How long does it take to walk the Bull Street Corridor?

The walk itself is only about 0.7 miles, but with stops for browsing and photography, you should allow 90 to 120 minutes. It is an easy, flat walk through some of Savannah's most famous squares.

Is the Bull Street antique walk family-friendly?

Yes, though many antique shops contain fragile items. E. Shaver, Bookseller is a hit with children due to the resident cats, and the squares offer plenty of space for kids to move around.

When is the best time to visit the antique shops on Bull Street?

Between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday is best. Many shops have shorter hours on Sundays or are closed on Mondays.

Can I see the house from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil?

Yes, the Mercer-Williams House is located on Monterey Square, which is stop #4 on this route. You can view the exterior from the square or pay for a separate interior tour.

Are there public restrooms along this walking route?

Public facilities are limited in the squares. Your best options are the cafe at The Paris Market (for customers) or the nearby hotels on Liberty Street.

Is this area of Savannah safe to walk alone?

Bull Street is one of the most popular and well-lit areas of the Historic District. It is very safe for solo travelers during daylight and early evening hours.

Is Alex Raskin Antiques worth visiting if I'm not buying furniture?

Absolutely. It is worth visiting just for the architecture and the atmosphere of the unrestored Noble Hardee Mansion, which offers a rare look at a pre-restoration Savannah estate.

Antiques & Oddities: The Bull Street Corridor | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Step into the timeless elegance of Savannah with a self-guided walk along the Bull Street Corridor, the city's most storied thoroughfare. This route invites you to explore the 'spine' of the Historic District, where high-end curation meets the dusty charm of forgotten eras. Starting at the bustling intersection of Broughton Street and winding down toward the quieter, moss-draped southern squares, this neighborhood stroll offers a deep dive into the city's unique aesthetic of 'shabby chic' and Southern Gothic grandeur. Unlike a standard walking tour Savannah often presents to tourists, this journey focuses on the tactile history found inside its shops and the architectural stories told by its mansions. You will encounter world-class antiques, rare first-edition books, and the hauntingly beautiful unrestored facades that give the city its character. From the whimsical 'cabinet of curiosities' at The Paris Market to the legendary piles of furniture inside the Noble Hardee Mansion, this walking route is designed for those who want to touch, see, and smell the history of the Hostess City. Whether you are a serious collector or a window-shopper looking for the perfect photo op, this audio walk provides the context needed to appreciate the layers of history hidden behind every wrought-iron gate and storefront window. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Tour Highlights & Things to See

The Paris Market's curated 'cabinet of curiosities'
E. Shaver, Savannah’s oldest independent bookstore
The stunning architecture of Monterey Square
Alex Raskin Antiques, housed in a magnificent unrestored mansion
Hidden stories behind the Mercer-Williams House
The transition from bustling commerce to quiet Southern Gothic charm

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

The Paris Market

Begin your exploration at the corner of Bull and Broughton Streets. The Paris Market is housed in the historic 1874 Adler’s Department Store building. This isn't just a shop; it’s a meticulously curated experience inspired by the flea markets of France. As you walk through the two levels, notice the original architectural details like the high ceilings and large windows. The market is famous for its 'cabinet of curiosities' vibe, featuring everything from vintage apothecary jars to museum-grade taxidermy. It sets the tone for the Bull Street Corridor—a place where the past is always stylishly present. Take a moment to appreciate the window displays, which are local legends in their own right.

2

E. Shaver, Bookseller

Continuing south, you’ll find E. Shaver, Bookseller, located near Madison Square. This is Savannah's oldest independent bookstore, operating since 1975 across seven interconnected rooms of a mid-19th-century building. The shop specializes in local history, architecture, and fine literature, but it is perhaps most famous for its resident cats who roam the stacks. The creaky wooden floors and the smell of old paper create an atmosphere that feels worlds away from modern retail. It’s a quintessential stop for those who appreciate the literary soul of the city, offering a quiet sanctuary amidst the mossy oaks of Bull Street.

3

George Davis Antiques

As you move further south toward Monterey Square, the shops become more specialized. George Davis Antiques represents the 'high-end' of the Savannah antique scene. This shop is known for its exquisite collection of 18th and 19th-century English and American furniture, as well as fine silver and oil paintings. The curation here is precise, reflecting the sophisticated tastes of Savannah’s historic elite. While browsing, look for the 'Savannah Silver' or regional pieces that tell the story of the city’s wealth during the cotton era. It provides a sharp, polished contrast to the more eclectic stops further down the street.

4

Monterey Square

You have arrived at what many consider Savannah's most beautiful square. Monterey Square was laid out in 1847 and is dominated by the Pulaski Monument. The square is surrounded by architectural masterpieces, most notably the Mercer-Williams House on the southwest corner. This house was the setting for the events in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' The square itself feels like a movie set, with thick curtains of Spanish moss and cobblestone paths. It serves as the geographic and emotional heart of the Bull Street Corridor, bridging the gap between the commercial district and the residential grandeur of the south end.

5

Alex Raskin Antiques

Located directly on Monterey Square in the Noble Hardee Mansion, Alex Raskin Antiques is a must-see for any lover of 'faded grandeur.' Unlike many restored mansions in Savannah, this building remains in a state of beautiful decay, with peeling paint and original woodwork that hasn't been touched in decades. Inside, furniture is stacked to the ceilings in a maze of rooms. It is widely considered one of the most interesting antique shops in the world. The shop captures the 'Southern Gothic' aesthetic perfectly—the idea that something can be both falling apart and utterly magnificent at the same time. Note that stock changes frequently and the environment is dusty, adding to the authenticity of the find.

6

Noble Fare

Finish your walk a few blocks away at Noble Fare. This intimate restaurant is housed in a classic Savannah structure and represents the modern culinary evolution of the neighborhood. After a day of exploring 'oddities' and antiques, this spot offers a refined atmosphere to reflect on your finds. The menu often features locally sourced ingredients with a focus on contemporary American techniques. It’s the perfect bookend to a stroll that began with 19th-century commerce and ends with 21st-century hospitality, all while staying within the historic footprint of the city's most famous corridor.

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Explore “Antiques & Oddities: The Bull Street Corridor” with your very own Private Tour Guide with Zigway. Start free on iPhone, skip the large group and the fixed routes, and hear the city come alive as you go.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Bull Street Corridor is the premier destination for boutique shopping and antiques. This self-guided walk covers the best spots including The Paris Market and Alex Raskin Antiques, allowing you to browse at your own pace without a group.