or trolley rides, this walking tour may be less ideal, but for those open to exploring on foot, it offers a deeply immersive experience.

Final Thoughts

Bonaventure Cemetery, with its iconic monuments and moss-laden landscape, is already a must-see in Savannah. This guided tour enhances that experience by providing context, stories, and insights that make each gravestone come alive. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the peaceful yet haunting setting, give you an authentic taste of Savannah’s rich and complex history.

While not a flashy or overly touristy experience, it delivers genuine value for visitors who want a meaningful and atmospheric exploration of one of Savannah’s most famous landmarks. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and be prepared for a walk through history.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. The tour starts at 330 Bonaventure Rd, which is accessible by public transport or car.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, providing ample time to explore and hear stories without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and intimate experience.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level as the tour involves walking around the cemetery.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While the tour is primarily walking, it might be manageable for children comfortable with walking. Those with mobility issues should consider their limits, as it is not a wheelchair-accessible tour.

What is the cost of the tour?
It costs $24 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the guided storytelling and access to the cemetery’s key highlights.

Can I expect to see famous graves?
Yes, the tour includes notable graves like Johnny Mercer and “Little Gracie,” along with other significant monuments.

Is tipping expected for the guide?
Tipping is not included in the price and is at your discretion, based on how much you enjoyed the tour.

To sum it up, the Bonaventure Cemetery History Tour offers a well-rounded, atmospheric exploration of one of Savannah’s most photographed and storied sites. Its blend of beautiful scenery, fascinating stories, and engaging guides makes it an experience worth considering for anyone wanting to see beyond just the surface of this historic city.