Segway Tour in Historic Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah

Experience the Charm of Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery on a Segway

Imagine cruising effortlessly across a 100-acre historic cemetery, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories from Savannah’s past. For about an hour and a half, you’ll explore Bonaventure Cemetery on a Segway, for a smooth, fun, and surprisingly easy way to see this iconic site. Priced at $80 per person, the tour is offered by Adventure Tours in Motion, and typically sells out about three weeks in advance, which shows how popular it is.

What we love about this experience? First, the easy-to-learn Segway ride makes navigating the sprawling grounds accessible to almost everyone, even first-timers. Second, the personalized attention with small groups means you’re not just another face in the crowd, but part of a relaxed, friendly exploration. One thing to consider is that the tour starts a bit late sometimes—something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule. Overall, it’s ideal for those who want a light, engaging way to explore while soaking up Savannah’s unique cemetery atmosphere, especially if walking isn’t your favorite or the heat is intense.

Key Points

Easy to navigate: Segways make covering the large cemetery simple and enjoyable.
Rich stories: Guides share fascinating details about famous residents and local lore.
Beautiful surroundings: Enjoy river views and lush greenery amid historic graves.
Small group size: Personalized experience with attentive instruction and storytelling.
Ideal for beginners: Easy instruction makes it accessible even if you’ve never ridden a Segway before.
Highly rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from 85 reviews, most travelers find this tour memorable and worthwhile.

A Deeper Look at the Savannah Bonaventure Cemetery Segway Tour

When choosing a guided tour of a historic cemetery, it’s important to consider not just the sights but the quality of the guide and the kind of experience you’ll have. This Segway tour offers a distinct advantage over walking because it allows you to cover more ground in less time, all while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning—a rare combination in the world of cemetery sightseeing.

The Overview and Itinerary

Your adventure begins at the meeting point on 330 Bonaventure Road, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a quick safety briefing and instructions on riding a Segway. Don’t worry if you’ve never used one before; reviewers consistently mention how Neil (or other guides) are knowledgeable, patient, and quick to get everyone comfortable.

Once equipped, the tour takes you on a serene glide through the cemetery, which is situated on the Wilmington River, offering spectacular river views along the way. Your stops include the graves of famous Savannah residents such as Gracie Watson, the beloved young girl whose tomb is a well-known local symbol, and Conrad Aiken, a renowned poet and author. You’ll also stop at the resting place of Johnny Mercer, the famous songwriter, adding a touch of musical history to your visit.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The guided commentary is a highlight. Multiple reviews praise guides for their depth of knowledge and ability to tell stories that bring the tombstones and their stories to life. As one reviewer noted, Neil was “very knowledgeable about the cemetery and had us up and running on the Segway within minutes,” making the experience accessible for first-timers. Several travelers mentioned that Neil’s storytelling adds a layer of context that makes the graves and monuments more meaningful.

The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures that you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. This setting allows for more interaction, questions, and personalized attention, which enhances the overall experience.

The Experience of Riding a Segway in a Historic Cemetery

Many first-timers are surprised by how easy it is to ride a Segway, even with no prior experience. As one reviewer put it, “Segway was fun and not too difficult to ride,” and “it only took us about 2 minutes to learn.” The key here is the thorough instruction provided beforehand, meaning you’ll likely feel comfortable and confident as soon as you start gliding.

For those concerned about safety, the guides emphasize proper handling and precautions. With a maximum of 10 people per tour, the instructor can give individual attention, ensuring everyone remains safe while having a good time.

The Scenic and Historic Highlights

The cemetery itself is a visual feast—Victorian-era monuments, intricate statuary, and lush trees all set against the backdrop of the Savannah River. You’ll see the famous gravestones and learn about the symbolism behind the art and architecture, adding depth to your appreciation of the site.

Beyond the graves, you’ll enjoy stunning river views and the peaceful atmosphere that makes Bonaventure a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Several reviews highlight moments when wildlife, like dolphins in the river, add surprises to the scenery.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $80, this tour provides a comprehensive, engaging experience that combines history, scenery, and fun. Covering more ground than a walking tour, you’ll maximize your time in a notoriously large cemetery while minimizing fatigue and heat exposure. The small group setting ensures personal interaction, and the expert guides make the stories come alive.

Most importantly, the positive reviews testify to the quality of the experience. People describe Neil and Carolyn as knowledgeable, personable, and fun, making the tour feel more like exploring with a friend than a typical tourist activity. The ease of Segway riding opens up a new, accessible way to enjoy Savannah’s unique historic sites—especially for those who find walking long distances tiring.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning local stories and history but prefers a more relaxed pace, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time Segway riders, as instruction is straightforward and helpful. Those with mobility issues or fatigue will appreciate how much ground you can cover without having to walk, especially in hot weather.

It also suits small groups or couples looking for an intimate, fun way to explore a key part of Savannah’s historic landscape. If you love scenic views—like the river and lush greenery—this tour offers plenty of picture-perfect moments. And, if you’re interested in famous residents and symbolic gravestones, the storytelling adds a meaningful layer to your visit.

The Sum Up

The Segway tour of Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah offers a unique blend of fun, education, and scenic beauty. With knowledgeable guides, easy-to-ride Segways, and a small-group setting, it transforms what could be a long, tiring walk into a breezy, engaging adventure. The fascinating stories about Savannah’s residents and the stunning river views make it a memorable experience, especially for those who want to see a historic cemetery without the physical strain of walking.

While the tour sometimes starts a little late, that minor inconvenience is easily overshadowed by the quality of the guides and the overall experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a first-time visitor, or just looking for a fun way to explore Savannah, this Segway tour is a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention, scenic views, and a dash of storytelling magic.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering a significant part of the cemetery without feeling rushed.

Do I need experience riding a Segway?
No prior experience is necessary. The guides provide safety and instructional training, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 330 Bonaventure Road. You should arrive about 15 minutes early for instructions.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable on a Segway and able to follow safety instructions. The tour is capped at 10 participants for safety and quality.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. The tour provides the Segway and safety gear.

In short, this tour offers a fun, informative, and scenic way to experience Savannah’s historic Bonaventure Cemetery. Perfect for those looking to combine a bit of sightseeing with an activity that’s both accessible and memorable.