Savannah: Historic District Guided Bike Tour

Quick Overview: What You Need to Know

If you’re looking to explore Savannah’s captivating Historic District without the hassle of walking or overly structured tours, this guided bike ride is an excellent choice. At $49 per person for a 2-hour adventure, you get a chance to cycle through some of Savannah’s most iconic sites. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you past Forsyth Park, Jones Street, Chippewa Square, and more, all at a relaxed pace that’s friendly for riders of all skill levels.

Two things we especially like about this tour: first, the variety of stops that offer both historic insights and perfect photo opportunities, and second, the flexibility to keep your bike afterward, giving you extra time to explore on your own. A potential drawback? Since the tour covers a fair amount of ground mainly on flat streets, it might not suit those with mobility challenges or those expecting a more intense workout.

This experience is ideal for solo travelers, families, groups, or anyone eager to see Savannah without feeling hurried. If you want a mix of history, scenery, and fun, this bike tour hits all those notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable and Quick: A 2-hour guided tour at $49 offers great value for a comprehensive look at Savannah’s highlights.
• Flexible Bike Use: You can keep your bike for the rest of the day, perfect for additional sightseeing.
• Scenic Stops: The tour includes must-see spots like Forsyth Park, Chippewa Square, and historic homes.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their engaging storytelling and local expertise.
• Inclusive for All: Easy rides suitable for most ages and skill levels, with bikes tailored to your comfort.
• Weather Considerations: Runs during light rain; severe weather cancels with advance notice.

Exploring Savannah’s Historic Charm on Two Wheels

When we think of Savannah, images of moss-draped oaks, historic mansions, and lively squares come to mind. This bike tour offers a practical way to see that scenery without exhaustion or missing out on details. It’s a good mix of sightseeing, history, and leisure, making it suitable for travelers who want an active but relaxed experience.

The meeting point at Savannah On Wheels, located conveniently at 405 West Hall Street, is easy to find, with free parking nearby. From there, your guide will fit you with a bike that suits your height and comfort level, whether you prefer a cruiser, hybrid, or a more upright model. It’s clear that the company prioritizes safety and comfort, which is a big plus for those new to cycling or hesitant about riding in a city.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

Starting Point and Orientation

Your tour begins at Savannah On Wheels, where your guide will give a quick safety briefing, show you your bike options, and share a few tips. With a leisurely start, you’re set to enjoy your ride without feeling rushed.

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Forsyth Park: Nature and Art

Your first major stop is Forsyth Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the historic district. As you glide past the famous Fountain and the statues, your guide will share stories about the park’s history and its importance to Savannah’s community. This spot is a favorite for photos, and it’s easy to see why, especially on a sunny day with the park’s grand trees as a backdrop.

Chippewa Square: Movie Fame and Local Lore

Next, you’ll pass Chippewa Square, famous for the scene in Forrest Gump where Tom Hanks’ character sits on a bench. While the bench itself isn’t there anymore, the square’s historic architecture and lively atmosphere make it a perfect photo op. Your guide will fill you in on Savannah’s role during the Civil War and its evolution as a city.

Historic Homes and Streets

You’ll glide past Mercer Williams House, Hamilton-Turner House, and Green-Meldrim House—each with stories that tie into Savannah’s past. The tour emphasizes the city’s significance in US history, making stops at these notable landmarks. Jones Street, named one of America’s most beautiful residential streets, provides just the right blend of charm and history. It’s a peaceful stretch, lined with historic homes and flowering gardens.

Squares and City Life

The route also includes stops at Wright Square, City Market, Washington Square, and Columbia Square. These areas showcase Savannah’s vibrant street life, with local shops, cafes, and lively conversations. Your guide will point out the statues, fountains, and details that you might miss on your own, giving you a richer sense of the city’s character.

House Museums and Historic Sites

The tour also stops at Mercer Williams House Museum, Hamilton-Turner House, and Green-Meldrim House, giving you glimpses into Savannah’s architectural elegance and storied past. These stops are brief but meaningful, enhancing your understanding of Savannah’s role in American history.

The Experience: What It’s Like to Ride Through Savannah

What makes this tour stand out is its easy pace—you’re riding on flat streets, and the guide ensures everyone stays together. Many reviewers praised the knowledge and friendliness of guides like EJ and Ron, who shared engaging stories without rushing. One person noted, “EJ was fun, professional, engaging and informative,” while another mentioned, “Our tour guide Ron was superb. You can tell he loves Savannah.”

The scenic route also means you can relax and enjoy the surroundings—magnolias, historic facades, and the gentle hum of city life. The 8-10 stops are well spaced, with occasional breaks that include bathroom stops, making the ride comfortable for everyone.

Extra Time and Customization

One of the highlights is the option to keep your bike after the tour until 5 pm. Several reviews mentioned how this extended freedom allowed them to revisit favorites or explore more on their own, making the tour a great value. The guide provides maps and tips, helping you navigate further into the city’s hidden corners or popular spots.

The Practical Side: Cost, Comfort, and Convenience

At $49, this tour offers strong value—considering the inclusion of bike, guide, and the chance to keep your bike all day. The bikes are well-maintained, and the company offers additional accessories like front baskets or phone mounts for a small fee, enhancing convenience.

Helmets are mandatory for riders under 16 but optional for others, and safety instructions are clear and thorough. The tour runs during light rain, with a policy to cancel for severe weather, giving peace of mind.

In terms of group size, the tour is flexible enough to accommodate small or larger groups, and even solo travelers will find it easy to join and feel included. Since children must be able to ride a bike and be accompanied by an adult, it’s best suited for families with kids comfortable on two wheels.

Authentic Feedback: What Others Say

Many reviewers highlighted how knowledgeable guides made a difference. “Linda’s stories about Savannah’s early days and current status were excellent,” shared one, emphasizing the tour’s educational value. Others praised the quality of the bikes, with one noting, “The bikes provided were in excellent condition,” and appreciated the ability to keep the bikes afterward.

Several travelers emphasized how safe and comfortable the ride felt, with comments like “We felt safe and the bikes were very comfortable,” underlining that even less experienced cyclists could enjoy the tour. The overall impression is that Savannah On Wheels delivers a fun, informative, and well-organized experience that mixes history with leisure.

Who Should Sign Up?

This bike tour is perfect for those who want a light, active way to see Savannah’s highlights. It suits solo travelers, couples, families with kids (who can ride), and groups eager for a social adventure. If you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying the city’s scenery, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those unable to ride a bike, and travelers seeking a more intense workout or a deep dive into specific topics may want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For $49, this guided bike tour provides an excellent overview of Savannah’s most beloved sites with the added bonus of engaging guides and flexible options. We appreciated how it balances leisure and learning, making it accessible for most ages and skill levels. The stops at key landmarks like Forsyth Park, Chippewa Square, and the historic homes, combined with the relaxed pace, create a memorable experience.

If you love city exploration with a bit of exercise and a lot of local color, this tour is a smart choice. The ability to keep your bike afterward is a bonus that extends the value, letting you explore more on your own. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring sunscreen, and plan for a light rain or two—Savannah’s charm is worth the effort.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children who can ride a bike and are accompanied by an adult are welcome. The tour is family-friendly, but younger kids should be comfortable on two wheels.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, the tour includes a bike, but you can opt to keep it for the rest of the day if you wish. The bikes provided are in good condition and tailored to your comfort.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and light clothing are recommended. Since the ride is on flat streets, it’s a relaxed experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as it involves cycling on streets and some stops might not be fully accessible.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour runs during light rain. If weather conditions are severe, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll receive a notification at least 30 minutes prior.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are helmets provided?
Helmets are mandatory for guests under 16 and optional for everyone else. The guides will provide safety instructions and equipment.

To sum it up, the Savannah: Historic District Guided Bike Tour offers an engaging, relaxed way to see the city’s highlights, learn its stories, and enjoy some fresh air. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a combination of history, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure without breaking the bank. Whether you’re solo, traveling as a couple, or with family, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding—and a fantastic way to soak up Savannah’s unique atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: