In the world of Girl Scouts, there is a special place that holds the roots of this empowering movement – Savannah, Georgia, the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of Girl Scouts of the USA. As troop leaders, taking girls on a journey to Savannah is more than just a trip; it is an opportunity to delve into the rich history and values that Girl Scouts cherish. Dedicated Girl Scout volunteer Tracey Eller serves as Leader of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida’s Troops 21025, 20425, and 20651, is the Service Unit Manager for the Jupiter Service Unit, and is a Gold Award Advisor. During her time with GSSEF, she has taken three trips to Savannah with her troops and now shares her passion for guiding Girl Scouts through the enchanting streets of Savannah with us.

Why Savannah?

Tracey emphasized the importance of connecting girls to the origins of Girl Scouts and Juliette Gordon Low’s values. As the foundation of the Girl Scouts movement, girls can explore Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace and learn about her pioneering spirit in empowering young girls. Beyond its Girl Scouts roots, Savannah boasts stunning architecture, lush parks, and vibrant cultural experiences, providing scouts with a well-rounded adventure. From immersive history lessons in the city’s squares to outdoor excursions in nearby marshlands, Savannah promises an unforgettable journey that combines learning, exploration, and fun!

Timing Matters

Tracey recommends targeting 5th-6th graders for the trip, citing the sweet spot where they are old enough to understand the significance of the visit yet not overwhelmed by the pressures of middle school. These trips offer a sanctuary for girls facing the challenges of adolescence, providing a chance to step away from school roles and embrace the Girl Scout community.

“I try to plan it so that they bridge from Junior to Cadette while we are in Savannah. Doesn’t always work out that way, but bridging in the gardens at the Birthplace is extra special,” she explained. “If not bridging, plan a Scouts Own ceremony to commemorate the day.”

Must-Do Activities

The highlight of any Girl Scout trip to Savannah would be the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum. Rich with Girl Scout history, this museum offers an in-depth look into the life and legacy of Juliette Gordon Low and the foundations of Girl Scouts of the USA. Sign up for a Girl Scout Troop Experience or explore on your own – either way, your Troop is sure to feel connected to the roots of Girl Scouts and take pride in how the mission has progressed through time!

Beyond the Birthplace, Tracey shares a list of must-do activities in and around Savannah:

• Andrew Low House: Explore where Juliette Gordon Low lived as an adult.
• First Headquarters – Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia Council: As the first Girl Scouts Headquarters, this National Historic Landmark offers programs and badge workshops for Girl Scouts during weekdays.
• Tybee Island Lighthouse: Make reservations for a breathtaking view atop Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse.
• Fort Screven and Battery Garland: While on Tybee Island, explore its picturesque historic district. Tracey says it’s a great place to snap some Troop pics!
• Old Fort Jackson: Dive into an interactive program where girls become recruits at this National Historic Landmark.
• Savannah Bee: A unique experience learning about honeybees, complete with hive displays and garden tours.
• Downtown Savannah: From river walks to Ghost tours, there’s something for everyone downtown!
• Leopolds: Famous for ice cream, but also great for box lunches (PRO TIP: Leopolds can deliver their box lunches to the Birthplace! Do the morning tour then have lunch delivered to one of the nearby squares. The girls will then get a coupon for ice cream at the store!)
• Savannah Square Pops: A delicious frozen treat for those warm Savannah days (PRO TIP: contact them in advance and they will speak with the girls about being an entrepreneur, and let the girls make popsicles!)
• The Pirates House: Visit the historic Pirates House for a bountiful Troop meal – the girls love it!

Engaging Girls and Their Families

Tracey emphasized the importance of early and active involvement of girls in trip planning and fundraising. “Girls need to earn all of the money for their trips. The trip will mean more than if parents write a check,” she stressed. Encouraging discussions, setting goals, and involving the girls in decision-making empowers them and makes the journey more meaningful. However, Tracey suggested that these trips should be just for leaders and girls. She notes that excluding parents from the journey allows the girls to stay together, fostering stronger troop bonds and focusing on learning Girl Scout history.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

As an experienced “tour-guide,” Tracey offered some valuable advice:

• Book the Birthplace in Advance: It’s a small venue that fills up quickly.
• Mind the Heat: Consider taking your trip in spring or fall to avoid the scorching summer temperatures.
• Uniform Pride: Girls in full uniform often receive discounts and special treatment – Savannah loves Girl Scouts!
• Meal Planning is Key: Have a plan for every meal to avoid hot, hangry girls.
• Trolley Convenience: Use the trolley for easy transportation and parking solutions.

Fond Memories

Finally, she shares some personal memories, highlighting the unexpected joys of a rain-soaked picnic and the exhilarating experience of donning beekeeper-veiled hats in Savannah Bee’s bee garden.

 “On our first trip, it POURED rain most of the time we were there. We had a picnic planned in one of the pretty squares around Birthplace. We put the seats down flat in my van, left the back up, and all crammed on the floor and under the liftgate to have our picnic next to the square. Not exactly what we planned, but almost 20 years later it sticks out in my mind more than the planned picnic in the square would have.

On our second trip, we visited Savannah Bee and we all put on the beekeeper veiled hats and went into the bee garden to see the hives. Most of us were equal parts fascinated and terrified of getting stung, but no one was hurt, and it was so much fun learning about the bees and tasting honey straight out of a hive.”

A trip to Savannah, Georgia, with your Girl Scout troop is not just a travel experience – it is a chance to strengthen bonds, delve into history, and create lasting memories. Start planning early, involve the girls, and embrace the unique opportunities this enchanting city offers to Girl Scouts.

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