Bonaventure Cemetery

The basics

Bonaventure Cemetery is the largest municipal cemetery in Savannah and one of the most beautiful in the world. No trip to Savannah, called the “Hostess City of the South,” would be complete without a stroll through this eerily beautiful place. Walking and history tours of Bonaventure focus on the cemetery and one or two other historical sites. Visitors are free to explore on their own or take free guided tours offered one weekend per month.

Things to know before you go

• The Bonaventure Cemetery is a must-visit for visitors interested in Savannah history.

• If you’re looking for Bonaventure Cemetery tickets, look no further—the site is free to visit.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen during the summer months and insect repellent throughout the year.

• The cemetery is wheelchair-accessible, though some areas are gravelly and sandy.

• Among the people buried in the cemetery are American songwriter Johnny Mercer, poet Conrad Aiken, and Georgia’s first governor, John Treutlen.

How to get there

The cemetery is five miles (8 kilometers) outside of Savannah’s historic center on the eastern edge of the city. The easiest way to get there is to drive (15 to 20 minutes) or hire a taxi. Find parking areas on both sides of the entry gate.

When to get there

The cemetery is open daily throughout the year. While the grounds are stunning throughout the year, they’re at their most beautiful in springtime when the azaleas and camellias are in bloom. Trained historical society tour guides lead free tours at 2pm on the second Saturday and Sunday of the month.

The Bonaventure Cemetery tour app

If you can’t make the guided public tours, download the Bonaventure Historical Society mobile tour app. This mobile guide to the cemetery grounds recreates the tour experience on your mobile device, complete with information at 31 stops throughout the grounds.

Can you walk around Bonaventure Cemetery?

Yes. Visitors can wander around Bonaventure Cemetery during opening hours. However, many visitors take guided walking tours to gain deeper insight into one of Savannah’s most beautiful places. However you explore, dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

Can you drive around Bonaventure Cemetery?

Yes, you can drive on roads through Bonaventure Cemetery. However, some paths are for pedestrians only, and most are unpaved and require slow driving. Stepping out of your car and walking is still the best way to explore the cemetery.

Is Bonaventure Cemetery worth visiting?

Yes, visiting Bonaventure Cemetery is highly recommended. The Southern Gothic cemetery is full of haunting beauty, with Spanish moss-draped oak trees and eerie gravestones. Considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world, it’s a must-see when visiting Savannah.

What time is best to visit Bonaventure Cemetery?

Visit Bonaventure Cemetery during spring, when the cemetery’s azaleas bloom. Early morning is the best time to visit, especially in spring and summer when the temps and humidity shoot up at midday. By avoiding midday, you’ll also likely avoid the largest crowds.

How much time should you spend at Bonaventure Cemetery?

Bonaventure Cemetery covers a sprawling 160 acres (65 hectares). Allow at least an hour at least for your visit. Set aside longer if you want to picnic under the oak trees or spend more time looking at the gravestones and sculptures.

Can you visit Bonaventure Cemetery at night?

Yes, you can visit Bonaventure Cemetery at night. Although the cemetery closes at 5pm, after-hours tours take visitors out when it’s quietest and atmospheric. These tours focus on Savannah’s haunted history and the cemetery's former life as a scandalous plantation.

Ways to explore

The largest municipal cemetery in Savannah, one of the city’s most famous attractions, and a world-famous resting place, Bonaventure Cemetery is a highlight of most city tours. You can join a walking or golf cart tour that focuses solely on this atmospheric cemetery and its most evocative tombs, headstones, and monuments—most cover the site in an hour or two, leaving time to explore the rest of the city. Audio guides are an ideal option if you prefer to visit independently. The Bonaventure Historical Society offers free guided tours on the second weekend of the month.

Accessibility

Some areas of the cemetery have gravel or sandy patches and uneven terrain, making it challenging to navigate on wheels.

Age limits

Book a family-friendly tour for a non-spooky cemetery visit.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, insect repellent, bottled water

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, hat, sunblock

Not allowed

Be respectful of funerals in progress and do not disturb mourners.

Amenities

Bonaventure Historical Society Visitors Center (open Saturdays and Sundays only)

Address 

The cemetery is 5 miles (8 kilometers) outside of Savannah’s historic center on the eastern edge of the city. The easiest way to get there is to drive (15–20 minutes) or hire a taxi or ride-share service.

Driving

From central Savannah, head southeast on Wheaton Street and Skidaway Road, then turn east onto Bonaventure Road to reach the cemetery entrance. Two small areas flank the main gates, where you can park for free.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to the cemetery, so you'll need to drive, take a taxi, or book a ride-share service.

Best times to visit

The cemetery is open from 8am to 5pm. Visit in the cool, quiet morning hours for the best photos.

Best days to visit

Weekends are busiest at the cemetery, when the Bonaventure Historical Society offers free tours. Opt to tour on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds.

Best months to visit

Visit from fall to spring to avoid Savannah’s summer heat and humidity. The cemetery is at its most beautiful in late spring when the azaleas and camellias are in bloom.

Special events

The Bonaventure Historical Society holds lectures, themed tours, and other cultural events throughout the year. Check its website for an updated schedule.