Savannah: Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour

Imagine exploring one of Savannah’s most iconic sights—Bonaventure Cemetery—without the fatigue of walking. For $38 per person, in just one hour, you’ll glide through the lush grounds on a comfortable golf cart with a knowledgeable guide by your side. This tour is perfect if you want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or exhausted, especially given the cemetery’s sprawling size.

What we love about this experience is how personalized it feels thanks to the small group size—limited to just 10 participants—and the depth of knowledge that guides like Brandon or Marcia bring. Their stories make the monuments come alive, turning a stroll among stone angels and ancient oaks into a meaningful journey. The second thing that stands out is the convenience of a golf cart; it’s a refreshingly easy way to cover lots of ground while soaking in the atmosphere.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, which might limit some visitors with mobility challenges. But for most travelers, especially those looking for a relaxed, informative, and engaging introduction to Bonaventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

If you’re a history buff, someone interested in the stories behind the graves of famous residents like Johnny Mercer or Conrad Aiken, or simply someone who appreciates beautifully landscaped gardens and interesting headstones, this is a tour worth considering. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time visitors, or those who want a guided narrative rather than wandering on their own.

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Key Points

Comfortable exploration: Glide through Bonaventure Cemetery on a golf cart, avoiding the fatigue of walking miles.
Expert guides: Guides like Brandon and Marcia are praised for their deep knowledge, engaging stories, and humor.
Rich storytelling: Learn about notable residents and the symbolism behind the monuments, adding layers of meaning to your visit.
Small group intimacy: Limited to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of time for questions.
Efficient sightseeing: Cover the highlights of the cemetery’s stunning graves and lush scenery in just an hour.
Good value: At $38, it’s a reasonably priced way to get a comprehensive, guided introduction to Bonaventure.

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The Experience in Detail

An Ideal Introduction to Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery is Savannah’s most famous cemetery and a must-see for many visitors. Its expansive grounds, filled with moss-draped oaks, elaborate monuments, and artistic gravestones, can overwhelm if you try to explore on your own. This guided golf cart tour simplifies the experience, allowing you to see the most significant and beautiful parts without the physical strain.

Itinerary and Stops

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide at the designated point, then hop into a golf cart for the ride. The specific route is carefully curated to include the cemetery’s most notable sights and the graves of famous residents like Johnny Mercer, the composer behind “Moon River,” and Conrad Aiken, a celebrated poet and novelist.

Your guide will weave stories about these individuals’ lives and the symbolism of the monuments. For example, many headstones feature intricate carvings, reflecting personal stories or cultural symbols. One review praises Marcia for her ability to “bring life to the stories” with her humor and insight, making it clear that this isn’t just a dry history lesson but an engaging narrative.

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The Highlights

You’ll cruise past impressively ornate tombs and quietly contemplative graves, all surrounded by Savannah’s signature natural beauty. The lush landscape, with towering oaks and blooming azaleas, provides a stunning backdrop to the stories. The tour also highlights the artistic aspects of the cemetery, from the craftsmanship of the carvings to the symbolism woven into the headstones.

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What You’ll Learn

Beyond the mere names and dates, your guide will share anecdotes, folklore, and insights about the cemetery’s history, making each stop meaningful. As one reviewer notes, the tour “made our experience at Bonaventure a five-star event,” thanks to the guide’s passion and narrative skills.

The Practicalities

The tour lasts exactly one hour, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day. The small group size enables a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The price includes the golf cart ride and the guided commentary, making it a very good value given the depth of information provided.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Your guide will send very specific directions before the tour, guiding you into the cemetery and along Mullryne Way to the visitor parking lot near the river. It’s a self-guided entry with a brief walk to meet your guide at the designated spot. Note that stroller accessibility is available, but it’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility limitations should consider this.

What Other Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 125 reviews. Many describe their guides as “knowledgeable,” “entertaining,” and “passionate.” Several mention that guides like Brandon, Cheryl, and Marcia made the experience special by weaving humor into their storytelling. Visitors also appreciate the well-organized communication and the ability to customize the experience with questions.

Some comments highlight how the tour set the tone for their entire Savannah trip, with one traveler remarking, “The cemetery is beautiful and filled with history, which you would not fully appreciate without the tour.”

Considerations

While the tour offers great value and a rundown, it’s important to remember that it’s not wheelchair accessible. Plus, since the cemetery is large, some may prefer a walking tour for more detail, but for most, the golf cart provides an ideal balance of coverage and comfort.

The Sum Up

This Bonaventure Cemetery golf cart tour is an excellent way to experience Savannah’s most famous cemetery without exhausting yourself. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a guided, storytelling-rich introduction, making history and art come alive in a relaxed setting. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides turn a simple ride into a captivating journey.

For those interested in not just seeing but understanding the stories behind the graves, this tour offers a compelling mix of education, beauty, and fun. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative paired with the serenity of Savannah’s natural landscape. If you value good value, expert guides, and meaningful insights, this small-group tour will not disappoint.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, including families with kids, as noted in reviews. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible.

How long is the tour?
It lasts exactly one hour, providing a quick yet rundown of Bonaventure Cemetery.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided golf cart ride and the insights shared by your guide.

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially since the tour is limited to 10 people and can sell out.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process offers flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Where do I meet the guide?
Your guide will send specific directions before the tour, guiding you into the cemetery and to the visitor parking lot near Mullryne Way.

Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, strollers are allowed, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
This tour is offered in English only, so language considerations should be planned accordingly.

In the end, this golf cart tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see Savannah’s most historic and beautiful cemetery. It balances storytelling, scenery, and comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to any Savannah itinerary. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want a relaxed way to experience one of the city’s highlights, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories of Bonaventure’s serenity and stories.