Viewing entries tagged
History

Don't Just Visit Savannah, Experience It: Why Your First Day Starts on Two Wheels

Comment

Don't Just Visit Savannah, Experience It: Why Your First Day Starts on Two Wheels

​You’ve arrived in Savannah! The Spanish moss is swaying, the historic squares are calling, and a certain undeniable charm is already wrapping its arms around you. But before you dive headfirst into the pralines and historical plaque readings, imagine this:

​Instead of aimlessly wandering, racking up steps, and squinting at maps, what if you could effortlessly glide through centuries of history, discover hidden gems, and get the ultimate lay of the land – all before lunch?

​That's the magic of starting your Savannah adventure with a bike tour!

​Why a bike tour on day one isn't just a good idea, it's the best idea:

​1. See More, Faster (and Smarter!)

​Savannah's Historic District is a pedestrian's paradise, but it's also sprawling. Imagine trying to cover 22 squares, dozens of historic homes, and winding cobblestone streets all on foot in one go. You'd be exhausted before you even hit River Street!

​Our bikes whisk you through the city’s highlights, from the majestic Forsyth Park to the architectural wonders of Monterey Square, without breaking a sweat. You’ll cover more ground in two hours than most do in an entire afternoon, giving you a comprehensive overview of the city's layout and must-see spots.

​2. Get Your Bearings (Literally!)

​One of the biggest struggles for first-time visitors is understanding Savannah's unique grid system and where everything fits. A bike tour acts as your perfect orientation. You'll learn the difference between Gaston Street and Jones Street, understand the flow of the squares, and discover key landmarks – all with a friendly local leading the way.

​By the time you dismount, you'll feel like a seasoned local, confident in navigating the city for the rest of your trip. No more endless map-staring!

​3. Uncover the Stories Behind the Beauty

​Savannah isn't just pretty; it's steeped in fascinating (and sometimes spooky!) history. Our expert guides don't just point out buildings; they bring them to life with captivating anecdotes, quirky facts, and the true stories that shaped this incredible city.

​You'll hear tales of generals, duels, secret gardens, and the vibrant personalities who called Savannah home. It's an immersive history lesson that’s anything but dull.

​4. Discover Your "Must-Revisit" Spots

​This is perhaps the biggest perk. As you cycle past charming boutiques, tempting cafes, intriguing museums, and picture-perfect squares, you’ll naturally gravitate towards places you want to explore further.

​"Oh, I want to come back to that antique shop!"

​"That little cafe looked amazing for lunch."

​"Let's spend more time relaxing in that specific square later."

​Your bike tour becomes your personalized itinerary planner, helping you prioritize where to dedicate your precious vacation time.

​5. Capture Those Iconic Savannah Moments

​Imagine gliding down a street canopied in Spanish moss, the sun dappling through the leaves, feeling the gentle breeze on your face. It's an experience that’s both invigorating and utterly charming. Your guide will even know the best spots for those iconic Savannah photos!

​Ready to make the most of your first day in Savannah? Ditch the walking shoes (for a few hours, anyway!) and hop on a bike. It’s not just a tour; it’s the best way to fall in love with Savannah, one pedal stroke at a time.

​Book your Savannah Bike Tour today and let us help you kickstart an unforgettable trip!

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: Supporting the Savannah Jaguars!

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: Supporting the Savannah Jaguars!

At Savannah Bike Tours, we believe the best way to experience our beautiful city is on two wheels—but the best way to live in it is by giving back to the community that makes Savannah so special.

We are thrilled to announce that our January 2026 Donation Partner was the Savannah Jaguars Youth Baseball team!

Small Gears, Big Impact

Thanks to everyone who joined us for a ride through the Hostess City last month, we were able to donate $327 to these young athletes.

The Savannah Jaguars aren’t just about home runs and double plays; they are about teaching local youth the value of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. These funds will go directly toward helping the team cover costs for equipment, uniforms, and travel fees, ensuring that every kid has a chance to step up to the plate.

"Community isn't just a place where you live; it's a spirit of mutual support. We are honored to help the Jaguars keep the local baseball tradition alive and well in Savannah."

Why We Give

Every month, a portion of our tour proceeds is dedicated to a local non-profit or community group. We know that Savannah is more than just historic squares and Spanish moss—it’s the people and the organizations that keep our local culture thriving.

A huge thank you to our riders! By choosing to explore Savannah’s history with us, you’re helping us invest in Savannah’s future!

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: Our 2026 Community Commitment

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: Our 2026 Community Commitment

At Savannah Bike Tours, we believe that the best way to see our city is from the seat of a bicycle. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and lets you truly breathe in the history of the "Hostess City." But as we pedal through these historic squares and moss-draped streets, we’re reminded that being a part of Savannah means more than just showing it off—it means showing up for the people who live here.

While we continue our tradition of monthly donation partners, we are thrilled to announce a new additional layer of support for 2026. This year, we’ve committed to donating $600 annually each to four incredible local charities that are doing the hard work of making Savannah a stronger, safer, and more compassionate home for everyone.

Meet Our 2026 FIXED Partners

Each of these organizations addresses a vital need in our community. Here’s a little bit about why we’ve chosen to support them:

  • Tharros Place Named after the Greek word for "courage," Tharros Place provides a safe haven and residential care for adolescent survivors of human trafficking. Their trauma-informed approach helps young girls navigate their journey toward healing and a brighter future.

  • Shelter from the Rain This wonderful non-profit empowers single mothers by providing everything from baby supplies and household items to mental health resources and mentorship. They are a literal "shelter" for moms navigating the storms of life, helping them reach economic independence.

  • Catholic Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist An icon of the Savannah skyline, the Cathedral is more than just a breathtaking architectural landmark. Their outreach programs, including the St. Vincent de Paul Society and various food distribution efforts, provide a lifeline to local families in need of food and emergency assistance.

  • Union Mission For nearly 90 years, Union Mission has been on the front lines of the fight against homelessness in Savannah. From emergency housing and hot meals at their Day Center to behavioral health services, they provide the tools individuals need to rebuild their lives.

Why Your Tour Matters

When you book a tour with us, you’re choosing a "Meaningful Travel" experience. Because we are locally owned and operated, your support stays right here in Chatham County. Your presence helps us maintain these annual commitments, ensuring that as our business grows, our impact on Savannah grows with it.

We invite you to join us on the tours this year. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, know that every mile we pedal together helps fuel the incredible work of these four organizations and our monthly donation partners.

Ready to see Savannah and give back at the same time? Book your tour today!

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: How Your 2025 Tours Impacted Savannah

Comment

Pedaling with Purpose: How Your 2025 Tours Impacted Savannah

At Savannah Bike Tours, we believe the best way to see our beautiful city is on two wheels. But beyond the moss-draped oaks and cobblestone streets, our true passion lies in the community that makes Savannah so special.

That’s why we are thrilled to announce that thanks to our riders, 2025 was a landmark year for our giving program. ---

Making a Difference, One Mile at a Time

We don't just ride through these neighborhoods; we invest in them. Every time you book a tour with us, a portion of that experience goes right back into local pockets that need it most.

In 2025, Savannah Bike Tours donated a total of $8,104 to a diverse group of non-profits working tirelessly across the Hostess City.

Our 2025 Beneficiaries

We carefully select organizations that reflect the spirit, history, and future of Savannah and the surrounding Lowcountry. This year’s donations supported:

  • Youth & Empowerment: Girls on the Run of South Georgia, Frank Callen Boys and Girls Club, and Greenbriar Children’s Center.

  • Health & Advocacy: CURE Childhood Cancer, Tharros Place, and Chatham County Citizen Advocacy.

  • Community Support: Savannah Widows Society, Catholic Charities, and First City Pride Center.

  • Safety & Heritage: Lodge 7 Fraternal Order of Police and the Historic Savannah Foundation.

  • Environment & Animals: Tybee Island Marine Science Center and Grr Pet Rescue.

Why We Give

Savannah isn't just a backdrop for our tours—it's our home. Whether it's preserving the architecture that makes our routes so scenic via the Historic Savannah Foundation or protecting our coastal ecosystem with the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, we want to ensure Savannah remains vibrant for generations of cyclists to come.

"Giving back is the heart of our business. Seeing the direct impact these organizations have on our neighbors makes every pedal stroke worth it."

Thank You for Riding with Us

This $8,104 donation belongs to you—our guests. By choosing a local bike tour, you’ve helped provide shelter for children, support for cancer research, and protection for our local history.

As we roll through 2026, we’re looking forward to even bigger goals and more miles of impact. We can’t wait to see you on the trails!

Comment

Pedal Through Presidential History: A President’s Day Tour of Savannah

Comment

Pedal Through Presidential History: A President’s Day Tour of Savannah

While most people think of President’s Day as a great time for a long weekend or a mattress sale, here in Savannah, we think of it as the perfect excuse to hop on two wheels and explore the "Hostess City’s" deep connections to the Oval Office.

From the first commander-in-chief to modern-day visits, Savannah has been a favorite stop for world leaders for centuries. This February, skip the car and see the city the way it was meant to be seen—with the wind in your hair and history around every corner.

Where Washington Slept (and Danced!)

In 1791, George Washington embarked on his famous "Southern Tour." Savannah pulled out all the stops for the first President, greeting him with a festive water parade.

  • The Bike Stop: Pedal over to Johnson Square to see Christ Church, where Washington attended Sunday service.

  • Pro-tip: While you're in the neighborhood, look for the cannons on Bay Street known as “George and Martha.” Washington gifted them to the city after his visit!

The Ultimate Christmas Gift

One of the most famous presidential connections to Savannah didn't even involve a visit. In December 1864, Union General William T. Sherman reached the city during his March to the Sea. Spared from destruction because of its beauty, Sherman sent a famous telegram to Abraham Lincoln offering him the City of Savannah as a "Christmas gift."

  • The Bike Stop: Cruise past the Green-Meldrim House on Madison Square, which served as Sherman’s headquarters during the occupation.

A Toast on a Bar Top?

Savannah is known for its "open container" laws, but one president took local spirit to a legendary level. In the 1970s, Georgia’s own Jimmy Carter reportedly stood atop the bar at Pinkie Masters to announce his candidacy for president.

  • The Bike Stop: Our tours often glide right past this iconic dive bar on Drayton Street. It’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates a little grassroots political grit.

Taft’s Grand Banquet

When William Howard Taft visited in 1909, the city held a banquet so massive it required 20 white doves to be released behind him. He spent "Taft Day" parading through the streets and watching acrobats in Forsyth Park.

  • The Bike Stop: We always spend time at the Forsyth Park fountain. It’s the perfect spot to park the bikes, grab a photo, and imagine the 350-pound President enjoying the Savannah sunshine.

Why Celebrate President’s Day on a Bike?

Savannah’s Historic District is a grid of 22 lush squares, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in America. On a bike, you can cover more ground than a walking tour but still get closer to the architecture than you ever could in a trolley.

Join us this President’s Day weekend! Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a beautiful way to spend a Monday off, our guided tours bring these stories to life.

Ready to ride like a chief? Book your President’s Day Bike Tour!

Comment

Book Now