Behind the Plaques – 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Savannah

Experience the Charm of Savannah’s Historic District with the Behind the Plaques Walking Tour

A well-priced and engaging way to get acquainted with Savannah’s storied streets, the Behind the Plaques tour offers a lively 2-hour stroll through the city’s most iconic squares and landmarks. For just $35, you’ll visit Chippewa Square, Wright Square, Oglethorpe Square, Columbia Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, Lafayette Square, and Madison Square—each packed with history, stories, and character. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for those wanting a compact yet rundown.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances informative storytelling with the visual beauty of Savannah’s historic squares—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to connect the dots of the city’s past. The second highlight is the blend of local legend and tangible history, from the haunted cemeteries to the famous Forest Gump bench replica. A small group size (up to 10 travelers) makes for an intimate and personalized experience.

One consideration is the walking commitment—you’ll need to be comfortable walking roughly two miles over 2 hours, which can be demanding in hot, humid summer weather. Also, for those prone to heat or with mobility issues, the tour’s outdoor emphasis and walking pace might require a bit of planning.

This tour suits history buffs, movie fans, and curious travelers alike who want a balanced, authentic introduction to Savannah’s most photogenic and historically significant spots. It’s especially useful for those who appreciate guided stories with local insights, rather than just self-guided wandering.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Savannah’s historic squares and landmarks
• Knowledgeable guides provide engaging stories and insider details
• Short walking distances make it accessible but require moderate fitness
• Great value for the price, with free admission to stops and historical insights
• Small group size enhances interaction and personalized attention
• Ideal for first-timers seeking a structured overview of Savannah

A Deep Dive into the Behind the Plaques Tour

If you’re visiting Savannah and want to get a sense of the city’s soul, this 2-hour walking tour is a fantastic choice. It’s designed to be both educational and fun, giving you a snapshot of Savannah’s past through its streets, squares, and stories. The tour is run by House of Clayton, a reputable local operator, and the guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge and personable manner.

Starting at Chippewa Square

Your journey begins in Chippewa Square, famously known for the Forest Gump bench scene. While the actual bench is now a replica, standing in the square offers a real sense of the film’s charm. The guide will fill you in on the square’s namesake—the Battle of Chippewa during the War of 1812—and point out notable sites like the Savannah Theater and the First Baptist Church. Several reviews mention how this stop is a perfect orientation point, helping visitors understand the layout and significance of Savannah’s historic core.

Exploring Wright Square

Next, you’ll stroll to Wright Square, named after James Wright, the last Royal Governor of Georgia. Here, you can see the monument dedicated to Tomo-Chi-Chi, a Yamacraw chief and friend to Oglethorpe. You’ll also see the monument to William Gordon, connected to the Girl Scouts’ founder. The original town hall and the city’s first cemetery are part of this stop, giving you a glimpse into Savannah’s early civic life. Reviewers love how this spot connects stories of Native Americans, colonial governance, and local history.

Oglethorpe Square & Columbia Square

Moving through Oglethorpe Square, named after Savannah’s founder, James Oglethorpe, you’ll learn about his vision and the city’s origins. Then, at Columbia Square, you’ll see sites like the Kehoe House and Davenport House, two historic homes, along with the city’s first gate. These stops highlight Savannah’s urban growth, and the guide will point out the Wormsloe Fountain and other architectural highlights.

Colonial Park Cemetery

A highlight for many is the Colonial Park Cemetery—a living monument to Savannah’s past residents, including a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Revolutionary War heroes, and victims of yellow fever. This stop offers a tangible connection to the city’s turbulent early years. The stories of the buried and the legends of haunted graves make this part especially engaging, as noted by visitors who find the cemetery “haunted and full of stories.”

Lafayette Square & Madison Square

You’ll stroll through Lafayette Square, named for the French hero, and see the childhood home of Flannery O’Connor. The Andrew Low House and Mary Musgrove’s plaque add layers of local history. Then, at Madison Square, named after the 4th U.S. President, the Sergeant William Jasper monument stands tall. Here, the guide shares stories of revolutionary heroes, and visitors get excellent views of historic houses like the Green-Meldrim House.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the tour, the small group size (max 10) and the modest pace make it easy to ask questions and absorb the stories. Travelers often comment on how well-informed guides like Brian and Bob make the history come alive. The free admission to the squares and cemeteries means you’re getting a lot of value for your ticket price, as you’re not paying extra to see each site.

What Makes This Tour Truly Stand Out

Many reviews highlight the depth of knowledge the guides provide. Luis_B appreciated the guide’s politeness and knowledge, and Melissa_C valued the personalized attention she received. The stories of hauntings, the movie connection, and the historical context are woven seamlessly, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s two-hour duration is perfect for a quick but thorough overview, especially if you’re pressed for time. The $35 fee is reasonable given the amount of information, the small group setting, and the free access to historic sites. Be aware that parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly.

The tour is not recommended for those who cannot walk at least two miles or have difficulty standing outside in the heat, especially during summer months. The outdoor nature means you’ll want comfortable shoes and sun protection if sunny.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This guided walk is ideal for history enthusiasts, film buffs, and travelers eager for a personalized introduction to Savannah’s historic district. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a structured, storytelling approach rather than wandering aimlessly on their own. If you’re looking for a small, intimate group experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Behind the Plaques Walking Tour offers a compact, insightful journey through Savannah’s storied streets and squares. It balances history, legends, and local lore with an engaging guide, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. Its affordability, small-group intimacy, and focus on storytelling make it a great value for exploring one of America’s most charming historic cities.

While not a lengthy tour, it packs enough highlights to give you a solid foundation of Savannah’s unique character. If you’re eager to see the city through the eyes of someone who loves sharing its stories, this tour might just be your perfect introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering several key squares and landmarks.

What’s the walking distance?
You’ll walk around two miles over the course of the tour, mostly outdoors, with stops at seven different squares.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the pace and walking distance suggest it’s best for children old enough to walk comfortably for two miles and stay attentive.

Are tickets available on the day of the tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 15 days in advance, as the tour is popular and runs in small groups.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees are not included, so plan to find nearby parking on your own.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; last-minute changes are not possible.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted; other pets are not mentioned, so check with the provider if bringing a companion animal.

In all, if you’re seeking a well-led, engaging, and affordable introduction to Savannah’s historic streets, this tour offers a memorable way to start your visit. It’s an experience that combines outdoor walking, storytelling, and local legends—sure to leave you with a vivid picture of Savannah’s past.