True Crime of Savannah Tour

Savannah’s True Crime Tour: A Deep Dive into the City’s Haunted Past

When you think of Savannah, you probably picture moss-draped oaks, charming squares, and elegant historic homes. But beneath that picturesque surface lies a darker story — one filled with chilling tales of murders, executions, and notorious figures. The True Crime of Savannah Tour offers a rare look into this shadowy side of the city, blending history, mystery, and a touch of the macabre in a compact 1-hour 30-minute walk. At just $33 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to see Savannah through a different lens — one that those who love history and true crime will find particularly compelling.

What we love about this tour is how well-researched the stories are, thanks to insights from the Georgia Historical Society. The guide’s storytelling style makes each stop engaging without feeling overly sensationalized. Plus, the tour’s small group size (max 30 people) ensures you get a personal experience, with plenty of chances to ask questions or simply soak in the eerie atmosphere.

One minor consideration is that the tour begins at night, at 9:00pm, which can be a double-edged sword. The darkness enhances the spooky vibe but might not be ideal for those traveling with very young children or early risers. Still, if you enjoy stories told with a sense of drama and authenticity, you’ll find this timing adds to the experience.

This tour is ideal for history buffs who are curious about Savannah’s less-glamorous stories, or true crime enthusiasts eager to learn about notorious figures and gruesome murders. If you’re looking for a unique, fact-based experience that combines storytelling with historic sites, this is a good choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Stories: The tour is based on well-researched accounts, blending history and true crime.
• Multiple Historic Sites: Stops include significant places like Wright Square, Colonial Park Cemetery, and the Foley House Inn.
• Engaging Guide: Tour guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to share extra insights.
• Affordable Price: At $33, it offers good value considering the depth of stories and the insightful commentary.
• Nighttime Atmosphere: The nocturnal setting heightens the spooky, mysterious vibe of Savannah’s darker stories.
• Limited Duration: The 1 hour 30-minute format makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

A Detailed Look at the True Crime Savannah Tour

Starting Point: Telfair Square

The tour kicks off at Telfair Square around 9:00pm, a classic Savannah spot surrounded by historic architecture and lush greenery. Here, your guide sets the tone, discussing Savannah’s reputation as a city of beauty with a disturbing underbelly. Expect a mix of factual storytelling and atmospheric details that immediately draw you into the darker tales ahead.

Wright Square: Georgia’s First Female Execution

Your first stop is Wright Square, a site with a somber past. You’ll learn about its history as a place of executions, including the story of the first woman to be hanged in Georgia. The guide explains why this square, often photographed for its beauty, also holds a brutal history of justice and punishment. The 10-minute visit here is enough to give you a sense of the weight carried by this historic space.

Bradley Lock and Key Shop: The I95 Killer

Next, you’ll visit the Bradley Lock and Key Shop, a local business with a story that’s as chilling as any Hollywood film. Here, the focus is on Gary Ray Bowles, a notorious serial killer dubbed the “I95 Killer,” who left a trail of violence along the highways. The guide shares details of Bowles’ crimes and his connection to Savannah, adding a layer of real-world fear and intrigue. We loved the way the guide’s storytelling made this grisly history feel immediate and personal, rather than distant.

Foley House Inn: An Unsolved Murder

The Foley House Inn is our third stop, where you’ll hear about an unsolved murder that took place inside this historic inn. The tales of ghostly sightings and unresolved questions linger here, making it a perfect stop for fans of haunted history. The guide’s careful narration emphasizes that some mysteries remain unsolved, keeping the story haunting long after the tour ends.

Chippewa Square: The Axe Murders of 1909

At Chippewa Square, you’ll hear about the infamous 1909 triple axe homicide — one of Savannah’s most brutal and startling murders. The story of the Gribble House axe murders is both shocking and fascinating. The guide describes the scene, the investigation, and the lasting impact on the community, giving you a visceral sense of Savannah’s violent past.

Colonial Park Cemetery: Death and Disease

Moving on to Colonial Park Cemetery, you’ll explore not just its historic gravestones but also learn about a murder that took place here in the early 1900s. The cemetery’s stories of death — whether from violence or disease — underscore Savannah’s often gritty history. The guide’s storytelling helps you visualize the lives of those buried here, many of whom met tragic ends.

228 E Oglethorpe Ave: The Aiken Family Tragedy

Your final stop is Conrad Aiken’s birthplace, where the tragic murder-suicide of his parents took place. You’ll hear about the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet’s childhood trauma and how it shaped his work. The guide’s careful recounting of this family tragedy gives a poignant end to the tour, balancing the dark stories with a touch of human depth.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One thing many reviewers highlight is the knowledgeable guides who bring these stories alive without sensationalizing. As one reviewer noted, “Darriea was an excellent tour guide! Very personalized and knowledgeable about the local area,” which shows the care and expertise guiding these stories.

The stunning views of Savannah’s historic squares and cemeteries, especially at night, add an atmospheric backdrop to the stories. The quiet, lantern-lit streets of Savannah make each site feel more authentic and somewhat eerie, perfect for this type of tour.

Compared to typical ghost tours, this experience is rooted in historical accuracy and research-based storytelling. It offers a different vibe—less about supernatural hauntings and more about real crimes and their impact on the city. This makes it particularly appealing for those interested in the truth behind Savannah’s reputation.

Practical Considerations

The tour is mobile ticketed, which makes check-in smooth and flexible. Parking is not included, so arriving early to find a spot downtown is wise, especially since Savannah can get busy in the evening. The timing at 9:00pm suits those who prefer to explore after dark, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

Final Thoughts on Value

Considering the price of $33, this tour offers exceptional value. You get a well-structured route through significant sites, stories supported by research, and a guide passionate about sharing Savannah’s darker tales. The reviews repeatedly praise the personalized storytelling and the guides’ ability to separate fact from legend, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by true crime stories or enjoy exploring historic sites with a dark twist, this tour will appeal. It’s perfect for adventurous history buffs, couples seeking an unusual night activity, or groups interested in Savannah’s lesser-known stories. Since the stories are both factual and engaging, it’s also a good pick for educational trips or mystery enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking included with the tour?
No, parking fees are not included. It’s best to arrive early to give yourself enough time to find a parking spot downtown.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it manageable even if you have a full day planned.

Does the tour involve walking?
Yes, it involves walking between sites, but each stop is relatively short, around 10 minutes each, with plenty of stories along the way.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the dark themes and late hour might be less ideal for young children.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, which is flexible if your plans change.

What makes this tour different from a ghost tour?
Unlike ghost tours that focus on supernatural stories, this experience emphasizes historically researched true crime stories, providing a more factual account of Savannah’s darker history.

In essence, the True Crime of Savannah Tour offers an intriguing window into the city’s hidden past. It’s a well-priced, expertly guided experience that satisfies curiosity about Savannah’s more sinister stories, all set against the backdrop of beautiful historic streets. If you love history, true crime, or simply enjoy stories told with passion and accuracy, this tour deserves a spot on your Savannah itinerary.