Savannah: Bonaventure Cemetery Tour

A visit to Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery offers more than just a stroll among graves—it’s a chance to experience a place where beauty and mortality intertwine against the backdrop of Southern charm. For just $29, you get a two-hour guided walking tour that uncovers over 170 years of history, memorable stories, and the eerie legends that make this cemetery so compelling. Led by knowledgeable guides like Chris, this tour invites you to see the tombstones, sculptures, and landscape through the eyes of history, art, and perhaps a ghost story or two.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is its balance of storytelling and scenic beauty. We loved how the guide’s humor and insights brought the cemetery’s fascinating past to life, making it a lively rather than somber experience. Plus, the opportunity to choose between family-friendly and adult-only ghost tours means you can tailor the experience to your comfort level—an important detail for travelers of all ages.

One possible consideration is the group size, as some reviews note that crowds can get a little tight, especially during peak times. However, this is common in popular sites like Bonaventure, and a skilled guide can still create a sense of intimacy. This tour suits those interested in history, architecture, ghost stories, and Southern culture, especially if you enjoy walking and storytelling that makes history vivid and fun.

Key Points

• Authentic Insight: Knowledgeable guides like Chris bring history to life with humor and engaging stories.
• Breathtaking Scenery: The cemetery’s landscape of moss-draped oaks and sculptures offers picture-perfect moments.
• Historical Depth: Over 170 years of stories, notable inhabitants, and symbolism are explored.
• Ghostly Tales: Optional haunted tours add a thrilling extra layer for thrill-seekers.
• Convenient Meeting Spot: Starts and ends at the gift shop, with parking, restrooms, and refreshments available.
• Valuable for All: Family-friendly options make this accessible for kids, while adults can indulge in ghost stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Bonaventure Cemetery Tour

What to Expect and How It’s Structured

This guided walking tour inside Bonaventure Cemetery is designed to unfold gradually, allowing you to absorb its visual splendor and stories without feeling rushed. The tour lasts about two hours, a perfect length to take in the highlights without fatigue—though comfortable shoes are a must, given the walking involved.

The tour begins at the Bonaventure Cemetery Tours® Gift Shop, conveniently located with free parking and accessible restrooms. Your guide, easily recognizable by a “6th Sense World” badge, will greet you and set the tone for a day of discovery. The meeting point outside the cemetery entrance helps avoid the confusion of navigating the large grounds initially, easing you into the experience smoothly.

Exploring the Grounds

Once inside, you’ll stroll through a picturesque landscape of ancient oaks, moss-laden branches, and artful tombstones. We loved the way the landscape itself tells stories—each twisting branch and moss-laden sculpture seems to whisper of the past. The guides do an excellent job of pointing out notable graves and explaining symbolism and architecture that lend layers of meaning to each site.

Highlighted Stops and Stories

The tour covers famous residents and notable gravesites, but what truly stands out is how the guides weave in stories about the families, poets, and naturalists buried here. One reviewer noted, “Chris shared his knowledge of the cemetery’s history with facts and humor,” which highlights how storytelling enhances the experience.

You’ll also pass by some of Savannah’s landmarks and learn about the city’s haunted history—a fun addition for those curious about ghost stories. The optional Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tour makes this a versatile experience, perfect for those who enjoy a spooky twist along with historical storytelling.

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Additional Facilities and Comfort

The tour is fully equipped with umbrellas and rain ponchos if weather turns sour, and walking canes or sport seating can be requested if needed. This flexibility demonstrates attention to comfort and accessibility, which is appreciated in a setting that involves some walking and uneven terrain.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $29 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It includes a professional guide, access to historic sites, and the chance to learn and see at your own pace. When you consider that a typical visit to such a famous cemetery without a guide might leave you missing the stories, the guided tour’s storytelling component is well worth the price. Plus, the availability of cancelation up to 24 hours in advance provides flexibility—an important consideration for flexible travel plans.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and humor of guides like Chris, with several noting that the stories brought the cemetery’s history to life. One traveler from the U.S. said, “This tour was great and worth the time to go through! Chris did a great job telling stories about the cemetery and the interesting people who are there!” Similarly, an Australian visitor found that “doing a tour was a brilliant way to experience it,” confirming that guided visits elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to storytelling.

Possible Drawbacks

Some reviews mention large groups or crowds, which can detract from a more intimate experience. Plus, the tour’s duration and walking might not suit everyone—those with mobility issues or pre-existing medical conditions should note that the terrain can be uneven and the walk involves some physical exertion.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, ghost story enthusiasts, and those interested in Southern culture. Families with children are also welcome, especially with the family-friendly option, but the stories and the walking pace may be better suited for older children or teenagers. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic, well-guided explanations that make a historic site come alive.

The Heart of the Experience: Why It Matters for Travelers

This tour isn’t just about the scenes and tombstones—it’s about understanding Savannah’s character through its most emblematic site. The scenic landscape of moss-covered oaks and sculptures paints a vivid picture of Southern elegance and decay, making it a photographer’s dream. The stories of notable residents and local legends give depth that turns a simple walk into an engaging experience.

On top of that, the ghost stories and haunted tales appeal to those with a curiosity for the supernatural, adding an extra dimension of intrigue. The optional ghost tour makes it a flexible adventure suited for different interests.

The value for money here is notable. For less than the cost of a fancy dinner, you get an educational, scenic, and sometimes spooky experience. The inclusion of accessible options such as umbrellas, walking aids, and wheelchair access broadens its appeal.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love exploring historic sites with a knowledgeable guide who can tell stories, this tour fits perfectly into your Savannah itinerary. It’s also for those who enjoy outdoor walking tours, especially if you want a combination of scenery, history, and ghost tales. Travelers seeking an authentic and engaging way to understand Savannah’s unique character will find this tour rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the tour take?
  The guided walk lasts approximately two hours.

• Where does the tour start?
  It begins at the Bonaventure Cemetery Tours® Gift Shop, not at the cemetery entrance.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, there are family-friendly options, but keep in mind the walking involved.

• Can I cancel my booking?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
  Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions and is wheelchair accessible.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking outdoors.

• Are pets allowed?
  Only service animals are permitted on the tour.

• Is the price per person?
  Yes, the tour costs $29 per person.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to combine history, natural beauty, and a touch of mystery in Savannah, the Bonaventure Cemetery Tour offers an experience that’s both educational and visually stunning. The guides’ storytelling prowess, the scenic landscape, and optional ghost stories make this walk more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a window into the soul of Savannah.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local stories and enjoy exploring on foot. It’s a great value, blending history, art, and a dash of ghostly intrigue in a setting that’s undeniably unique. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler looking for a memorable adventure, this tour deserves a place in your Savannah plans.

Set out on a journey where death meets beauty, and stories linger long after you leave—Bonaventure awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: