Under the Oaks: Bonaventure Cemetery Tours ® and Savannah’s Southern Gothic Walk
Two hours of live oaks, river light, and the Southern stories that made Savannah famous
The first thing you notice is the hush. Even the Wilmington River seems to lower its voice as it slides past the bluff, a silver thread pulled taut by the tide. Spanish moss leans in, curious. Live oaks hold court along the avenues, their limbs soft with green whiskers that filter the light into something gentle. At the gates of Bonaventure Cemetery, you step onto sandy paths and into a story Savannah has been telling for more than a century. This is where the city keeps its secrets close, and on a guided stroll with a Master Storyteller from Bonaventure Cemetery Tours ®, those secrets step forward and introduce themselves.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the Heat with Early Starts
Morning tours offer cooler temps and beautiful low-angle light—ideal for photos and easier walking, especially in summer.
Footwear Matters
Wear closed-toe walking shoes with decent tread; paths are sandy with occasional roots and uneven spots.
Respect the Space
This is an active cemetery—keep voices low, avoid touching monuments, and step aside for mourners.
Bring Bug Protection
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums are common near the river; a light repellent and breathable clothing go a long way.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Mercer family plot—look for lyrical tributes tucked into the inscriptions
- •Quiet lanes near the river bluff where ospreys and egrets patrol the sky
Wildlife
Osprey, Great egret
Conservation Note
Stay on established paths and never touch or lean on monuments—many are fragile. Support local preservation efforts that stabilize headstones and maintain the live oak canopy.
Originally part of a colonial-era plantation, the property became Evergreen Cemetery in the 1840s and later Bonaventure, a quintessential garden cemetery that merged memorial and public green space.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Azalea blooms, Comfortable temperatures
Challenges: Pollen, Variable rain showers
Mild weather and vibrant gardens make spring the sweet spot for long, unhurried walks and photography.
summer
Best for: Lush foliage, Long daylight
Challenges: High heat and humidity, Biting insects
Start early, hydrate, and embrace the slower pace as the live oaks throw generous shade across the paths.
fall
Best for: Crisper air, Lower humidity
Challenges: Hurricane season overlaps early fall, Shorter days by late season
A comfortable time to tour with golden light and quieter paths once summer crowds thin.
winter
Best for: Cool walking temps, Clear, crisp light
Challenges: Occasional cold snaps, Reduced foliage
Expect fewer bugs and excellent visibility of carvings and inscriptions under stark, beautiful canopies.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Breathable Walking ShoesEssential
Closed-toe shoes help on sandy, rooty paths and keep feet cool in Savannah’s humidity.
Refillable Water BottleEssential
Hydration is key for warm, humid days—especially on midday tours.
Insect Repellent
Helps deter mosquitoes and no-see-ums near the river and shaded areas.
Wide-Brim Hat or Sun Cap
Provides shade and reduces glare for better comfort and clearer photos.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and how much walking is involved?
The guided experience lasts about two hours and covers an easy, steady walk on mostly flat, sandy paths within Bonaventure’s 100+ acres.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. The storytelling is engaging for all ages; families often find the history and art accessible and memorable.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely—photography is encouraged. Be respectful around active services or mourners, and avoid climbing on monuments.
What happens if it rains?
Tours typically run in light rain; bring a packable jacket. Severe weather may prompt rescheduling—confirm on the booking page before you go.
Is the cemetery accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Many primary paths are wide and level, but surfaces are sandy with occasional roots. Contact the operator for the latest accessibility guidance.
Where do we meet and is parking available?
Check in 15 minutes early at the Bonaventure Cemetery Tours Welcome Center & Gift Shop, 415-B Bonaventure Rd., Thunderbolt, GA 31404; free parking is available nearby.
What to Pack
Breathable walking shoes for sandy paths; a refillable water bottle to handle Savannah’s humidity; insect repellent for river-adjacent bugs; a brimmed hat or sun cap for shade under intermittent canopy gaps.
Did You Know
Johnny Mercer, co-founder of Capitol Records and lyricist of Moon River, is buried at Bonaventure Cemetery; his family plot features inscriptions that nod to his songs.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots for cooler temps and better light; arrive 15 minutes early to check in at the Welcome Center; bring cash or card for the gift shop; plan lunch in nearby Thunderbolt for fresh local seafood after your tour.
Local Flavor
After your walk, head to Thunderbolt’s waterfront. Tubby’s Tank House in Thunderbolt serves river views with local shrimp, while The Wyld Dock Bar (a short drive) pairs Lowcountry plates with marsh breezes. Back in Savannah, cool off with a scoop at Leopold’s Ice Cream or raise a glass at Service Brewing Co.—both local institutions that reward a morning under the oaks.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV). Meet at the Bonaventure Cemetery Tours Welcome Center, 415-B Bonaventure Rd., Thunderbolt. It’s about a 10–15 minute drive from Savannah’s Historic District; rideshares are reliable. Cell service is generally good. Cemetery entry is free; guided tours require advance booking.
Sustainability Note
Bonaventure is both a historic site and an active cemetery—tread lightly. Pack out all trash, stay off fragile monuments, and stick to paths to protect root systems and aging stonework beneath the live oaks.