Savannah: Bonaventure Cemetery Walking Tour & Local Stories

Summary

Walk beneath moss-draped oaks hearing Savannah’s secrets at Bonaventure

You’ll walk beneath ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss as your guide shares Savannah’s stories at Bonaventure Cemetery. Hear about famous locals like Johnny Mercer, see symbolic headstones up close, and pause where sunlight filters through wildflowers. With easy parking, restrooms onsite, and a gentle pace, this tour leaves you feeling connected to both history and place.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping into Bonaventure Cemetery was the hush — not silence exactly, but that soft blend of wind in the oaks and a distant call from some bird I couldn’t name. Our guide, Miss Jackie, waved us over by the old wrought-iron gates. She handed out bottled water and said something about “Savannah summers being stubborn,” which made me laugh because even in spring it felt sticky-warm. The tour started right there, with her pointing to a cracked marble angel and telling us how families used to picnic here. That surprised me — I’d pictured cemeteries as solemn, not social.

We wandered along sandy paths under Spanish moss so thick it sometimes brushed my shoulder. At one grave, Miss Jackie told us about Johnny Mercer — she even sang a line from “Moon River” (off-key but sweet). I tried to picture him writing songs here among all these crooked stones and wild azaleas. There was this moment when the sun broke through the branches and lit up a patch of bluebells near an old family plot; I probably stared too long, but it just felt peaceful, you know? Someone asked about the symbols on the headstones — hands clasped, lambs, willow trees — and she explained each one like she’d grown up reading them.

I’ll admit I lost track of time. My shoes got dusty and there were a few mosquitoes (they sell bug spray at the little gift shop if you forget yours), but I barely noticed after a while. We ended back where we started, near the shop with its shelves of postcards and cold drinks. A couple from Atlanta chatted with Miss Jackie about their own family stories; I lingered outside for a minute just watching sunlight flicker through those ancient trees. Even now I still think about that hush — not exactly quiet, more like memory settling around you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery

• Start at Bonaventure Cemetery Tours Gift Shop
• Join guided walking tour inside cemetery
• Explore picturesque landscape and symbolism
• Learn about famous inhabitants' lives
• Return to gift shop to end tour

Top questions

How long is the Bonaventure Cemetery walking tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is there parking available at Bonaventure Cemetery?

Yes, free parking is available for the duration of your tour.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Private restrooms are located at the gift shop where tours begin and end.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Bonaventure Cemetery Tours are wheelchair accessible throughout.

What should I bring or wear for this tour?

Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather; sunscreen and bug spray are recommended (available for purchase).

Does the tour operate in rain or shine?

Tours run in all weather except dangerous conditions; umbrellas can be provided upon request.

Are strollers or prams allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers during the walk.

What’s included

Your day includes guided entry to Bonaventure Cemetery with a knowledgeable local guide sharing stories along shaded paths; free parking for any vehicle size; private restrooms at the start and end point; access to a small gift shop with refreshments; bottled water available plus bug spray or umbrellas if needed—so you’re set whether it’s sunny or humid out there.