Genteel and Bard’s Savannah Dark History and Ghost Encounter Walking Tour

Savannah’s Dark History and Ghost Encounter Walking Tour offers a fascinating 2-hour journey through one of America’s most haunted cities. For $35 per person, you’ll visit iconic locations such as Oglethorpe Square, Chippewa Square, and Colonial Park Cemetery, all while hearing captivating stories of murder, war, and paranormal activity. Guided by passionate storytellers like Julianna or Jovi, this outdoor tour uses high-quality audio headsets so you won’t miss a word—no matter how lively the group gets.

What we love about this experience is how it balances history and ghost stories seamlessly, making the spooky tales feel rooted in real events. The personal touches from guides who are clearly enthusiastic about Savannah’s haunted reputation add authenticity and fun. Plus, the small group size ensures more attention from your guide and a more intimate experience.

A potential consideration is that all locations are outdoor only—you won’t go inside any buildings, which might limit access to some of Savannah’s interior wonders. Also, since it’s weather-dependent, poor weather can mean rescheduling or a full refund.

This tour suits history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys storytelling with a spooky twist. It’s especially valued by travelers who appreciate detailed, well-delivered tales and a lively, engaging guide.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling with professional guides makes the haunted history come alive.
• High-quality audio headsets ensure you catch every spooky detail, even in a lively group.
• Outdoor-only experience means all sites are accessible from the street, but no inside visits are included.
• Visiting iconic Savannah sites like Colonial Park Cemetery and Chippewa Square provides both history and ghost stories.
• Small groups foster more interaction and personalized attention from the guide.
• Affordable price point offers great value for a memorable, spooky evening in Savannah.

An In-Depth Look at the Savannah Dark History and Ghost Tour

Setting the Scene for a Haunted Evening

Starting at 124 Abercorn Street, this tour is designed for those curious about Savannah’s reputation as America’s Most Haunted City. This outdoor walk is roughly two hours long, and the path covers several of Savannah’s most storied landmarks. You’ll find yourself wandering through historic squares, past iconic homes, and stopping at cemeteries—all while listening to stories that feel more like a personal ghost story than a history lecture.

From the moment we meet our guide, Julianna, it’s clear she has a gift for storytelling. She quickly sets the tone by sharing Savannah’s dark past, hinting at the paranormal activity that supposedly still lingers. The use of mobile headsets means her voice travels directly to us without shouting over the group, which is a big plus in a city as lively as Savannah.

The Stops: History Meets the Paranormal

Oglethorpe Square

Our journey begins in Oglethorpe Square, where Julianna introduces us to Savannah’s reputation as America’s Most Haunted City. She shares stories of old crimes, and the tales of ghostly apparitions that still haunt these streets. It’s not just about the stories but the way Julianna weaves history and legend together, making each location come alive.

Wright Square and Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

Next, we stop at Wright Square to hear about Savannah’s first murder—an event that set the tone for the city’s dark reputation. Then, at the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, we learn about love beyond death, with stories of undying devotion that stretch back centuries.

Chippewa Square and The Old Sorrel Weed House Museum

As we stroll by Chippewa Square—famous for the park bench scene from Forrest Gump—Julianna reveals the secrets hidden within the walls of nearby inns and homes. At the Old Sorrel Weed House, stories of murder, suicide, and war punctuate the air, adding layers of grim history and ghostly whispers.

Colonial Park Cemetery

A highlight is the visit to Colonial Park Cemetery, where you’ll learn about diseases, funerary customs, and possibly voodoo practices linked to the spirits that supposedly linger there. Although the cemetery itself is closed after dark, the stories and photos shared from outside are enough to give a sense of its haunted reputation.

Final Stop: Genteel & Bard Savannah

The tour culminates at Genteel & Bard, where the stories of Savannah’s first cemetery and historic inns like the Marshall House and Foley House Inn are brought to life. You’ll get a chance to see these buildings from the street and reflect on the city’s haunted past in a more relaxed setting.

Why the Guided Experience Works

What makes this tour stand out is how storytelling is combined with audio enhancements. Reviewers repeatedly praised guides like Julianna and Jovi for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to build suspense, making the tales entertaining, even for skeptics. The small group size means more interaction and personalized attention, which many found charming and engaging.

Authenticity and Accessibility

While the tour sticks to outdoor locations, it still offers a rich experience. You might find yourself wanting to peek inside certain buildings, but since access isn’t included, it’s a good idea to plan visits during daylight. The tour’s outdoor focus means you’ll experience Savannah’s atmospheric streets and haunting ambiance, especially at night.

Value and Practical Details

At $35, this tour delivers excellent value. For just two hours, you get a lively, well-guided walk through some of Savannah’s most storied haunted sites, complete with audio headsets that ensure you catch every story, regardless of group size or background noise. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

What the Reviews Say

The popularity of this tour is clear: with over 1,380 reviews averaging a 5.0 rating, most guests say it’s well worth the price. Many reviews highlight guides like Julianna and Jovi as entertaining, knowledgeable, and engaging. Guests appreciate how the stories blend history and paranormal tales, making it appealing whether you’re a skeptic or a believer.

A few reviews mention less positive experiences, usually related to guide delivery. One reviewer unfortunately had a guide who did not meet expectations, but the company quickly responded with a full refund and took steps to address the issue—showing a commitment to quality.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy history with a spooky twist. It’s especially suitable if you love storytelling, atmospheric night walks, and learning about local legends from passionate guides. It’s also an ideal choice for those who prefer small groups and clear audio over large, noisy tours.

If you’re visiting Savannah to learn about its ghostly reputation, appreciate authentic storytelling, and enjoy a relaxed outdoor walk, this tour hits the mark. It’s less about inside spooky locations and more about experiencing Savannah’s haunted streets and hearing the tales that make the city famous.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers suggest it’s appropriate for older children and teenagers who can handle spooky stories. Since it’s outdoor and storytelling-focused, it can be fun for families, but the dark themes might not suit very young kids.

Does the tour include inside visits to haunted locations?
No, all stops are outdoor locations; inside buildings are private and not accessible during the tour. You can visit some sites on your own afterward.

What should I bring?
Just bring comfortable walking shoes, a bottle of water, and perhaps a flashlight if you want to explore the streets a little more afterward. The high-quality headsets are provided.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to rain, you’ll get an option for a full refund or an alternative date.

Is the tour walk long?
The route is approximately 0.75 miles, with stops averaging 10-15 minutes. It’s manageable for most people, but be prepared for some standing and walking.

Can I book this last minute?
Most bookings are made 17 days in advance, but last-minute availability may vary. It’s best to book early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

In brief, the Genteel and Bard Savannah Dark History and Ghost Encounter Walking Tour offers a fantastic way to combine history, storytelling, and a touch of paranormal intrigue. Guided by enthusiastic storytellers with top-notch audio gear, it’s a lively, engaging experience that reveals Savannah’s haunted secrets in a charming outdoor setting. Perfect for those who love good stories, atmospheric streets, and a little spooky fun—this tour makes for a memorable evening in this historic southern city.