Mercer-Williams House Museum - Art museum
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Mercer-Williams House Museum

4.6
·1k reviews·Savannah, United States

Historic Italianate mansion famous for its role in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' filled with antiques.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
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Mercer-Williams House Museum - Art museum

Mercer-Williams House Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Italianate mansion famous for its role in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' filled with antiques.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A must-see for history buffs and fans of the book/movie, offering a captivating glimpse into Savannah's past."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Buy the Book!

Many visitors purchase the book at the gift shop for an iconic souvenir.

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Easily accessible on foot from Forsyth Park and other Savannah attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Interior

The Grand Interior

First Floor

Explore rooms filled with antiques, portraits, and Chinese porcelain, showcasing Jim Williams' exquisite taste.

Reddit
The Infamous Story

The Infamous Story

Throughout the house

Discover the true events behind 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil' and its cinematic adaptation.

Reddit
The Gift Shop

The Gift Shop

Ground Floor

Browse a delightful selection of items, including books related to the house's history and local art.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Story

This Italianate mansion is famous for its role in 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' Learn about Jim Williams, the antiques dealer who owned it, and the intriguing events that unfolded here. Reddit

Photography Restrictions

While the house is stunning, photography is not allowed inside or in the garden as the family still resides there. Be prepared to soak in the beauty visually. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Guides are energetic and knowledgeable
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#savannahga #savannahgeorgia #BookTok #winterbreak #happyholidays
@saltwavesspanishmoss
8.5K likes • 116.7K views

📚 Buy the Book!

Many visitors purchase the book at the gift shop for an iconic souvenir. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Easily accessible on foot from Forsyth Park and other Savannah attractions. Instagram

Savannah Itinerary ✈️⛲️🌳 — Places to Visit/ Things To Do — Mercer Williams House Museum Andrew Low House The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist Explore the savannah historic district Wormsloe State Historic Site Forsyth Park Savannah Trolly Tours Farmers Market in Forsyth Park Hamilton Turner Inn The Armstrong Kessler Mansion —Where to Eat — Husk — Dinner @husksavannah The Grey @thegre...
theishitaedition
71 likes • 4.1K views
checking out my art + stickers in the mercer williams house gift shop—it’s a beautiful building to tour if you’re in savannah 🏡🖼️✨ #savannah #art #artist #poet #poetry #museum #mercerwilliamshouse
gaypoetbeau
45 likes • 1.2K views

⏳ Tour Length

Tours are about 30-45 minutes, focusing on the first floor. Reddit

💰 Worth the Price

Considered well worth the admission for history buffs and fans of the book/movie. Reddit

If you want to follow the same path we took, we started in Forsyth park and added these spots to our maps and followed this path towards the river! We love a walkable city! - Mercer-Williams House Museum - E Jones St - The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist - Chippewa Square - Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters - Leopold’s Ice cream - The Olde Pink House - City Market - River Street #da...
thefrugalflyers
14 likes • 605 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Buy the Book!

Many visitors purchase the book at the gift shop for an iconic souvenir. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Easily accessible on foot from Forsyth Park and other Savannah attractions. Instagram

⏳ Tour Length

Tours are about 30-45 minutes, focusing on the first floor. Reddit

💰 Worth the Price

Considered well worth the admission for history buffs and fans of the book/movie. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Mercer Williams House Museum for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, who bring the house's history and famous story to life. The beautiful interiors filled with antiques are a major draw, though the no-photography rule is a common point of disappointment. Despite only touring the first floor, most find the experience well worth the admission price.

"Loved our tour guide! He was so fun and energetic while also being very knowledgeable. The house is beautiful! I was so sad to learn you can’t take pictures inside but I respect the rules either way. It was such a good experience and I would do it again! I bought the book at the gift shop just because it felt very iconic to do so! ❤️"

Wendy M

"Our guide was just great
All original furniture and artifacts. Its at least 3 stories but since family still lives at the house you only get to enjoy a portion of the 1st floor.
Its still well worth the time (30 to 45 mins) and price.
The ladies seemed to enjoy the large gift shop"

Bob Levin

"Visiting this lovely home as mentioned in the book and seen in the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, was so intriguing. Our guide was very informative and shared very interesting details . The home and garden is so very beautiful. Picture taking inside is not permitted. There is also a delightful gift store."

Shelly S

What People Like

Engaging and knowledgeable guides
Beautiful antique-filled interiors
Iconic 'Midnight' connection

What People Dislike

No interior photography allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Mercer Williams House Museum is located on Monterey Square in Savannah, Georgia. It's easily walkable from other popular spots like Forsyth Park and the historic district. Many visitors find it convenient to include in a walking tour of Savannah. Instagram

Street parking is available in the vicinity of Monterey Square, but it can be competitive, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider using a parking garage in the historic district and walking to the museum. TikTok

While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the museum, Savannah's public transportation system can get you close to the historic district, from where you can walk. Savannah Trolley Tours also often include stops nearby. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission for the tour is typically around $13.50 per person. Many visitors find this price to be very reasonable for the experience. Reddit

While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your preferred tour time. TikTok

The museum typically operates during standard daytime hours, but it's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current operating schedule. Instagram

Tours are the primary way to experience the Mercer Williams House Museum, as they provide historical context and access to the interior. Reddit

Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility can be limited. Tours primarily focus on the first floor, which may be more accessible. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the Mercer Williams House Museum and its garden. This is because the family still resides in the upper floors. InstagramReddit

Generally, you can take photos of the exterior of the house from the street. However, be mindful of the private residence aspect and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

The best exterior shots can be captured from Monterey Square, offering a good perspective of the grand facade. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Mercer Williams House Museum is famously known as the setting for the events depicted in the book and movie 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' Reddit

The guided tours typically last between 30 to 45 minutes, focusing on the history and artifacts of the first floor. Reddit

You'll see a portion of the first floor, which is beautifully furnished with antiques, portraits, and Chinese porcelain collected by Jim Williams. Reddit

Yes, there is a delightful gift shop located on the ground floor, offering books, local art, and souvenirs. InstagramReddit

Yes, the upper floors of the Mercer Williams House Museum are still a private residence for Jim Williams' family, which is why interior photography is not permitted. InstagramReddit

🎫 📚 Books & Media

The Mercer Williams House Museum is the actual location where the infamous murder occurred, which is central to the plot of John Berendt's best-selling book and Clint Eastwood's film adaptation. Reddit

Yes, the museum's gift shop typically carries copies of 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' making it a popular purchase for visitors. Reddit

Yes, significant portions of the movie, including many interior and exterior scenes, were filmed at the Mercer Williams House Museum. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Mercer Williams House Museum offers a glimpse into history, it might be more engaging for older children or teenagers who can appreciate the historical context and the story behind 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' The tour's focus on antiques and historical narratives might not hold the attention of very young children. Reddit

Consider preparing children by sharing age-appropriate summaries of the house's history or the book's themes beforehand. The gift shop offers a chance for kids to pick out a souvenir, and the exterior of the house provides a good photo opportunity. Instagram

📚 Book & Movie Buffs

For fans of 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,' a visit to the Mercer Williams House Museum is an absolute pilgrimage. Standing in the very rooms where the events of the book unfolded is a powerful experience. Reddit You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the setting and characters as your guide shares insights that complement the narrative. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to purchase a copy of the book or related merchandise from the gift shop. InstagramReddit Many visitors find that touring the house enhances their understanding and enjoyment of both the book and the film adaptation, making it a highlight of their Savannah trip. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

The Mercer Williams House Museum is a treasure trove for those who appreciate historical architecture and decorative arts. The Italianate style of the mansion, combined with its meticulously preserved interiors featuring 17th and 18th-century antiques, portraits, and Chinese porcelain, offers a rich visual feast. Reddit

Guides provide detailed information about the provenance of the artifacts and the historical context of the house's construction and ownership. It's a chance to step back in time and experience the elegance and style of a bygone era, making it a highly rewarding visit for anyone interested in historical preservation and design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Story Behind the Walls

The Mercer Williams House Museum is more than just an architectural gem; it's a place steeped in history and intrigue. Originally built in the 1860s, it gained international fame as the setting for the events chronicled in John Berendt's 1994 non-fiction novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The book, and later Clint Eastwood's 1997 film adaptation, brought the story of antiques dealer Jim Williams and the controversial killing that took place within these walls to a global audience. Reddit

Visitors often come with a keen interest in this narrative, and the guided tours do an excellent job of weaving together the house's historical significance with the compelling, albeit dark, story that made it famous. The tour focuses on the first floor, which is still furnished with an impressive collection of antiques, portraits, and Chinese porcelain, reflecting Williams' passion for preservation and collecting. Reddit

It's important to remember that while the house is a museum, it also remains a private residence for Jim Williams' family on the upper floors. This is why photography is not permitted inside, a rule that, while disappointing for some, is understandable and respected by most visitors. The experience is about immersing yourself in the atmosphere and history, rather than capturing it through a lens. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Tour and Experience

The guided tour of the Mercer Williams House Museum is designed to be informative and engaging, typically lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. Guides are often praised for their energy and deep knowledge, bringing the house and its stories to life. Reddit They share details about the architecture, the furnishings, and, of course, the famous events associated with the property. Reddit

Since only the first floor is accessible to the public, the tour offers a curated glimpse into the grandeur of the home. The collection of 17th and 18th-century items, including exquisite antiques, portraits, and Chinese porcelain, provides a rich visual experience. Reddit The guides are adept at highlighting the provenance and significance of these pieces, making the tour valuable for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Reddit

After the tour, many visitors head to the gift shop, which is a popular spot for purchasing Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil or other mementos. InstagramReddit The overall consensus is that the tour, despite its brevity and focus on a single floor, offers significant value and is a must-do for anyone visiting Savannah interested in its unique history and cultural touchstones. Reddit

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