Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers a practical way to see Georgia’s first city without the hassle of planning every stop. For $44.89 per person, you get a 15-stop route that takes you past over 100 points of interest, with narration about Savannah’s fascinating history and colorful legends. The ride can range from two hours to a full day, depending on how often you hop on or off. It’s a flexible, guided approach to exploring Savannah’s architecture, lush parks, and lively neighborhoods—all from a charming open-air trolley.

What we love most about this tour is how it makes navigating Savannah’s sprawling historic district easy and accessible. The narration by knowledgeable guides, such as Cash and Pops, brings the city’s stories alive, making history feel fun and engaging. Plus, the convenience of hopping on and off at any of the 15 stops means you can customize your sightseeing—whether you want a quick overview or a leisurely day exploring at your own pace.

A possible drawback is the crowded nature of the trolleys and the lack of A/C on some vehicles, which can make for a warm ride in summer. Also, if you’re prone to long lines, especially later in the day, you might find boarding a challenge, as some reviews note. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, guided introduction to Savannah’s highlights, particularly those who enjoy a mix of storytelling and self-directed exploration.

If you’re visiting Savannah for the first time, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for those who want to get a broad sense of the city’s layout without the stress of figuring out transportation or missing out on must-see sights like Forsyth Park, River Street, or Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace. It’s also a good pick for families, first-time visitors, or anyone with limited time who wants to maximize their experience.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off at 15 stops, customizing your day.
• Engaging narration: Guides share captivating stories, legends, and historical insights.
• Convenient route: Visits Savannah’s top attractions like Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market.
• Cost-effective: Good value considering the number of sights covered and the flexibility offered.
• Weather considerations: Most trolleys are open-air, so be prepared for sun or rain.
• Crowding: Expect some buses to fill up quickly, especially during peak hours.

Detailed Review of the Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Exploring Savannah from the Comfort of a Trolley

We start with the basics: this tour is a great way to see many of Savannah’s most famous sights without the stress of walking or navigating public transportation. For $44.89, you purchase a mobile ticket that grants access to a route with 15 stops, spanning the city’s most historic and scenic neighborhoods. The route passes by over 100 points of interest, including stately mansions, lush parks, historic cemeteries, and bustling markets.

The tour’s duration varies—anywhere from 2 hours if you just do the loop once, up to 8 hours if you hop on and off throughout the day. The trolley runs roughly every 20 minutes, giving you plenty of flexibility. Many travelers book the 2-day ticket, which allows for more relaxed exploration and the ability to revisit favorite spots at your leisure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest benefits is the narration. Guides like “Cash” and “Pops” are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable, and humorous storytelling. They recount tales of Savannah’s founding, civil war history, and colorful local legends, making the city’s sights come alive. As one reviewer put it: “Cash is an excellent representative, keeping customers engaged with his history knowledge and jokes.” This makes the ride much more than just transport; it becomes an entertaining, educational experience.

Another highlight is the route itself. It covers Savannah’s most iconic neighborhoods—Forsyth Park, the Historic District, River Street, City Market, and more. These stops are carefully selected to give visitors a well-rounded view of the city’s charm. For instance, Forsyth Park with its famous fountain is a favorite, offering a perfect photo op and a sense of Savannah’s leisurely pace. The River Street Market Place is lively and full of shops, cafes, and street musicians, giving travelers a taste of Savannah’s vibrant atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Let’s walk through some of the stops, what they offer, and why they’re worth your time:

Stop 1: Savannah MLK Visitor Information Center
This initial stop is perfect for picking up maps, brochures, or just getting oriented. It’s also free and provides a good starting point. Close by is Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthplace, which is significant for anyone interested in the Girl Scouts’ history. As one reviewer noted, “The Juliette Gordon Low Historic District was a key stop, with three historic buildings connected to her story.” The house itself is charming and steeped in stories of this pioneering woman.

Stop 2: Forsyth Park
A sprawling 30-acre oasis in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. The “Famous Forsyth Fountain” is a must-see, especially in the morning or late afternoon when it’s beautifully lit. It’s a hub for locals and travelers alike, perfect for a quick photo or a relaxing moment. Admission is free, and the park is a favorite for its lush greenery and peaceful vibe.

Stop 3: Massie Heritage Center
A smaller, family-friendly stop featuring exhibits on Savannah’s architecture and culture. While the admission isn’t included, the center offers insights into Savannah’s development. Nearby, the Colonial Park Cemetery offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past, with graves dating back to 1750.

Stops 4-7: Historic Squares and Churches
Stops like Colonial Park Cemetery, Columbia Square, Madison Square, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist give visitors a chance to see Savannah’s stunning architecture, lush trees, and religious history. Reviewers praise the beautiful monuments and the peaceful ambiance of places like Madison Square, complemented by statues such as the one honoring Revolutionary War hero William Jasper.

Stops 8-10: River Street and Museums
River Street is lively and full of energy, with cafes, galleries, and shops. You’ll also find attractions like the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, housed in a historic building from 1819, featuring ship models, maritime art, and artifacts. One reviewer pointed out, “The museum interpret Savannah’s maritime history through beautiful ship models and paintings—well worth a visit if you love ships or history.”

Additional Stops
The tour also includes stops at City Market, Ellis Square, and the Telfair Museums, providing a well-rounded overview of Savannah’s diverse attractions. Several travelers mention how easy it is to hop off, explore, then catch the next trolley—making it ideal for flexible sightseeing.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Crowding: Some guests note that during busy times, trolleys can be full, and waiting may be necessary. Planning to ride early in the day can help avoid this.
• Weather: Most trolleys are open-air, so in the summer heat or rain, be prepared with hats, sunscreen, or rain gear. Some trolleys are heated and enclosed during winter.
• Accessibility: A number of trolleys are equipped with hydraulic wheelchair lifts, making it more accessible for travelers with mobility needs.
• Duration: The full circle lasts about 1 hour and 50 minutes if you stay on without hopping off, which is a good way to get a quick overview before exploring at your own pace.
• Food and drinks: You are welcome to bring snacks or drinks onboard, but alcohol isn’t permitted for safety reasons.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides for their “friendly, engaging personality,” and the “great knowledge,” making the ride more than just transportation. Many comment on the ease of getting on and off, especially with the 2-day ticket option, which allows them to explore at their own pace and revisit favorite spots like River Street or City Market.

Some noted negatives include the lack of air conditioning on some trolleys, which can make for a warm ride in summer. “Crowded such that most trolleys were already full when attempting to board,” said one guest, emphasizing the importance of planning your timing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off trolley tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Savannah’s highlights. It’s especially good if you prefer guided commentary but also want the flexibility to explore on your own. Families, seniors, or anyone with limited mobility will appreciate the easy access and regular stops. It’s equally suited to those who enjoy storytelling and local lore, as guides are known for their engaging, humorous narratives.

If you’re on a tight schedule or don’t want to miss key attractions, this tour covers the essentials without the hassle of navigating on your own. And if you’re curious about Savannah’s maritime history or the stories behind its historic squares, this route offers plenty of engaging stops.

FAQ

How long is one full rotation on the Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour?
The full loop takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes if you don’t get off, giving you a good overview of the city without interruptions.

Are the drivers knowledgeable about Savannah?
Yes, guides are known for being friendly and well-informed, sharing fascinating stories and humor to bring Savannah’s history to life.

Is the tour narrated?
Absolutely. The narration covers Savannah’s foundation, Civil War history, and Hollywood connections, making the ride both fun and educational.

Can I bring food and drinks onboard?
Yes, food and drinks are welcome, but alcohol isn’t allowed for safety reasons.

Are pets permitted?
Only service animals are allowed on the trolleys. Emotional support animals, pets, or comfort animals are not permitted.

Are the trolleys accessible for wheelchairs?
Many trolleys are equipped with hydraulic lifts, but it’s best to note special requirements at booking.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Most trolleys are open-air but can be closed in colder or rainy weather for comfort.

To sum it up, the Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience one of America’s most photogenic and storied cities. Its combination of flexible itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and scenic routes makes it a wise choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike looking to get the lay of the land. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just soaking up Savannah’s vibrant atmosphere, this tour delivers a memorable, convenient introduction. Just be prepared for possible crowds and warm weather—you’ll love the views and stories as you explore Georgia’s charming first city.