Savannah , United States

Savannah's Own: Johnny Mercer Tour

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About this experience

Johnny Mercer was one of the greatest songwriters to ever live. Did you know the 4x Oscar winner grew up right here in Savannah and worked at the local ice cream shop Leopold’s? Take a journey through his childhood and life and learn how this local boy who couldn’t read music wrote one of the most famous songs in motion picture history, “Moon River”, how he popularized the Christmas classic, “Jingle Bells” and found Capital Records.

Available options

Savannah's Own: Johnny Mercer Tour

What's included

Candy Canes

In-Person Tour Guides

Detailed itinerary

We will stop at the original home of Leopold's ice cream shop where Johnny Mercer worked as a teen.

Stop 2

Stop by one of the most famous homes in Savannah. This was originally owned by the Mercer family during the 19th century and made famous by Jim William from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Learn how and when it switched hand and why it's so famous!

Stop 3

Come see the Statue that sits in the middle of Johnson square. You;ve probably passed by it without even realizing who it was!

What's not included

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Walking distance is about a mile, with few stops.

Meeting point

Childhood home of Johnny Mercer. Your tour guide will be outside with a sign.

About Savannah

Savannah is a charming coastal city known for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and picturesque parks. It offers a blend of Southern hospitality, vibrant arts scene, and delicious cuisine, making it a unique and appealing destination.

Top Attractions

Forsyth Park

A beautiful 30-acre park featuring a iconic fountain, walking paths, and lush greenery. It's a popular spot for picnics, events, and relaxation.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

River Street

A bustling cobblestone street along the Savannah River, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It's a great place to stroll, shop, and enjoy the river views.

Historical 1-3 hours Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining

Wormsloe Historic Site

A historic estate featuring a beautiful oak-lined driveway and scenic trails. It's a great spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Historical 1-2 hours $10 per vehicle

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Southern dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp, often served with a savory sauce.

Dinner Contains gluten (if served with a roux-based sauce) and dairy.

She-Crab Soup

A creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry, often served with crispy oyster crackers.

Appetizer Contains shellfish and dairy.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy fried green tomatoes, often served with a tangy dip or remoulade sauce.

Appetizer Contains gluten (if breaded) and may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Savannah River Biking the Savannah Riverfront Trail Picnicking in Forsyth Park Sunbathing at Tybee Island Beach Visiting the Telfair Museums Exploring the historic district Swimming at Tybee Island Beach Fishing on the Savannah River

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and historical sites.

15-30°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5) or EDT (UTC-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Savannah is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps

Getting there

By air

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport • 10 miles (16 km) from downtown

By train

Savannah Amtrak Station

By bus

Savannah Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

CAT offers affordable and convenient public bus service. Fares are reasonable, and buses are clean and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Victory Drive Downtown

Day trips

Tybee Island

20 miles (32 km) from Savannah • Half day to full day

A charming beach town with a relaxed atmosphere, Tybee Island offers beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a variety of water activities.

Bonaventure Cemetery

5 miles (8 km) from Savannah • Half day

A beautiful and historic cemetery featuring stunning oak trees, intricate tombstones, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a popular spot for history lovers and photographers.

Wormsloe Historic Site

5 miles (8 km) from Savannah • Half day

A historic estate featuring a beautiful oak-lined driveway and scenic trails. It's a great spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Festivals

Savannah Music Festival • Late March to early April Savannah Film Festival • Late October to early November Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade • March 17

Pro tips

Visit Forsyth Park early in the morning for a peaceful and picturesque experience
Take a ghost tour to learn about Savannah's haunted history and eerie legends
Explore the city's historic squares, each with its own unique charm and history
Try the local seafood, including shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes
Take a day trip to Tybee Island for a relaxing beach getaway