Self-Guided ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Solo Walking Tour

If you’re heading to Savannah, Georgia, and want a flexible way to soak in its charm, the Self-Guided ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Solo Walking Tour might just be your perfect match. For $9.75 per person, you get to explore the city’s historic squares, architecture, and filming sites at your own pace over approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes. Led by your smartphone, this tour offers a personalized experience that allows you to stop, start, and linger wherever you want.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to learn about Savannah’s unique history and culture in an intimate setting, especially through the stories behind each square. The inclusion of filming locations from Forrest Gump adds a fun pop-culture twist, making it engaging even for those who aren’t hardcore history buffs. Plus, the limited group size—just your own or your travel companions—means a more personal and relaxed experience.

However, a key consideration is that this is a self-guided experience, which means no in-person guide or in-depth museum visits included. Some users have mentioned that navigation and narration clarity could be improved, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your phone’s directions and audio settings.

This tour is best suited for independent travelers who appreciate history, enjoy flexible schedules, and want to discover Savannah’s squares in a personal, unrushed way. If you’re okay with a bit of DIY planning and looking for authentic sights on a budget, this tour might just be your ideal introduction to the city.

• Affordable price: Under $10, making it a budget-friendly way to explore Savannah’s key sites.
• Flexible schedule: You can start anytime, pause, or revisit locations, fitting the tour into your personal pace.
• Rich stories: Learn about the early settlers, notable figures like Tomochichi, and the city’s role in the film industry.
• Focus on history and film: Highlights include the Wright Square, Forest Gump filming locations, and the Juliette Gordon Low birthplace.
• Limited inclusions: No admission tickets to museums or meals, so plan to visit museums separately if interested.
• Mobile-friendly: Download via your smartphone with a virtual walk option afterward, perfect for tech-savvy travelers.

What the Tour Covers and Its Layout

This self-guided walking tour offers a comprehensive look at several of Savannah’s most famous squares, each with its own story and significance. Starting at Johnson Square and ending at Chippewa Square—the iconic location where Forrest Gump sat on the bench—the route allows you to see the city’s European-inspired architecture and lush parks.

The itinerary includes stops at Reynolds Square, Lucas Theater, Owens-Thomas House, Davenport House, Wright Square, Wright Square Antique & Retro Mall, Telfair Academy, and finally Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace. This selection ensures you get a well-rounded glimpse of Savannah’s history, culture, architecture, and pop culture.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Reynolds Square: Expect a bit of spooky local lore as your host shares tales of malaria victims and the famous Olde Pink House nearby. Just a quick three-minute stop, but packed with atmosphere and history.

Lucas Theater: A brief pause to hear about Savannah’s cultural scene and historic theaters, giving you a taste of the city’s rich arts heritage.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: Outside viewing only unless you choose to visit the museum separately. The story here is sobering—an important reminder of Savannah’s slave history.

Davenport House: Stop to learn about this early example of preservation and look at the historic fountain in Columbia Square. Another quick three-minute stop that offers a window into Savannah’s restoration efforts.

Wright Square: Here, you’ll hear about Tomochichi, the Yamacraw chief instrumental in Savannah’s founding, and see the statue of Tomochichi and Ogeechee. A five-minute highlight that combines history and patriotism.

Wright Square Antique & Retro Mall: This stop is lighter and fun—discussing Georgia’s thriving film industry, making Savannah one of the biggest filming locations in the world. It’s a short, three-minute peek into Hollywood’s love affair with the city.

Telfair Academy: Outside the oldest art museum in the South, with stories of its founding and the five statues adorning the entrance. An enriching stop that combines art and architecture.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace: Finish outside the founder of the Girl Scouts’ home, a meaningful spot blending women’s history and local pride.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciated the value and convenience of this tour. One reviewer praised the “great sites and very informative” nature, while another loved the insights into Savannah’s growth. The ability to explore at your own pace was a big plus, especially for those who prefer not to be on a rigid schedule.

On the downside, several users noted issues with direction clarity and narration quality. One person found the map confusing and had trouble following instructions, while others pointed out that audio commentary sometimes started prematurely. The need for location permissions was also highlighted as a common stumbling block—be sure to allow GPS access if you want the narration to work smoothly.

Practical Details and Tips

The price point makes this an excellent option for budget travelers or those wanting a quick overview. Remember, entrance fees to museums like the Owens-Thomas House or Telfair Academy are not included, so if you’re interested in interior visits, plan accordingly.

The mobile ticket system means you can start the tour whenever you like, making it flexible for any travel schedule. Starting in Johnson Square and ending at Chippewa Square provides a natural flow, but you could also pick and choose stops.

Duration varies—some might finish in 55 minutes, while others might take longer if you stop to photograph or linger. Given that the tour is self-guided, there’s no rush, but being familiar with your phone’s GPS and audio controls will enhance your experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for independent travelers, history buffs, film fans, or anyone seeking a low-cost, flexible way to explore Savannah’s iconic squares. If you enjoy learning on your own terms and don’t mind a bit of tech setup, you’ll love the personalized pace and detailed stories.

However, if you prefer guided commentary or in-depth museum visits, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Also, those who are easily disoriented or not comfortable navigating via smartphone might find the experience frustrating, especially given some reviews about navigation hiccups.

Ultimately, the Self-Guided ‘Old Squares of Savannah’ Tour offers a cost-effective, flexible way to get an authentic taste of Savannah’s historic core. You’ll love the stunning views, fascinating stories, and the ability to explore at your own rhythm. It’s especially suitable for adventurous solo travelers, couples, or small groups who are comfortable with smartphones and appreciate self-directed learning.

The tour’s value lies in its affordability and the chance to uncover Savannah’s charming squares without the pressure of a group or guided tour schedule. It’s a good starting point, and if you fall in love with the city, you can always follow up with more in-depth visits to the museums or guided tours.

For those seeking an easy, enjoyable way to see Savannah’s highlights, this tour fits the bill—just be prepared for some minor tech quirks and a bit of DIY spirit.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. It’s a walking tour that can be enjoyed by most age groups, especially since it’s self-paced and flexible.

Do I need to print anything?
No, the tour is delivered via your smartphone as a mobile ticket, so download it ahead of time and be ready to explore.

Are museums included in the tour?
No. Entrance fees for museums like Owens-Thomas House or Telfair Academy are separate if you want to go inside.

How long does the tour typically take?
Most people finish in around 55 minutes to an hour 15 minutes, but you can take longer if you wish to linger.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes. The tour is available 24/7, and you can start whenever it’s convenient.

What if I have technical issues?
Some users experienced difficulties with directions or app functionality. Ensure you allow location permissions and have your phone charged.

Is it easy to follow the route?
It should be, but some reviews mention confusing maps or instructions. Having a basic sense of navigation will help.

Is this tour private?
Yes. It’s designed for just your group, providing a more personalized experience.

If you’re ready for an engaging, flexible introduction to Savannah’s iconic squares, this tour offers a practical way to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank. Just come prepared with your phone, a sense of curiosity, and maybe a little patience for some tech quirks!