Savannah, Georgia, known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and moss-draped oaks, transforms into a city of haunted legends and eerie tales during Halloween. With its rich history and reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities, Savannah offers a unique and atmospheric Halloween experience. From ghost tours and haunted houses to historic cemeteries and festive events, Halloween in Savannah promises a thrilling and memorable time for visitors of all ages.

The Haunted History of Savannah

A Brief Overview

Founded in 1733, Savannah is one of the oldest cities in Georgia. Its long and storied past includes battles, epidemics, and fires, all contributing to the city’s haunted reputation. Many historic buildings, homes, and streets are said to be inhabited by the spirits of those who lived and died there, making Savannah an ideal destination for Halloween enthusiasts.

Notable Haunted Locations

• The Sorrel-Weed House: One of Savannah’s most haunted locations, this historic home is known for its ghostly apparitions and eerie atmosphere. Visitors can take guided ghost tours and hear the chilling tales of the house’s past residents.
• Bonaventure Cemetery: Famous for its picturesque beauty and haunting history, Bonaventure Cemetery is a must-visit for those seeking a spooky experience. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable Savannah residents, and ghost tours are available to explore its haunted legends.
• The Mercer-Williams House: Made famous by the book and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” this historic mansion is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its past inhabitants. Guided tours offer insights into the house’s history and ghostly tales.
• Colonial Park Cemetery: Established in 1750, this cemetery is one of the oldest in Savannah. It is known for its ghostly encounters and is a popular spot for ghost tours, especially around Halloween.

Halloween Events and Activities

Ghost Tours

Savannah offers a variety of ghost tours that delve into the city’s haunted history. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share spine-chilling stories and take visitors to some of the most haunted locations in the city.

• Savannah Ghost Tours: Several companies offer walking, trolley, and hearse tours, each providing a unique perspective on Savannah’s haunted past.
• Ghosts & Gravestones Tour: This trolley tour takes visitors to some of Savannah’s most haunted sites, including the Sorrel-Weed House and Colonial Park Cemetery.

Haunted Houses

For those seeking a more interactive and thrilling experience, Savannah’s haunted houses offer a spine-tingling adventure.

• Alee Temple Haunted House: A popular attraction during the Halloween season, this haunted house features elaborate sets and actors who bring the scares to life.
• Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: Combining ghost stories with a tour of Savannah’s historic pubs, this crawl offers a unique and spirited way to experience the city’s haunted nightlife.

Halloween Parades and Festivals

Savannah’s Halloween celebrations include parades, festivals, and family-friendly events that capture the spooky spirit of the season.

• River Street Halloween on the River: This annual event features costume contests, trick-or-treating, and live entertainment along Savannah’s historic River Street.
• Halloween Hike at Oatland Island Wildlife Center: A family-friendly event where children can enjoy trick-or-treating along a nature trail, meeting costumed characters, and participating in fun activities.

Historic Tours with a Spooky Twist

In addition to ghost tours, several of Savannah’s historic tours offer a Halloween twist, providing a unique way to explore the city’s rich history and haunted legends.

• Old Savannah Tours’ Grave Encounters: This tour combines Savannah’s history with ghostly tales, taking visitors to some of the city’s most haunted locations.
• Genteel & Bard’s Savannah Dark History & Ghost Encounter: A walking tour that delves into the darker side of Savannah’s history, including tales of hauntings and supernatural occurrences.

Halloween Dining and Nightlife

Savannah’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene also embraces the Halloween spirit, offering themed events and spooky experiences.

• Moon River Brewing Company: Known as one of the most haunted places in Savannah, this brewery offers ghost tours and paranormal investigations, as well as a great selection of craft beers.
• The Pirates’ House: This historic restaurant, located in one of Savannah’s oldest buildings, offers a haunted dining experience with pirate-themed décor and ghostly tales.

Practical Tips for Visiting Savannah During Halloween

Accommodation

Savannah offers a wide range of accommodation options, from historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the busy Halloween season.

• The Marshall House: A historic hotel known for its charming rooms and haunted reputation.
• The Kehoe House: A beautifully restored mansion offering luxurious accommodations and rumored ghostly encounters.

Transportation

Savannah is a walkable city, but visitors can also take advantage of trolleys, pedicabs, and rideshare services to get around. Many of the Halloween events and attractions are centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

Weather

October in Savannah typically features mild temperatures, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for evening activities.

Safety

While Halloween in Savannah is generally safe, it’s always wise to take standard precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas, traveling in groups, and keeping an eye on personal belongings.

Conclusion

Halloween in Savannah, Georgia, is a unique and unforgettable experience that combines the city’s rich history with its haunted reputation. Whether you’re exploring eerie cemeteries, taking ghost tours, or participating in festive events, Savannah offers a perfect blend of spooky and fun activities for all ages. Embrace the spirit of the season and discover why Savannah is one of the best places to celebrate Halloween in the United States.