This St. Marys walking tour presents action-packed stories from the town's 250-year history and includes special access to iconic landmarks, such as the First Presbyterian Church, one of the oldest church buildings in Georgia, and the historic Riverview Hotel, where such names as Rockefeller and Carnegie stayed. Spectacular marsh views are the backdrop for this fascinating walking tour!
We begin our tour overlooking the St. Marys River and discuss the many peoples - the British, French, Spanish, and Native Americans - who claimed and fought over this land. We then discuss St. Marys' founding in 1788 in order to protect its citizens against the enemy Spanish in Florida just a stone's throw away.
Enter the century-old Riverview Hotel, where Rockefellers and Carnegies stayed, to look at a cartoon created by renowned Roy Crane, who stayed at this hotel and drew the people and places he saw while in St. Marys. It is fun to pick out places we will be visiting together on the tour!
We admire this iconic pink inn while discussing its history and getting to the bottom of why its porch ceilings are painted blue!
Here we discover this building is not what it seems; it originally was the oldest masonry bank in Georgia before it became this quaint Catholic church. Take a peak at its bright, beautiful interior!
We spend time in the parlor of this stately Victorian home, admire its elegant antique furnishings, and discuss its history as a boarding house and current Bed & Breakfast. Learn why one of its rooms is named "Lucy and Ricky"!
Here we discuss action-packed stories associated with the 19th-century owner of this home, Archibald Clark, who was imprisoned during the British attack on St. Marys in the War of 1812 and who housed a fleeing Aaron Burr after his duel with Alexander Hamilton. Find out how you can sleep in the bedroom of a killer here!
Explore the interior of this 1807 church - the oldest in St. Marys and one of the oldest in Georgia - as we discuss how this structure miraculously survived burning by Union troops during the Civil War. And you must hear the story of a horse in the bell tower - you'll never guess who put it there!
Discover why this water pump and oak - both dating from the 1800s - are named in honor of George Washington!
This stately Greek Revival home is a St. Marys icon. Learn how the priest who built it could afford to construct a home larger than his church, and discover a dark secret the home hides to this day!
Enter this historic chapel to take in its quaint Tudor Gothic interior and discover why this 1880s church is not the original one on this site!
Dessert's on us! We end here for delicious bites of homemade fudge!
Where Osborne St. and St. Marys St. meet, there is a wooden waterfront pavilion, the Osborne Street ("Lang") Waterfront Pavilion, over the St. Marys River. We will meet inside that pavilion.
We will confirm entry tickets at the start of our tour at the Osborne Street Waterfront Pavilion.
Georgia is a southeastern U.S. state known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling city of Atlanta to the charming coastal islands and the majestic Appalachian Mountains, Georgia offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.
One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.
A beautifully preserved historic district with 22 park-like squares, historic homes, and charming streets.
A vast national forest offering hiking, camping, fishing, and stunning scenic drives.
Crispy, golden fried chicken, often served with sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.
Creamy, savory cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese or shrimp.
A sweet, warm dessert made with fresh Georgia peaches, sugar, and a buttery crust.
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Crowds are moderate, and prices are reasonable.
United States Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)
120VV, 60HzHz
Georgia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Atlanta's Peachtree Station
Atlanta Bus Station, Savannah Bus Station
MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) offers bus and rail services throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. It is efficient and affordable.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
A charming coastal island with beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and a relaxed atmosphere.
A massive granite dome featuring a variety of outdoor activities, historic sites, and scenic views.
A charming mountain town known for its historic gold rush sites, wineries, and scenic beauty.
Price varies by option