Bike to Bonaventure Cemetery from downtown?

Question

A group of 4 of us are heading down in late April and usually use bicycles to get around most places when we travel. Bonaventure Cemetery is on our list, and I'm wondering if it is doable to ride to there from the historic district. It doesn't look that bad mapping it out, but I haven't been able to find much info from people who have done it (maybe it's not common?)

Curious to see what those who know the area think. Thanks!

Answer

Yes, biking from the historic district to Bonaventure Cemetery is definitely doable, though it’s important to consider a few factors to ensure a smooth ride. The distance is approximately 3.5 to 4 miles each way, depending on the specific route you take, and it will take around 15-30 minutes to bike there, depending on your pace and traffic conditions. The route itself is relatively straightforward, but here are a few things to keep in mind:

Route: The most direct route from downtown Savannah to Bonaventure Cemetery is along Abercorn Street. You would head east through the historic district, then follow Abercorn south until you reach the cemetery. This road has bike lanes, which is helpful for safety, but you’ll still want to stay aware of car traffic, especially since this is a fairly busy road. Some of the streets in the historic district are narrower and can be busier with tourists and cars, so be cautious when biking through those areas.
Bike Lanes: Savannah has made some improvements in terms of bike infrastructure, especially around the downtown area. However, not all roads leading out of downtown have dedicated bike lanes, so the ride to Bonaventure Cemetery may involve biking on streets with mixed traffic. The city is generally bike-friendly, but it's always good to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Consider bringing a map or using a GPS app on your phone to navigate.
Traffic: Late April is a busy time in Savannah, especially with tourists flocking to the historic district. While the ride to Bonaventure Cemetery is not overly strenuous, traffic might be a bit heavier than usual, particularly during the day. It’s best to go earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak tourist traffic.
Parking and Locking Up: Bonaventure Cemetery has a small parking lot at the entrance, so there should be space to lock up your bikes while you explore. Just make sure to bring a good bike lock to secure your bikes, as it’s not always guaranteed that bikes will be safe unattended in public spaces.
Alternative Options: If you want a less stressful option, you could also consider renting bikes from one of the bike rental shops in the historic district. Many of these shops provide maps and can offer tips on the best routes to take to get to Bonaventure Cemetery safely. If you find that biking on city streets isn't ideal, you could always opt for a bike tour of the area, which could include a visit to the cemetery as part of the route.

In general, it's a manageable and enjoyable ride for experienced cyclists who are comfortable biking on city streets. If you're looking for a scenic route, you might also enjoy the views along the way, as Bonaventure Cemetery is known for its beautiful oak-lined roads and peaceful atmosphere. Just be sure to check the weather and wear appropriate clothing for biking, as Savannah can get quite warm in April.

Hope this helps! Enjoy your trip, and have a great time exploring both the historic district and Bonaventure Cemetery by bike!