Savannah: Ghost Town Trolley Tour

If you’re curious about Savannah’s reputation as America’s most haunted city, then the Ghost Town Trolley Tour offers an engaging way to explore its darker, ghostly stories. This 1.5-hour experience combines comfortable trolley rides, atmospheric storytelling, and a walking segment, all led by a knowledgeable ghost host. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of ghost stories, or simply looking for a different way to experience Savannah after dark, this tour balances fun and intrigue with a touch of spooky charm.

We especially appreciated two aspects: first, the exclusive after-hours entry into the Isaiah Davenport House, which provides a rare peek into a historic home often closed to the public, and second, the engaging storytelling style that keeps you interested without veering into cheesy or over-the-top territory. That said, one consideration is that the tour is rated PG-13 and involves walking and stairs, so it’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. Still, for most adults and older kids with a sense of adventure, it’s a memorable way to experience Savannah’s legendary hauntings.

If you enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and a little spooky fun, this tour is well-suited for those who appreciate storytelling with a dash of theatrical flair. It’s particularly perfect for visitors looking for an evening activity that’s both entertaining and a little eerie, without the intensity of more horror-heavy experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Savannah hauntings: The tour reveals the city’s ghost stories told by a lively and knowledgeable guide.
• Unique after-hours access: Receive exclusive entry into the Isaiah Davenport House, enhancing the historic feel.
• Balanced mix of trolley and walking: Combines the comfort of a trolley ride with the intimacy of walking near historic cemeteries.
• Beautiful setting: Pass under moss-draped oaks and historic squares, adding ambiance to the stories.
• Family-friendly but not for very young children: Rated PG-13, not recommended for kids under 10.
• Practical details: 1.5-hour duration, moderate walking, weather-appropriate clothing recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Closer Look at What You’ll Encounter

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour begins at Simply Savannah Trolley Depot on East River Street — a lively part of Savannah’s Historic District. Once aboard the trolley, the mood shifts quickly to something darker and more mysterious. The guide, who assumes the role of “Ghost Host,” sets a slightly spooky tone, welcoming you onto the “Trolley of the Doomed.” Expect a storytelling style that’s engaging yet respectful, bringing Savannah’s legendary spirits to life through local lore and historical tidbits.

The Trolley Ride Through Savannah’s Historic District

The trolley weaves through the core of Savannah, passing under moss-draped oaks and along streets lined with antebellum architecture. As you glide past iconic sites like Chippewa and Madison Squares, your guide shares stories of soldiers, settlers, and colorful characters believed to still haunt these spaces. Reviews highlight that the storytelling is compelling and vivid: “The guide knew her stories and made the history come alive with just a touch of theatrical flair,” one reviewer noted.

The charm of this part of the tour lies in its ability to make the city’s ghostly tales feel intimate and real. You’ll see the city’s beautiful old facades and imagine the spirits that may have lingered in these spots for decades. The stops at the squares are prime locations for ghost stories, with the guide recounting tales of restless spirits and mysterious happenings that are still whispered about today.

Walking Segment at Colonial Park Cemetery

When the trolley pulls up near Colonial Park Cemetery, the tour shifts to a more personal level. Here, you’ll walk along the boundary of Savannah’s oldest surviving burial ground. This part of the experience is particularly effective — the older gravestones, the quiet atmosphere, and the history behind the resting places all add to the ghostly allure. The guide might recount stories of soldiers buried here and the supernatural rumors swirling around these grounds. Reviewers mention that “the cemetery walk really brings the stories to life,” helping visitors connect with Savannah’s haunted past on a more visceral level.

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Exclusive After-Hours Entry into Isaiah Davenport House

Perhaps the most unique feature of this tour is the after-hours visit to the Isaiah Davenport House. Normally closed to the public at night, this historic home offers a rare glimpse into Savannah’s early 19th-century life. The house is reputedly haunted, and visiting it after dark adds an extra layer of intrigue. This exclusive access is a highlight, allowing guests to explore a key piece of Savannah’s history with fewer travelers around, which heightens the eerie feeling.

Duration, Comfort, and Practicalities

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. The tour is designed for comfort, with the trolley providing a stable, climate-controlled environment, but the walking portion does require some stairs and walking along uneven paths. Packing comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing is advisable, especially if it’s a cooler evening. Since the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, it’s suitable for most able-bodied visitors but less so for those with mobility challenges.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past participants offers helpful insights. One noted, “The stories were so vivid I felt like I was walking through Savannah’s haunted past,” while another mentioned that the guide’s lively storytelling kept everyone engaged. Many reviewers appreciated the balance of trolley comfort with walking exploration, making the experience both relaxed and immersive.

Some pointed out that the tour’s PG-13 rating means it’s slightly spooky but not too intense — ideal for those looking for haunted tales without horror elements. The exclusive after-hours access into the Isaiah Davenport House is frequently highlighted as a major perk, offering a rare chance to see a historic home without daytime crowds.

The Value for the Price

At around 1.5 hours, the tour offers a focused, well-paced experience. While it’s not the cheapest activity in Savannah, the combination of storytelling, historic sites, and exclusive access provides good value. The inclusion of the after-hours house visit, often not included in similar ghost tours, makes this experience stand out. For travelers interested in Savannah’s haunted reputation and historic architecture, this tour strikes a good balance between entertainment and education.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, ghost story lovers, and adventurers looking for a nighttime activity that’s engaging but not overly intense. It’s suitable for older children (over age 10) who enjoy spooky tales but isn’t recommended for very young kids or those with mobility issues due to stairs and walking. It’s especially appealing if you want a guided, storytelling-driven experience that combines transport, walking, and exclusive access to historic Savannah sites.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is rated PG-13 and not recommended for children under 10. Children over 10 who enjoy ghost stories should be fine.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive evening activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are best, especially since part of the tour involves walking and stairs. Weather-appropriate attire is recommended, particularly if it’s cool or rainy.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking and climbing stairs, it may not be suitable for guests with mobility challenges.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is at Simply Savannah Trolley Depot, 301 East River St., with precise coordinates provided.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes trolley transportation, guided storytelling, walking at Colonial Park Cemetery, and exclusive after-hours access into Isaiah Davenport House.

Is this experience good value?
Given the length, the storytelling, and especially the exclusive house access, it offers solid value—particularly for those interested in Savannah’s haunted lore and historic sites.

Final Thoughts

The Savannah Ghost Town Trolley Tour offers a fun, atmospheric peek into the city’s darker legends. It balances storytelling, historic scenery, and exclusive access into a package that’s ideal for curious travelers wanting to experience Savannah’s haunted side without the intensity of full-on horror. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a small group, this tour provides a memorable, slightly spooky evening that’s both entertaining and educational.

If you’re after a relaxing yet intriguing way to see Savannah after dark, this experience delivers a well-rounded mix of history and ghostly tales. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and keep an open mind — Savannah’s ghosts might just surprise you.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby