Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Savannah’s holiday spirit without the hassle of driving or walking endless streets, the Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour might be just what you need. This two-hour festive ride offers a cozy, entertaining way to soak in the city’s decorated squares, historic homes, and holiday traditions. While it’s a popular choice during the peak season, it does have its quirks—and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

What we love about this tour is its interactive and lively atmosphere, thanks to guides who sing carols and share fun stories about Savannah’s holiday customs. The stop at the American Prohibition Museum adds a unique historical twist, giving you an immersive peek into the 1920s speakeasy era with festive touches. And the City Market finale, where you can meet Father Christmas and enjoy holiday decor, makes for a classic seasonal experience.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention limited holiday lighting in the historic district, which can be a letdown for those expecting a sea of Christmas lights. The tour’s value really depends on your expectations—if you’re after a cheerful, musical journey with some historical flair, you’ll likely enjoy it. It’s a great fit for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a light-hearted way to celebrate the season amidst Savannah’s charming streets.

Good To Know

• Festive atmosphere with singing and holiday cheer onboard the trolley
• Interactive stops at the Prohibition Museum and City Market
• Limited holiday lights in the historic district, according to some reviews
• Knowledgeable guides who keep the tour engaging and fun
• Value for money with included snacks and the chance to meet Father Christmas
• Suitable for most travelers, including families, with service animals allowed

The Full Experience: What to Expect From the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour departs from the Old Town Trolley Tour Depot at 250 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable yet festive escape from the usual holiday hustle. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and lively.

Transportation and Comfort

Transport is provided via a cozy trolley decorated for the season, with plastic flaps over the openings that can be a bit of a double-edged sword—helpful in rain but sometimes obscuring views, as some reviews mention. The trolley’s interior is festive, with guides often singing carols and sharing stories to keep everyone in a holiday spirit.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour features two main stops, with the rest of the time spent cruising through historic Savannah neighborhoods.

Drive-by Carols and Tales

The journey kicks off with the conductor leading the group in Christmas carols while passing by historic homes and squares decorated for the season. Expect stories about Savannah’s traditions, and if you’re lucky, a guide who manages to strike a balance between humor and information—some guides, like “Biscuit,” are highly praised for their lively personalities, making the ride more memorable.

Stop 1: American Prohibition Museum (30 minutes, included)

This part of the tour is a standout for those interested in a bit of historical fun. Stepping into a 1920s speakeasy environment, you’ll learn how the holidays were celebrated during the Prohibition era. Costumed docents bring the past to life, offering a blend of history and holiday cheer. Reviewers like Elizabeth highlight that Biscuit’s storytelling made the experience particularly enjoyable. Complimentary non-alcoholic punch and a treat add to the festive vibe, with some visitors opting to purchase winter cocktails to heighten the holiday spirit.

Stop 2: City Market (30 minutes, free)

The final stop is at City Market, beautifully decorated for the season. Here, you can meet Father Christmas, take photos, and enjoy more holiday ambiance. Reviewers say this part is really the “classic Savannah” experience, with the added bonus of being able to indulge in local shops and festive decorations.

The Value of the Tour

Price and Inclusions

At $38.47 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the included snacks, the historical stop, and the festive entertainment onboard. The snacks and non-alcoholic punch provide a nice touch, especially for families or those wanting a more interactive experience. The guided singing and storytelling, especially from guides like “Biscuit” or “Crystal,” are often highlighted as highlights that add a personal touch.

Things That Make It Worthwhile

For those who enjoy interactive, lively tours, this experience delivers with spirited guides and holiday songs. The historical stop at the Prohibition Museum appeals to history buffs and adds a unique dimension to the typical holiday trolley ride. And, if you enjoy meeting Santa, the City Market stop offers a festive, family-friendly environment.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews point out the scarcity of Christmas lights or decorated sights in the historic district, which can be disappointing for travelers expecting a dazzling display. Others mention weather impacts, like rain, which can limit views and make the open trolley less enjoyable. Plus, the musical volume can sometimes be overwhelming for sensitive travelers, and guides’ personalities may not suit everyone—some reviews note guides who are overly sarcastic or less engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families with children, especially those who enjoy singing along and meeting Santa. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick, festive overview of Savannah’s historic sights. If you’re after more elaborate holiday lights or a romantic, quiet stroll, this might not be the best choice. But if you want a fun, lively, and culturally enriching holiday experience with a bit of history and plenty of holiday cheer, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour offers a cheerful, musical way to celebrate the season in one of America’s most charming cities. Its interactive stops, engaging guides, and festive atmosphere make it a good value for those wanting to enjoy Savannah’s holiday charm without the crowds or hassle of walking.

While it may not deliver a spectacular display of lights—something some reviews have noted—the combination of history, holiday tradition, and lively storytelling creates a warm, inviting experience. It’s especially suited for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a relaxed, fun way to get into the holiday spirit.

Just keep in mind the weather and your expectations about holiday lighting, and you’ll likely find this tour a delightful part of your Savannah holiday adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the tour includes festive singing and visits to Santa at City Market, making it family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you a relaxed yet festive experience.

Are snacks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic punch and a treat, with additional winter cocktails available to purchase.

What if it rains?
The trolley has plastic flaps over the openings which can limit views but help keep out rain. Some reviews suggest weather can impact sightlines, so check the forecast.

Can I get off at the stops?
No, this is a guided tour on a trolley, so you stay onboard during the ride and get off at designated stops for a limited time.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is operated by Historic Tours of America, and service animals are permitted, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to contact the provider for confirmation.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 4 are considered lap children and do not require a ticket.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking early is recommended during the busy holiday season, especially since last month there were over 10 bookings, indicating high demand.

Overall, the Savannah Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Trolley Tour provides a lively, historical, and cozy way to celebrate the season. It’s best suited for those looking for a lighthearted, engaging holiday experience with some cultural flavor—and a few singing guides to keep things lively.