Exploring Savannah’s Andrew Low House: A Historic Gem in the Heart of the South

The Andrew Low House in Savannah is a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s past—an elegant Italianate mansion built in 1848 for a wealthy cotton merchant, Andrew Low. For around $20, you can join a guided tour lasting just a few minutes but packed with captivating stories and stunning rooms. The tour is led by knowledgeable docents who share engaging details about the Low family, the house’s architecture, and the lives of both the wealthy and the enslaved who lived there.

What we love most about this experience are two key details: first, the insider stories about the Low family, including Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts, and second, the chance to see rare features like the indoor bathroom—a luxury for the time—and the children’s playroom. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so it might not suit everyone.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Southern life in the 19th century. If you enjoy walking through historic mansions with friendly guides, this experience delivers an authentic glimpse into Savannah’s past.

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Key Points

Historic significance: The house, built in 1848, offers a window into 19th-century Savannah life.
Architectural beauty: The Italianate design, elegant rooms, and rare period features stand out.
Engaging guides: Knowledgeable docents make history lively with stories about the Low family and their era.
Authentic details: Discover rare features such as an indoor bathroom and a children’s playroom.
Limited accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users due to stairs and layout.
Flexibility: Tours run every 30 minutes, with the last departing at 4:00 pm, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

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A Closer Look at the Andrew Low House Experience

What to Expect When You Visit

Walking into the Andrew Low House, you’ll immediately sense the grandeur of mid-19th-century Savannah. Built by John Norris, a sought-after architect from New York, the mansion’s Italianate architecture features tall windows, intricate moldings, and a sprawling veranda. The guided tour begins at the rear courtyard—an often overlooked detail that enriches the experience—where you enter through the gift shop, setting an informal, welcoming tone.

The docent-led tour lasts just a few minutes but is packed with information. You’ll explore the first-floor rooms: the formal and informal parlors, the family’s library, and the dining room. These rooms are decorated to reflect the period, and the guides do a great job connecting the furnishings and architecture to the Low family’s story.

One of the highlights is the upstairs rooms. You’ll see a children’s playroom, which is a real treat—rare for the period—and an indoor bathroom, another luxury that made this mansion stand out at the time. The bedrooms include guest chambers and the bedrooms once occupied by notable visitors, adding to the mansion’s historic allure.

Stories and Personalities

What truly makes this tour stand out are the stories shared by guides. We loved how the docent explained the impact of the Low family on Savannah and included interesting anecdotes about Juliette Gordon Low, who inherited the house. This personal touch makes history more relatable.

Visitors have noted that the guides are very knowledgeable, bringing the house’s story to life with enthusiasm and detail. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was so passionate about Savannah’s history—it made the visit memorable.”

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Features That Capture Your Imagination

Seeing a rare indoor bathroom from the period underscores the mansion’s luxury and attention to detail. Similarly, the children’s playroom provides insight into family life and leisure. These features are not just decor—they tell stories of wealth, comfort, and the evolving standards of daily life in Savannah.

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The Practicalities

Ticketing and Tour Schedule

This experience is straightforward—tickets are entry-only, with tours departing every 30 minutes. You can reserve in advance with the option to pay later, offering flexibility in your planning. The cost is generally around $20, which we find reasonable considering the depth of history and the guided experience.

The last tour begins at 4:00 pm, so plan to visit earlier in the day. Entry is through the rear courtyard, a simple step that keeps the process unpretentious.

Accessibility and Considerations

It’s important to note that the house is not wheelchair accessible—stairs are involved at the entrance and within the house. If mobility is a concern, this could be a drawback. The tour is designed to be manageable for most travelers, but it’s worth considering before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates historical architecture, personal stories, and authentic 19th-century interiors, you’ll enjoy this tour immensely. It’s ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and family travelers interested in learning about Savannah’s elite and their lives.

Why Choose the Andrew Low House Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Savannah’s past, with just enough time commitment and a modest price point that makes it a worthwhile addition to any trip. The enthusiasm of the guides and the authentic features inside the house elevate it beyond a simple sightseeing stop.

The mansion’s beautiful architecture and historical significance make it stand out, especially if you’re eager to see how the affluent lived in the antebellum South. The stories of Juliette Gordon Low add a personal, inspiring touch, connecting Savannah’s history to contemporary culture.

While it’s not a sprawling or lengthy tour, it provides a meaningful, intimate experience—perfect for those wanting to connect with Savannah’s history without spending hours in museums.

Final Thoughts

The Andrew Low House is a compelling stop for anyone who loves history, architecture, or local stories. Its guided tour brings the house’s past to life with passionate, knowledgeable guides, and the house’s features give tangible insights into a bygone era.

It’s especially suited for travelers seeking an authentic, educational experience that offers a deep look into the lives of Savannah’s wealthy families and their households. The limited accessibility might be a concern for some, but for most, the experience offers genuine value and a chance to step back into the 19th century.

If you’re looking to understand Savannah beyond its famous squares and moss-draped trees, the Andrew Low House offers a memorable peek into the city’s elite lifestyle and architectural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the house is fascinating for history lovers of all ages, the tour is brief and involves stairs, so young children should be supervised. The children’s playroom might be particularly interesting for younger visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The tour itself lasts just a few minutes, but you’ll spend enough time exploring the rooms during the guided session. The entire visit can be comfortably done in around 30-45 minutes.

Can I visit the house on my own without a guide?
No, the experience is guided, with tours departing every 30 minutes. There is no self-guided option at this time.

Is there a discount for groups?
The provided information doesn’t specify discounts, but group rates might be available—it’s best to check ahead or inquire when purchasing tickets.

What is the cost?
Tickets are approximately $20 per person, offering good value considering the guided storytelling and historic interiors.

Are there any accessibility options?
Unfortunately, the house is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and layout. If mobility is limited, this might not be the best fit.

In essence, a visit to the Andrew Low House combines architectural beauty, personal stories, and a peek into Savannah’s antebellum past—all led by enthusiastic guides eager to share their knowledge. It’s a worthwhile stop that rewards the curious traveler looking for an authentic connection to the city’s history.