Bonaventure Cemetery & Wormsloe State Historic Site Tour

Experience Georgia’s Heritage Without the Hassle
If you’re looking to soak in some of Savannah’s most iconic sights—Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe State Historic Site—this guided tour offers a seamless way to do just that. For around $73.83 per person, you’ll spend approximately 6 hours exploring beautifully moss-draped graves, 18th-century ruins, and scenic oak-lined drives, all with the comfort of hotel pickup.

Two things we particularly love: first, the expert guides who bring genuine stories to life—many reviews highlight guides like Dennis or Michelle for their deep knowledge and friendly approach. Second, the convenience of pre-arranged access at both sites means you won’t waste time in lines or worrying about directions.

A possible consideration? The lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget for that on your own. Plus, the tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of walking and sightseeing, as there’s some gentle but meaningful exploration involved.

This tour suits travelers eager for a well-rounded, authentic experience of Savannah’s history, especially those who prefer guided insights over self-guided wandering. If you love historical storytelling, scenic drives, and local treats, this trip fits the bill.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup, guided access, and transportation included, so no need to coordinate logistics yourself.
• Authentic Sites: Visit iconic landmarks like Bonaventure Cemetery’s moss-draped graves and the 18th-century Plantation Tabby Ruins at Wormsloe.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Dennis or Michelle make history engaging with stories, humor, and personal touches.
• Taste of Savannah: The cookie stop at Byrd Cookie Company offers a sweet local treat, rounding out the day perfectly.
• Flexible Timing: About 6 hours total, allowing plenty of time for exploration, photos, and learning without feeling rushed.
• Good Value: For the price, you get a comprehensive look at Savannah’s unique history, scenic beauty, and local flavors.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day – Comfortable, hassle-free hotel pickup in Savannah’s Historic District means you begin your day without the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets or parking. The tour operates with a group size capped at 25, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Your guide, whether Dennis, Michelle, or another expert, will set the tone with enthusiasm and knowledge from the start.

Bonaventure Cemetery – This cemetery, established in 1846, is often called one of the most beautiful in the country. As you stroll moss-draped oaks and winding lanes, your guide shares stories of notable buried figures like songwriter Johnny Mercer, Georgia’s first governor Edward Telfair, and the young girl Gracie Watson. Many reviewers praise guides like Dennis for their storytelling ability, which makes the cemetery come alive beyond its haunting beauty.

A reviewer noted, “Bring walking shoes so that Dennis can show you around and give you all the history,” highlighting how the guided aspect offers richer insights than self-guided visits. The atmosphere here is both somber and stunning, with azaleas in bloom during certain seasons adding pops of color.

Lunch Break – After the cemetery walk, you’re free to grab a bite at a recommended local restaurant. While lunch isn’t included, most travelers find this a good opportunity to taste regional cuisine, whether seafood, Southern classics, or something quick and hearty.

Wormsloe Historic Site – The highlight here is the live oak-lined drive—an iconic Savannah sight that’s just as beautiful in person as in photos. Once you arrive, you’ll walk to see the Plantation Tabby Ruins dating back to the 18th century, offering a tangible connection to the area’s colonial past. The site also features a museum that helps put everything into context, making it a must-visit for history buffs or those wanting a scenic photo op.

Reviews frequently mention guides like Tim and Albert, whose deep knowledge of the area adds layers of context to the visit. One said, “Tim was VERY knowledgeable on local history, great guide!!” So, whether it’s stories about the plantation or the architecture, the guide’s commentary enhances the experience.

Savannah Byrd Cookie Company Stop – No trip to Savannah is complete without a taste of the city’s famous treats. The cookie shop offers complimentary tastings of Byrd’s signature cookies, often described as “delicious,” providing a sweet ending to your day. Many reviews note how much travelers enjoyed this relaxed, fun stop, which also offers shopping opportunities.

Why This Tour Works Well

This guided tour is particularly valuable for first-time visitors who want an overview without the hassle of planning every detail. The combination of walking, scenic drives, and storytelling means you get a broad sense of Savannah’s character—its historic cemeteries, colonial ruins, and grand oak drives—without feeling overwhelmed.

The knowledgeable guides are a major highlight; travelers consistently praise them for their friendly demeanor, humor, and deep insights. Plus, the convenience of pickup and drop-off means you can enjoy the day with minimal stress.

However, keep in mind that lunch is not included, so plan accordingly. If you’re someone who prefers a fully independent day or wants to tailor your visits, this might feel a bit structured. But for most, the guided approach adds value—especially when it comes with stories that bring these historic sites to life.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point – The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point, usually in Savannah’s Historic District, which is perfect for visitors staying close to the city’s core attractions.

Bonaventure Cemetery – Expect a 1.5-hour guided walk through this famous cemetery, where moss-covered oaks and wrought-iron fences frame the graves of notable locals and poetic legends alike. The stories shared here—about individuals like Johnny Mercer and the tragic tale of Gracie Watson—transform a simple stroll into an engaging history lesson. The atmosphere is both peaceful and poignant, with many reviewers noting the beauty of the landscape and the evocative moss.

Lunch Break – After the cemetery, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This is a flexible part of the day, giving you a chance to savor regional flavors.

Wormsloe Historic Site – The drive down the live oak avenue alone is worth the trip, especially if you enjoy scenic drives. Once there, the Plantation Tabby Ruins provide a visceral sense of Colonial life, and the onsite museum helps contextualize what you’re seeing. The walk to the ruins is short but packed with visual appeal, and many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to share stories about the site’s history.

Cookie Stop – The tour concludes with a quick visit to Byrd Cookie Company, where you can indulge in free tastings and buy souvenirs. Many reviewers remark on how delicious and iconic Byrd Cookies are, making this a memorable, tasty finish.

Analyzing the Value

At $73.83, this tour offers a carefully curated experience that combines education, scenic beauty, and local flavor—all with the ease of guided access and transport. The included sites are some of Savannah’s most photographed and talked-about attractions, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the city’s historic and cultural richness**.

The reviews reinforce that guides like Dennis and Michelle are a major plus, providing engaging stories that make history accessible and fun. Many travelers appreciate the timing—about 6 hours—which balances sightseeing with relaxation.

While lunch isn’t included, most find this to be a minor expense compared to the value of guided insight and VIP access. Plus, the small group size makes for a more personal, less hurried experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling and scenic sites. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer guided tours over DIY exploring, especially if time is limited. If you enjoy beautiful drives, gorgeous old cemeteries, and local treats, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Savannah’s charm.

Travelers who value expert guides making history come alive or want a hassle-free day with hotel pickups will find this particularly rewarding. It’s also a great choice for first-timers wanting a rundown of Savannah’s highlights in one convenient package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The walking is gentle, and the sights are interesting for a wide range of ages, especially those interested in history and scenery.

How long do stops last?
The Bonaventure Cemetery visit lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, Wormsloe about an hour, and the cookie stop 30 minutes. You’ll have plenty of time at each site without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your pickup and drop-off are included, and you’ll ride comfortably in a small group van with a maximum of 25 travelers.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but recommended local restaurants are nearby, and many travelers enjoy sampling regional dishes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as there is some walking involved. Also, consider a camera, sun protection, and perhaps a water bottle.

Are tickets for Bonaventure and Wormsloe included?
Yes, both sites’ admission fees are included in the tour price.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 25 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less notice means no refund.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic drives, moss-laden oaks, and historic ruins offer excellent photo opportunities, especially with guides sharing the best viewpoints.

To sum it up, this guided tour of Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe is a smart way to explore some of Savannah’s most captivating historic sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. With knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and a local cookie treat, it offers excellent value for those eager to see the city’s iconic sights with a friendly, informative touch. It’s especially suited for first-timers, history lovers, and anyone wanting a comfortable, well-organized day immersed in Savannah’s charm.