Positively Bull Street – 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Savannah and want an authentic glimpse into its past, the Positively Bull Street Tour offers a well-paced, engaging stroll through the city’s most historic corridor. For just $35, you’ll spend around two hours wandering from City Hall near the Savannah River to the lush oasis of Forsyth Park and back, soaking in centuries of architecture, stories, and local character. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is ideal for those who love walking, history, and a taste of Savannah’s unique layout.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is its focus on Savannah’s distinctive grid of squares and the stories they hold. The stops include iconic landmarks like Chippewa Square (famous from Forrest Gump), Wright Square, and the beautifully designed homes along Bull Street. Plus, the inclusion of Savannah City Hall adds a civic touch that emphasizes the city’s governance and development.

One small caveat is that the tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves walking about 2 miles. If mobility is an issue, or if you’re not keen on walking for an extended period, this might be less suitable. Also, while the tour is thoughtfully designed, it runs in a group capped at 12 travelers, which means you’ll get more personalized attention, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and first-time visitors who want a balanced overview of Savannah’s core attractions without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s also a valuable way to orient yourself before exploring on your own.

Key Points

• Historic Focus: Walk along Georgia’s oldest thoroughfare, discovering landmarks and iconic squares.
• Architectural Insights: See historic homes, churches, and monuments that highlight Savannah’s architectural legacy.
• Flexible & Intimate: Small group size ensures a personal experience, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
• Authentic Stories: Learn about the city’s layout, from Colonel William Bull’s original plan to the significance of each square.
• Convenient & Practical: Mobile ticket and meeting point at Jennifer Katzman enable easy access.
• Ideal for Walkers: This is a 2-mile tour, perfect for those comfortable with moderate walking.

In-Depth Review: Why This Tour Stands Out

When we think of Savannah, images of moss-draped oaks, charming squares, and historic homes come to mind. The Positively Bull Street Tour captures this essence by taking you on a relaxed but informative walk along Georgia’s oldest street, connecting key sites that reveal the city’s layered past.

The Itinerary: A Walk Through History

The tour kicks off at Jennifer Katzman on Gaston Street at 10:00 am, placing you right in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. From there, you’ll stroll northward, passing the Savannah City Hall—a building constructed in 1904-1905, which signals the city’s civic pride and early 20th-century architecture.

One of the first stops is a remarkable mansion designed by Henrik Wallin in 1917 in an Italian Renaissance Revival style. This residence, with nearly 26,000 square feet and features like granite balustrades and a porte-cochère, exemplifies the grandeur of Savannah’s early 20th-century elite. The guide might point out the mansion’s distinctive elements, like the glazed brick exterior and the prospect of Forsyth Park, which this mansion overlooks—a lovely sight from the broad colonnades.

Next, your route leads to Monterey Square, laid out in 1847. Here, you’ll see the Herman Kuhlman Duplex, dating back to 1851, anchoring the square’s historic atmosphere. The square’s trees and preserved buildings make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Further south, Madison Square, established in 1837, offers a glimpse of Savannah’s early planning, with the Sorrel-Weed House (circa 1840) adding to its charm. The square’s history is palpable, and its architecture is a testament to the city’s growth during the antebellum period.

Moving to the middle row, Chippewa Square is famous for its film fame—being the park where Forrest Gump sat on the bench. It’s also a hub of history, with the Savannah Theatre (1818) located on Bull Street, adding an artsy touch to your walk.

Then, you’ll visit Wright Square, which dates back to 1733, making it one of the earliest squares in Savannah. The William Waring Property at 12 West State Street, from 1825, offers a peek into early 19th-century architecture, while the square’s open green space represents Savannah’s tradition of designing accessible, community-centric public spaces.

The final stop is Johnson Square, the first of Savannah’s squares, laid out in 1733. Here, the Ann Hamilton House (1824) stands as an example of early residential design. The square reflects Savannah’s initial vision, with large, open spaces and stately homes.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

The tour offers a comprehensive look at Savannah’s urban design, highlighting how Colonel William Bull’s original plan has shaped the city’s charming layout. The inclusion of public squares emphasizes Savannah’s unique approach to city planning, where green spaces are integrated seamlessly with historic architecture.

Throughout the walk, guides tend to weave in stories about the buildings and the city’s development—not just facts but engaging anecdotes that give life to the stones and facades. As one reviewer pointed out, “We loved the way the guide connected the architecture to Savannah’s history, making it feel like a living city museum.”

Architecture and Landmarks

From granite terraces to ornate loggias, the buildings along Bull Street span styles and eras, reflecting Savannah’s evolution from colonial times through the 20th century. Residential homes, churches, and civic buildings are all within walking distance, revealing the city’s layered history and enduring charm.

The mansion designed by Henrik Wallin, with its Italian Renaissance Revival style and experimental interior elements, exemplifies Savannah’s architectural diversity. Its broad colonnade facing Forsyth Park offers a picturesque moment, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the ambiance.

Authentic Stories and Local Flavor

While the tour focuses on architecture and planning, it also weaves in stories that make Savannah unique—like the significance of the squares during different periods or how certain buildings served specific purposes historically. These tales make the experience engaging, especially when shared by guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

One reviewer shared, “Our guide’s stories about the squares’ historical figures made the buildings come alive. It wasn’t just walking past old homes; it was walking through a living history book.”

Practicalities: Ease and Comfort

The mobile ticket system simplifies access, and the meeting point at Jennifer Katzman is central, making it easy to find. The group size is limited to 12, which means you’ll get a more personalized experience, and your guide can answer specific questions.

The tour’s duration—just about two hours—is ideal for a morning exploration without feeling rushed. It also leaves plenty of time to wander on your own afterward, whether to visit museums, galleries, or enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Considerations for Travelers

Since the tour involves walking around 2 miles, those with mobility issues or who prefer less physical activity might find it challenging. The pace is moderate, but comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, because it’s a small group, booking in advance is wise during peak travel seasons.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This walking tour is a great fit for history enthusiasts eager to understand Savannah’s city planning and architecture. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview before exploring independently. If you love learning about local stories, historic homes, and iconic public spaces, this tour will keep you engaged.

However, if you prefer guided tours with transportation or want a focus solely on ghost stories or river cruises, you might want to explore other options listed in the similar experiences.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours and covers about 2 miles of walking.

What is the starting point?
It begins at Jennifer Katzman, located at 1 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best for travelers in moderate physical condition who can walk 2 miles comfortably. It might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

Are tickets easy to get?
Yes, the tickets are mobile, and booking in advance is recommended as group sizes are limited to 12.

What are the main attractions?
You’ll see Savannah City Hall, historic mansions, and squares like Monterey, Madison, Wright, Chippewa, and Johnson Square.

Will I learn about architecture?
Absolutely—your guide will highlight different architectural styles, such as the Italian Renaissance Revival mansion and early 19th-century homes.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have plenty of scenic views and historic buildings to photograph, especially from the mansion’s colonnade overlooking Forsyth Park.

Is this tour suitable for a first visit?
Yes, it’s a great introductory walk that provides context and orientation for further exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Positively Bull Street Tour offers a balanced, authentic walk through Savannah’s historic heart. For $35, you gain insights into the city’s layout, architecture, and stories, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting to understand Savannah beyond just its pretty facades.

It’s an especially good pick for history fans and architecture buffs, who will appreciate the detailed explanations and the chance to see key landmarks up close. The small group size ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere, making for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative introduction to Savannah’s history and urban design, this tour hits the mark, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of the city’s charm and character.