Strolling Through Time

Savannah’s historic district hosts a wide range of tour companies, from large operators to independent guides, offering various ways to explore the city. These tours cater to all modes of transportation— from the rapid pace of trolley tour buses speeding through the streets to the leisurely strolls of walking tours. Other options include bicycles, Segways, and horse-drawn carriages.

Ghost tours are a staple in Savannah — and for good reason. Some of the city’s picturesque squares hide unmarked graves just beneath the surface. After going on so many of them, you start to notice a pattern. Some feel genuinely historic and atmospheric, while others lean campy and over-the-top, complete with guest “ghosts” popping out for cheap thrills.

Until something different landed in my inbox — a tour that piqued my curiosity. It focused on the women who helped shape the Savannah we experience today. This semi-private tour was led by tour maestra Enocha (pronounced Ah-nih-ka) Edenfield.

Enocha is the perfect guide. She walks and talks at a comfortable pace, answering questions with such thoughtfulness that it’s clear she wants her guests to be curious and engaged. Every question feels welcomed, not rushed.

One standout feature of her tour is the use of historical photographs and historic city maps flashed on her iPad. Seeing the faces of the people she describes, alongside the changes of the design of the city, makes history feel tangible. It ties together the locations, key events, and the individuals who played pivotal roles in the shaping and design of current Savannah.

If you have the stamina, I’d recommend taking a walking tour in the spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) when the weather is mild. This way, you can double back afterward and actually visit some of the historic homes and museums Enoch mentions along the way.

Even better, Enocha customizes her tours based on your interests. If you’re fascinated by a particular slice of history, she’ll tailor the experience to match. You can reach her on Instagram or through her website.

Book Review: Cocktails Southern Style

Humans imbibe alcohol for countless reasons. But Cocktails: Southern Style isn’t just about alcohol. It’s a collection of poems and possibilities, framed as cocktail recipes. Smith-Sullivan reflects on her family’s tradition of “cocktail hour” — a ritual that signaled the end of the day and brought everyone together. Though I’d never considered myself a mixologist for merely stirring whiskey and ginger beer, reading this book made me realize I was only a few steps away from elevating my “mixed drink” skills to something closer to cocktail artistry.

I enjoyed imagining myself crafting my own syrups to add that perfect touch of sweetness to drinks. While I’ve never been a big fan of the fake-tasting syrup-heavy cocktails, I appreciated the author’s suggestions for using homemade versions and using them beyond mixed drinks. The emphasis on balance and flavor is mirrored in the photographs of the cocktails — presenting elements I don’t often see in everyday bar drinks, like delicate layers and thoughtful garnishes.

Upcoming Events in Savannah

There's always something happening in Savannah.

Here are some upcoming events:

Meet the Wine Maker

Savannah Doers & Makers

Southern Comforts Culinary Crawl

About Melanie Nolan – City Editor for Savannah

Melanie has lived in Savannah full-time for 5 years, having felt a deep connection for the area for her whole life. She enjoys every opportunity to find a new place to eat, enjoy a long walk, reflect on the area’s history, or dance the night away with friends. When accompanied by her children, she loves watching them explore new places, especially art and history museums.