Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour

Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour offers a delightful way to experience Georgia’s charming historic district. For around $92, you’ll spend about three hours strolling through Savannah’s picturesque squares, tasting regional specialties, and soaking in the city’s storied past, all led by an engaging local guide. This tour is perfect for food lovers, history buffs, and travelers who enjoy an active, social experience.

What we love most is how tasty the food is — from shrimp and grits to pork belly donuts — and how knowledgeable the guides are about Savannah’s history and culture. Plus, visiting up to six eateries gives a well-rounded taste of local flavors. Our only note: the portions are hearty, so it’s best to come with an appetite. This experience suits travelers who enjoy walking, storytelling, and discovering hidden culinary gems with a small, friendly group.

Key Points

• Authentic Savannah Flavors: Tasting at local, top-rated eateries, including honey, seafood, and Southern classics.
• Rich History & Architecture: Exploring Savannah’s iconic squares, waterfront, and historic landmarks.
• Small Group Intimacy: Guided by personable, knowledgeable hosts in groups limited to 14.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: The food adds up to a full meal, included in the ticket price.
• Ideal for Food & Culture Enthusiasts: A balanced mix of history, architecture, and flavor.
• Weather Preparedness & Dietary Notes: Operates rain or shine; gluten, dairy, vegan options limited, but accommodations made for allergies.

An In-Depth Look at the Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Tour

The Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour kicks off in the heart of Savannah’s historic downtown, at 108 W Broughton Street. From the moment you meet your guide—most reviews mention friendly, witty, and knowledgeable hosts—you immediately feel the welcoming vibe. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the group feels intimate, making it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide.

For three hours, you’ll wander through four original squares, including Ellis Square, Franklin Square, Johnson Square, and the River Street waterfront. The pace is leisurely, allowing you to absorb the sights, listen to stories, and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Stands Out

We’re particularly fond of how the guide’s storytelling weaves history with food. As one reviewer noted, “Gail was absolutely amazing. She was hospitable, entertaining, and informative.” The guides aren’t just about food; they share anecdotes about Savannah’s turbulent past, architectural marvels, and local customs, making every bite a part of a bigger story.

Another highlight is the variety of stops, including award-winning honey stores, traditional pubs, and fine dining spots. The carefully curated restaurants and specialty food shops ensure you’re tasting authentic Southern specialties like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and innovative dishes like pork belly donuts.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start in Savannah’s Historic District

You will begin amidst the beautiful old buildings and lush live oaks, learning about Savannah’s long-standing reputation as a social and commercial hub since the 1700s. The squares are more than pretty parks; they’re the backbone of Savannah’s social life, with stories of revolutionary heroes like Nathaniel Greene and the Haitian fighters honored in Franklin Square.

One review captures this well: “Learn about Savannah’s long and colorful history, grand architecture, and easygoing way of life from your guide as you walk through the city’s four original squares and scenic waterfront.” It’s the perfect introduction for first-timers or anyone wanting to connect the dots between architecture, history, and daily life.

River Street & Waterfront

Your next stop is River Street, where cobblestone streets are lined with converted cotton warehouses. Here, the views of the Savannah River are stunning, and the atmosphere is lively. While the stops here are brief, they’re packed with character — historic buildings, bustling cafes, and the chance to spot ships navigating the river.

Franklin Square & Johnson Square

Moving through Franklin Square, you get a chance to see one of Savannah’s oldest squares, home to a monument honoring Haitian fighters. It’s a small but meaningful site, adding depth to your understanding of Savannah’s diverse history. The First African Baptist Church nearby is of historical interest, and you’ll hear stories about the local African-American community’s role in the city’s past.

Johnson Square, the largest and oldest, is lined with ancient live oaks, creating a canopy of history and natural beauty. The monument to Revolutionary War hero Nathaniel Greene and the view of City Hall make it a favorite stop for many.

Food Tastings & Local Specialties

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit up to six eateries, which include specialty stores like Savannah Bee Company and restaurants such as Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub, 22 Square, and Prohibition. The tastings are considered generous — many reviews describe them as “equivalent to a lunch” — including seafood, savory dishes, and sweet surprises.

Notable favorites include the shrimp and grits at 22 Square (which one reviewer called “very good”) and the honey samples at Savannah Bee Company, which many found delightfully unique. The food is of high quality, and the variety means you’ll leave full but not overly stuffed.

Final Stop at City Market

The tour concludes near City Market, Savannah’s vibrant downtown shopping and dining precinct. Here, you’ll have time to explore further, shop, or relax, making the experience flexible for your day.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Voices

Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s expertise, with many praising their ability to combine historical insight with humor. “Gail was a great resource who does exceptionally well for a Damn Yankee,” one review cheekily states, capturing the welcoming, local vibe.

Food quality and portions receive consistent praise: “The quantity and quality of the food is very good,” notes one reviewer, while another mentions, “STUFFED! So much delicious FOOD!” The small group setting makes it easier to stay engaged and ask questions, which many travelers appreciate.

A few noted minor drawbacks, such as portion sizes being “very small” or some restaurants being located in hotels, not mom-and-pop shops as expected. The company is transparent about dietary restrictions—they do not offer gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options, but accommodations for seafood, nut allergies, pescatarian, and vegetarian diets are available.

The Value of the Experience

At $92.17 a person, the tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Savannah’s culinary and cultural scene. Considering the included tastings, guide expertise, and access to historic sites, it represents solid value. The fact that the food alone could serve as a full meal makes this a practical choice for travelers wanting to sample the city’s best without figuring out where to eat.

On top of that, the tour’s small size and personable guides foster a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers and get personalized insights. This is especially appealing if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, seeking an engaging, friendly experience.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Come hungry, as tastings are plentiful and filling.
• Dress comfortably, as you’ll be walking and standing for about three hours.
• Bring allergies or dietary restrictions to the guide in advance—though options are limited, most common allergies are accommodated.
• Start early to avoid parking issues, as some reviewers noted.
• Check the weather forecast; the tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing, history, and food into one relaxed experience. It suits curious travelers eager to learn about Savannah’s past in an engaging way while sampling authentic regional dishes. If you enjoy small-group tours, storytelling, and a mix of cultural insights with delicious bites, this will hit the spot.

It may not be best for those with strict dietary needs or who prefer meals in traditional restaurants rather than tasting stops. Also, if you’re travelling with young children, consider their comfort with walking and listening to stories for three hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, most common allergies like seafood and nuts can be accommodated, but dietary restrictions like gluten-free or vegan are limited due to the nature of the food offerings.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, covering several historic squares and local eateries.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all food tastings and non-alcoholic beverages are included, and they add up to a full meal.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 108 W Broughton Street and ends near City Market at 104 W Broughton Street.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, making for a personal experience.

Can I book last-minute?
Most bookings are made about 27 days in advance, but last-minute bookings may be available depending on availability.

In closing, the Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour offers a tasty, engaging way to see Savannah’s sights and savor its flavors. It’s perfect for foodies, history lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxed, friendly way to experience the city. With knowledgeable guides, generous tastings, and a walk through historic squares, it promises a memorable taste of Savannah’s charm—both in history and in flavor.