What is the Oglethorpe Plan in Savannah?

The Oglethorpe Plan is a unique urban design created in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe. It consists of a repeating 'ward' system where each ward has a central public square surrounded by residential and civic buildings.

Is there a Forrest Gump bench in Savannah?

The original fiberglass bench used in the movie was removed after filming and is now located in the Savannah History Museum. However, you can visit the exact location where it sat on the north side of Chippewa Square.

Which square in Savannah is the oldest?

Johnson Square is the oldest of the 22 existing squares, laid out in 1733. It was named after Robert Johnson, the Governor of South Carolina at the time of Georgia's founding.

Is Savannah easy to walk for seniors?

Yes, Savannah is exceptionally flat, making it one of the most walkable cities in the US. This walking route follows paved sidewalks and through-park paths with plenty of benches for resting.

Can you walk through Savannah's squares for free?

Yes, all 22 squares in Savannah are public parks and free to enter. They are open 24 hours a day, though they are best enjoyed during daylight hours to see the architecture.

What is the best walking tour Savannah offers for first-time visitors?

A self-guided walk through the central axis of squares—from Johnson Square to Forsyth Park—is the best way to see the highlights. This route covers the most famous landmarks and film locations independently.

Where is the famous white fountain in Savannah?

The iconic white fountain is located at the north end of Forsyth Park. It is the most photographed landmark in the city and is situated at the terminus of this walking route.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Savannah is often called America’s first planned city, and this self-guided walk invites you to uncover the logic and beauty of General James Oglethorpe’s 1733 vision. As you move through the Historic District, you will experience the Oglethorpe Plan—a unique grid of open squares, residential blocks, and civic spaces that has preserved the city’s charm for centuries. This walking route takes you from the bustling commercial heart of the city down to the majestic greenery of Forsyth Park, showcasing the evolution of Southern architecture and the layers of history embedded in the landscape. Along the way, you will encounter monuments dedicated to Revolutionary War heroes, sites made famous by Hollywood cinema, and the quiet, moss-draped elegance that defines the Georgia coast. This neighborhood stroll is more than just a path through parks; it is an exploration of urban design that influenced cities across the globe. You will see how each square serves as a communal living room for the neighborhood, surrounded by grand mansions and historic churches. Whether you are a fan of 18th-century history, a lover of Gothic Revival architecture, or simply looking for the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city, this audio walk provides the context and stories behind the scenery. From the solemn history of Wright Square to the cinematic fame of Chippewa Square, the route offers a comprehensive look at what makes Savannah a crown jewel of the South. Start exploring with Zigway and discover the secrets of the squares at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of the Hostess City of the South. This self-guided walking tour Savannah experience allows you to pause whenever you like to explore a local shop or cafe.

Highlights

Johnson Square, the oldest and largest of the original squares

Wright Square, known as the Hanging Square with its complex history

The cinematic filming location of Forrest Gump in Chippewa Square

The Gothic Revival masterpiece of the Mercer-Williams House near Monterey Square

The stunning, world-famous white fountain at Forsyth Park

Stately moss-draped oaks and Revolutionary War monuments

Tour Stops (6)

Johnson Square

Welcome to Johnson Square, the very first square laid out by James Oglethorpe in 1733. As you stand here, notice the Nathaniel Greene Monument, an obelisk honoring the Revolutionary War hero who is buried beneath it. This square was the commercial hub of early Savannah and remains surrounded by banking institutions today. Look for the two fountains on the east and west sides; they are a classic meeting spot for locals. The square was named for Robert Johnson, a friend of Oglethorpe and the Governor of South Carolina. It has survived fires and wars, remaining the anchor of the city's unique urban grid.

Wright Square

Walking south, we arrive at Wright Square, the second square built in Savannah. It has a heavy history, once known as the Hanging Square because it was the site of the city's early gallows. Today, it is dominated by two major monuments. The tall granite monument honors William Washington Gordon, the founder of the Central of Georgia Railroad. However, look for the large boulder in the corner; this is a memorial to Tomochichi, the Yamacraw Indian Chief who befriended Oglethorpe and allowed the peaceful founding of Georgia. The square is also a favorite for those interested in local ghost stories and architectural history.

Chippewa Square

Chippewa Square is perhaps the most famous square in Savannah due to its role in Hollywood history. This is where the bench scenes from the movie Forrest Gump were filmed. While the actual bench is now in the Savannah History Museum, you can stand in the exact spot on the north end where Tom Hanks sat. In the center of the square stands the massive bronze statue of General James Oglethorpe himself, looking toward the south—the direction of the Spanish threat in Florida during the 1700s. The square is surrounded by the historic Savannah Theatre and the First Baptist Church, making it a cultural centerpiece.

Madison Square

Madison Square offers a stunning display of Savannah's architectural diversity. Named after President James Madison, the square features the Sergeant William Jasper Monument in its center, commemorating a hero of the Siege of Savannah. As you look around, notice the Green-Meldrim House on the northwest corner, which served as General Sherman's headquarters during the Civil War. The Gothic Revival architecture of St. John’s Episcopal Church adds to the square's dramatic flair. This area is a perfect example of how the Oglethorpe Plan integrated civic monuments with grand residential living.

Monterey Square

Many consider Monterey Square to be the most beautiful of all the squares. It is home to the Mercer-Williams House, famously featured in the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The square's center is marked by the Pulaski Monument, a tall marble obelisk honoring Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman who died fighting for American independence. The surrounding homes feature intricate ironwork and lush gardens that epitomize the Southern Gothic aesthetic. The Temple Mickve Israel, one of the oldest synagogues in the United States, is also located here, showcasing a rare Gothic style for a Jewish house of worship.

Fountain at Forsyth Park

Our route concludes at the crown jewel of Savannah: the Forsyth Park Fountain. Installed in 1858, this white cast-iron fountain was actually ordered from a catalogue and has identical 'siblings' in Paris and Cusco, Peru. Forsyth Park itself was created in the 1840s and expanded the city's green space beyond the original square system. It serves as the city’s backyard, hosting festivals, farmers' markets, and casual afternoon strolls. Take a moment to walk the perimeter under the canopy of live oaks draped in Spanish moss—it is the quintessential Savannah experience and the perfect place to relax after your walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

This specific route covers about 1.5 miles and typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This allows time to read the historical markers and take photos at iconic spots like the Forsyth Fountain.