Exploring the Charm of Savannah’s Historic District by Golf Cart: A Unique Stroll Down Memory Lane

Escape the Norm: Car-Free Travel in Savannah

What if your next trip to Savannah looked a little less ordinary and a lot more memorable? Picture this: you’re nestled cozily on the cushy seat of a neat little golf cart, feeling the soft breeze in your hair as you whizz around the city’s historic district, away from the stress of traffic and car horns.

Having heard of car-free tourism in European cities, I was eager to try it out in an American context. What better place than the romantic city of Savannah, renowned for its well-preserved 18th and 19th century architecture. This beautiful city is often explored on foot, allowing tourists to admire its beautiful streets filled with antebellum mansions, historic estates and quaint squares. But what if you could cover more ground without the worry of foot fatigue? I chose to explore the city from the comfort of a golf cart and was pleasantly surprised by the result.

The Historic District: A Georgia Gem

• The Historic District of Savannah, GA, offers an abundance of history, architecture, and charm.
• A golf cart cruise provides a unique and intimate connection with the city’s rich past.
• Savannah’s cobblestone streets and manicured gardens come up close and personal on a leisurely golf cart ride.
• Enjoy the city at your own pace, take in the scenic beauty, and absorb the history, all in a car-free, stress-free setting.

So, if you’re planning a trip and are up for a novel way to sightsee, Savannah’s Historic District through Golf Cart might be the perfect avenue for you. Grab a map, get behind the wheel of a golf cart, and gear up for an unforgettable tour!

The History of Savannah’s Historic District

Savannah’s Historic District is one of the most celebrated landmarks in the United States, reflecting a rich and captivating origin. Dating back to 1733, it was the first planned city in America, designed by Gen. James Edward Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia colony.

The District in the 18th Century

In the early years, Oglethorpe crafted a unique plan for the city, which was a series of wards featuring public squares, with wide streets lined with grand townhouses. In the late 1700s, the district saw the rise of Georgian, Greek Revival, and Gothic-style architecture, a representation of the cultural influences prevalent in those times.

Victorian Influence

By the mid-19th century, Savannah experienced a boom in cotton production and rail transportation, and basked in prosperity. This era brought about the Victorian architecture that now stands as an imposing presence in the district. Elegant homes with picturesque porches and intricate designs became a common sight.

Preservation Efforts

The late 19th and early 20th century witnessed some demolitions, replacing the old with the new. This led to the formation of the Historic Savannah Foundation in 1955, which initiated efforts to conserve the district’s architectural heritage. The designation of Savannah’s historic district as a National Historic Landmark in 1966 further safeguarded its unique architecture and urban planning.

Golf Cart Tours in the District

The concept of touring Savannah’s historic district via golf carts emerged as an eco-friendly and fun mode of transportation. The golf cart tours provide a unique perspective to explore the area and hear about its rich history. These tours are both educational and entertaining, merging the past and the present seamlessly.

The Benefit of Golf Cart Tours

Exploring the historic district on foot can be quite taxing, especially during the hot summer months. The advent of golf cart tours solved this issue and provided a leisurely way to witness Savannah’s historic district. The slower pace allows tourists the chance to soak up the history and take in the beautiful architectural details in a relaxing manner.

Not Just a Tourist Attraction

Golf cart tours aren’t merely a tourist attraction – they have become part of the historic district’s legacy. They have gained popularity over the years and have become an integral part of any visit to the Savannah Historic district.

Included on the must-visit list of historians, architectural buffs, or anyone interested in America’s architectural heritage, Savannah’s historic district continues to fascinate, beckoning visitors with its unique blend of historical intrigue and charm, easily traversed in a golf cart.

The Benefits of Touring Savannah’s Historic District by Golf Cart

Immersive Cultural Exploration

One of the perks you get from touring Savannah’s Historic District by golf cart is gaining an immersive exposure to its rich history and culture. This car-free mode of exploration allows you to soak in all the details at a leisurely pace. You’ll have the chance to appreciate the district’s stately antebellum architecture without the distractions of city traffic.

Eco-Friendly Adventure

Touring by golf cart not only reduces air and noise pollution but promotes a greener environment. It’s a win-win for both Mother Nature and visitors seeking a more serene tour experience. This eco-friendly mode of transportation aligns with efforts to conserve our environment and preserve the natural charm of the historic district.

Actionable Insights for Your Tour

Planning Ahead

• Opt for a guided tour if you’re not comfortable with navigating on your own, or rent a golf cart for an adventurous self-guided journey.
• Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as most golf carts are open-air.

Maximizing Your Tour

• If you’re exploring the area on a self-guided tour, take a map or download an offline map on your mobile device to easily navigate around the district.
• Make the most out of your tour by stopping at notable locations such as the historic squares, stunning churches, and the city market.

Your tour of Savannah’s Historic District by golf cart promises not only a green and quiet glide through the city’s cultural richness but also offers a leisurely platform from which to fully appreciate this timeless atmospheric wonder.

Wrapping Up Our Savannah Journey

Exploring Savannah’s Historic District via golf cart has certainly offered a unique, efficient, and enjoyable way to see the sights the city has to offer. We’ve travelled down the lovely cobblestone streets, and found so many hidden gems in this car-free exploration. The golf cart’s eco-friendly nature not only allows us to tour at a relaxed pace, but it contributes to the preservation of this cherished district.

Highlights of Tour

We covered a lot of ground during this tour, from the must-see historic sites like the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, to the picturesque parks and squares like Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square. Not to mention the beautiful architectural marvels sprinkled throughout the district, each revealing a unique story we will not soon forget.

What’s Next On Your Adventure

The journey doesn’t have to end here! If you enjoyed this unique mode of travel, you can continue using golf carts for further exploration. They offer a comfortable, eco-friendly, and fun way to navigate the city. Places like Bonaventure Cemetery or Wormsloe Historic Site are perfect for your next golf cart ride. As always, respecting the local ordinances are key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Your Part In Savannah’s History

We’ve been thankful for the opportunity to play a part in the preservation and appreciation of Savannah’s Historic District. By choosing a method of exploration that reduces traffic congestion and defends against the wear and tear tied to heavier vehicles, we are playing our part in maintaining this beautiful district for years to come. Let’s keep making history together!