Savannah: Civil War Pub Crawl & History Stories Tour

Walk Savannah’s old streets, sip brews & hear Civil War tales

You’ll walk Savannah’s storied squares with a local guide, sip drinks where generals once schemed, and hear Civil War tales that bring old streets alive. Expect laughter, unexpected details (maybe even a ghost story), and moments that linger long after you leave—especially when you pass Madison Square at dusk.

What’s included

Your evening includes an engaging local guide who brings Savannah’s Civil War history to life as you stroll between historic pubs near Madison Square, Johnson Square, and Ellis Square—all fully accessible for wheelchairs and service animals—with plenty of opportunities to relax over your favorite drinks along the way.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Civil War history and pub crawl

• Visit hotel linked to Robert E. Lee
• Hear stories of Lee and local history
• Stop at Madison Square battlefield
• Learn about Confederate generals and Union occupation
• Explore Johnson Square's Civil War role
• Discover secession debates and Confederate funding
• Visit Ellis Square's wartime commerce site
• Understand Confederate economy and Union impact

The Experience

So, our first stop wasn’t exactly smooth—I managed to spill half my drink on the bar before we’d even heard a word about Robert E. Lee. Our guide, Marcus, just grinned and said, “Well, that’s one way to christen a Civil War pub crawl.” The place smelled like old wood and something sweet—maybe peach bitters?—and I remember thinking how strange it was to be laughing in a spot where history felt so heavy underfoot. Marcus started in with stories about Lee wandering these same streets, which honestly made me look at the floorboards differently. There was this weird hush every time he mentioned ghosts; I’m not sure if it was the lighting or just Savannah itself.

We wandered out into Madison Square next. The air had that sticky Georgia warmth clinging to us, but the square itself felt almost too peaceful for all the chaos Marcus described—Confederate generals plotting here, Union soldiers marching through later. I leaned against one of those iron fences while he talked about local resistance and the city’s fate hanging in the balance. Someone nearby played with their dog and it almost broke the spell until Marcus pointed out a statue and told us how many secrets these squares still keep. I tried to picture soldiers moving quietly at night—can’t say I managed it, but you feel something lingering there.

By the time we reached Johnson Square (after a quick detour for more drinks—peach cider this round), I’d stopped trying to keep track of who did what during the war and just let myself get pulled along by the stories. There were bankers and generals arguing over secession right where we stood; Marcus swore some of their debates got louder than any bar fight today. Ellis Square was our last big stop—a noisy spot now but apparently once full of auctions and wartime deals. It’s odd how you can be surrounded by laughter and music while hearing about soldiers marching off or merchants making fortunes from conflict.

I didn’t expect to feel much on a Civil War-themed pub crawl in Savannah—I mostly signed up for the brews—but walking those streets with someone who knows every rumor and shadow left me thinking about all the layers beneath our feet. Even now, when I catch a whiff of peach or hear footsteps echoing on old brick, I remember that evening trailing off into stories none of us wanted to end.

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Savannah Civil War pub crawl?

No, hotel pickup is not included; guests meet at the designated starting point.

How many stops are there on this Battles & Brews tour?

The tour includes stops at several historic pubs near Madison Square, Johnson Square, and Ellis Square.

Are drinks included in the price of the tour?

The description does not specify if drinks are included; check with Ghost City Tours for details.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Can large groups book this Savannah pub crawl?

If you have 10 or more guests in one group, contact Ghost City Tours’ private & group sales coordinator.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What kind of guide leads the Battles & Brews tour?

An educated and entertaining local guide leads each group through historic sites and stories.

Does this day trip include public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting points.