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13 Awesome Day Trips from Savannah (2.5-hour Drive or Less)

Savannah, Georgia, is one of the top tourist destinations in the Southeastern United States. But as you plan your  Savannah itinerary , don’t overlook all of the great things that there are to do  outside  of Savannah as well. All of these day trips from Savannah are within about a 2.5-hour drive of central Savannah, Georgia (give or take, depending on traffic).  

Savannah is jam-packed with history, great places to eat and wonderful things to do. But the area of the Southeast around Savannah is full of amazing historic sites, islands, beaches, and some great cities too. 

Seriously. There are so many great options. Keep reading to find out more! 

Have more time to explore? Check out these ideas for weekend trips from Savannah .

Plan out your Savannah trip with your FREE printable travel planner .

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.  

Skidaway Island State Park

Distance from Savannah: 15 miles

Drive time: Approximately 25 minutes

Skidaway Island State Park is a great option for a day trip from Savannah. Just a short drive from downtown Savannah, the park offers a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including salt marshes and maritime forests. You may spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat including deer, fiddler crabs, and egrets.

There are also several miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, or birdwatching. The park is also a great place for picnicking. So whether you’re looking to explore nature or just relax in a beautiful setting, Skidaway Island State Park is worth a visit.

If you want to make an overnight or weekend getaway out of your trip, you can enjoy camping among the beautiful live oaks and Spanish moss.

Tybee Island 

Distance from Savannah:  18 miles 

Drive time:  Approximately 20-30 minutes 

Easily the most popular day trip from Savannah, Tybee Island’s most famous site is probably its light station, the oldest and tallest in Georgia. The 2.5-mile-long barrier island’s location at the mouth of the Savannah River also made it especially important as a military position. 

Although it’s essentially “next door” to Savannah, you could easily spend an entire day exploring Tybee Island. 

Taking in the natural beauty of Tybee Island is a great way to spend the day. It’s a popular spot for bird watching, sea kayaking, dolphin spotting, biking, fishing and more. The  Light Station Museum admission is reasonably priced. (They are closed on Tuesdays.)

To explore the island, you can of course drive yourself there, or you could book a sightseeing tour  like this one  that includes a dolphin-watching cruise. 

Or perhaps just enjoy a day relaxing on a  Tybee Island beach  complete with beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers stocked with ice.  

Fort Pulaski National Monument 

Distance from Savannah:  14 miles 

Drive time:  Approximately 25 minutes 

Also quite close to the historic center of Savannah,  Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on Cockspur Island. Fort Pulaski is operated by the National Park Service and is open seven days a week year-round, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Days. 

The fort was built to protect the Port of Savannah not long before the American Civil War broke out in 1861.

The fort was made mostly of brick (millions and millions of bricks) and was soon rendered obsolete when the Union Army used Fort Pulaski as the site for the testing of their new rifled cannons.

Fort Pulaski fell to the Union Army in less than two days. The fort was then used by the Union Army as a prisoner-of-war camp. 

The Fort Pulaski National Monument includes the fort, most of Cockspur Island as well as McQueens Island. The site includes walking trails, and fishing is allowed on the Savannah River. The Visitor Center includes exhibits about the fort’s construction and the Civil War battle.  

Fort McAllister State Park 

Distance from Savannah:  30 miles 

Drive time:  40 minutes 

Continuing on the Civil War historical site theme, south of Savannah you’ll find  Fort McAllister State Park on the banks of the Ogeechee River. Now don’t dismiss this park out of hand even if you’ve been to both Fort Sumter in South Carolina and Fort Pulaski (see above), because  these Confederate fortifications are actually earthworks and some of the best-preserved. 

The fort withstood multiple naval attacks but eventually fell to General Sherman on his March to the Sea. Fort McAllister was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.  

The 1700-acre park includes picnic shelters, a museum, a gift shop, boat ramps, a dock, a fishing pier, and a playground. Those who want to do more than a day trip here can choose from cottage or campsite accommodations. 

There are about 4 miles of trails for hiking, there are seasonally available kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals, bike rentals, and educational programs. 

There is a small fee for parking in addition to the historical site entrance fee. 

PRO TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

More fun things to do in and around Savannah, Georgia 

Not far outside the historic center of Savannah, you’ll find two key historical sites. With  this half-day tour ,  you’ll get to see Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe Plantation.  

Consider putting yourself in the hands of an expert tour guide.  Enjoy a private tour   of the Savannah historic district, Tybee Island,  and  Fort Pulaski National Monument all in one epic tour. Comes with free 24-hour cancellation and includes transportation. 

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 

Distance from Savannah:  34 miles 

Drive time:  45 minutes 

Hilton Head Island is one of my  favorite  places, and honestly, it deserves more time than just a day trip from Savannah; however, if all you have is a day then we can make it work. 

Just so you understand how awesome Hilton Head is, you don’t have to take my word for it.  Travel + Leisure  named Hilton Head Island the BEST island in the continental United States for three consecutive years. I quite agree. 

Try Coligny Beach Park for public beach access. Coligny Beach is also a  designated swim area . There’s free parking nearby and some fun shopping as well. The iconic  Harbour Town Lighthouse is also a popular stop. 

You’ll also find plenty of other things to do like biking on the beach or along the miles of recreational paths and of course eating some great Southern food. If you get to Hilton Head for breakfast, make a stop at  Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café . It’s popular with locals, and they have good gluten-free options.  

We recommend that you enjoy lunch or dinner at  A Lowcountry Backyard to try their wonderful food. They’re famous for their shrimp and grits and of course, the Lowcountry boil. When we were there, they gladly helped hubby find something delicious and gluten-free to eat, and they have good vegetarian options too. They don’t take reservations, so make sure you get there early.

Jekyll Island

Distance from Savannah: 95 miles

Drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes

Jekyll Island is one of the “Golden Isles” barrier islands off the coast of Georgia that include St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sapelo Island, Blackbeard Island, plus Historic Darien and Historic Brunswick.

Jekyll Island is a popular spot for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for biking, golf, long walks on the beach, touring historic homes, and more. Don’t miss Driftwood Beach on the north end of the island.

The island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center , which offers educational programs about these creatures and works to rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured turtles.

The center is open to the public. Visitors can take a “behind the scenes” tour of the center, watch the turtles being cared for, and learn about the efforts to protect these animals.

Charleston, South Carolina 

Distance from Savannah:  108 miles 

Drive time:  2 hours 

Folks, if you like Savannah, you’ll  love Charleston . In my opinion, it has all the same kinds of things to do that Savannah offers plus more. Although I would recommend you spend at least a  weekend in Charleston , it is also very doable to make a Charleston day trip from Savannah. 

Charleston is full of wonderful historical sites, like the historic Aiken-Rhett House, beautiful architecture, lovely Waterfront Park (and its famous Pineapple Fountain), the Battery, the Historic Market, and of course amazing food. 

We love getting lunch at  Fleet Landing  right on the water. And make a point to stop in at  Carmella’s Dessert Bar  for coffee or a treat. You’ll love it. 

For more details, check out our post about how to spend   one day in Charleston .  For more about why we love Charleston, read our  Charleston vs Savannah post.

Build the ideal lowcountry road trip with this Charleston and Savannah itinerary.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Distance from Savannah: 115 miles to Visitor Center

Drive time: Approximately 2 hours, plus the ferry ride

Cumberland Island National Seashore is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for some amazing sandy beaches. The island has a rich history and is perfect for a day trip or even an overnight camping excursion.

Access to the Seashore is by ferry or private boat. Plan to make your ferry reservations in advance.

If you’re looking for a place to hike, bike, camp, birdwatch, or beach comb, look no further. With over 50 miles of nature trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beaches available to explore, there’s something here for everyone.

There are no food vendors at the Seashore, so plan to bring with you (and pack back out) whatever you will need for the day.

Folly Beach 

Distance from Savannah:  115 miles 

Folly Beach is quite close to Charleston, so if you’re feeling up to it, you could visit Folly and pop over to Charleston on one super-epic day trip.  

Folly Beach is a 12-square-mile barrier island known as a popular destination for kayak rentals, fishing, and such. You can learn how to surf or try a  stand-up paddleboard eco tour like this one .  

In Folly Beach you’ll also find “The Porgy House” home to the writers of the novel and play  Porgy . The Gershwin Brothers also wrote their opera  Porgy and Bess  in Folly Beach. The story is set in Charleston. 

Amelia Island, Florida 

Distance from Savannah:  128 miles 

Drive time : 2 hours 

A popular beach vacation destination in Florida, Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of beaches . It’s located in Northeast Florida and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, Nassau Sound, and Cumberland Sound. 

In 2020, Travel + Leisure put Amelia Island at number 6 on its list of the top 15 islands in the United States. Conde Nast also named Amelia Island one of the best islands in the U.S. in its Reader’s Choice awards.  Southern Living  also named it one of the 10 most romantic destinations in Florida. 

Jacksonville, Florida 

Distance from Savannah:  141 miles 

Drive time:  2 hours, 10 minutes

It’s the largest city by landmass in the United States. Jacksonville also claims to have the largest urban park system and the most shoreline of any city in Florida. It’s also the most populous city in the Southeast and is only about a 2-hour drive from Savannah, which makes it a great option for a city day trip. 

Popular sites and attractions in “Jax” include the  Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens , Friendship Fountain, the Museum of Science and History, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Enjoy a picturesque River Walk stroll along the St. Johns River, try the St. Johns River Taxi, or check out some of their 22 miles of beaches.  

My fellow National Park Service site enthusiasts will likely want to spend some time at  Fort Caroline National Memorial , which memorializes the failed French colonial presence in Florida in the 16th century. Like  Kingsley Plantation , it’s part of the  Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve . 

Augusta, Georgia 

Distance from Savannah:  130 miles 

Drive time:  2.5 hours 

Although it’s best known for hosting  The Masters golf tournament , Augusta, Georgia, is also a lovely town that is just begging to be explored. Fortunately, its walkable historic downtown and Riverwalk area make that easy to do. 

The  Augusta Riverwalk  features a children’s playground, gardens, the Jessye Norman Amphitheater, and the Augusta Saturday Market at the River (closed in winter).

Top things to do in Augusta include the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, the Augusta Museum of History, the Morris Museum of Art, Woodrow Wilson’s boyhood home, popular restaurants, shopping, and more. 

Fun facts: Augusta was founded by James Oglethorpe (who was also the founder of Savannah) and it was named for Princess Augusta of Wales.  

And in case you were wondering,  no you cannot tour Augusta National . It is totally closed and super duper private. Strictly members only. Seriously. The only time it’s open to the public is during The Masters and even then only those with tickets are allowed in. 

Congaree National Park 

Distance from Savannah:  150 miles 

You’ll find Congaree National Park in Hopkins, South Carolina (near Columbia). It’s the only National Park in South Carolina, and sadly also one of the least visited. Congaree is also a UNESCO biosphere reserve and offers hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and bird watching. 

The Park preserves the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States, according to the  National Park Service . 

Be warned. Congaree is swampy and famous (infamous?) for its mosquitoes. Protect yourself accordingly. You can check with the Park before your trip to find out what the mosquito levels are before you make the drive from Savannah. 

You may have seen photos of the Congaree “Mosquito Meter.” This is not a thing. Well, I mean it exists, but the Park doesn’t use it as a daily indicator of mosquito levels. It’s completely unscientific, and they’ve even described it as a prop for photos. The important takeaway here is that you should be aware of the mosquitoes before you visit. 

Hiking Congaree National Park is easy and enjoyable.

The most popular walk or hike in Congaree is probably the Boardwalk Trail. The boardwalk path makes the 2.6-mile loop trail accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Other easy hikes include Bluff Trail, Sims Trail, Bates Ferry Trail, Longleaf Trail, and Spur Trail. 

Where to stay in Savannah 

There are an overwhelming number of great places to stay in Savannah, Georgia. Here are a few popular and top-rated options to help you narrow down your search: 

Eliza Thompson House :  Historic inn just a few blocks from Forsyth Park and its famous fountain.   Book today .   

Marriott Savannah Riverfront :  We love this location at the end of historic River Street. It’s just steps from the famous Waving Girl statue, and you can get a room with a view of the Savannah River.   Book your stay today .   

Holiday Inn Express Savannah – Historic District :  Affordable and comfortable rooms in the heart of the historic district and just steps from Vic’s on the River, one of our top Savannah restaurant recommendations.   Book your room today .   

Need more help planning your Savannah trip? Check out our list of essential travel planning resources.  

Final thoughts on the best day trips from Savannah 

Although there is so much to see and do in Savannah, there are also a ton of great things to do around Savannah. From historical sites to great beaches and even some great cities, you certainly will find a great day trip on this list that will make a perfect addition to your Savannah itinerary. 

More articles to help you plan your trip to Savannah 

• The perfect Savannah weekend itinerary  
• How to pack your day bag 
• Savannah vs Charleston: Which should you visit? 
• Romantic getaways in the South that couples love  
• Explore the “Old South” with this Southeast road trip itinerary  

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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• Last Updated On
• August 7, 2023

9 Fun Things to Do Near Savannah, GA: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

Savannah is a classic Southern city steeped in history with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture.

There’s nothing better than surrounding yourself in its natural allure, from the enchanting Spanish moss to the Savannah River.

But if you’re looking to explore beyond nature, there are plenty of fun things to do here and in the surrounding areas.

As a seasoned traveler, I’ve learned the ins and outs and the struggles of people wanting to explore this city.

Most of them were overwhelmed by the abundance of activities, and some ended up leaving unsatisfied.

I’ve been there, too.

But lucky for you, I’m here to save the day.

So, I’ve compiled a list of fun things to do near Savannah, GA that will make your trip unforgettable.

To make it easier for you to plan your itinerary, I’ve ranked these activities based on factors like accessibility, uniqueness, and overall fun factor. 

So sit back and relax as we dive into the best of what Savannah and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Fun Things to Do Near Savannah, GA Compared 

Savannah is a great starting point for many exciting activities you can do inside and outside the city.

With the help of this list, we’ll run down the most popular things to do near Savannah.

Editor’s Choice

Tybee Island Dolphin Cruise Tour with Stop at Tybee Island Lighthouse

Tybee Island is popularly known for its exciting boat tours and dolphin sightings while visiting plenty of tourist spots nearby.

• Accessibility: 5/5
• Entertainment Value: 5/5 
• Affordability: 4/5
• Atmosphere: 5/5
• Unique Appeal: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail

This is Hilton Head’s first and only custom pirate ship offering an immersive and fun pirate experience.

• Accessibility: 4/5
• Entertainment Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour

Take a relaxing and informative horse carriage ride around Beaufort and appreciate the city’s beauty and history.

• Affordability: 3/5

Here are the top 9 things to do near Savannah.

1. Tybee Island Dolphin Cruise Tour with Stop at Tybee Island Lighthouse (Editor’s Choice)

Tybee Island, GA 31328 (702) 648-5873 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Plenty of scenic views and fascinating attractions
• Fun and knowledgeable tour guide
• Not wheelchair accessible

Why We Recommend Going Here

If you love heading out to sea and discovering fascinating wildlife, take this exciting cruise tour to Tybee Island.

You’ll witness scenic ocean views, majestic birds, skipping dolphins, and historic lighthouses during your trip.

Also, their friendly and entertaining tour guides will make the trip even better while sharing plenty of educational facts.

Distance from Savannah

Tybee Island is located 17.5 miles from Savannah and it will take 25 minutes to get there.

Recommended Hotel Near Savannah National Wildlife Refuge: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Savannah W – Chatham Parkway

Related: Best Things to Do in Savannah

2. Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail

149 Lighthouse Rd Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 363-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Entertaining interactive pirate experience
• The staff are helpful and friendly 
• No restroom on the boat

Immerse yourself and your family in an interactive Pirate adventure that will make you feel you’re sailing the Seven Seas.

Before the activity starts, you’ll get your pirate name and learn how to talk like an actual pirate to make it more authentic.

After that, you’ll head out to sea and do plenty of activities, including an exciting treasure hunt adventure and water cannon spraying.

Getting to Hilton Head from Savannah will take you 57 minutes to drive in, about 41 miles.

Recommended Hotel Near Hilton Head Beaches: Home2 Suites By Hilton Hilton Head

3. Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour

930 Bay Street Beaufort SC 29902 (843) 476-7789 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Relaxing leisure tour
• Tour guides are entertaining and knowledgeable 
• Not suitable for bad weather

This carriage tour will let you relax while taking in the sights and sounds of Beaufort as you visit the city’s popular spots.

The carriage will take you to the city’s historic district, where you’ll see a lot of traditionally-designed buildings and beautiful trees.

And to keep you engaged, the experienced tour guides will entertain you with their enthusiasm and knowledge of the city’s many sites.

Beaufort is 42.6 miles located outside the city.

Take the SC-170W Highway, and you’ll arrive in about 54 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near the Charleston Carriage Tour of The Historic District: Hotel Bennett Charleston

Related: Fun Things to Do in Savannah, GA with Kids

4. Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour

255 Montgomery St Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 234-8128 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour by Old Savannah Tours is the longest-running trolley tour in the city and is a popular activity for families.

You don’t have to go outside the city for an exciting tour, as this popular trolley tour takes you to Savannah’s Historic District.

Hop into a classic trolley bus as you’ll get to see the city’s historical attractions and architecture.

The trolley has open windows to make it easy for you to take photos, so don’t forget to bring a camera.

And to add educational value, the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides will share information and stories about a particular place.

This fun and educational trip inside the city is a great alternative to Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail and Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour.

This tour takes place inside Savannah, so you don’t have to leave the city.

Recommended Hotel Near Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure: DeSoto Beach Hotel

5. North Island Surf and Kayak

1 Old US Hwy 80  Tybee Island, GA 31328 (912) 786-4000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This family-owned operation is our go-to spot for some watery recreation.

When it comes to fun they’re passionate and dependable!

They’re a low-key business but expect to become instant friends with their staff. 

Kayak rentals is the main attraction, but they also offer surf instructions, eco-tours, and paddle board rentals.

With North Island Surf and Kayak you’ll be able to explore the area’s uninhabited islands, catching glimpses of dolphins, otters, osprey and other wildlife. 

Adventure is only 22 minutes away via US-80 E, about 14 miles in all.

Recommended Hotel Near North Island Surf and Kayak: The Alida, Savannah, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

6. Daufuskie Trail Rides

11 Avenue of Oaks  Daufuskie Island, SC 29915 (843) 384-4510  Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Daufuskie Island is only accessible by ferry.

It’s home to a small community that keeps the island pristine and preserves its historical landmarks. 

Only 5 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, you can explore this island on horseback with Daufuskie Trail Rides.

You’ll be guided by professional equestrians who will show you the best of the island.

They are highly accommodating to all levels of experience. 

And the fact that Duafuskie is one of the last horse-friendly islands in the country makes this experience truly special.

Start by going to the public Daufuskie Island Ferry Service via US-278 E, an easy 39 minute ride at 30 miles.

The Daufuskie Trail Rides staff will arrange your travel options from there. 

Recommended Hotel Near Daufuskie Trail Rides: Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Savannah

7. Amphibian Air

109 Bowman Ave Garden City, GA 31408 (912) 572-8055 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Of all things to do and see near Savannah Amphibian Air offers perhaps the most thrilling experience.

Soar through the sky in a powered hang glider with an FAA certified pilot and look down upon Savannah and the surrounding wetlands in the open air.

Not only can you ride as a passenger, their pilots are also licensed as instructors, so you’ll have the chance to take the controls.

The expert staff caters to thrill seekers and novice adventurers.

And you’ll be able to share this unforgettable flight with photos and videos taken from the cockpit. 

The airstrip is right outside of the city.

Simply cruise west on W Bay St. for about 10 minutes and a quick minute on GA-21 N and then you’re there.

No more than a 5-mile ride. 

Recommended Hotel Near Amphibian Air: Hyatt Regency Savannah

8. Low Country Paintball

67 Low Country Lane Southwest  Ludowici, GA 31316 (912) 663-2314 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you and your fellow travelers are feeling competitive, head down to Georgia’s largest and oldest paintball facility to engage in a lively game.

They run a professional operation that attracts highly devoted players, but beginners are more than welcome and are promised a good time. 

Whether you’re with a group or traveling solo, Low Country Paintball has room for you on one of their well-constructed fields.

Special services are provided for parties and there are game options for youngsters as well. 

No need to have your own equipment either as they’ll rent anything you need.

They’re located about an hour south of Savannah.

From I-16 W you’ll take I-95 S most of the way before exiting onto GA-57.

The total distance is about 63 miles.

Recommended Hotel Near Low Country Paintball: Trowell Historic Inn

9. Fun Zone

1040 US-80  Pooler, GA 31322  (912) 330-9860 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This family-friendly hidden gem is a treasure trove of cheap activities and delicious food.

We love to come here and let loose for an afternoon. 

Go-carts, mini-golf, and arcade games are always a crowd pleaser, and that’s what you’ll find here. It’s quality, classic fun!

If you have an occasion to celebrate, Fun Zone offers a great selection of party packages, too.  

Less than 10 miles away, it’s an easy 16-minute drive along W Bay St. and US-80 W.

Recommended Hotel Near Fun Zone: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Savannah Airport

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

It’s no surprise that Savannah is home to many tourist hotspots, making it difficult to narrow down your options.

It’s wise to weigh your options and settle on the one that works best before making a final choice.

The Tybee Island Dolphin Cruise Tour with Stop at Tybee Island Lighthouse is a well-liked choice. 

This cruise takes guests to Tybee Island, where you can see the famous lighthouse and watch playful dolphins by the water.

But there are some downsides, like the chance of bad weather and getting seasick.

The Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail is another fantastic choice.

The tour’s highlights include the one-of-a-kind opportunity to travel on a pirate ship and the breathtaking natural surroundings. 

However, the fees are pretty expensive.

Lastly, Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour is fantastic for those looking to take things at a slower pace. 

You’ll enjoy a relaxing carriage ride around Beaufort’s historic quarter. However, the ride can be uncomfortable during hot weather. 

Meanwhile, the Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour is a budget-friendly choice. 

You can relax on the trolley as it takes you around the city on this excursion. 

How I Picked The Activities

As a seasoned travel blogger, I have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to selecting the best activities in the area. 

To ensure that the activities I recommend are truly worth experiencing, I conduct thorough research and personally visit each location.

This meticulous process allows me to confidently suggest activities that will provide my readers with a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Accessibility: I use this criterion to evaluate the accessibility of every attraction. Is it close to the major transport hubs? Is it easy to find? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Entertainment Value: This evaluates the entertainment value of the activity. Is it fun, engaging, and exciting? Does it offer hands-on activities and interactive experiences? Does it feature live shows, events, or concerts? Does it cater to various preferences and interests? I consider these factors when assessing this criterion.
• Affordability: This is used to assess the activity’s affordability. Is it free or a low-cost option compared to the other attractions? Does it offer special promotions, free entry, or discounted rates? Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? I ask myself these questions when rating affordability.
• Atmosphere: I use this criterion to assess the overall ambiance. Is it fun and welcoming? Does the environment match the activities offered? Is there a good vibe and energy? These are the questions I ask myself when I evaluate the atmosphere criterion. 
• Unique Appeal: This criterion evaluates the unique appeal of the activity. What sets it apart from the other activities? Does it provide a memorable experience? Does it have the wow factor? I consider these questions when looking into the attraction’s unique appeal. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some outdoor activities to do near savannah.

Some of the most popular outdoor activities to do near Savannah are South Beach, McQueens Island Historic Trail, and Savannah Bike Tours.

What Are Some Nearby Day Trip Destinations From Savannah?

Some nearby day trip destinations from Savannah are Tybee Island, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island.

Truly, there is no shortage of fun things to do near Savannah, GA. 

From historic tours to adventurous excursions, there is something for every member of your family.

The Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail was thrilling, as we experienced what it’s like to be a pirate while taking in beautiful water views.

Moreover, Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour was a charming way to learn about the area’s history.

Lastly, the Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour gives us a comprehensive overview of Savannah’s rich culture and architecture. 

Personally, I highly recommend the Tybee Island Dolphin Cruise Tour with Stop at Tybee Island Lighthouse. 

Not only does it offer a chance to see dolphins up close and personal, but it also includes a stop at the beautiful Tybee Island Lighthouse.

Savannah   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Chris Moore - Exploring Light Photography | Getty Images

17 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA + Tips from a Local

Much of Savannah's charm lies in meandering through the Historic District's verdant squares – all 22 of them. For an overview of the Historic District's top attractions, consider signing up for a guided tour or choose among the many

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Take a walk in Forsyth Park Take a walk in Forsyth Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you are visiting in the fall, check out the free weeklong Savannah Jazz Festival in the park, which features local vendors and food trucks. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Go to this 30-acre park in the heart of Savannah's Historic District to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Keep your camera ready, though, as there is plenty to see here as well. Stroll past the stunning white-stone Forsyth Fountain, memorials dedicated to the Spanish-American War, the Fragrant Garden for the visually impaired and the 300-year-old Candler Oak tree. From the park, you can see several historic sites within walking distance, including the Mercer-Williams House Museum and the Sorrel Weed House .

Go on a Savannah history tour Go on a Savannah history tour

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you want a totally unique experience, there are also bike tours, dog-walking tours, a comedy trolley tour called "Savannah for Morons" and food tours. –  Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Savannah's recorded history stretches back to 1733 when General James Oglethorpe docked his ship on the Savannah River and named this new territory (and America's 13th colony) "Georgia." You can hear all about Savannah's past and the events that shaped its present on a history tour. What's more, you won't have any trouble finding a tour that suits your interests, Savannah boasts a bevy of  city tours  – from architecture to ghosts to photography – for a variety of travelers.

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist free

Towering over Lafayette Square in the Historic District, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist's Gothic towers should lure in any architecture buff. The original cathedral was established in 1799 by the first French colonists to arrive in the area. The brick structure you see today is not the original (since its founding, the church moved locations and was partially rebuilt following a fire in 1898), but the cathedral still impresses visitors with its imposing spires, Italian marble altar and stunning stained-glass windows. What's more, a Catholic cathedral of this size is a bit of a rarity in the South, where Catholicism is not the dominant religion.

Most travelers who took the time to see this cathedral were flabbergasted by its beauty, comparing it to Europe's medieval churches. Even if you're not interested in attending Mass, you should still set aside 10 to 15 minutes to take a brief peek inside the stunning interior. However, recent visitors said attending Mass here is worth considering (even if you're not Catholic), thanks to the beautiful atmosphere and talented choir. Feel free to take a self-guided tour inside the cathedral, but remember to be respectful as it's still an active house of worship.

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Bonaventure Cemetery Bonaventure Cemetery free

While a stroll through a cemetery may sound a little morbid, a visit to the more than 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery is a must for lovers of the written word. Originally called the Evergreen Cemetery (and occupying land previously used for a plantation), the Victorian-style cemetery was purchased by the city of Savannah in 1907 and redesigned to its current size. Keep your eyes peeled for the tombstones of such celebrities as poet Conrad Aiken and lyricist Johnny Mercer. You should also make a point of looking for the grave of Danny Hansford (buried in the neighboring Greenwich Cemetery), whose murder inspired John Berendt's best-selling book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

According to many visitors, the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure won't disappoint, but travelers said that bug spray, a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes are a must. You can tour the cemetery on your own, but recent visitors said you should also consider signing up for a guided tour to gain a better understanding of the cemetery's intriguing history.

River Street River Street free

Running alongside the Savannah River in the Waterfront district is River Street, a lively area perfect for afternoon strolls. The cobblestone street is lined with more than 75 souvenir shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs housed in old cotton warehouses. It's also the place to go for pub crawls, making it attractive to party-seekers, and thus, slightly less family-friendly after dark. Plus, the area comes alive with street musicians after the sun sets.

Recent visitors recommended spending a few hours here for the gorgeous river views and excellent people-watching. Many also recommended the restaurants here.

Old Sorrel-Weed House Old Sorrel-Weed House

U.S. News Insider Tip: A couple feet away is Chippewa Square – the backdrop for the "Forrest Gump" scene where Tom Hanks sits on a bench to narrate the character's life story. If you are looking for the bench, visit the Savannah History Museum to see a replica. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Constructed in 1840 in the Greek Revival style, this Mediterranean villa was owned by a shipping merchant named Francis Sorrel and then became the boyhood home to Brig. Gen. Moxley Sorrel, who fought in the Civil War. But that's not why the house is so famous. In addition to appearing in the opening scenes of "Forrest Gump," the house has also been featured in an episode of HGTV's "Ghost Adventures." In fact, it's often referred to as one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah and is a frequent stop on some of the best Savannah ghost tours . It's believed that Francis Sorrel's second wife died by suicide at the house, along with one of his enslaved workers. Visitors to the house can choose between a history and architecture tour, a historic walking tour, a ghost tour or a "paranormal investigation."

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

George Welshman Owens was a wealthy planter, lawyer and politician who lived in this house with his wife, six children and up to 14 enslaved people beginning in 1833. The last Owens descendant to live in the house was George Owens' granddaughter, Margaret Gray Thomas, who left the property to the Telfair Academy of Arts and Science in her will in 1875. Unlike the other two Telfair Museums – the Jepson Center and Telfair Academy – the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters focuses less on art and more on the Owens' family furnishings and history of the earliest intact urban slave quarters in the South.

A tour of the facility reveals what life was like for the upper class in 19th-century Savannah: You'll see Greek-inspired craftsmanship and beautiful stained glass, in addition to the old carriage house and slave quarters. You'll also have a chance to peruse the common spaces, such as the drawing room and the dining room, where the family entertained guests, and can learn more about the day-to-day life of the family's enslaved workers through interactive exhibits in the butler's pantry, the working cellar and the slave quarters.

Tour Fort Pulaski National Monument Tour Fort Pulaski National Monument

Named for Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski, this 19th-century fort was originally constructed to defend Savannah from coastal attacks. Notably, it was here that Gen. Robert E. Lee was first assigned after graduating from West Point. During the Civil War, it was occupied by Confederate troops until being surrendered to Union forces in 1862.

Fort Pulaski was also a safe haven for enslaved people as part of the Underground Railroad. Union Maj. Gen. David Hunter issued an order in April 1862 stating: "All persons of color lately held in involuntary service by enemies of the United States in Fort Pulaski and on Cockspur Island, Georgia are hereby confiscated and declared free." As such, many enslaved people came to Fort Pulaski and once on the island, began a free life on the Georgia coast. Meanwhile, others joined to form one of the first colored troops divisions in the Civil War. Hundreds of enslaved people were granted freedom as a result of Hunter's order.

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Take a daytrip to Tybee Island Take a daytrip to Tybee Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you are into pristine beaches, avid camping, birdwatching and unearthing fossils, consider visiting an uninhabited nature preserve called "Little Tybee Island," which is only accessible only by boat. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

When you've had your fill of ghost stories , green squares and historic homes, head to Tybee Island. Just a half-hour east of the Historic District, Tybee Island is home to 5 miles of beachfront, the famous Tybee Island Light Station and the Marine Science Center, among other attractions. On your way to the beach, consider a stop at  Fort Pulaski Monument , a Civil War landmark sandwiched between Savannah and Tybee Island.

Historic Savannah Theatre Historic Savannah Theatre

Built by architect William Jay, who also designed the Telfair Mansion , the historic Savannah Theatre opened its doors to the public in 1818 and again in 1950 following a remodeling in the art deco style. The lobby features a display of artifacts, newspaper articles and photographs from the past. Still an active theater today, it hosts live shows, musicals, comedy performances and a paranormal investigation experience.

Many recent visitors praised the live performances in the beautifully restored theater and particularly recommend the annual Christmas show.

Savannah African Art Museum Savannah African Art Museum free

The Savannah African Art Museum is home to a collection of more than 1,000 pieces of artwork from West and Central Africa. The African art on display here includes a variety of 19th- and 20th-century spiritual and ceremonial objects, created from metal, wood, ceramics and more. According to the museum, its mission is to "provide engaging experiences that educate and start conversations about the power, diversity, and spirituality of African art." Tours of the collection are available Wednesday through Saturday, running every 30 minutes, and typically last about an hour. Visitors can choose a tour of the West Africa collection or the Central Africa collection.

All recent travelers give this museum positive reviews, calling it a hidden gem in Savannah. Many were impressed with the variety of artwork here, from masks to textiles to sculptures. Several compliment the knowledgeable guides, who are able to shed some light on the history of the various art.

Wormsloe State Historic Site Wormsloe State Historic Site

Right up there with  Forsyth Park  and  River Street , Wormsloe State Historic Site is one of Savannah's top attractions. Even if you never heard of the site, you've likely seen it in pictures: its star attraction is the mile-long avenue leading to the former plantation, which is lined on both sides by towering live oak trees dressed in Spanish moss.

Most travelers venture here for the free photo-op alone, but what lies beyond the entryway is also worth your attention. Here you'll find the ruins of Wormsloe, the oldest standing structure in Savannah and the Colonial estate of Noble Jones, a carpenter who came to Georgia in 1733 with James Oglethorpe and the first group of settlers from England. In the 1750s, Jones used a group of enslaved people to maintain the property, plant crops like cotton, grains and vegetables, and keep Wormsloe profitable. Along with the ruins, visitors can tour a small museum featuring artifacts unearthed at Wormsloe and watch a brief film about the site and Georgia's founding. There's also a 7-mile-long interpretative nature trail that runs along a marsh on the Skidaway River, as well as costumed interpreters demonstrating the tools and skills of Colonial Georgia.

First African Baptist Church First African Baptist Church

A National Historic Landmark, the First African Baptist Church was first organized in 1773 by the Rev. George Liele and is the oldest continuous Black church in North America. The reverend, who was born into slavery but later granted freedom by the British for his loyalty, became the church's pastor in 1775 and the church was officially established as a body of organized believers in 1777. After the British lost the Revolutionary War, rather than chance re-enslavement in the South, Liele fled to Jamaica . Before leaving for Jamaica, he ordained Andrew Bryan (one of the congregation's original members) to be the second pastor of the church until 1812 when his nephew Andrew Marshall took over. Under Marshall's leadership, the church acquired the property where it currently stands in downtown Savannah.

The church still features many historical elements, including stained-glass windows and the original light fixtures, balcony pews and baptismal pool. Today, visitors can attend a service or take a tour to admire its beauty. Previous travelers highly recommend stopping here to learn about its history and importance as a safe haven along the Underground Railroad.

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Savannah City Market Savannah City Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Amid the attractions within City Market, the American Prohibition Museum is an unexpected find. It features cool exhibits and an authentic speakeasy serving up the Chatham Artillery punch – rumored to be made using a recipe that dates back to 1870! –  Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

If you're planning to tour Savannah's Historic District, City Market is a great place to start. Spread out across four blocks, the open-air marketplace features restored warehouses sheltering everything from restaurants to boutiques to art galleries. When you're not shopping, listening to live music or enjoying a casual bite to eat, simply sit and people-watch: past visitors said this area is great for resting tired feet and taking in the Savannah scene. Plus, City Market is also a popular drop-off point for  trolley and carriage tours , so if you need to kill time before or after your tour, plan to check out the market.

Mercer Williams House Museum Mercer Williams House Museum

A stop at the Mercer-Williams House is a must when in Savannah. While it was commissioned by Gen. Hugh W. Mercer (great-grandfather of lyricist Johnny Mercer), this house is much more famous for what happened here when it was owned by Jim Williams. Williams was a noted Savannah antiques dealer and the central character in John Berendt's best-selling book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," which detailed the shooting that took place in the house in 1981. While the upstairs is off-limits, you're invited to explore the ground floor, which is ornately decorated with 18th- and 19th-century furnishings, Chinese porcelain and portraits dating back to the 1700s.

Though most recent visitors were pleased with their tour of the Mercer-Williams House and highly recommended it if you are a fan of the book, they did warn that no photography was allowed in the garden or the house. Also, keep in mind that since members of the family still occupy the residence, only the ground floor is accessible to visitors.

Telfair Academy Telfair Academy

If you're a fan of art forms from the 19th and 20th centuries (or if you just need a break from the Georgia heat), you'll want to spend a few hours perusing this mansion-turned-museum, which was originally built in 1819 for Alexander Telfair. Housing four primary art forms – paintings, architecture, sculpture, and printmaking, including paintings from the Impressionist period, plaster casts of such renowned works as the Venus de Milo and period furniture left over from the Telfair family themselves, this marble-clad museum – the first public art museum in the South – shelters a diverse array of pieces. But the real highlight of the museum is Sylvia Shaw Judson's famous Bird Girl statue, which appears on the cover of John Berendt's bestselling book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Most recent visitors were charmed by the Telfair Academy, with many citing it as a "must-see" while in Savannah, specifically because of the renowned Bird Girl statue. What's more, many appreciated that admission to Telfair Academy also covers entrance to each of the other Telfair sites, including the Jepson Center and the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters . Many travelers loved the ability to see all three sites for one, discounted ticket price.

Jepson Center Jepson Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: While visiting the Jepson, enjoy a meal at the on-site Wildflower Café, a fast-casual restaurant that opened in 2023. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

The Jepson Center is a modern art and interactive museum designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie. The museum's contemporary collection is home to various travelling exhibits, giving visitors something new to explore each year. Among the ongoing exhibits, 18 works in classic European painting and impressionism are on site. Among these, visitors will also find featured Savannah artists Valentino Molina and Mary Hoover Aiken. Other notable elements about the center include sculpture terraces, education studios and a 220-seat auditorium. The Jepson Center is also slated to open the Telfair Children's Art Museum in summer 2023, offering learning experiences through modern, immersive technology and hands-on activities. Art enthusiasts can purchase souvenirs at the gallery store or stop for light bites at the cafe situated in the building's gorgeous atrium. Museum admission is not required to visit the gallery shop or cafe.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

17 Best Places To Visit In Savannah (+ Hidden Gems!)

January 4, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Savannah? We’ve got every top spot for touring on this list! Check out some of Savannah’s favorite attractions and find some hidden gems that are off the beaten path.

Planning your trip to Savannah last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Savannah!

Top Experiences And Tours In Savannah:

• Ghosts And Graveyards Tour With Low House Entry (Our pick!)
• Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Less walking and lots of fun)
• Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise (Likely to sell out!)
• First Squares Food Tour (3 hours long so lots of food)

Top Hotels In Savannah:

• The Thunderbird Inn (Affordable and historic)
• Marriott Savannah Riverfront (Waterfront views)
• River Street Inn (Great location)
• Mansion On Forsyth Park (Luxury!)

Savannah is a city with a rich history, a lively entertainment district, and an amazing coastal landscape to enjoy. To make the most of it all, check out Savannah’s best tours , so you won’t miss a beat on your journey through the city.

It’s definitely the kind of city you can wander through and get lost in (in a good way)! In every district, on every street, there is something waiting to charm you and delight your senses as you learn more about one of the oldest cities in America!

Here you’ll find the best in food, drink, entertainment, architecture, historic sites… you name it, we’ve got it. Read on to discover the best places to visit in Savannah!

Forsyth Park

A trip to this coastal city in Georgia is never complete without a stop at Forsyth Park, always recommended as one of the top places to see in Savannah. Originally built in 1840, the park has been expanded over time. The fountain in particular is a special landmark in the city, having been featured in films like Forrest Gump , Cape Fear , and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

The park sits right in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District and is steps away from many other Savannah tourist attractions. Bring a picnic and dine amongst the canopy of trees, let the kids roam in the open air, or nestle against a tree trunk with your favorite book.

Looking for a more in-depth visit around this area? Try the Two Hour Savannah Bike Tour, which will take you along the historic streets and straight through Forsyth Park. Tickets are $30, and bike and helmet rentals are included. Touring by bike is efficient, green, and a great way to get to know this remarkable city!

Book your tour: Two Hour Savannah Bike Tour

Stroll Plant Riverside District

If savoring the flavor of Savannah is on your list of things to do, then you must take a stroll around the Plant Riverside District! With a distinct shopping, culinary, and nightlife scene, the Plant Riverside District is arguably the most entertaining neighborhood and one of the best places to go in Savannah.

Start your walk by stopping in one of the area’s many shops. We love Grand Bohemian Gallery for one-of-a-kind art finds, and September’s Closet, a ladies clothing boutique that is one of the true hidden gems in Savannah. When shopping is done, grab a drink at the Riverside Biergarten or try a sweet treat at Byrd’s Famous Cookies. Plant Riverside is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Savannah, with so much to do and see .

Get to know the Plant Riverside District like a local with the Interactive Tour that takes guests on a journey through the area’s past and present. The tour begins at the exciting Generator Hall and uses storytelling to immerse guests in the magic of the neighborhood. Tickets are $35 per guest. Tours last one hour and are available at selected times Wednesdays through Sundays.

Book your tour: I nteractive Tour of the Plant Riverside District

Wormsloe Historic Site

Formally known as Wormsloe Plantation, this state historic site is home to some breathtaking views of the natural landscape of coastal Georgia. Guests are welcomed down an avenue lined with live oaks and Spanish moss that lead to what once was the estate of one of Georgia’s founding fathers, Noble Jones. Because of its rich history and natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site is known as one of the best places to visit in Savannah.

Visitors to Wormsloe can enjoy robust nature trails, a museum with artifacts found on Wormsloe’s grounds, and historic interpretations of life at the time Noble Jones built the estate. Its tabby ruins are the oldest standing structure in Georgia.

Wormsloe is open seven days a week, and ticket prices vary. Got a four-legged friend with you? They are welcome on the outdoor trails at Wormsloe! Make sure to bring your camera with you, too – Wormsloe is definitely one of the most picturesque places to go in Savannah .

Book your admission: Wormsloe State Historic Site

Day Trip To Tybee Island

Certainly one of the best places to visit near Savannah, Tybee Island offers a wide array of activities for visitors wanting to soak up the sun or the area’s abundant history. About a 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island is a wonderful place to spend the day exploring with family and friends. There are truly so many things to do in Tybee Island and you should make it a stop for sure!

Start with a trip to the lighthouse at Tybee Island, known as both the oldest and the tallest light-keeping station in the state. An on-site museum highlights the history of the lighthouse and the residents who once called this area home. This is truly one of the best beach towns in Georgia!

If you’re looking for more history to explore, head over to Fort Pulaski National Monument, known as one of the coolest Nationals Park in Georgia . Here, you can walk the halls of the once state-of-the-art military fortification that housed prisoners of war during the Civil War.

If outdoor adventure is what you’re after, check out Sea Kayak Georgia! Guests can embark on a variety of water-based tours to suit your party! From stand-up paddling tours to remote marshlands to full-day and overnight camping canoe trips to custom tours to meet your group’s needs and interests, Sea Kayak Georgia is one of the best ways to explore Savannah’s aquatic ecosystems.

Book your tour: Sea Kayak Georgia

Visit The Rooftop Bars

Savannah has no shortage of great places to find a tasty beverage, but their rooftop bars are unparalleled with amazing and drinks and stunning views of the city down below.

A few of our favorites include Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Garden in the Plant Riverside District (try the Georgia Kiss, Grey Goose vodka, blood orange, and lemon), Peregrin above the Perry Lane Hotel (try the Yuzu with sake, yuzu liqueur, elderflower liqueur, cava, and grapefruit lavender bitters), and Top Deck Bar on River Street (try the Midnight Sail with Absolut Pear, St. Germaine, lime juice, Blue Curacao, Grenadine, and a splash of soda).

Want to try everything? Take the Generals and Generalities Cocktail Tour, exploring Savannah’s history through cocktails and stories. You’ll get to take a walk through Savannah’s storied history and try the most beloved drinks from long ago. Tickets are $85 per person, but all beverages are included in the ticket price.

Looking for more? Check out our list of the best rooftop bars in Savannah . They certainly top our list as some of the most fun places to go in Savannah!

Book your tour: The Generals and Generalities Cocktail Tour

Mercer Williams House

Arguably the most famous of Savannah’s historic homes, the Mercer Williams house is notable for its Renaissance Revival style of architecture and as being the site of one of Savannah’s most notorious murders, depicted in the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

The home began construction by the Mercer family in 1860, but the Civil War delayed the completion of the home. It was finally finished in 1868, at which time the home was sold to John Wilder. Consequently, no Mercer ever lived in the house. It is truly one of the best Museums In Savannah!

By the 1960s, local preservationist Jim Williams bought and restored the home as his permanent residence. In 1981, Jim Williams shot and killed Danny Hansford in the home’s study, claiming self-defense. Williams was tried for the murder four times, a record in the state of Georgia. Finally acquitted in 1989, Williams returned to living in the home, and he passed away eight months after his release.

The Mercer Williams House now operates as a museum with guided tours occurring every 40 minutes during operating hours. Reservations are encouraged in advance. Make sure to check out Savannah’s famed Mercer Williams House on your next trip, definitely one of the best places to visit in Savannah!

Book your admission: The Mercer Williams House

Marvel At Houses On East Jones Street

Known as “the prettiest street in Savannah,” East Jones Street makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll, to admire some of the beautiful homes lining the avenue – absolutely one of the best places to visit in Savannah!

The street is named for Major John Jones, a Revolutionary War hero. Jones died at the attack on Spring Hill, but was a notable figure in the founding of Savannah prior to the war.

Most of the homes found on the street date to the 1850s and 1860s, creating uniformity in architecture and style. The area declined in popularity during the first half of the 20th century but was revitalized during the 1960s when preservationists embarked on large-scale restoration projects on many of the properties.

Notable homes on the street include the Knapp House, the Eliza Thompson House, and the Alexander Smets House among others. This neighborhood in historic Savannah, Georgia also is one of our favorites to stay in !

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

The oldest Roman Catholic Cathedral in the state, this church was originally constructed in 1859 but was almost destroyed by a fire in 1898. The community rallied around the building and it was rebuilt, remains a hallmark of outstanding architecture and beauty – one of the best places to visit in Savannah!

Visitors to the area are welcome to join the church for one of the many masses held throughout the week. Docent-led tours are another great way to learn about the church and its history dating back all the way to the founding of the city. Tours are free to guests, but donations are appreciated and reservations are encouraged.

The tour will guide guests through the general history of the Roman Catholic Church in Savannah, and touch on the architecture and history of the building itself. You can marvel at the steeple bell, the terra cotta decoration, and the amazing Great Rose Window. Truly one of the quintessential Savannah tourist attractions.

Book your tour: Docent-Led Tour of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

First African Baptist Church

Another incredible church, deeply embedded in the history of Savannah is the First African Baptist Church, founded in 1773 under the pastorship of Reverend George Liele. Pastor Liele was an emancipated slave and chose to leave Savannah in 1782 to ensure his freedom. He migrated to Jamaica and expanded his work as a minister there.

The site of the current church was developed under the third pastor, Reverend Andrew C. Marshall. Here he organized the first black Sunday school in North American and changed the name of the church from First Colored Baptist to its current name.

The sanctuary was completed in 1859 and still stands today as a testament to faith and community. Tours are available on Wednesdays through Saturdays at 3:00 PM, and ticket prices vary. Make sure to add this to your list of best places to visit in Savannah for a deep dive into the history of one of the area’s most important communities.

Book your tour: First African Baptist Church

Go On A Ghost Tour

Looking for one of the best places to go in Savannah at night? Check out a spooky ghost tour, of course! As the oldest settlement in the state, Savannah definitely has some other-worldly beings from days gone by roaming the streets and historic buildings of today. Learn all about them and their connection to this area on The Dead of Night Ghost Tour.

This adults-only tour takes guests on a walk through Savannah’s historic district and provides a deep dive into the scariest and darkest of hauntings in the city. The tour begins at 423 Abercorn, a haunted house like no other! From there, guests will make stops at places like the macabre Foley House Inn and the creepy Sorrel Weed House. You’ll definitely want to bring your comfiest shoes and maybe even a flashlight to get you through the evening!

This 90-minute tour runs nightly at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Tickets are $35, and the tour is known to sell out well in advance. Make sure to make your reservation before your trip!

Book your tour: The Dead of Night Ghost Tour

Try Ice Cream At Leopold’s

Located on Broughton Street, Leopold’s has been serving Savannah’s best ice cream for over a century. Their original recipe continues to delight their guests, making Leopold’s one of the best places to visit in Savannah!

Leopold’s was first founded in 1919 by three brothers from Greece, at a shop nestled on a corner by the popular streetcar. Guests would hop off the trolly for Leopold’s legendary shakes, malts, and banana splits. Though the shop has since moved from its original location, it still features many of the elements of that first store, like the black marble soda fountain and the telephone booth.

Try their premium ice cream (we like the Honey Almond & Cream and the Peanut Butter Chippy) or enjoy a soda fountain staple like the Hot Fudge Sundae or one of their Milk Shakes. Leopold’s is open seven days a week, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth at any time on your trip!

Go Shopping At Paris Market

Prepare to get lost in a thoughtfully curated shop of wonders when you visit The Paris Market, one of the best places to visit in Savannah. Opened in 2001, The Paris Market is dedicated to sourcing a variety of treasures from around the globe and items handcrafted in Savannah.

If you’re not sure exactly what you’re shopping for, The Paris Market is the place to go. Here you’ll find wonderful and unique gifts, home goods, antiques, jewelry, and more – items you never even knew you needed! We love the carefully selected candles with delicious scents, the amazing art, the incredible one-of-a-kind soaps, and their signature The Paris Market Coffee.

If you work up an appetite while you shop, The Paris Market features an in-store cafe serving tea, wine, champagne, and house-made sandwiches. You could definitely spend a delightful rainy afternoon discovering the wonders that The Paris Market has on offer.

There’s no telling what you’ll find when you visit The Paris Market, but it will be wonderful! And make sure to check out some of our other top picks for shopping in Savannah !

Walk Gaston Street To See The Mansions

Some of the most iconic homes in Savannah line Gaston Street, a beacon of wealth and history in Savannah’s past. As you walk beneath the Spanish moss, you’ll be treated to views of mansions standing grandly, built in a variety of architectural styles, but each dedicated to displaying opulence. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Savannah for a walk on a sunny day.

The landmark building on Gaston Street is The Gastonian, a luxury, historic hotel. It’s an excellent place to stay, combining two adjoining residential mansions into one of the most romantic bed and breakfasts in Savannah.

Located right in the heart of the historic district, Gaston Street is a lovely place to wander after a downtown tour, shopping excursion, or a jaunt through Forsyth Park. When you walk down Gaston Street, you truly feel like a home-grown Savannahian.

Grab A Meal At Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room

Opened in 1943, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room has been treating the folks of Savannah to the best southern cooking ever since. Located in Savannah’s historic district this is the perfect place to grab a meal after you’ve experienced many of the attractions on this list. With delicious homestyle meals on the menu, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is definitely one of the best places to go in Savannah!

The menu at Mrs. Wilkes’ is simple, but oh so good! First, you pick a meat like Fried Chicken or Meat Loaf and then add on your veggies. We like the Snap Peas, Candied Yams, and Macaroni and Cheese. You really can’t go wrong here – it’s all made fresh every day from seasonal local ingredients – yum!

But wait – there’s more! You can also stay at Mrs. Wilkes’, too! The Wilkes Pied-a-Terre is an entire apartment available to rent, to truly feel like Savannah local.

While Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is at the forefront of famous restaurants in Savannah, don’t miss some of our other favorite restaurants in Savannah !

Pin Point Heritage Museum

One of the most hidden gems in Savannah is the Pin Point Heritage Museum, a site dedicated to the preservation and exploration of the Gullah and Geechee culture that was once prominent in the area. The museum is housed in an old crab factory and is one of the best places to visit near Savannah.

Pin Point was a community settled in 1896 by freedmen on the banks of the Moon River not far from Savannah. Guest walking through the exhibits are treated to artifacts, photographs, and lessons providing insight into Geechee and Gullah’s daily life, worship, communication, and cooking.

The museum is open on Thursdays through Saturdays and ticket prices vary. If you’re traveling with a large group, tours can be arranged by contacting the museum in advance.

Book your admission: Pin Point Heritage Museum

The Savannah Underground

The Savannah Underground is an immersive one-of-a-kind experience that puts YOU at the center of Savannah’s most haunting and gruesome tales, making this one of the best places to visit in Savannah for a spooky evening.

Guests can enjoy an engaging show upon their visit to The Savannah Underground and have the option to embark on a trolley tour upon the conclusion of the show. Listen to three ghostly tales being acted out around you in their 360-degree interactive theatre. Current sinister stories include Yellow Fever , about a girl who suffers from the disease, and Boo Hag , about a woman who is haunted by a Gullah Geechee ghost known as “Hag.”

The evening also includes a ghost tour via trolley to some of the city’s most haunted spots and spookiest landscapes. As you jaunt through Savannah’s cobblestone streets, hear the stories that give Savannah the reputation as being one of “the most haunted cities in America.”

Book your admission: The Savannah Underground

Ride The Paddle Wheeler

To tour the lush landscape of Savannah from the water, you can’t beat an afternoon cruise aboard the Georgia Queen – it’s one of the best places to visit in Savannah for a lazy afternoon. The riverboat provides state-of-the-art modern amenities while letting guests experience the transportation of days gone by.

The Georgia Queen offers a variety of cruises to suit your tastes. Meals are served on board and you can choose your cruising time around a specific meal in the day – they offer cruises for brunch, lunch, and dinner. You can also choose a cruise based on activity. The sightseeing tour showcases the best of the coast as you float down the river with guided narration from the captain himself!

If you’re looking for a cruise focused on entertainment, try the sunset cruise where a live band will play as cocktails are served and the sun sets over the river. If you love music, check out the Monday night gospel cruise, where dinner is served amidst the sounds of Savannah’s best gospel entertainers.

No matter which cruise you choose, the Georgia Queen is always one of the best activities in Savannah!

Book your cruise: Cruise Aboard the Georgia Queen

With so much to do and see, Savannah is an excellent destination for an active traveler. If you have a curious mind, there is so much to learn – from the storied history to the outstanding architecture to the quirky shops and fabulous bars and restaurants.

The best places to visit in Savannah are always right around the next corner! Come discover the magic of Georgia’s oldest city!

Savannah Bucket List: 50 Fun Things To Do in Georgia’s Historic City

Savannah in a gem of a place that many of us would overlook—but, no one should! The coastal city in Georgia is fringed by the Savannah River, and presents a charming blend of the past and the modern world. There are impeccable gardens and parks lined with humongous oak trees covered in Spanish moss, cobblestoned pathways dotted with horse-drawn carts, elegant buildings and mansions designed in the Southern Antebellum architectural style. Let’s not forget the quaint historic district and squares, with the best bed & breakfasts.

There are also endless fun things to do in Savannah—from top attractions to delicious restaurants (you must try the family-style southern food at Mrs. Wilkes !) to interesting historic tours. And this list of activities will make you want to move this GA town  up a spot on your bucket list .

Savannah, Ga: Fun Attractions & the Best Things to Do in Georgia’s Top City

What to see + do, 1. get bug soap.

First things first. As soon as you arrive to Savannah head over to Nourish Bath Products and purchase a bar of Don’t Bug Me  soap, especially if you are there in the humidity of the summer. You can thank me later.

This adorable bath shop was started by a serious crafter and her daughter. Thirteen years and three retails stores later they have created a success. I walked away with three of the best bars of soap; the Hippie Chick, Vanilla Raspberry and Apparition Ale (made with the local beer).

2. Orient Yourself With the City on a Trolly

Take a historic ‘hop on/off” trolley tour with Old Savannah Tours  to get yourself familiar with this beautiful city. There are 16 stops to explore, but even if you don’t get off at any of them it will only take ninety minutes roundtrip. Time well spent. And a sk for Angel, she will put the most hilarious spin on history.

You can easily book a seat for the Hop-On, Hop-Off Historic Savannah Full-Day Trolly Tour in advance.

3. Tour The Davenport House

The Davenport House is a red-bricked Museum, constructed around 1820, that sits on the Northern side of Columbia square and is a representation of what skilled carpentry was like back during that time. And today it’s recognized for it’s preservation and gives you a peak into how life may have been many years ago. 

4. Enjoy a Beach Day on Tybee Island

Plan a short and sweet getaway to the barrier island near Savannah which is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, vividly painted townhouses, and cordial locals. The island is only a 30-minutes’ drive from downtown Savannah. Tybee is actually a group of beaches such as South Beach, Mid Beach, North Beach, Savannah River Beach, and Back River Beach. Each beach has its own unique features and offers different sorts of activities perfect for kids, teens or adults!

There is much more to Tybee Island than sandy shores and beachy attractions. Pay a visit to Fort Pulaski National Monument, a nineteenth century masonry fortification, and observe how the city withstood a siege during a Civil War. Next on your list should be the Tybee Island Lighthouse; one of the seven Colonial-era lighthouses that is Georgia’s tallest and oldest. Climb to the top and take in the enchanting views of the Atlantic Ocean and Savannah River. Once you are done with the land, take a boat tour to traverse the Tybee’s back river, channels, and tidal marshes. During the trip, try your hand at fishing and have a fun time spotting dolphin.

5. Visit The Savannah and African Art Museum

Experience the deep African heritage, which has been preserved for more than two centuries in the Savannah African Art Museum . The collection has over 1,000 pieces representing 22 African countries.

6. Drive Under the Moss Covered Oaks

Seeing the Spanish moss hanging from the oak trees is one of the best things to do in Savannah, and one of the top ways to experience it is by going to the Wormsloe Historic Site , the tabby ruins of a fortified colonial estate. The driveway to these ruins is a one and a half mile avenue sheltered by these impressive trees.

Jim Liestman

7. take a riverboat cruise.

When you are in Savannah, don’t miss out on the chance to experience the dazzling waterfront from the water on a scenic boat cruise. From a sun-drenched brunch cruise to a dinner voyage kissed with moonlight, this is a unique way to experience the city’s rich history and scenic river.

8. Visit Fort Pulaski National Monument

The Pulaski National Monument is a masonry fortification that dates back to the 19th century. During the Civil War it was the location of an artillery battle, one of the first ones to use rifles. You can take a peak into past lives by touring the fortress, but there’s more than just the historical significance. There is also 5000 acres of saltwater marsh and many miles of hiking trails.

9. Relax at Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is an iconic attraction in the historic district of Savannah, and an absolute must-see when visiting the city! Spanning 30 acres, it’s the largest public park in Savannah (and the oldest too!). Upon first arriving, it will be hard to take your eyes off the Spanish moss filled oak trees, but when you do you will in awe of the neatly manicured lawns and the beautiful water fountain that sits as the centerpiece of it all. Take a leisurely stroll, relax on one of the benches or pack a picnic, pop a squat and enjoy a peaceful meal amongst the hovering Oaks and Spanish moss.

10. Kayak the Skidaway Narrows

Skidaway Narrows is an intercoastal waterway situated within Skidaway Island State Park and this is where you can embark upon a fun kayaking journey. Paddle along the waterway and you will find yourself in a winding canal branching into several forested brooks. During the tour, not only do you have a chance to spot dolphins swimming alongside, but it is also the perfect place for bird watching. You might find yourself mingling with some of the southern bird species, like like Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Egrets and Pelicans

11. Tour The Sorrel Weed House

The Sorrel Weed House has been documented as one of the most visited haunted places in America. Having been constructed in 1840, this house displays the well intricate neoclassical Greek architecture of that time. What things to do at the Sorrel Weed House? You can take a history tour, a ghost tour, or even join in a paranormal investigation event.

12. Visit All the Historic Squares

The 22 historic squares in Savannah and communal mini-parks that are scattered throughout the historic downtown. They offer a little peace, serenity and greenery in the middle of streets lined with businesses and historic homes. They all have their own charm, but one of the most famous is Chippewa Square where the bench scene in the Forest Gump movie was filmed. If you would like to preserve your “square visiting” memory head over to  One Fish Two Fish who sells different scented candles to represent each square.

The Old Savannah Historic Walking Tour will make a stop to many of the historic squares, and give you a little history too.

13. Visit The First African Baptist Church

Said to be the very first black Baptist congregation in North America, the First African Baptist Church is located in Franklin Square in Savannah. It was founded by Reverend George Leile in 1773 as a sanctuary for runaway slaves and worshippers. Reverend George was himself a slave who drove a carriage until he was freed for his loyalty. With the Civil War raging on, many slaves were forced to use the church as a hideout. Today, the church houses a museum with artifacts and memorabilia dating back to the 18th century.

14. Stroll Along River Street

With over 70 shops, boutiques and restaurants, plus waterfront views, it’s easy to spend an afternoon on River Street. Take a stroll just to admire the river view or to be immersed in the former cotton warehouses, and don’t forget to pick up a souvenir to bring back home or a gift for someone special. For more to do, see  The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Savannah’s River Street

15. Stroll Down the Most Beautiful Street in North America

Jones Street was voted one of the most beautiful in North America by Southern Living. And it is, so don’t miss taking a stroll along this quaint tree lined road. Bonus: Mrs. Wilkes Boarding Room restaurant is also located nearby. So, gorge on some of the best Southern food first, then walk it off in beautiful style.

16. SEE THE SHIPS OF THE SEA MARITIME MUSEUM

Built in 1819, the Sea Maritime Museum is found in the Scarborough House and tells the tales of the nautical history of Savannah’s natives during the Atlantic trade. One of the biggest draws to this museum is the multiple galleries of ship models that include colonial vessels, ironclads, steamers and modern navy ships.

17. Get a Taste of France

If you must escape from the Southern lifestyle for a nanosecond, go to The Paris Market to get a taste of France. There you will be engulfed in two-stories of charming French home goods and unforgettable treasures. I can guarantee that you will wish your suitcase was bigger!

18. Immerse Yourself in the History at Fort McAllister State Park

Situated on the coast of the Ogeechee River about 10 miles away from Savannah, you will find Fort McAllister State Park . This park is surrounded by towering evergreen oaks with Spanish moss (of course!), and a large saltwater wetland. It is not only the perfect spot for scenic hiking, picnics, and camping, it is also one of the best places to get a some historical insight. The park is home to Fort McAllister, a Confederate earthwork fortification that was built to protect Savannah from attacks during the American Civil Work. Visitors can see the relics of the war such as cannons, a hot shot furnace, barracks, and palisades. There is also a museum within the parks that has a number of Civil War memorabilia, videos, and a souvenir shop.

19. Get Inside a Novelists Mind

The Flannery O’Connor Childhood Home is a museum dedicated to this acclaimed novelist who wrote The Violent Bear it Away , among several other books. Why would going to this writers home be on your things to do in Savannah bucket list? Because it is a unique look into the mind of an interesting girl. For example, when she was young she would write reviews of the children’s books she read, leaving notes on the pages. Needless to say, she was a bit opinionated.

20. Take a Ghost Tour

Savannah happens to be one of the most ghost-plagued cities in America! Paranormal activities are so common here that locals take it quite lightly. In Savannah, you will be surprised to find a number of haunted sights ranging from graveyards to local pubs. Popular ghostly sites include the rum cellar at The Pirate’s House where you might have an encounter with spirits, the Gothic-style Bonaventure Cemetery where you can take among the tombstones, Sorrel-Weed House, and Madison Square.

If these places are too spooky to navigate on your own (and you want to learn some of the history) then take a tour. There are plenty of ghost tours, but these are two of the top ones:

• Savannah: 2-Hour Paranormal Mystery Tour with Psychic
• Savannah: Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour

21. Buy Original Art and Support an Art Student

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is arguably one of the top art and design universities in the country and they have a gift shop in town, shopSCAD. The students and faculty showcase their work in this trendy boutique-style shop. I walked away with a unique lucky penny necklace.

22. See a Show at the Historic Savannah Theater

The Historic Savannah Theater is one of America’s oldest theaters that is still operating. It opened way back in 1818, and since then it has been hosting live performances and movie shows. Since then the theater has been undergone several renovations, due to fires, and now has an art deco style. Over the years they have featured a plethora of renowned performers including Ty Cobb, Oscar Wilde, Edwin Booth,  E. H. Sothern, and Julia Marlowe. If you wish to watch a dazzling performance in the theater, you can book or purchase tickets to the show through their website .

23. Take a Ghost Tour in a Hearse

Just because a simple ghost tour wouldn’t be creepy enough, take one where you will be riding in a hearse. The Hearse Ghost Tour of Savannah will tell you tales while touring the city in what once was a real hearse.

Don’t want to ride in a hearse? Then take the Ghosts and Graveyards of Savannah trolley tour instead.

24. See a Drag Show

Lady Chablis is a famous drag queen entertainer who was featured in director Clint Eastwood’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and also an episode of Bizarre Foods. Before she passed on, she would perform on the stage of  Club One . Though she is no longer with us, the drag show still lives on—don’t miss it!

25. Spend the Afternoon at The Owens-Thomas House

Prepare yourself to get soaked in the past and experience the untold stories by spending an idyllic afternoon at the Owens-Thomas House . The Regency-style mansion was built in 1819, and features sprawling gardens, slave quarters and a carriage house. The historic house museum gives you an insight to Savannah’s dark history. Through exploring the humbling slave quarters and period rooms filled with historic pictures, interactive exhibits, and artifacts, you can witness the complex and tumultuous lives of the slaves and owners who lived here 200 years ago.

26. Visit the Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetary is the most famous and hauntingly beautiful cemetery with incredible statues, impressive tombs and interesting residents. Having been constructed in the 1800s, this cemetery has elaborate burial vaults that are still intact despite being 150 years old. And there are plenty of ways for you to explore it—you can take a mysterious after-hours walking tour or for something more unique, Segway of Savannah will take you there in style, with limited walking.

27. See the  Forrest Gump Bench

The beauty of Savannah is extremely underrated, but many film directors have used the city as a backdrop. One of the movies is none other than ‘Forest Gump’. Do you remember the scenes where Gump is contently sitting on a bench narrating his life to random people? What if I tell you that you can actually check out the very same bench? After the movie was critically acclaimed, the movie prop became a sort of treasured pop-cultural collectible. While in the movie, the bench was placed in Chippewa Square (a popular spot for photographers), it has now been moved to the Savannah History Museum .

28. Explore The Colonial Park Cemetery

Dating back to 1936, the Colonial Park Cemetery has served as the eternal home to at least 900 people for almost a century. If you are looking forward to a ghost-haunting historical tour, then this is the place for you. Legend has it that the ghost of Rene Asche Rondalier, who was a seven-foot-tall 15-year-old boy burned to death in 1800, still roams around this cemetery up to date. He was convicted of the murder of a young child who was found in the Warren square with her neck broken.

Tours that will take you there are the Colonial Park Cemetery Guided Tour and the Haunted History and Ghosts Walking Tour .

29. Take in the Beauty of St. John Cathedral

View the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist from the inside and the out. There are no words to describe how beautiful the architecture, stained glass work and exquisite carvings are.

Note: the Hop-on Hop-off trolly will take you there!

30. SIP, SHOP & STROLL ON BROUGHTON STREET

Savannah allows to-go cup cocktails on the streets, as long as they are under 16 ounces (one more reason to love this city!). Ask your bartender to make your drink a take-out and spend the afternoon sipping while shopping the trendy boutiques on Broughton Street.

31. TOUR OLD FORT JACKSON

Situated on the Savannah River,  Fort James Jackson  is a National Historic Landmark and the oldest known standing brick fort in Georgia. It was built in the year of 1808 and houses a variety of military artifacts of the Civil War. You can explore the medical room, kitchen, workshop, and other rooms filled with memorabilia that give you a glimpse of a life of a soldier. The highlight of the tour is most definitely the cannon firing programs every day that take place at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. Moreover, there are several fun-filled interactive programs for adults, kids, and families.

32. TAKE A PEDICAB

After your sipping & shopping, let someone else do the driving. You will see Pedicabs throughout historic Savannah, mostly near River Street. Hop on, and they will bicycle you to your destination.  The fee is up to you to decide, though they say the average is $8-$12.

33. SHOP AT SAVANNAH CITY MARKET

Having been plagued by a colossal hurricane in 1896 and almost destroyed by two massive fires, the  Savannah City Market  is a must-visit. It’s a place where you can indulge in the delectable southern food (including the famous pecan pie), visit art galleries splurge on elegant handmade jewelry pieces for mementoes and souvenirs.

34. VISIT THE ANDREW LOW HOUSE

Located near the Cathedral Basilica of St John the Baptist, the  Andrew Low House  oozes luxury and comfort with the high-end materials accentuating its elaborate design. It is famous for Ghost tours. It’s alleged that the ghost of Robert E. Lee, a friend to Andrew low, still looms around the house, evidenced by sightings of a moving rocking chair in an upstairs room. Also, people who have toured this house say that the butler’s footsteps can be heard clearly during nighttime. 

WHERE + WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

35. drink absinthe at a speakeasy.

Mata Hari is a sexy speakeasy that only allows entry with a key, and if you read my post about drinking absinthe at this secret speakeasy you will get some tips on how to get one. Once inside order an absinthe done the traditional way, by melting a sugar cube into the liquor and diluting with water.

36. Find Your Favorite Brew at World of Beer

Whether you want to satisfy your beer thirst or just your curiosity, at World of Beer they got you covered with at least 500 different beers, from at least 40 different countries!

37. Sample the Local Craft Beer

Brewpubs, breweries, beer bars… You name it. When it comes to craft beer, Savannah utilizes the highest quality ingredients. Some of the places that stand out include The Distillery where you must also try out Al Capone turkey sandwich, Southbound Brewing Company for awesome drinks and company and don’t forget to check out the excellent selection of craft beer at Habersham Beverage.

38. Take a Southern Food Cooking Class

Embrace the rich cultural diversity of the South and enroll in a cooking class for a more hands-on Southern food experience. From shrimp and grits to succotash, at Classes by Kesslar you will learn how to make the famous southern staples with the 5 stars rated Top Chef Darin while visiting the eccentric Savannah city.

39. Do a Honey Tasting

Savannah Bee Company is a shop where they are taking their passion for honeybees and redefining honey with beauty products and specialty blends. It’s fun to peruse the store, but you can also get a taste of their deliciousness at their honey bar. Need I say more? Not really, but if your you need more, read about my honey tasting experience at Savannah Bee .

40. Eat at the The Olde Pink House Restaurant

The Olde Pink House Restaurant is nestled within the heart of historic Savannah. Set up in an 18th century mansion, the restaurant has a casual setup with just the right dose of sophistication. Here you can indulge in home-cooked low-country cuisine and traditional Southern fare prepared with the best and fresh ingredients. The restaurant has private dining rooms if you wish to relax and dine in utmost privacy. Don’t miss the yummy chicken pot and make sure to check out the piano bar in the basement after you are with the dinner.

41. Eat at The Grey

Located in a restored 1938 Greyhound Bus Terminal, The Grey restaurant is both subtle and impeccable in its unique art deco style and southern food. 

42. Eat Traditional Southern Cooking Served Family-Style

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , a former boardinghouse, has been serving homestyle Southern cooking in a family-style setting for 68 years. I think they know what they are doing. My memorable dining experience at Mrs. Wilkes included 22 Southern specialties, all of which I fit onto one plate!

43. Take a Food Tour

In Savannah, you must devour the scrumptious Southern food like a local, and you can do that by joining a culinary tour that also offers a glimpse into the city’s culture. It is a great way to get a sampling of a little bit of everything! There’s plenty to choose from, and here are some of the top Southern-style tours that will have you eating everything from barbecue to dessert:

• Savannah: Famous and Secret East Side Food Tour
• Savannah Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour
• Savannah: 3-Hour First Squares Food Tour
• Southern Flavors Savannah Dessert Tour

44. Eat Tutti Frutti Ice Cream

Leopolds is a legendary ice cream shop that claims to be the creators of the Tutti Frutti flavor. They started their recipe in 1919 and can’t find any record of Tutti Frutti prior. It is a unique flavor that tastes like a frozen fruit cake, but better! If fruit cake is not your thing, try the Guinness float made with Guinness ice cream.

45. Drink a Horchata Latte at the Coffee Fox

The Coffee Fox is an award winning, craft coffee house in downtown Savannah where you must have a Horchata latte. It’s like a Mexican mocha—sweet, creamy, and nutty.

46. Partake in an Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea should not only be reserved for a trip to Britain, the South are masters at it too. You can have a little “tea party” at The Tea Room , complete with some delectable tiny finger sandwiches. Bonus. I can vouch for the Emperors Bride blend! It is the most popular brew with pineapple chunks, citrus peels and thistle petals.

47. Try the PB&J Chicken Wings at Treylor Park

PB&J Chicken Wings? Really? Yes Really! The crispy fried wings are tossed in a peanut/pecan butter and peach jelly sauce. Treylor Park certainly knows how to play with the ingredients! How about following your wings up with some fried Oreos for dessert? The menu is divided into five categories; brunch, lunch, shares, entrees, and desserts, and each dish stays true to the restaurants trailer park theme (with a little touch of luxury).

48. Try a Pimento Cheese Sandwich

Many Southern restaurants will feature a pimento sandwich , but maybe not as good as at Gryphon . It is a bonus that is is right across the street from shopSCAD and also supports the students of the Savannah Art & Design Institute. That is probably why their food is so pretty.

49. Eat the Conquistador at Zunzi’s

Zunzi’s is a globally inspired sandwich shop that delivers hearty flavors. It’s top menu item, The Conquistador, has been featured by outlets like the Travel Channel and People.com, and for good reason. Firstly, it is HUGE – good enough for two adults. Secondly, it is filled to the brim with juicy and tender chicken pieces, plus it has provolone cheese and is slathered with Zunzi’s special sauces.

50. Get a Fun & Unique Martini

Jens & Friends is a dive bar with dozens of creative martinis to choose from, and they come with edible accessories. My table sipped on the Rice Krispie Treat and the Moon Pie Martini.

Want to make your own martinis? Check out this 101 Martinis Recipe Book .

51. Visit the Birthplace of the Girl Scouts Founder

Savannah is home to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace , the founder of the Girl Scouts.  You can learn about her life at the ‘home museum’ and if you plan your visit during cookie season,  buy a box…or two…from the troops out front.  Who doesn’t like to indulge in an entire box of yummy Samoas or Thin Mints? Can’t Wait? Buy Girl Scout Cookies Now .

52. EAT ADVENTUROUS CUISINE

If you are an adventurous eater like me and like to try  weird foods from around the world , then get your fill on exotic meats at  Alligator Soul . Depending on the night, you may be able to munch on elk, bison yak, ostrich and even alligator tempura!

WHERE TO STAY

53. sleep at a historic inn with a ghost story.

Staying at a historic inn  with a ghost story shouldn’t be too difficult considering Savannah is the most haunted place in the country. I stayed at the former Dresser Palmer House, home to Ghost Madeline, a sweet female child who leaves pennies for the guests. Though it has since closed, there are plenty of other inns with interesting stories too. Some of the top are  The Marshall House ,  The Gastonian  or  Eliza Thompson House .

Savannah might be a small city, but it full of rich culture and fantastic things to do. I suggest you try to explore the city by foot, so you don’t miss any of the nooks & crannies.

What things to do are on your Savannah Bucket List?

Essential Tips for Visiting Savannah, Georgia Getting There: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to the city center, you can take a shuttle, Uber or Lyft, or take a taxi. You can also board Savannah’s Airport Bus (The 100X Airport Express) to Downtown Savannah, which costs $5 each way or $8 round trip. Where to Stay in Savannah: It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. The Thunderbird Inn (moderate) is a great choice that is a 5 minute walk to Savannah’s historic Downtown District. For something in the heart of the Downtown District, try The Marshall House, Historic Inns of Savannah Collection (moderate) . For something on the less expensive side, try the Comfort Suites Gateway , or Stay Alfred at Drayton Tower , located in the heart of Savannah . For a less expensive option in Savannah’s Midtown, try the Courtyard by Marriott Savannah Midtown . For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the Perry Lane Hotel . Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to Airbnb that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.  Getting Around: Driving in Savannah can be a bit of a challenge and parking fees can be expensive, but if you choose to rent a car, RentalCars.com has great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of options. Taxis, Lyft and Uber are available all over the city, plus most of the top attractions can be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Historic Trolley . Savannah also has a free bus and ferry around the Historic District. Savannah’s public transit service, the Chatham Area Transit (CAT), provides services around Savannah and its suburbs. City Transportation Passes: Day passes for Savannah’s public transit (CAT) can be purchased for $3 per day, which allows unlimited travel on the day of activation. Just notify your driver that you want a day pass instead of a single ticket before purchasing. Best Tours in Savannah : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator , and here are some of the top ones: Savannah: Famous and Secret East Side Food Tour Savannah Riverboat Cruise Savannah: Bonaventure Cemetery with Shannon Scott This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

More About Georgia

Drink Absinthe at a Secret Savannah Speakeasy Climb the St. Simons Lighthouse in Georgia Take a Beach Bike Ride on St. Simons Island in Georgia Drink Moonshine at a Southern Low Country Boil Have a Shark Encounter While Shrimping in Georgia Attend A Honey Tasting in Savannah, Georgia Sleep in a Haunted House in Savannah Eat Pimento Cheese Sandwich in Savannah

200 thoughts on “Savannah Bucket List: 50 Fun Things To Do in Georgia’s Historic City”

Savannah is a beautiful town! Paula Dean's place is there, which has great southern food as well. Lovely town and definitely worth a weekend visit!

I did make it to Paula Deens store, but didn’t have the chance to eat at Lady & Sons. Next time :)

Annette you have the best bucket list recommendations. I love your article! Thank you for taking the time to write this and also sharing it with us all.

Her food is trash that comes from a can. And belongs in a trash can. She is a racist pig. What a poor diplomat for savannah.

U r a piece of SHIT and sounds brain dead to me. 100% fabulous place to eat A must eat if around Savannah

No really, he is right. She sucks big time! I met her while I lived there and she is awful!!! I am so sick of her being synonymous with Savannah.

You don’t sound very nice, yourself.

Rob, you are an idiot. That was a long time ago. Get a grip and move on. YOU sound like a liberal racist yourself. I would gather that you are not from the south and don’t realize that is how the people spoke. Now the blacks call other blacks the “N” word every day and that’s ok? Before you go trashing on a traditional southern woman, go take a hard look at yourself, you hateful individual.

You make it seem like it is OK for a Caucasoid to call a negroid a n bomb. Well its not cool at all. Is it OK to call a Hispanic a beaner or a White guy Saltine cracker. Paula Dean is an albino racist piece of shit.

You all need to get a grip on this race calling. History lesson, white people you’re not from here at all, you all from European countries and came and stole the Indians land. 70% of black people are of Indian decent. I’m am black and more American than you write people. You all feel inferior to other minorities especially black people because you stole people from Africa and bright them him to build America for you. But black people are the ones that made America who it is today. By way of medicine, space travel, architecture, farming, and everything you touch. White people had to enslave black people because you fear us and our intelligence. You broke most black people down and now you get the society that we are in. White people you ate the real thieves of America. The only way to break a powerful people were to treat them like trash and now you’re mad and upset to what you all created. You treating black people the way you have is the biggest sin known to man and you all still won’t say you’re sorry. Government assistance wasn’t created for black people because they raised their own crops and cattle, this was created for you white people so you wouldn’t have to feel the same or appear the same as the black community. This happened in the great depression, but now that sine black people are on assistance is a problem, but there wasn’t an issue when you all needed it. So what is good for the goose isn’t good for the gander. People need to wake up and know that we are all God’s people and he created is to love one another and care for one another but hate had set in your souls and minds and at judgement day you all have to be accountable for your own sins.

You are right god created us to love one another But the part that we would be judged because of what was done before any of us were born…. I do not understand White/ Indian / Italian

Wrong, the African people sold their own people into slavery, they weren’t stolen!

Welcome to the real world ‘Truthbetold. War has been going on for thousands of years, the strong prevail, and write the history books. The American Indian actually crossed the land bridge thousands of years ago from Europe, and conquered the original original Americans, all confirmed via DNA. They in turn were conquered by later Europeans, starting in the 15th century….where do you think the American Indians got their horses from? Stolen from the Spaniards. Privileged white males? All depends on those in control, In the 16th century, the Irish, due to the potato famine, were valued at a dollar, black slaves were worth double at $2. Indentured servitude as you correctly point out. The indentured made a choice, serve for slave wages or starve to death. Later, they made better choices. Now we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Should there be future renumeration for the Irish from the USA government due to their indentured servitude in the 16th century? If the Africans get it, why not the Irish? Does black and white matter?

This nation was founded on ‘might makes right’, and that was the accepted way back then. Unions were formed to equal out the renumeration of the working class, no more kids and folk working on Sundays , and Henry Ford, at $5 per day, really opened the doors. Life is one of choices, good and bad, smart and dumb ones, the smarter gain and earn more as a result…that is the reality of life….. A smart one was Jobs, dropped out of college, invented the Apple and iPhone, now we can’t live without a smart phone ……and he deserves outlandish wealth for taking the huge risk to develop and market it…..some have failed….remember the Blackberry, the Nokia, the first cell phone, the Nokia is now no more….the result of poor choices, and no $$$. What is the goal of any business? To make money. The owners take the risk, and deserve the fruits of their labor. Apple pays it’s people a fair wage. So does Walmart and Amazon. If workers don’t agree, they have the choice to go elsewhere.

You talk About love and spew hate everybody is God’s child but the way you talk to your superior nobody superior black light any color get a grip

these post look extremely old…but never to old to respond to Paula Dean’s place… It is and was great! Great food and atmosphAnd hey truthbetold person…get over yourself you are not a victum and you are damn sure not a genius.. This is not about race its about food. Its a review of a place, not a voting booth

Do you not realize that what happened, happened a long time ago and she apoigized. Maybe think before you let words fall out your mouth

A gun was pointed at her head during a bank robbery by a black man more than 30 years ago. She told the truth in court that she may have used the “N” word when she was upset after th incident. Most of us would have said more than that.

tell us how you really feel, geese

I agree the food was a let down totally.

ROB, YOUR MOM SHOULD HAVE TAUGHT YOU: IF YOU CAN’T SAY SOMETHING NICE, SAY NOTHING AT ALL.

Angry much?

Try Mrs. Wilkes. It’s where the locals go, and is ten times better too!

There is a time and place to view your negative thoughts. I do not believe this is the format to discuss Paula Dean and all the hateful comments both ways should be removed. They do not speak kindly of any of the race’s that live and cherish this unique and quaint town. Many places are mentioned on this site and they are all unique. It depends on what you are looking for home cooking Great seafood. It;s all here in the heart of our City. Not all people judge so harshly, there is allot of people that feel that you without sin cast the first stone. BY the sounds of some of these folks you can tell they have sinned the very sins they now judge other for. So learn to be tolerant and show it and others may learn from you. Use your word for kindness, or you are just as bad.

It’s very interesting to me that Paula Dean, who said something 35 years ago, cannot escape her past, but, today people are allowed to bash conservatives and God and feel that that is their right. Isaiah, the prophet, said “Woe to them who call good evil and evil good.” That is where we are in our society, sadly. But, this is about Savannah and the food there. If we boycott every establishment which doesn’t espouse our beliefs, there will be nothing left. Move on and let’s all mind our own business and try to be better today than we were yesterday and rise above all of this terrible divisive talk. We live in the UNITED states of American and we should try to live by that title.

I’m super excited to take my first trip to Savannah the weekend of the 19th and 20th of December and I’m looking forward to eating at the Lady and Son’s. Funny how everyone wants to throw out the racist card, when in reality they should be more focused on the fact that she publicly apologized for her wrong doings. Let us be more like God and forgive and stop pointing fingers!!! I agree with the Southern Lady if we pick apart everything and everybody we might as well stay at home. That is no way to live!

I have done most of them – Savannah is my favorite home away from home.

If you go, be sure to stay in the Historic District (my wife and I love Kehoe House). The Squares, shopping, River, libations, restaurants are all within walking distance. Park the car and forget about it until you are ready to head out to Tybee for a day at the beach or to eat at the North Beach Grill or Crab Shack. If you are a history buff, there is plenty to see – lots of majestic homes to tour (Owens-Thomas is one of my favorites), as well as forts Jackson, Pulaski and McAllister. For ghosts, I recommend a walking tour. There are a few tour companies, and they all seem to do a pretty good job. The Blue Orb tour at midnight is really fun. I know I might sound like some kind of Visitor's Center troll – not true. I have just been visiting Savannah and Tybee since childhood, and really love the area.

GREAT suggestions! Lucky you for having such a lovely home away from home. I do love that Savannah is a “walking” town, that way you don’t miss anything!

Have you ever ventured past the Historic District into the rest of the city?

Great post and great suggestions! I'll keep them on my bucket list for my trip to Savannah ;)

Perfect! After you visit Savannah let me know if there should have been something else on the list :)

Anyone try the Pirate House? Great place & food excellent. Missed it on last trip to Savannah. Too many things to do & not enough for all. Just a great southern city with soon much history. There are several books of the area & well worth the read.

Pirate House is a very good dining experience..Every trip we end up back there..Try the Pecan crusted fried chicken..its Awesome ! Prices are friendly and atmosphere is charmingly warm.

The Crystal Beer Palace is a fantastic place. My husband and I ate there when we went to Savannah last year. Fantastic atmosphere, very charming, delicious food and glorious drinks!

I also like to get a slice from Vinnie Van Go Go's on Bryan St. It's a cash only place and worth every penny! Or a sweet treat from Back in the Day Bakery.

Nothing better than a good slice!

VVGG is a must! Always our first evening meal in town. Also, if you can catch them open, Walls' Barbecue is really good. If you Google it, you will see stuff about it closing,but it was open again back in May 2010 when I last went there. It is not too far off Columbia square on York Lane. Follow your nose!   Other fun things to do – see a show by SCAD; go to a Sand Gnats game; take the obligatory Harbor Cruise; do not miss Savannah Candy Kitchen; drop by Wet Willies; hang out at the River and listen to the Trumpet Man….

#25 Drive under the Oaks:  I've seen those Spanish Moss trees in FL.  They're beautiful. That street, that photo = stunning.  I'd love to take a stroll or slow drive along that road. #24: I've been indulging in way too much exotic meat lately, so, I'm trying to go mostly vegan for at least the next week and ideally longer, wanna be good to my body, but wow, what a selection at that place. If I ever get there, I will have to try whatever they have on offer that night, unless I get more sensible and decide to go exclusively veg by then, slim chance since it hasn't happened yet.  My adventurous eating mentality trumps the side of the mental make up that doesn't like the idea of murdering mammals and feeding my body with unhealthy flesh. 

It’s hard for me to stay away from meat, especially a juicy burger. But, sometimes I will give my body a break and eat vegetarian. I haven’t tried the whole ‘vegan’ thing yet, but it’s on the list :)

PERFECT timing Annette. I'm going to Savannah in November and just starting my planning! You've got me plenty excited for all the eating I'm going to do. 

You will have to let me know if you find any other gems. Have fun, it’s such a charming city.

Advice if you are going to Mrs. Wilkes: Skip breakfast! Get there around 10:30 or so, and you will likely be in the first group, if not first in line. Cash only!   The Pirates House – kind of corny, but good food and fun. I recommend the Chatham Artillery Punch.

That’s a good tip about skipping breakfast before heading to Mrs. Wilkes. I wish I would have ;)

I've so enjoyed the posts on Savannah! Such a unique city, I really need to make getting there a priority. 

Savannah is such a unique city that I hope you make it to one day!

I live in Georgia for 13 years… and I am embarrassed to say I still haven’t been in Savannah. May be this year. Thanks for the tips, Annette! Very helpful.

Hope you make it to Savannah, it’s such a charming city!

i’M so excited to going to Savannah in 3 weeks! I remembered you had posted this list, and I’m using several of your tips!! It’ll be a quick trip on our way to Disney, but I have always dreamed of visiting Savannah….it just seems to be a place unlike any other…

THANK YOU FOR YOUR LIST!!!

Have a wonderful time! I truly loved Savannah and its Southern hospitality!

We went to Wormsloe today and loved it. So beautiful! We suggest walking the road under the oaks, rather than driving. It’s so peaceful, and nature is a gift that a car seems to hide.

Thank you for the great suggestion! That does seem like a more memorable experience.

One of the most interesting historic sites in Savannah is Congregation Mickve Israel which is the third oldest Jewish congregation in colonial America. They give wonderful guided tours Monday thru Friday. A must experience.

My fiance and I are considering Savannah for our honeymoon in July 2014. Reading this makes me REALLY want to visit. What are the best hotels or B&B to stay at?

I truly had a lovely time in Savannah and really enjoyed the southern hospitality! I only slept at one B&B, the Dresser Palmer House and it was awesome. I did have the opportunity to visit 3 others that seemed equally as wonderful. You can read about them here: https://bucketlistjourney.net/southern-hospitality-and-ghosts-at-savannah-inns/ Congrats on your upcoming nuptials!!

How far is Tybee Island from Savannah? My fiancé and I are also considering SavannH for our honeymoon!!

Tybee Island is really close to Savannah, about 20 miles away. Savannah would be a lovely honeymoon location!

20 minutes rather.

River street is a neat place to visit too (be careful on the cobblestones!) at the south end is the echo circle (not sure the technical name of it, but if you stand in the middle, you can hear echos of your voice). There are tons of festivals that go on all over Savannah! Greek, Asian, jazz, music, movies… The SCAD sidewalk arts festival is the last weekend in April and a sure favorite of my family!! Forsyth park has a farmers market on Saturdays. The first Saturday of the month, River Street is filled with vendors of food and fun wares! There are also free feet rides across the river to the international trade and convention center. Whew! That’s a lot, but only the beginning!

WOW! It sounds like I need to come back for one of the many festivals. I would have loved to have been there for the SCAD sidewalk arts festival!

I love all of your suggestions!! I live in Savannah and have been here all my life(40 years)! Born and raised. Even as a local I never get tired of it. I’m blessed to be able to live in such a wonderful place. I live on Wilmington Island, one of the barrier islands of Savannah. It’s about 15 minutes east of downtown Savannah and about 10 minutes from Tybee. Anyway, glad you enjoyed your stay here. I hope others will as well!!

By the way, if you ever return, Green Truck Pub has the BEST burgers in town!! All natural and local.

I can’t pass up a good burger! I’ll try it next time I am in town :)

I live here in Savannah and have all my life. You have a good list going there. Will say this much… Anyone coming here, make SURE you go to Mrs. Wilkes. Above all, my favorite here. Savannah has tons of great places to eat, but that one is the best. But you didn’t mention St. Patrick’s Day at all. It’s the craziest celebration of it’s kind. Our version of Mardi Gras crammed into one day. But be beware – it’s a huge party, and if that’s not your style, stay away the 17th of March (and the weekend before!).

That sounds like one heck of a party!

Visiting Savannah for the first time in a few weeks, and so glad to stumble across this list! I am now VERY excited to visit! Thanks for all of the great info!

I hope you have an AMAZING time and eat a pimento cheese sandwich for me!

I can’t believe you left off Johnny Harris! I grew up in Statesboro and that was our favorite destination (a long time ago).

Sounds like I may need to have a Savannah Bucket List #2 :)

Make sure to take in a performance by Savannah’s premiere theater company, The Collective Face Theatre Ensemble. Coming up: FOOL FOR LOVE by Sam Shepard, weekends March 7 – 23, 2014.

This is my hometown, currently living in wv. Wormsloe pretty much sums up what i miss about good ol sav ga

Annette, glad you enjoyed your visit to my hometown. I lived in ATL from 1977 to 1997, traveled to many places, domestic and foreign, during that time. I always enjoyed coming home. I’m back now. I would recommend using the Visit Savannah facebook site, the Savannah Visitors Center site, City of Savannah – just google. You’ll find many B&B’s and small local hotels that offer great packages that include tours, meals, entertainment, etc. It costs more to stay downtown but if you don’t mind taking the bus or the hotel/motel shuttles from the Southside you’ll still have a great time. I would not go to any chain restaurant since SAV has wonderful local restaurants (some of those are ‘local chains’. Remember, the restaurants in SAV survive with the support of the locals.

Many thanks for the suggestions!

Sweet melissas for pizza. B Mathews for brunch or lunch (reservations recommended for weekends). Green truck pub had amazing burgers and a fantastic craft beer selection.

I need to come back to try all of these!!

So glad the article didn’t mention Paula Deen. So many better places to eat – The Pink House is my fave.

I am sorry I missed out on eating at The Pink House, the menu looks delish!

Savannah is one of my favorite towns, anywhere in the US. Quaint and sophisticated, smart and dreamy. Take a tour of the open canvas of SCAD (Savannah College of Art & Design) and watch the river turn green for St. Patrick’s Day. Lady Chablis, of course. If you want a primer, watch Clint Eastwood’s “Midnight In The Garden of Good and Evil”. OR, read the book. If you want a sleepy Southern town, this isn’t it. Have a great visit! And come back again!

The river is always green, we do not dye it. The Victorian District is beautiful. Ardsley Park is also lovely, Daffin Park off of Victory Drive..there is much more to do than just the Historic District. Buy local art, not just SCAD art. There are thousands of local artists that were actually born here. FIND A LOCAL to give you a tour not some lying tour guide. No the Forsyth Fountain was not purchased through the Sears catalog. That bench from Forest Gump was only put there for the movie! Stay out of Park and Tree’s flower beds! These folks work to hard to have people trampling through their beds looking for a nonexistent bench! Seek out locals and I mean those born here. Those are the most interesting tour guides!

have a shot with Tony at the Jinx

Track down Darin Sehnert (formerly of 700 Kitchen Cooking School) and beg, borrow or steal to take a cooking class!

I have lived in Savannah most of my life, and I have done just about everything on the list and the things suggested by others. That being said, I would caution the couple marrying in July to think carefully about a honeymoon here. The average temperature hovers around 100 degrees with a heat index of 110-115. The humidity is at 100% so you walk around feeling as if you are wearing a wet towel.

If the heat isn’t an issue, I say come on down, we’d love to have you, but I think full disclosure is important. It gets HOT, ya’ll!

I have lived in Savannah my whole life,and this is a very good list. There are many great restaurants in Savannah mentioned in the list and comments, but I would add one called The Sapphire Grill. Their wine cellar has a private table for two that is perfect for romantic occasions like anniversaries or proposals. Ask for the room when you make your reservation. Other spots I’d add include Elizabeth’s on 37th and Leocci’ s Trattoria. And of course have a PBR tall boy and throw some darts at the greatest dive bar, Pinky Masters (Pinkies)

Now you have me thinking about creating a Bucket List of Romantic Things to do in Savannah!

I grew up in Savannah and have kept close connections and regular visits with family and friends through the years. I enjoyed your list. Wormsloe is sometimes missed, but shouldn’t be. Mrs. Wilkes a definite must. I agree with other comments of those who have been to Johnny Harris. It is a fun place for Barbeque and dinning room in my earlier years was a place we went to dance. I have many found memories of Johnny Harris on Victory drive. I also enjoy a cocktail by the fireplace in the basement bar of the Pink House, with piano in the background. The Greek festival is wonderful as is the Art Festival in April. The Green Meldrim House is a wonderful treasure and should be visited if you can. It is presently the Parish House of St. Johns Episcopal Church. The reredos of St. Johns is an incredible work as is the Gothic Revival Church. By all means walk, and walk slowly as much as possible.

Love your advice to walk and walk slowly! I don’t think I ever walked as much as when I was in Savannah and am so grateful that I did, because the streets are incredibly beautiful.

I am Georgia born & raised and Savannah is my favorite place! But if you are not from the South, beware of July honeymoons – can be 100+ with extreme humidity and tons of our “beloved” gnats! Savannah is too special to have an unexpected experience with the heat with no warning. Mrs. Wilkes is a MUST! The squares are wonderful to explore. Many old homes, River Street, City Market, fresh seafood as well as Southern home-cooking! A carriage ride is really special. A trip in the spring adds beautiful azaleas! Been visiting Savannah all my life and it never gets old.

We lived in the Savannah area for a short while (husband’s job) and I never got tired of site seeing and eating at all the wonderful places. The first time I road down the historical streets and by the 22 squares, I felt like I had lived there many years ago in another life as a Southern Bell. It felt like home. I just absolutely love Savannah and the history. It’s amazing how the homes, churches and other buildings were built so many years ago and how well they have remained. Even the buildings and coble stone streets on the river that were built by the pirates have stood the test of time. Each time we go, I see something I missed on all the other trips. If you’ve never been, you must go.

Gotta go into the candy stores for free samples of the pralines. Then before you leave Savannah, go back and buy some!

You need to add: shrimp n grits at the Cotton Exchange Tavern on Riverwalk. Mac n cheese at what used to be called Avia Hotel on Ellis square.

I live in Columbia SC & have been to Savannah several times but in reading this great bucket list & comments it really makes me want to go back. Great post & comment’s!! Mike Sanford

Bull St, which runs from downtown, is blocked temporarily by Forsyth and then continues is one of my favorites… particularly below Forsyth, where every Saturday a Farmers’s Mkt occurs, then Brighter Day Grocery, Sentient Bean, Le Chai-galerie du vin, the American Legion (great local hangout bar and beautiful ball room upstairs, Betty Bomber’s (classic diner style fare) and Local 11Ten (fine dining) are all in one historic building on Park and Bull. Then, if you continue south you’ll come to Butterhead Green’s (eclectic sandwiches and salads) and Foxy Loxy coffee. A little off the tourist path but a great area to explore. As someone who hope to move their business out of their kitchen and into a small space near our beautiful downtown area, I appreciate your focus away from the t-shirt shops of River and Bay streets.

Like the suggestions, but I think you should include night drifting through the bars, to listen to all the great musicians in Savannah!

That sounds like a perfect night!

Mrs Wilkes is older and better than Paula’s. Kevin Barry’s Pub on River St has great food and wonderful live music, especially if Harry O’Donoghue is playing.

Moved to Savannah from Florida in May of 2013. There is no southern hospitality here at all. It is affectionately known as ” backwardsvillee”. That being said & since I can`t leave, highly suggest that your tour River street, hang out & enjoy the different sights & restaurants. Forsyth is known for its trees & saturday farmer markets. Have a picnic, be nice to the homeless there, lots of weddings all the time. Back to the restaurants, Molly McGee, & a pizza place in the Market. While your In the Market go see Brian Ma Greggor, an artist who does beautful work in a beautiful & interesting process. The dancing waters there are better than Forsyth & its great to watch the kids playing in them. Have not been to Paula Deens. The Pirate House was great the first couple of times, don`t care for it anymore & yes it is truly haunted. Took a ghost tour & out tour guide was scared of ghosts. We enjoyed ourselves much better just visiting.

Since Savannah has such a storied history, do you have any antiquing recommendations?

Unfortunately, I have not done any antiquing in Savannah. Hopefully someone else will read your comment and have a suggestion for you.

Hi, we are coming there for a couple of nights July 4th to the 6th on our way to Hilton Head Island, SC. We are staying at the Azalea Inn and Gardens…do you have any feedback on that Inn? It seems to get great reviews on Trip Advisor, but I’m wondering if you can walk to the River Street area. If not, can you recommend an Inn/B & B in that area that is nice? Price isn’t an issue. Many Thanks!

Though I did not stay at the Azaela Inn, I did do a tour of it and it was truly lovely. The innkeeper at the time (I believe it’s the same one) was an absolute blast. It’s is a little bit of a walk to the River Street area (maybe a mile or so), but I did it and it was so nice walking through the neighborhoods and the squares on the way. The Zeigler House is a bit closer to the river and it’s amazing! I stayed at the Dresser Palmer House and I definitely recommend that one too. If you walk to the river you can always catch a pedi-cab back to the inn.

We are visiting now and my absolute favorite thing to do is walk the town at night. Don’t forget a trip through the cemetery during the day. We had dinner at 17 Hundred 90 and LOVED it! Awesome food and service, super cozy atmosphere. Pirates House lunch buffet tomorrow!

Sounds like you are having fun!! Please share how you liked your Pirates House lunch buffet :)

We are visiting for the 4th of July. What time do you have to get in line to get in Mrs. Wilkes? Thanks.

They open at 11:00am, so if you’d like to be seated in the first round I’d recommend getting there about an hour ahead of time.

Anyone know if there is any stores that have REAL Authentic Amish goods. There is a peanut butter they make that I refer to as Amish crack cause once you have some on English muffins you can’t stop. Am going to Savannah next week so am looking.

Thanks for some great suggestions here. I really appreciate the fact that you took time to make suggestions that will fit into anyone’s budget. My wife and I will be going in a month and we look forward to checking out some of the hotspots you mentioned. Thanks again.

Have a fabulous time and let me know if find some new Bucket List worthy things to do in Savannah :)

We are coming to Savannah the first week of October and would like to know a good place to stay that close enough for walking in the Historic District but not too expensive. We are in our 70’s and 80’s and still walk well but give out Easley. I have some lower back pain and have to rest and then get up and go again.

Take a historic walking tour with Savannah Belle Tours. We have taken quite a few and she is the best, plus she has a Groupon for 2 for $17! Worth it!!!

You will be considered a cheap-ass if you pay a Pedicab driver a lousy $9.00 to cart your fat ass around in that type of heat.

Savannah is my favorite Southern city. After I read some of Eugenia Price’s early books, my husband and I made several trips to the Savannah area, so when I began writing my own novel, I chose it for the setting. Springtime in Savannah is a double novel, with one story merged into another. We continue to visit Savannah, and love to come in January. The weather is perfect. We stayed at the new Bluegreen timeshare on Ellis Square, and enjoy walking everywhere. Of course, we love touring old homes and taking lots of photos. Thank you for your warm Southern hospitality. See you next year and read my 400-page, contemporary Christian novel. Goggle preview has 77 free pages.

Just been reading some of your suggestions in preparation for a trip in October. Dying to surprise my wife with a visit to the House of Mata Hari. Do you think the concierge desk at the Hyatt (where I’m staying for a conference) could find us a key?

I can’t really say for certain, but I’d definitely give it a shot. Maybe give concierge a call before you arrive and let us all know how it turns out!

It looks like you squeezed a lot in considering you had a wedding to attend!

What can I do in the month of december.

Hi Ruby, Check out Painting With a Twist in Savannah if its not too late. Its new, different, and a ton of fun! It is a BYOB art studio. But if you don’t drink then that is ok too! An instructor takes you step by step through a painting in 2-3 hours and you get to leave with your masterpiece.

OK….so I have parents that moved to Savannah on Skidaway Island about 4 years ago. They are in their late 60’s…….and have ridden their bikes all over, poked around there and there and absolutely love the city. They are snowbirds – Connecticut in the summers.

Looking to get my mother a gift for her birthday of something either from Savannah or to do in Savannah. Any ideas? Not sure what she has or has not really done yet…so I realize I am going in blind……..

Hi Russell, Check out Painting With a Twist in Savannah! Its new, different, and a ton of fun! It is a BYOB art studio. But if they don’t drink then that is ok too! An instructor takes you step by step through a painting in 2-3 hours and you get to leave with your masterpiece. Its designed as a fun night out and it makes for a great gift for someone.

Hey Russell, I think Groupon or Living Social has a deal right now on the Savannah Riverboat Cruise. It is a neat riverboat that departs from River Street. They have different cruises, some with dinner. They have a bar on board. It might be something they would enjoy if they haven’t been.

Definitely, if at all possible, do not plan a trip to Savannah during the months of June – August… unless you just really enjoy the extreme heat and humidity, it can be very miserable if you’re not used to it. That being said, Spring and Fall are the absolute best times to visit, especially if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing on foot! Something to keep in mind, also, is that the first Saturday of every month there is arts & crafts festival on River Street. Some weekends it’s a whole weekend long festival. To the person who asked about what to do in December… the first Saturday night has a great lighted Christmas parade, that weekend has a weekend long festival on the river. There is also a great gingerbread house contest and they all get put on display at the Westin… not sure when that starts but if you Google it I’m sure there will be plenty of info online.

Hey Annette! Thank you so much for this post on Savannah:) I’m planning to take the kids to the down south and this list definitely helped me. I had a question..how do I follow your blog? Thanks again for your post

You can receive blog post updates and a monthly newsletter by signing up on my email list which is located in the righthand sidebar of the blog: https://bucketlistjourney.net Just fill in your name and email address :)

If you are lucky… You can meet Jerry. Ask around…

Quick tip: D. Luxe closed a few months ago. But the Savannah Square candle line is still being made and can be found at One Fish Two Fish!! They are amazing quality candles and have such interesting stories attached to the scent of each square!

Some of these are over rated, particularly leopards which is no better than breyers ice cream from the store.

Really. Is there anything to do in Savannah that isn’t shallow? Or have I come to the wrong blog?

It is Leopold’s, not Leopards. You cannot by Leopold’s flavors at the grocery store, nor can you buy Breyers so freshly made. The menu changes monthly. Rose Petal ice cream is one of my favorites. This is a guide for people visiting Savannah, and Leopold’s offers a bit of history as well as confections and sandwiches. If you can handle the long lines that frequently form outside of the store, it is well worth the wait.

Planning a trip feb2-8. Want a carriage ride, suggestions ?

You have a wonderful BUCKET LIST! Savannah was my home for 10 great years and it is a beautiful place!! You could add PINKY MASTERS where we started on St. Patrick’s Day. Another institution is JohnnyHarris Restaurant and the Sand Gnats Ball Park!!!! Thanks for letting me reminisce!!

Thanks for the insider suggestions! You were lucky to have lived there for 10 years :)

Obviously written by someone who does not live in Savannah. Half the stuff on this list are tourist traps. Wanna know the best way to spend your time in Savannah? Find a local and follow them around.

It may be difficult for someone on short vacation to find a local to follow for a few days. But, if you have any other suggestions of the “non-tourist trap” things to do while visiting Savannah please share, I am sure everyone reading would be interested in them.

I just moved my family to the Savannah area, and I have not had much time to explore. I am thankful that someone else has taken the time to research places/things to do and make a list. This way there was less work for me. You gave me a cheat sheet in a way! Sure the list may include touristy places, but I hate to be the bearer of bad news… Savannah is known to make money from visitors. It’s marketed as a tourist’s destination place. I’m happy to put revenue back into my local economy. I am even happier some very nice people are giving me pointers as to what is out there. As previously stated, I am new to the area and haven’t gone out exploring. However, I’m not mindless; I will judge places for myself. I am glad I now have suggestions to at least start somewhere. So, thank you… to everyone who gave a suggestion.

How exciting to be living in a new city where there is so much exploring to do! I’m sure all the readers would love to hear what you find in your Savannah adventures, so if you remember come back and leave some new ideas in the comments :)

Check out my long post for suggestions. Take a tour of the Coastal Botanical Gardens on US 17 for free. Take the kids to Fort Jackson by Tybee and Fort Mcallister in Richmond Hill. (Small parking fees for those, and admission cost to help with upkeep at Ft. McAllister.) There is a small aquarium center and trails to walk at the Skidaway Island aquarium for minimal admission cost. My son and I love it there. Welcome to the area!

In addition to riding a Segway through Bonaventure Cemetary, I always enjoy bouncing on a pogo stick on top of a Civil War soldier’s grave. So much fun!

Go to McDonough’s! It is the best karaoke in town and a wonderful atmosphere to boot! Also a fun place to catch celebrities during the film festival. I have met -to name a few- Stan Lee, Norman Reedus, Nina Dobrev, Richard Speighter (from Supernatural), Justin Long, there!!!

Zunzi’s is a must. It boasts South African cuisine and has two locations in the heart of downtown. One has live entertainment using instruments that I’d never seen until it opened. It’s Godfather sandwich is mouthwatering and will feed two. If you want to see a veritable museum of newspaper clippings and old photographs related to our local history before dining on a variety of dishes from the region (I love the shrimp po boy with fried green tomatoes) then you should visit the Crystal Beer Parlor. This restaurant/bar has served Savannians since 1933, and is a local favorite. It is not far from Mrs. Wilkes’ and is open much later. It is family friendly, too. Don’t forget Tybee Island and the lighthouse. If you have someone to watch the kids, go on a pub crawl/ ghost tour. There are several to choose from. Now, if you do have the kids with you, you should visit the Jepson center with two stories of interactive exhibits for children. Phase one of Savannah’s Children museum is an innovative reclamation of historical train repair facilities. It has two stories of mazes, slides, giant checkerboards, etc., and is adjacent to the Georgia State Railroad Museum. There you can tour a variety of antique train cars and learn the history of the railroad from early in Savannah’s history. They also have a huge room full of model trains to delight the train enthusiasts in your midst. City Market is the location of Vinnies, as well as dozens of art galleries. I moved here in 2000, and have happily made it my home. The summer humidity and gnats aside, I love it. It is also a pivotal spot on civil rights history, civil war history, Revolutionary War and colonial history…..Ha! I guess I could write my own top 25. I suggest a visit between October through December or in the weeks just after St. Patrick’s Day through Memorial Day for the most ideal temps. It is definitely a place to put on your travel bucket list!

Grabbing a footlong slice of pizza from sweet Melissa’s should definetly be on the list I’m in savannah twice a year and always do. The whe in the wall looks run down but ver surprisingly good food. Right scross the street from that paula deen lady I’ve never seen her on tv but tried the restaurant wasn’t impressed. Went to a place called sisters of the south not in the historic distric but best southern food I ever had

Quick question about Mata Hari. Even if my husband and I don’t stay at any of the mentioned places, could we still stop one or all of them and ask for a key?

I’m not sure if they would be receptive to that, maybe give them a call first? You may also find some helpful hints by reading the comments of this post https://bucketlistjourney.net/drinking-absinthe-at-a-secret-savannah-speakeasy/

We went there for 5 days.our 1st day we ate there it was amazing fresh food,and the best fried chicken ever,and was so inexpensive for what you get.. I Dont know about all of these other comments, its obvious they are not from the south… I’ll recommend this restaurant to everyone I meet…..oh and I must add’ the servers and everyone that works there was amazing.

Just got back from our mini vaca to Savannah! We nearly did everything on this list and had the best time!! We can’t wait to go back. Thanks for the suggestions. Love your blog and will be checking back often to read up on your latest adventures :)

Happy to hear that you had an incredible time!! Did you make it to the secret speakeasy? Because if you did I am sure all the readers would love to hear how you got a key :)

We did make it there!! The doorman opened the door and asked if we were here for the burlesque show.. And our response was..”Of course we are!!” So that’s how we luckily got in without a key. Such an awesome experience!!

Savannah, Georgia the oldest city in Georgia – this definitely is a place that I want to visit. My brother has moved to Charleston last year with his family and I will go to visit him and my nephews very soon. When I go there it will be for a month or more so I can see all the wonderful things in the state of Georgia! Since my brother has moved I am dreaming of going to Savannah! Thanks for the wonderful post! I would love to visit and see all these wonderful places! Greets!

Thanks for sharing useful post with us.I also Was planning to visiT Attractions in Georgia with my family, I think it was an awesome place for vacations with family.

Such a Great Information ,Thanks for sharing with us.I also Was planning to visit and doing Amazing Things to do in Georgia with my family, I think it was an awesome place for vacations.

Gryphon does not serve pimento grilled cheese :( B. Matthews has a fried green tomato and pimento cheese BLT that was really good!

First thing to do will be to go by the old home stead and see the house my children grew up in. (Near Boniventure cemetery naturally!!) After that, visit Fam and friends. From there, who knows!!!

Planning a trip with my best friend in April, and cant wait to try some of your great suggestions! Thank you!

Have a great time!!! It is a wonderful city…and let me know if you find something new to add to the list :)

I’ve been to Savannah many times visiting my father’s family. Even though they’ve passed and interred at Bonaventure, I still love to travel to this beautiful city with my sister and family at least once a year. We just recently visited St. John (never paid attention to it before now!)- beautiful church!! I wanted to revisit Wormsloe last summer- saw on website that they charge $10.00 a person! Beyond that beautiful drive, there is nothing else to see- no historic homes, etc. – just an educational center.

Known for its rich flora Savannah, Georgia during the humid summer months supports a diverse wildlife population. Savannah prides itself on historic preservation. This means that if a house is in the Historic district, chances are — surprise! — it’s a historic house, complete with lanterns on the front porch as well as old ironing boards in the kitchen that inevitably have a ghost behind them.

Firstly, I’m glad this list didn’t mention Paula Deens restaurant. Having lived in Savannah my entire life, I’ve learnt that only tourists eat there and that the quality of the food has gone way down. Paula never even visits the restaurant nowadays.

Leopolds is overly expensive and not that great. I prefer Breyers.

You should try Bakers Pride bakery on Derenne. It’s the best bakery in the southeast United States. They cater to a ton of local businesses and restaurants, but I’d recommend going to the source for the delectable deliciousness.

Also, look up geocaching..

Me and my girlfriends are gonna do Savanah because of Paula Dean ….. It will be up to our intentions not anybody”s to see how our trip turns out… If, it is bad might because of someone not something! Besides I wouln’t really care to go otherwise! USE TO BE A STINKY LITTLE TOWN

thank you thank you this is a great list! i am doing a day trip from Atlanta saturday and cant wait to check some of these place out!

Have fun and drink a glass of sweet tea for me :)

Hi Annette, on my way to Savannah and thought I would take a look and see what you had listed. I’m hitting up most of them. Looks like it’ll be a fun trip!

I saw that you were going and I am jealous!! Have so much fun, post lots of pictures and let me know if you find something new to add to this list :)

Great bucket list,but,questas born and raised there,I have a couple of additional points ,you may want to add them.Johnnie Harris Bar b que,on Victory.Wilson’s Seafood in Wilmington.The Brass Rail out on Tybee. And Fort Pulaski,Fort Scriven.Take a side trip to Dafuski Island,or St Helens.

Great! Thanks for the suggestions.

Thank you for the insight! We will be traveling to Savannah in July and cannot wait! We are staying at the Hamilton Turner Inn for for a few days then we are heading to Tybee Island for a few days. I can’t thank folks like you enough for all the pointers to help us plan our stay.

I hope you have an AMAZING trip!

Tonight we’re taking an overnight flight from Los Angeles and tomorrow we will be in Savannah — our first time. We rented an SUV so we can visit the wildlife refuges, drive the coast and see some outlying areas. We’re staying at the Dresser Palmer House in the Johnny Mercer Suite for eight days. I hope that will allow us to meander and see all these wonderful recommendations without killing our legs and feet. We’ve also taken note of suggestions from commenters. If you like we’ll post a report when we get back. I’m so excited about this trip. My husband retired today and I can’t think of a better way to exit one world and enter another than to immediately fly across the country to someplace that will be new and exotic to us.

I’m excited for you, what a way to go into retirement!! Have a wonderful time. I’m sure everyone who reads the comments would love a report when you get back, so if you have time that would be great!!

Have chiggers bothered anyone and where do you have to beware of ?

I completed 11 of 25. Thanks so much! Possibly 1 more before night out

11 of 25!! That’s great! I hope you had an amazing time doing them too!

We just went there yesterday. Forget about anything if you don’t get there before 10:00 am, because there is no where to park, and that was on a Tuesday! Tried to park at one of the squares, but it’s 30 min parking. Went to the underground garage, no places left. When we went to exit, I told the gal at the window they were full, and she refused to look at me. Crap trolley guide drove right past Paula Deen’s restaurant, and didn’t even mention it. When I asked why he didn’t mention it, he said “Hey, she makes seven figures a year serving her style of food.” I guess that meant she wasn’t worth mentioning? I thought it was a total bust. Our family gave it a “3.”

I and a business partner recently formed a tour company called Black Betty’s Tours and we have begun a tour entitled Piracy and Privateers. On our excursion, we venture down River Street and throughout the historic district, exploring the town’s nautical and dueling history. I see that you visited Savannah quite some time ago. However, I just wanted to introduce this new company to you given your interest in fun and interesting activities. If you ever find yourself in Savannah again, I encourage you to let us know and perhaps see about joining us for a tour! We have a website (blackbettystours.com) and facebook page.

Just came back from Savannah after attending a meeting. We went to Girabaldis, The Grey, Vic’s on the River, Pearl’s Saltwater Grille and The Olde Pink House. All were fantastic but for very different reasons and different types of cuisine. I also went to the beach at Hilton Head as the Savannah Westin has a reciprocal agreement with Westin Hilton Head to use their private beach. It was awesome. We also walked a bit after dinner and visited the local shops…my favorite Savannah Bee Company! Great city and can’t wait to go back!

Sounds like you have an AMAZING time!

Hello, could anyone recommend me vegetarian places to eat in Savannah? Thanks!

Just FYI for anyone reading the comments, Johnny Harris closed permanently several months ago.

Here is a history lesson for all of the people who think that whites were the only people to own black sves. Do your homework!!! The first slaves were owned by southern blacks. get a grip and learn your history lessons.

At the risk of starting another upset. Slavery was far more complex than people want to believe. You are right rosemarie, African Americans were in fact often owned by there own race in the beginning. They were also captured and sold by African warring tribes. There was also white slavery where in people white people where forced into slavery for various reasons. Some of them mere children that were stole for the purpose, some of them ” Indentured Servants ” which was in fact it’s own form of slavery. That being said any form of slavery in any time period in any place is wrong. I would like to point out that we should not delude ourselves into believing slavery has ended. Human trafficking is still alive and well in the U.S. as much as it is in other countries.

As a Savannah resident I have to say this, politics aside I think Lady and Sons restaurant is overpriced and the food isn’t very good. Having eaten there the food does in fact taste canned. I would much rather eat at Mrs. Wilkes or Southern Sisters. That is purely based on their food. Thank you for listening.

We are visiting next week and are sad to hear that the best BBQ place in town (Johnny Harris) is now closed – does anyone have any ideas on what we can replace it with? Current plans are to go to Misses Wilkes, Mata Hari’s, Pinky Masters, walk Jones Street and then druve under the gorgeous trees enroute to Wormsloe, the Crystal Beer Garden for the fried green tomato Poboys, catch some karaoke at McDonoughs………..etc but I was really really hoping for some wonderful southern ribs….drat!

Hi, my bf is from Savannah but I have never visited yet. I was interested what kind of place he grew up in, but to be honest I was not so excited to go there. But thanks to your article, now I’m very excited and I can’t wait to visit there!! Thank you for your amazing article :)

So happy to hear that this article made you excited to visit. It’s a really neat city and I hope you have an amazing time!

The bottom line about Paula Dean’s place is this If you are a healthy eater and enjoy being fit and taking care of your health, Steer clear of anything with her name on it. I have gone there and it is not food for someone who enjoys being healthy and having a healthy lifestyle. The point about Paula is she was diabetic long before she announced it and still continued to promote her atrocious caloric, heavy laden carb CRAP. The majority of america is over weight so I am sure the majority of people think her food is the bomb. VERY UNFORTUNATE for them. But you can’t influence a person to be healthy when they have no interest in bettering themselves.

We are taking a trip to Savannah March 25, 2017 for a few days then on to Charleston for a few more days. Need suggestions on things we MUST see and where we MUST eat. Also, some references on where to stay. Never have been there and we have no idea what the MUST are. Thanks in advance for the information.

Just an update on #16: Unfortunately, Lady Chablis passed away of pneumonia on September 8, 2016.

My girlfriend and I just happened to be visiting Savannah a few days later on the 10th of September. The club had In Memoriam posters hanging outside. People seemed pretty sad about it. We had never heard of Lady Chablis before then, as we had never read “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” or seen the movie. We were compelled to watch it when we got back home and enjoyed Lady Chablis’s wonderful performance -unique and interesting person to say the least. R.I.P. The Grand Empress of Savannah

Oh no!! Thank you for the update.

Besides all the racism from both parties I do believe that it’s a good place to visit, there is a lot history in that city and I am heading there this coming Friday, I will find out what to do when I get there.

Pushing the comments aside, Paula’s restaurant was so disappointing. I was looking forward to having that delicious cooking, but alas, it did not live up to the hype. Thank goodness my mother taught how to cook. It is because of her that I have extremely high standards for southern cooking, and she is also the reason why I currently fix more salads so that I can keep my husband from getting fat.

Bonaventure Cemetery is a must see when you go to Savannah. If you don’t want to pay for the expensive tour you can buy the book Remember Me Within the Walls of Bonaventure by Vera Turner. It’s a very good read! https://www.amazon.com/Remember-Me-Within-Bonaventure-Cemetery/dp/0615669573

I liked the post… I’ve been thinking about going for a walk in Savannah!. One of the things I like most about this region is the rich places to ride and entertainment and besides these buildings and houses reminds me of many movies… really is a wonderful place to visit the promenade.

Such an amazing and historical US city – excellent tips as well, I can’t wait to go back.

Those moss-covered oaks look surreal

Hey Annette! Thanks for this post on Savannah. Planning to go here this year.. will definitely check some of these places out!

Great! I hope you have a great time!

wow! I’m very interest Drive Under the Moss Covered Oaks. It’s beautiful, It’s like a moss covering the trunk, just like in horror movies, thinking of the way to hell, it’s really unique, but I do not know if they are always mossy like this or just for a while. certain time. What season should you go to this year?

Opened in 2014, Sly’s has become a major food hub for students, tourists, and locals alike. Focused on quality food at a good price that appeals to the growing market, Sly’s took a different approach to the burger industry. Take your favorites, make them smaller, and have them all. Boy, oh boy, the city of Savannah fell in love, and love spreads everywhere.

I’ve never been to Savannah but it looks like an amazing place to visit!

You have described the place amazingly well. I have never been to Savannah but i sure will love to explore this beautiful place. Amazing post.

Love this post so much and has me so excited to visit! Can you tell me where the pin photo is? It looks gorgeous and I would love to explore it while I’m in Savannah. Thank you!

There are a few photos in the pins and they are from Forsyth Park, Tybee Island and Wormsloe Historic Site.

Thanks for sharing useful post

The article has extremely quality content, I appreciate it, your article will surely bring a lot of useful knowledge to everyone. respect you

Awesome Post! Now I have an idea on what things to do on my next vacation over there! Savannah Georgia is really the best! Thanks for sharing this video! I really miss the place specially Downtown! I’m already looking at visitsavannah.com to really find good accommodations and great places to visit there!

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55 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA (+ Food Tips!)

Savannah is one of our favorite cities in the USA, one that we’ll keep returning to for years and decades to come–and with so many incredible things to do in Savannah, GA, is it any wonder?

It’s not just that there is so much to do, though: Savannah has a vibe all its own.

With a combination of 18th-century city planning, stunning historic architecture, and a modern twist injected by local artists  (the Savannah College of Art and Design offers some of the best art and design studies in the country), Savannah is a delightful combination of traditional and innovative.

Savannah is a quintessential southern city–or even more specifically, a quintessential Lowcountry city.

And, if you’re looking to get a taste of this very complicated and unique portion of the USA, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve visited Savannah many times over, on mother-daughter weekend getaways and weeklong stays with my husband Jeremy (and now our dog Ranger) alike.

Looking for the best things to do in Savannah, Georgia?

Here’s what you can’t miss!

Table of Contents

Overwhelmed By 50+ Things to Do in Savannah?

The best things to do in savannah, ga, where to stay in savannah, what to eat in savannah (quick guide), getting around when visiting savannah, the best time to visit savannah, ga.

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This Savannah blog post is something of a behemoth, and it has grown and been extensively edited over the years as I’ve returned to the city again and again.

If you’re looking for something more compact to plan a short trip, I highly recommend checking out our suggested Savannah weekend itinerary or guide to spending one day in Savannah .

We also have several other blog posts on Savannah broken down by topic, including a round-up of the best coffee shops , the best day trips , and the best photo spots in the city!

And, of course, most importantly–a full food and restaurant guide to Savannah that’s far more extensive than what you’ll find here.

I’ll link to the relevant guides where it makes sense throughout this post, but if you’re looking for more detailed guides or our coverage of the south as a whole, be sure to use the search bar in the top right of the screen (or on mobile, the search bar found in the menu bar).

For a full Savannah bucket list that will keep you busy for ages, though–this is the right place to be!

Wander the 22 town squares.

Savannah is still home to 22 of its original 24 town squares, and they dot the historic center of the city.

Idyllic, beautiful, and full of gigantic oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, the squares are a welcome break from the oppressive southern heat during the summer and a delightful place to rest your feet and enjoy some people-watching at any time of the year.

It’s impossible to choose a favorite, but Chippewa Square (where the Forrest Gump bench scenes were filmed!), Lafayette Square, and Monterey Square are all near the top of our list.

Dine in style at some of the best restaurants in Savannah.

You can throw a stone in any direction and hit a place for a great meal in Savannah–from coffee shops to fine dining to barbeque joints, Savannah is all about the delicious Lowcountry food.

Make sure to save room on your list of things to do in Savannah for at least one gut-busting, multi-course, indulgent meal, though–it’s a Savannah experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

We have a more detailed guide to Savannah restaurants here , but if you’re looking for a classic Savannah restaurant, here are a few options that will be sure to impress.

Elizabeth on 37th

If you’re a seafood lover, Elizabeth on 37th is the fine-dining restaurant in Savannah for you.

Everything from the setting in the mansion the restaurant is housed in to the local seafood specialties that the menu is made up of will have you begging to come back.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

Mrs. Wilkes is one of the most iconic restaurants in Savannah and is unique among these listed for serving all-you-can-eat, family-style meals.

Line up early (people often start lining up hours before the doors open for lunch at 11:00 AM), and then sit down to enjoy a delicious meal with several new friends.

You’ll pay your flat fee on your way out the door, $30/person, cash or check only.

Alligator Soul

Adventurous eaters need to be sure to add a meal at Alligator Soul to their list of things to do in Savannah!

With meats like ostrich, kangaroo, antelope, and (obviously) alligator available, you are guaranteed to find unique flavors on your plate.

For those less adventurous with their meals, don’t worry–there’s a broad selection of more typical meat and seafood offerings on the menu as well.

The Olde Pink House

Want to dine in an 18th-century ballroom under a crystal chandelier?

Head to the Olde Pink House for classic southern food with a modern twist, in one of my favorite settings in the city.

Be sure to order their Food Network-featured BLT salad with fried green tomatoes!

It easily makes the list of the most memorable dishes I have ever eaten.

Take a food tour.

Is restaurant sampling not enough for you?

Consider jumping on a food tour to learn all about food traditions in the Lowcountry… complete with enough tasty food to leave you stuffed for hours, of course!

This popular food tour is a great introduction to both Savannah’s food scene and the city itself!

Tour a house museum (or four).

Savannah’s house museums are a staple of tourism in the city, and to be as small as it is, the city boasts an unusual number of them–nearly 20 in all!

Some are home to museums featuring art other than the house, some are the homes of other businesses, and some are open to visitors interested in learning some of the history of Savannah and its residents.

Most of the homes date to the early-to-mid 19th century and almost exclusively were built by Savannah’s elite residents of their day.

Not sure where to start?

Here are a few of the most popular house museums in Savannah .

Mercer-Williams House

If you only want to add one house museum to your list of things to do in Savannah, the Mercer-Williams house is a great choice!

Arguably the most famous house in Savannah due to its prominence in the book ( and movie ) Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the Mercer-Williams house was the site of the 1981 death of Danny Hansford as covered in the book.

As the last owner of the home before it was turned into a museum, Jim Williams’ (the accused culprit in question) touch and eclectic style is found throughout the house.

What isn’t found in the house, though, is the scandalous story: the Mercer-Williams House is currently owned by the sister of Jim Williams, and as a result the tours focus more on the house itself.

Also: if you haven’t read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , you definitely should before visiting Savannah!

If you’re a big fan of the book, you can even add a Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil themed tour to your list of things to do in Savannah!

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Owned by the Owens family for more than 100 years, this early-19th century home takes up a full city block and was donated to the Telfair Academy in 1951.

The home once operated as a lodging house that saw its share of interesting guests, including Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette.

Today, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters has dedicated itself to showing the honest history of the property, including highlighting the extreme amount of forced labor from enslaved people that brought these Antebellum mansions their luster.

Davenport House

Furnished and decorated in the style of 1820s Savannah, the Davenport House serves as a look back to how the rich elites lived in Savannah in the early 19th century.

The Davenport House also holds the distinction of being the first classic Savannah home saved from demolition by what would become the Historic Savannah Foundation.

After being saved in the 1950s, the mansion was later restored and opened to the public as a museum, kicking off what would become Savannah’s tradition of house museums.

Sorrel-Weed House

Considered to be one of the most haunted properties in Savannah, the Sorrel-Weed House is a magnet for those with a curiosity about the paranormal, from local ghost tours to paranormal TV shows!

Though you can take a typical daytime tour that will cover the history of the house as well as a bit about its legends, if you’d like a truly spooky experience, ghost tours are held at night in the Sorrel-Weed house.

Visit City Market.

Boasting candy shops, cookie stores, and ice cream shops (noticing a theme?) along with boutiques, art galleries for every taste, restaurants, and sometimes live music, City Market is a must-see in Savannah.

A couple of centuries ago, City Market was more need-focused, a place for locals to shop for groceries and other necessities.

Today, it is a fun place to indulge, relax, and a great starting point for seeing the sights in Savannah!

Be sure to stop into the Savannah Candy Kitchen while you’re there–if they’re busy making fresh pralines (and they normally are), you’ll often be offered a delicious sample that is still warm!

Indulge your sweet tooth at Leopold’s Ice Cream.

Nearly 100 years old and rightfully known for selling some of the tastiest ice cream in Savannah, no list of things to do in Savannah would be complete without a mention of Leopold’s Ice Cream !

Consider trying their signature Tutti Frutti (classic, but not for me) or Butter Pecan (absolutely delicious) flavors.

Or, try one of the dozens of other flavors available, ranging from the familiar to the downright inventive.

Go antiquing.

With dozens of shops to choose from, Savannah is an excellent city to try hunting for some delightful antiques.

Unfortunately, I personally confirmed with the proprietor that the incredible 4-story antique shop where I took the below photo, Alex Raskin Antiques, is now permanently closed.

It’s sad to say goodbye to a Savannah icon, however, the good news is that there are still plenty of remarkable antique shops to explore in the city!

Tour some beautiful houses of worship.

Like the rest of the architecture in the city, Savannah’s houses of worship tend toward the grand and beautiful.

If you’re looking for a few of the best ones to put on your list of things to do in Savannah, be sure to keep these three in mind!

First African Baptist Church

Thought to be the oldest African-American congregation in the USA, the First African Baptist Church was founded in 1773, and a full century later, the building was completed and opened its doors to worshippers.

Notably, the First African Baptist Church was a stop on the Underground Railroad, and while for obvious reasons no records were kept of how many formerly enslaved people passed through, the church was clearly set up to support high numbers.

When visiting, you can see holes in the floor that were cut to allow the former slaves hiding underground to breathe.

The entrance to the hiding place is thought to be through a tunnel, and it has not been located to this day.

When planning what to do in Savannah, bear in mind that the First African Baptist Church only allows tours at specific times–check the schedule here .

It’s worth the effort, though–the tour is truly phenomenal.

Congregation Mickve Israel

In 1733, 42 Jews arrived from England with very little to their names to found Congregation Mickve Israel–the third-oldest Jewish congregation in the USA.

The congregation has thrived and grown over the centuries in Savannah, and you can still view the 15th-century deerskin Torah that originally crossed the ocean in the 18th century in the Synagogue’s museum.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

The oldest Catholic church in Georgia is ornate and beautiful, boasting stained glass hailing from Austrian Tyrol.

The interior is exquisite (it’s one of the prettiest churches we’ve seen in the USA) and well worth a peek inside!

Check out the birthplace of the Girl Scouts.

Though it is technically one of Savannah’s house museums, as a former (I guess technically lifelong?) Girl Scout, I think that the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace deserves a special mention.

Juliette Gordon Low (nicknamed “Daisy”, a name that I’m sure will be familiar to any Girl Scout)  founded the Girl Scouts as a widow in Savannah in 1912.

Clearly, the program was a huge success, and the Girl Scouts organization bought the founder’s birthplace in the 1950s.

Today, Girls Scouts visit from all over the country to learn the history of the founder and the Scouts, though you certainly don’t have to be a Girl Scout to appreciate Daisy’s story!

As a bonus, if you visit during Girl Scout cookie season in the spring, you’re almost guaranteed to find a troop outside willing to sell you as many boxes as you can carry.

Wander through Bonaventure Cemetery.

Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the USA or even the world, Bonaventure Cemetery is located on what used to be a plantation south of Savannah.

Giant oak trees, beautiful Spanish moss, and incredibly intricate graves all contribute to Bonaventure’s hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

I recommend visiting Bonaventure toward the end of your trip to Savannah because there are enough notable burials here that you’ll find yourself recognizing plenty of names from various house tours, history tours, and even ghost tours (including the burial place of who is arguably Savannah’s most famous ghost, Little Gracie Watkins).

Want to know exactly what you’re looking at? Consider taking a walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery !

… And also Colonial Park Cemetery.

Dating back to 1750, Colonial Park Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Savannah and is most notable for being the final resting place of 700 people who fell victim to the yellow fever epidemic of 1820, who was buried in the cemetery together in a mass grave.

Unlike Bonaventure Cemetery, which requires a drive from the historic district to reach, Colonial Park Cemetery is located within the historic center, near Chippewa Square.

The cemetery is also–like many places in Savannah–reported to be quite haunted.

Take a ghost tour.

If there’s one thing Savannah does well, it’s ghost tours.

Want a light-hearted ride in a hearse? They’ve got that.

A grisly late-night tour where drinking is recommended and kids are best left at home? Yep, got that too.

Horse and carriage ghost tour? Check. Paranormal activity tour? Check.

Whatever flavor of ghost tour is for you, and whether you’re a true believer or a die-hard skeptic like me, ghost tours in Savannah are a great way to get to know the legends of the city, and I highly recommend one!

If you want a solid, not-too-corny, not-too-gory Savannah ghost tour, check out this trolley ghost tour !

Meander down Jones Street.

Often called the prettiest street in America (and certainly one of the prettiest streets in Savannah ), Jones Street is a feast for the eyes–all brick mansions, wrought-iron gates, and oak trees.

Be sure to add a stroll down this iconic street to your list of places to visit in Savannah, and be prepared to stay longer than you expected.

No matter how many times I visit Savannah, no trip there will be complete without a couple of strolls down Jones Street!

Pay a visit to the Wormsloe Plantation’s tunnel of trees.

Owned by the same family since the 1730s, the Wormsloe Plantation (also known as the Wormsloe Historic Site, though in my opinion that buries the lede a bit) is best known for its mile-long driveway of oak trees that have been carefully pruned over the decades into a stunning tunnel of trees (complete with plenty of Spanish moss, of course).

The driveway is absolutely gorgeous, even featuring in several movies, and it alone is enough of a reason to head to Wormsloe Plantation from the center of Savannah.

Keep in mind that the tour beyond that point leaves something to be desired: the information severely glosses over the history of slave labor on the property.

A visit here also doesn’t include a tour of the home, and the tour tends to focus more on the property’s natural landscape and movie appearances.

The property’s main home is still privately owned and occupied by the descendants of Noble Jones, who was the first Georgian owner of the property.

Last we heard, you can still visit the driveway without booking a tour of the property, which is what we’d recommend if you’d like to add this beautiful spot to your list of places to see in Savannah.

Check out Savannah’s speakeasy.

Curious about the prohibition era in the USA, or just want to grab a drink at Savannah’s speakeasy?

Right in City Market, you’ll find Savannah’s popular American Prohibition Museum, which makes for a fun afternoon of combining history with pleasure (in other words, partaking in one of the Hostess City’s specialties.

Grab tickets to the American Prohibition Museum today!

Go shopping on Broughton Street.

From delightful boutiques (including The Paris Market!) to national stores to Savannah’s most famous ice cream shop (looking at you, Leopold’s), there’s no better place in Savannah for a stroll and some shopping than fashionable Broughton Street.

If you’re looking for a classy southern souvenir from Savannah, this is the street for you.

Go see The Book Lady.

I love funky, independent bookstores that ooze intellectual curiosity and coziness and comfort and that yummy old book smell out of every corner. The more cluttered and the more haphazardly the books are stored, the better. 

The Book Lady fits these tastes, with a bonus.

This adorable bookstore, overflowing with literature and comfortable places to sit and enjoy it, is also home to Cassidy the “shop dog”: a shaggy, friendly mess of a baby that was more than happy to receive my enthusiastic pets and hang out with us–at least until the shopkeeper came back around the corner when she went back to sticking to him like glue.

The sound of her claws going tap-tap-tap on the aged hardwood floors while I flipped through travelogues from the mid-20th-century was one of the highlights of my day when we visited.

If you’re a fellow bookworm, The Book Lady belongs on your list of the best things to do in Savannah!

Head to the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum.

If you’re a fan of ships, seafaring, and maritime history, this is the museum for you!

Composed of nine galleries displaying ship models, the ships were primarily commissioned by the museum for the express purpose of telling the story of Savannah’s relationship with the water around it.

Hit the water on a riverboat cruise.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening complete with dinner or a quick spin on the water, consider adding a riverboat cruise to your list of things to do in Savannah to ensure you get the best views of River Street while you’re there!

Depending on which tour you book, there are sunset and even dinner cruise options to choose from.

Book your riverboat cruise in Savannah today!

Take a day trip to Tybee Island.

A mere 18 miles from the historic center of Savannah sits a whole different kind of southern experience: Tybee Island .

Also known as “Savannah’s Beach”, Tybee Island is an easy day trip and a great excuse to climb a historic lighthouse and enjoy a day of sun, sand, and seafood!

Tybee is a small barrier island, and while you could easily spend a whole vacation here, you can also see its highlights in a short amount of time if you set your mind to it.

… And stop at Fort Pulaski on your way.

Built in the mid-19th century, you’ll find Fort Pulaski on your way between Savannah and Tybee Island, and it’s well worth a stop for any history buff.

The fort has seen exactly one battle in its life, which took place between Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War.

The fort later became a stop on the Underground Railroad, and at one point also served as a military and political prison.

Stroll through Forsyth Park.

Forsyth Park, with its stunning fountain and hundreds of oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, is easily one of the most recognizable features of Savannah.

No trip to Savannah would be complete without a stroll through Forsyth!

Be sure to stop by the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the Hostess City.

If the weather is beautiful during your visit to Savannah, you might even consider bringing a picnic out to Forsyth Park–it’s an excellent place to kick back and relax with a delicious meal.

Alternatively, you can head to The Collins Quarter for an incredible brunch and/or cup of coffee–this wildly popular Savannah staple opened a location right inside the park a few years back.

Soothe your sore feet on a Trolley Tour.

Want to avoid some of the long-distance walks in Savannah while having a comfortable place to hear the history of the city?

Consider adding a Trolley Tour to your list of things to do in Savannah!

Trolley Tours are essentially hop on/hop off bus tours–they work the same way, taking you around to all of Savannah’s major sites–but have far prettier exteriors.

We’re not typically hop on/hop off tour people, but some of the distances you cover in Savannah can be long, and if you happen to be visiting during the heat of the summer, the air-conditioned Trolley Tour will likely seem like it’s worth every penny.

Check prices & book your Savannah Trolley Tour today!

Snap photos at Rainbow Row.

Okay, these wooden homes with adorable shutters are a bit more subtle of a rainbow than the famous Rainbow Row in Charleston .

… But they’re still gorgeous and worth adding to your list of Savannah attractions to visit!

Pay a visit to the Telfair Museum of Art.

Housed in a mansion-turned-academy-turned-museum, the Telfair Museum’s art collection is beautiful–and the setting is one you won’t forget anytime soon.

As a bonus, entrance to this museum is included with a tour of the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, so if you visit one, it’s definitely worth checking out the other.

Slowly make your way down River Street.

Savannah’s River Street (which, unsurprisingly, hugs the river) was once a place of cotton warehouses and cargo boats.

Today, however, it’s a place of delicious restaurants, great antique shops, and boutiques of all kinds.

While you’re visiting Savannah, be sure to save time for ambling slowly down River Street, admiring the views as you go.

See a show at the Historic Savannah Theatre.

The USA’s oldest continually operating theatre sits in Chippewa Square, Savannah–and you sure can’t miss it!

The art deco facade doesn’t exactly blend in (it was added in the mid-20th century), but it does add a bit of snazzy personality to the square.

Shows play year-round, so if you’re a theatre lover, check ticket availability when you’re deciding what to do in Savannah!

Learn a bit of American History at the Old Fort Jackson Historic Site.

The east coast of the USA is dotted with brick forts, and Savannah is no exception.

The Old Fort Jackson Historic Site is the oldest brick fort in Georgia and was active during two notable American wars–the War of 1812 and the Civil War, when it was used as a headquarters for the Confederacy as they attempted to defend the Savannah River.

History aside, the ocean views aren’t bad, either!

Take a brewery tour at the Coastal Empire Beer Company.

Is there a city in the USA left without at least one of its own microbreweries?

If so, it’s not Savannah!

The Coastal Empire Beer Company has several year-round beers to choose from, along with seasonal brews.

Say hello to France at The Paris Market.

We already mentioned Broughton Street above, but the popular Paris Market is definitely worth an extra mention!

For a bit of variety in your plan for what to do in Savannah, consider adding a stop to The Paris Market in between all the places focused on southern culture.

As the name suggests, this boutique is primarily (though not exclusively) focused on Parisian and French goods, from furniture to soaps, and is definitely memorable enough to warrant a stop while in Savannah.

Once you finish browsing, consider sitting down in their small cafe for a coffee and a macaron (or two).

Tour Flannery O’Connor’s childhood home.

Flannery O’Connor is a celebrated Southern Gothic writer, known for her impressive short stories and fascinating imagination.

If you’re a lover of Southern Gothic literature, or even just curious about it, take a peek inside her mind and history with a visit to her childhood home in Savannah!

Support a local artist at shopSCAD.

Want to bring home a piece of original art from Savannah?

Selected students, alumni, and staff of the acclaimed Savannah College of Art and Design have their work displayed and available for sale at shopSCAD , a retail store in the heart of Savannah.

See a drag show.

If you’ve read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil  (and if you haven’t, get on that before visiting Savannah!), you know that the drag performances by Lady Chablis at Club One played a role in the book (and of course the movie, where she played herself).

Though Lady Chablis has since passed away, Club One lives on, and other queens regularly take the stage!

Indulge in a honey tasting.

Ever attended a honey tasting?

It might sound a little sticky (and it is!), but it’s amazing how different and delicious different kinds of honey can taste–and at Savannah Bee Company, they are very passionate about it.

In addition to delicious honey samples, you can also taste the Savannah Bee Company’s mead when you visit!

Not only are the owners of the Savannah Bee Company passionate about honey, but they’re also passionate about beekeeping in general.

This local, Savannah-based company has now grown to include stores in several US states!

Check out the Forrest Gump Bench.

There are two ways to enjoy the Forrest Gump Bench in Savannah: to see the place where it sat for filming in the movie or to go see the bench itself.

Personally, I’m partial to the former: Chippewa Square in the center of the historic district, facing the Historic Savannah Theatre, is where Tom Hanks et al. filmed the scenes.

Even without the movie history, the square is still beautiful, and visiting it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Savannah.

The bench/movie prop itself currently calls the Savannah History Museum home, and you can see it there.

Also–if you haven’t seen Forrest Gump before, watch it before heading to Savannah!

Not only because of the fact that the iconic “life is like a box of chocolates” moment was filmed in town, but because the movie is amazing and well worth your time.

There’s only one place to consider staying when in Savannah: in the historic district (or at least as close to it as you can get).

Forget downtown–it’s a lovely place, but miles away from the tourist attractions that will fill up your 3 days in Savannah. Stick with the historic district, and you’ll be able to walk to most of the best things to do in Savannah!

From a haunted bed and breakfast to a modern hotel, here are some highly recommended places to stay in Savannah.

Unlike some of our city guides, these Savannah hotels are a bit closer in price than you might think!

Savannah has a shortage of extreme budget properties like hostels, but historical bed and breakfasts can be an excellent value for the experience you receive.

We’ve also included a stunning apartment rental that we’ve personally stayed in and can highly recommend!

Best Western Savannah Historic District  — If you’re looking to stick to a budget during your weekend in Savannah while still being in a walkable area, the Best Western Savannah Historic District is the perfect spot for you!

Featuring parking onsite, an included breakfast, and easy access by foot to all the historic district highlights, we were completely satisfied with our stay in this hotel and would be happy to stay again if we were looking for something with a similar budget!

Check rates & book your way at Best Western Historic District!

The Marshall House  — Located on trendy Broughton Street (and dangerously close to Leopold’s Ice Cream), the gorgeous Marshall House is a fantastic option for those looking to stay in a historical inn in Savannah while sticking to a reasonable budget.

Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!

Check rates & book your stay at The Marshall House!

Foley House Inn  — Easily my favorite place that I’ve stayed in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

The included breakfast is delicious (as are the included afternoon treats–don’t miss the lemon pound cake!), the service excellent, and the decor absolutely gorgeous.

Though there isn’t parking onsite, street parking is plentiful and easy to find.

I’d be thrilled to stay here again–even if it is potentially haunted (the Foley House Inn is featured in many of Savannah’s ghost tours!).

Check rates & book your stay at the Foley House Inn!

Apartment Rental

Bird Baldwin Parlor  — Housed in the historic Bird Baldwin House (built in 1838), this apartment is both absolutely beautiful and incredibly well-located.

Located on Liberty Street just steps away from Pulaski Square and Savannah Coffee Roasters, you can’t ask for a better location in a Savannah apartment.

The apartment has a full kitchen–perfect for cooking or, let’s be honest, leftovers–and onsite, off-street parking, a huge convenience in the historic center.

There is some street noise from Liberty Street, but we didn’t find it too bothersome and would love to stay here again!

If the parlor is booked, the Bird Baldwin House does also have several other beautiful spaces available, including the  Magnolia Suite ,  Forsyth Suite , and  Twelve Oaks , among others, but be sure to check the inclusions–not all of them have kitchens.

Check rates & book your stay at Bird Baldwin Parlor!

I legitimately had to stop myself from turning this section into a 3,000-word diatribe on southern cuisine (I saved that for this guide to the best food in Savannah instead!).

But seriously y’all, Lowcountry food is some of the best in the world.

It’s in the running for our favorite cuisine ever, and after visiting 50+ countries and living abroad, we don’t say that lightly.

Here are a few dishes that should head right to the top of your list when eating in Savannah, with absolutely no illusion of being unbiased: these are some of my favorites.

If you’re a foodie at heart, I strongly suggest jumping on a food tour while in Savannah to ensure that you sample the best food that the Lowcountry has to offer!

This food tour is a great introduction to the food scene in Savannah!

Pimento Cheese

Practically the first thing I do when we go home to visit my mom in North Carolina is throw pimento cheese into the grocery cart (and if I were more inclined to cook these days, I would make my own)–it’s one of my favorites tastes of the south!

Made of sharp cheddar cheese, mayo, and pimentos, pimento cheese is rich and creamy.

It’s excellent in a grilled cheese sandwich… or with fried green tomatoes… or on crackers… or with a spoon.

Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy

Buttermilk biscuits are one of the tastiest things in the world–add a great gravy, and they get even better!

Whether you try them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack (or all of the above), be sure not to leave Savannah without trying some classic biscuits and gravy.

Peach Cobbler

If you’re lucky enough to be in Georgia during peach season, rejoice and immediately resolve to eat some form of peaches every. single. day.

Even if you’re traveling outside the harvest season, though, you’ll find that southern cooks are excellent canners and that peach cobbler is a must-have at any time of year.

Rich and delicious (isn’t that how it usually goes in the south?), pecan pie is made up of a smooth, sugary filling topped with pecans, all served in a warm, flaky crust.

It’s one of my favorite southern desserts–you can add ice cream to the top, but personally, I prefer a simple whipped cream or even nothing at all.

Fried Chicken

If there’s one thing that we’ve learned from all of our travels, it’s that there is no such thing as a country without fried chicken.

But… I’m still partial to the stuff from the south.

Juicy on the inside, spicy on the outside, and well-battered, southern fried chicken is something truly special.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Everyone has heard of the movie , but fried green tomatoes are a real and delicious southern food!

Macaroni and Cheese

True southern macaroni and cheese is an incredible treat.

Think noodles saturated with heavy, thick, delicious cheese and cream, baked and possibly topped with breadcrumbs.

Don’t leave Savannah without trying at least one serving!

This is the only food on here that isn’t a personal favorite of mine (what can I say, I prefer hash browns), but if you’ve never tried grits, you definitely need to add tasting them to your list of things to do in Savannah!

Order them with shrimp or simply as a side with breakfast–both are extremely popular.

Tasty nuts coated in and stuck together with a sugar syrup (and sometimes cream): say hello to pralines, one of the most popular desserts in the south.

You’ll find these all over Savannah (they’re also very popular in New Orleans ), so be sure to pick up several from a candy store and give them a try!

If you stay in or near the historic district, Savannah is a surprisingly walkable city!

The historic center, complete with its squares, is made for wandering around on foot, and we spend most of our time in Savannah doing just that (all the better to ensure maximum hunger when it’s time to indulge in heavy southern cuisine for dinner).

There are a few exceptions–if you don’t want to book a tour, you’ll need a car to access Tybee Island , Bonaventure Cemetery, Fort Pulaski, and the Wormsloe Plantation, among some others.

Parking in the historic center can be very difficult/expensive as you get closer to City Market and River Street, so we recommend leaving your car near your hotel for most of the time you are sightseeing.

For those who would like to limit their walking a bit more, Savannah’s Hop On/Hop Off Old Town Trolley tour  is the perfect solution and an easy way to get around during your 3 days in Savannah.

Grab tickets  for Savannah’s hop on/hop off trolley tour today!

Personally, I would never turn down a trip to Savannah, so if you only have one time available, go whenever it is!

If you have more flexibility on your dates, though, here’s what we suggest: avoid the worst heat of the summer in July and August, and unless you’re coming for the raucous party, avoid the week of St. Patrick’s Day as well (Savannah throws the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the USA, right behind NYC ).

Savannah summers are intense and very humid, and they tend to start early and stick around for a long time.

Late March, April, and May are excellent months to visit Savannah, as the flowers will bloom and the heat will (hopefully) not have set in yet. 

September through November are also popular, though depending on the year it can be getting chilly by the end of November.

That being said, virtually all of the best things to do in Savannah, GA, are year-round activities–and the city is beautiful every month of the year.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

29 thoughts on “55 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA (+ Food Tips!)”

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I’m LITERALLY on the road driving to Savannah as I read this!!! Yours is the best post I’ve yet to come across for things to do, sadly, well only be there for a day! Found some great stuff in here!

Aw, that’s so good to hear!! We love Savannah, truly–hope you have a marvelous time! 🙂

I wish I could have squeezed in Savannah on my US roadtrip last time. It was on my radar especially because, like you said, of its antebellum beauty and artistic flair. And I’d totally wanna dine in an 18th-century ballroom under a crystal chandelier. Just pinned the post!

Haha, right? I would love Savannah for the ambiance alone. Hopefully you get a chance to visit one day!

I love the Cobblestone Haunted Pub crawl! It’s so fun and has some of the best tour guides of the companies in Savannah.

Good to know! 🙂

Thanks for the wonderful tips. Came to Savannah on a whim to use paid vacation time. Fell in love immediately! You guys have the best objective, comprehensive guide I’ve found on line. Much appreciated!

Thanks so much, Travis! Comments like this make our day. 🙂 So glad you’re enjoying Savannah–it’s one of our favorites. Enjoy all that tasty food for us!

This post was such a wonderful find, we’re planning our first extended trip to Savannah and I got so many ideas from your site! I can tell how much you love this beautiful city. I have read good things about the restaurants you recommended, but seeing a real couple recommend them, rather than just a tourist website, makes me excited to try them! And tips on the best area to stay in are so helpful. I’m very excited to visit Congregation Mickve Israel and go on a tour there, and hear more about the journey of their historic Torah scrolls. I just wanted to share that Shabbat is a weekly service, rather than annual 🙂 Thank you again for this amazing post, and safe travels!

Thanks so much, Leah! We absolutely adore Savannah and hope that you guys have the most wonderful time! If you end up at the Olde Pink House for a meal, definitely order the BLT salad! It’s one of the most memorable dishes I’ve had in the last few years.

Might need to update my wording on the Torah scrolls, you’re right–what I intended to say was that once a year, they use them in the weekly Shabbat service (understandable they wouldn’t want to use them every week, as they’ve got to be very fragile at this point!), but I’m honestly having trouble confirming that information online right now. May need to do a bit more fact-checking the next time we visit Savannah… which will hopefully be soon!

So sad to see we didn’t make your list. Please stop by the next time you’re downtown Savannah and let us wow you too! Betsy Books on Bay

We’ll definitely make a note to drop by next time–we can never have too many bookstores in our lives! 🙂

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Great article. Thank you so much!

Thanks so much, Molly! Hope you had a great time in Savannah.

Went through the sorrel weed house on your rec and the curator said it’s the Owen’s Thomas house with an oval library. Not theirs. Just an fyi

Interesting, thanks for letting me know, Nicole! I must confess the last time I was in either house was 2010, so it has been a while… went to Mercer-Williams more recently. I guess my online fact-checking led me astray on this one!

Thanks so much, Kate! It is definitely a good list for the savannah trip! I love the Olde Pink House restaurants because of their BLT salad! I cannot forget how it tastes and so far the best for me.

I love that salad so much! We’re always dreaming of our next Savannah trip.

Really appreciate you sharing this! Now I have some fine ideas on what me and my girlfriend will do on our Staycation at Savannah next week! I think a trip Downtown is a great idea on our first night there!

Is there a food tour that’s for celiacs? I need recommendations for gluten-free downtown and on Tybee. Thank -You

Hi Mary Beth! Honestly, I’m not sure. I doubt there’s a whole food tour that is typically gluten-free, though some may be willing to accommodate your needs. In your case, it’s best to reach out to companies directly.

I just came back from Savannah. I would not suggest this city for anyone with a handicap. The streets are old, uneven and not easy to walk. The hope on/off was great. The 90 minute river cruise was a waste of time and money. Drinks and food could only be ordered on top level which could not be reached if handicapped. Only saw cranes along the shoreline. Dont take this cruise.

The link to the weekend itinerary does not work. Would you please send me a new link that works

Thank you Alecia

Huh, that’s odd! I’ll take a look. 🙂

Here’s the link: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-savannah-itinerary-weekend/

The next time you are in Savannah, you should check out Smithereens, downtown’s premier smash room where you can relieve stress and have fun by smashing breakable objects. It is a true Savannah experience in a historic building with local art on the walls.

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22 Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia, According to Locals

Themed walking tours, sunset drinks, and beautiful cobblestone squares await in this beloved Southern city.

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Regularly on best-of lists in the travel world, Savannah, Georgia attracts explorers of all kinds. Some want to get to know the city's rich history, others simply want to enjoy its stunning cobblestone squares lined with live oaks and Colonial and Victorian homes. Jessica Osborne and Melissa Taylor, co-owners of E Shaver Booksellers , describe Savannah as “mysterious, beautiful , eclectic, and just a little weird." Immersing yourself in the city's history, food , and culture is the ultimate travel goal.

While many locals, including Taylor and Osbourne, recommend visiting the coastal community for at least three nights, Savannah is one of those places travelers can return to again and again, experiencing something new on each trip. Whether you’re headed to the Hostess City for the first time or you simply can’t stay away for too long, you’ll want to check off at least a few of the 22 best things to do in Savannah, Georgia. 

1. Stroll through the city’s parks and squares.

At 30 acres, Forsyth Park is the largest green space in Savannah’s Historic District, with ample room for walking, picnicking, and big events — if you're here in September, check out the annual Savannah Jazz Festival. Any time of year, stop by the famous fountain before making your way to Chippewa Square, where you’ll find the “Forrest Gump” bench. 

2. Get your caffeine fix at The Coffee Fox.

Instead of your typical black coffee, opt for the signature horchata latte at The Coffee Fox to start your day. If you’re hungry, snag a kolache (a Czech pastry), or something off the all-day brunch menu at The Collins Quarter , just a five-minute walk away. 

3. Enjoy a beach day on Tybee Island.

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Tybee Island, one of the best beach towns in the South , is about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Brandon Carter, executive chef and owner of Savannah restaurant Common Thread (more on it later) loves this easy excursion himself. “The drive out is great to help you decompress. Tybee has beach town vibes and great little shops. Don’t forget to hit Sea Wolf for strong drinks and tasty hot dogs,” he says. 

4. Browse the shelves at E Shaver Booksellers.

You don’t need to be an avid reader to appreciate the charm of E Shaver Booksellers, an iconic bookstore on Bull Street. If you are a bibliophile, you’ll surely leave with a new novel or two in hand — and don’t forget to wave goodbye to the store’s several cats as you exit. 

5. Load up on sweet treats at Back In The Day Bakery.

A midday pick-me-up is always a good idea, especially if you’re exploring the city by foot. Back in the Day Bakery , owned by Cheryl and Griffith Day, is just the ticket. A wildflower honey bun or a blueberry muffin will keep hunger at bay. 

6. View the latest exhibitions at the SCAD Museum of Art. 

Savannah hums with creativity, and a large part of that stems from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The SCAD Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum affiliated with the school, has a series of rotating contemporary art exhibitions on display throughout the year; see what’s on view here . 

7. Venture down cobblestoned River Street.

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Perry Lane Hotel ’s Mandy Heldreth, a lifelong Savannah resident, says this famous riverfront path is a must-see when in town. “Take a walk down the cobblestones on River Street. The historic walkway takes you along the Savannah River, where you can see the cargo vessels continuing into the Port of Savannah.”

8. Visit the three Telfair Museums, the first public art museum in the South.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The oldest public art museum in the Southeastern United States, Telfair Museums is actually made up of three museums. Two are National Historic Landmark sites: the Telfair Academy and the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. The Jepson Center for the Arts is the third structure, a modern one built in 2006 and home to an art collection that stretches from the 19th century to today. The best part? You only need one ticket for all three. 

Related : 10 Best Places to Travel in January

9. Fill up on fresh seafood.

In a coastal city like Savannah, it’s no surprise that the seafood is wildly good. “There’s a walk-up fried fish place called Shabazz [with] a real sense of place. My order: fried whiting, fries, Shabazz juice, and a slice of 'Yusuf's World Famous Pie.' I love that place,” chef Carter said.

10. Sign up for a ghost or history tour. 

Walking tours are a great way to get to know this destination. Patt Gunn, founder of Underground Tours of Savannah , often leads 90-minute historical treks in town, highlighting the journey of enslaved Africans brought to Savannah and sold in Johnson Square — an important part of the city’s past. 

Whether you’d prefer to walk, bike, or catch a narrated ride on a boat or trolley, tour options abound —just pick the theme that best suits your interests. Check out Underground Tours of Savannah , Ghost City Tours (if you want a spookier take on Savannah), Architectural Savannah , Old Town Trolley Tours , and Savannah Riverboat Cruises , to name a few.

11. Immerse yourself in art, music, and shopping at City Market. 

cweimer4/Getty Images

Savannah’s historic City Market once welcomed fishermen, farmers, and horse-drawn carriages on a daily basis. Today, the open-air market, which spans four blocks, is a hub for galleries, shops, restaurants, and the American Prohibition Museum , which even has an onsite speakeasy. 

12. Escape the heat by visiting another city museum. 

W. Metzen/ClassicStock/Getty Images

Savannah’s museum roster is vast and varied. In addition to the Telfair Museums, the SCAD Museum of Art, and the American Prohibition Museum, there’s the Savannah African Art Museum , the Mercer Williams House Museum , and the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum , named for the “father” of the Civil Rights Movement in Savannah and the 13th pastor of Savannah’s First African Baptist Church.

13. Sit down for a meal at The Olde Pink House.

Known and named for its pink hue, The Olde Pink House is a tourist favorite in Savannah. The menu is distinctly Southern — think fried green tomatoes and fried chicken — and it maintains a fabulous reputation throughout the city. 

14. Pick up local produce at Forsyth Farmers’ Market.

If you’re in town on a Saturday, Taylor and Osbourne recommend “[starting] the morning with a walk around the farmers’ market at Forsyth Park .” Once you’ve made your selections, head down Bull Street toward Broughton Street to visit two of their favorite shops: The Paris Market and Terra Cotta .

15. Throw back a few oysters at Common Thread.

Named by Bon Appétit as one of the best new restaurants in 2022, Common Thread is an “ingredient and seasonally inspired restaurant concept” inside of a restored two-story home built in the 19th century. Chef Carter helms this beloved place, and his dynamic menu changes based on produce availability, but you can never go wrong with the oysters to start. For other meals nearby, Chef Carter recommends having a “light and flavorful” lunch at Wildflower Cafe on Telfair Square and a nightcap at Lone Wolf Lounge .

16. Stretch your legs in Bonaventure Cemetery.

Sean Craft/Getty Images

Three miles from downtown is Bonaventure Cemetery , an azalea-filled resting place known for its role in John Berendt’s 1994 book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Osbourne’s pro-tip for visiting the 100-plus acres? “Bring bug spray.”

17. Cool off with some ice cream at Leopold’s. 

Serving homemade ice cream since 1919, Leopold’s is a Savannah staple. When the Southern city’s temperatures reach the 90s, nothing takes the edge off quite like a scoop or two inside the famed ice cream parlor. 

18. Saddle up to a different kind of bar at Savannah Bee Company's flagship store.

Opened in 2008, the Broughton Street location of Savannah Bee Company treats visitors to both a honey-tasting bar and a mead-tasting bar. It’s the perfect way to break up your day, and you can also pick up a souvenir from your travels.

19. Make a reservation at Chef Mashama Bailey's The Grey. 

Chef Mashama Bailey is known throughout the culinary world; in 2019, she was awarded the title of Best Chef Southeast by the James Beard Foundation. In Savannah, her name is synonymous with her restaurant The Grey , which is set in an Art Deco building that was once a Greyhound station. According to Taylor, “You should absolutely eat at the bar in The Grey; the building restoration is a beautiful thing."

20. Have a rooftop drink at Perry Lane Hotel.

Courtesy of Perry Lane Hotel

Peregrin at the Perry Lane Hotel grants visitors great views of the city, but they're particularly magical at sunset. The bar has signature cocktails, zero-proof concoctions, and multiple frozé options, including rosé, aperol, lillet rouge, and lemon.

21. Visit the First African Baptist Church and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.

David Madison/Getty Images

A National Historic Landmark, Savannah’s First African Baptist Church is said to be the “oldest continuous African-American congregation in America.” Tickets for tours can be purchased here . The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist — about one mile away — is open for self-guided tours seven days a week, though hours vary. 

22. Wait in line for a seat inside Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room.

If you want Southern comfort food, there’s one place to go, and that's Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room . “Lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ is totally worth waiting in line for,” says Taylor. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the lucky individuals inside are privy to a family-style meal of fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, butter beans, okra and tomatoes, and other mouth-watering delights.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Georgia (GA) » 25 Best Things to Do in Savannah (Georgia) in 2023

25 Best Things to Do in Savannah (Georgia) in 2023

There are few southern destinations that are as quintessentially southern as Savannah. Oozing with charm, it’s a pedestrian-friendly favorite for the entire family, and one that can be a little more affordable than Charleston, and a little tamer than New Orleans .

When most travelers imagine Savannah, the first thought that pops into their head is visions of cobblestone streets lined with moss-laden oaks, and for the most part, it’s not an image that’s all that far off from the truth. However, there’s so much more to Savannah than just this. Take a gander at a few of our favorite sites and sounds around this city, and you, too, will yearn to come back year after year.

I’ve lived in Savannah for several years and have experienced much of what there is to do and see. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Savannah :

1. Forsyth Park

The historic district of Savannah is beautiful enough all on its own, but Forsyth Park definitely adds to the charm. A beautiful, green, lush landscape, it’s popular with both tourists and locals alike, and you’ll find 30 acres of trees, flowers and other foliage.

There’s also nearly always something going on here, from the open air concerts, to a farmer’s market that’s open every Saturday. Forsyth Park is also home to one of the most photographed spots in all of Savannah — the huge, gorgeous fountain is totally Instagram-worthy.

2. Old Savannah Trolley Tours

Explore the best-known locations around Savannah’s historic district, on this hop-on, hop-off trolley. This is a great option if you’re in the city for a limited number of days, and want to cram as much sightseeing as possible into just an afternoon.

The trolley covers 22 squares, and shows off some of Savannah’s prime landmarks, like the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Temple Mickve Israel, the Sorrel Weed House, the Juliette Gordon Low Home, the Mansion of Forsythe Park, the Mulberry Inn and the Pirates House.

There are 15 different stops, and you can hop off the trolley whenever you want to go exploring, and you can be assured that another one will be right there to pick you up, nearly whenever you like, as they come around every 15 to 20 minutes.

Book online : Hop-On Hop-Off Historic Trolley Tour

3. City Market

Easily within reach of all your sightseeing in Savannah, the City Market is four blocks of open air shopping, all surrounded by restored warehouses with tons of cute extra shopping, plus dining and art. There are plenty of open air concerts in the square as well, and it can be a great stop for just sitting and people watching.

Do keep in mind, though; the market is home to a few bars, and so you may find that the evening crowd gets a little rambunctious. If you’re visiting with the kids, make sure to stop by in the morning or early afternoon.

4. The Owens-Thomas House

If you’re an architecture guru, you probably already know of this Savannah staple, but even if you’re not, if you can appreciate a good bit of luxury living and history, you may want to stop by the Owens-Thomas House. A prime example of English Regency architecture, the house was built in 1819 and is large enough to fill an entire block.

Designed by an English architect, the home was built by a Bermuda merchant, and then later purchased by a congressman. Now, it’s a National Historic Landmark. The house has hours that are just a little odd, so you may want to check them out before you head over.

Also on the house’s block are the carriage house, the parterre garden and one of the earliest intact urban slave quarters.

Related tour : Haunted History and Ghosts Walking Tour

5. Telfair Museum of Art

One of my favorites and the oldest art museum in the South, the Telfair Museum is housed inside a classical Regency mansion, designed by an English architect and purchased by the son of the Georgian governor.

The home was completed in 1819, and it stayed within the same family until 1875, when the last surviving member of the Telfair family left the home and all of its furnishings to the Georgia Historical Society.

The structure was enlarged just eight short years later, adding a sculpture gallery and rotunda. The grand opening was a superb affair, attracting famous faces such as Jefferson Davis.

Now, when you visit, you’ll see carefully restored interior rooms, paintings from German Impressionists and the American French, period furniture, silver and other items. Additionally, the museum houses the largest public collection of paintings by Kahlil Gibran, more than 80. I recommend spending at least 2 hours here.

Read also :  15 Best Savannah Tours

6. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Called the most impressive building in all of Savannah, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist certainly will make your jaw drop.

Towering spires and stained glass take your breath away, whether you’re attending a religious mass, or enjoying a guided or self-guided tours.

The cathedral was built where it now stands in 1876, but a historic fire destroyed much of what was there in 1898. In just two years, the cathedral was rebuilt, and now it stands to represent the tradition of faith within Savannah.

It calls itself one of the Top 10 historic sites to visit in the United States, and it welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

7. The Historic Savannah Theatre

The oldest continually operating theatre in the United States, The Historic Savannah Theatre was built in 1818, opening in December with a comedy. Now, the square where it sits, Chippewa Square has become a huge part of Savannah nightlife and entertainment, mostly because of the theatre. Now, while the theatre does offer nightly shows, it also offers something else for cinema geeks.

Right outside, sits a bench where several scenes of the movie Forrest Gump was shot. This is a hugely popular spot for photos, now, as you can probably imagine.

8. Wormsloe Historic Site

If your’e looking for that quintessential Southern photo with the mossy oak trees hanging over a beautiful lane, this is where you’ll find it. This historic site includes a beautiful avenue with all the oaks and Spanish moss you could want, and it leads right up to the ruins of Wormsloe, a colonial estate which is the oldest standing structure in Savannah at this point.

If you visit during an event, you may see a costumed reenactor or two, but on a normal day, you can still visit the museum (featuring colonial artifacts) and hike the nature trail, which goes through the ruins, to a marsh and around the grounds.

Guided tour : Wormsloe Plantation and Bonaventure Cemetery Tour

9. The Savannah Waterfront

Did you even know Savannah had a river waterfront? People are sometimes surprised to hear that Savannah has its own river. River Street was historically significant as a warehouse row, highly supporting the cotton industry. However, River Street was abandoned for decades after the yellow-fever epidemic, only to be rediscovered and put back into use after the 1960s.

Now, guests can walk the cobblestone streets and see centuries of history laid out before them, as they walk past the dozens of businesses within the previously abandoned warehouses right on the river. Whether you’re looking for shopping, dining, drinks or galleries, it’s all here. I recommend the Riverboat Cruise & City Tour Combo

10. The Wilkes House

Not another architectural marvel to tour, but rather a place to fill your senses with all the tradition of fine Southern cooking.

The Wilkes House has been feeding Southerners for decades now, and you can chow down on the same fried chicken, sweet potatoes, okra, gumbo, cornbread, biscuits and more that show up on the menu regularly.

The menu changes every day, and the atmosphere is decidedly down-home and casual. Seating is family-style, everyone pays a flat price to dine and cash is the only kind of currency accepted here.

Related :  Where to Stay in Savannah GA – Neighborhoods & Area Guide

11. Bonaventure Cemetery

For more moss-laden oak tree goodness and a taste of Southern spooks (the South does have a good helping of gothic flair, by the way), head to Bonaventure Cemetery. One of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world, it’s on many a visitor’s bucket list.

Free to enter, the property is more than 100 acres. If you feel like taking a tour, rather than just rambling around on your own, you can get a free guided tour on the weekends of the second Sunday of each month.

12. Old Fort Jackson Historic Site

Old Fort Jackson is the oldest standing brick fort within Georgia, built in 1808. It attracts 50,000 visitors each and every year, and for good reason. The fort is named after a Georgian governor who freed Savannah from the British rule, and it was at one time one of the strongest fortifications in the entire United States, as it was built entirely of earth, then faced with brick and then topped off with a wooden platform.

Additions were made to the fort during the War of 1812, and it looks much the same today as it did at that time. Self-guided tours are available, and you can enjoy views of the Savannah River from the top. Stick around long enough to hear the cannons shot!

13. Fort Pulaski National Monument

Built in the 1800s, Fort Pulaski stands on an island in the river, between Savannah and Tybee Island. It was the first Confederate masonry fort to fall under Union cannon fire, which marked a turning point in military history. There’s lots to do and see beyond the actual monument and fort, though.

There are trails, such as the North Pier Trail, which goes through the original construction building and passes a 19th-century battery. There’s a lighthouse, a historic dike system, bike paths and more.

14. Coastal Empire Brew Co.

Opening in 2011, Coastal Empire Beer Co. has quickly been taking awards and taking names, as it becomes a favorite among Savannah locals. I recommend heading over to the tap room, for 16 different options on tap, and seating.

One of the most popular beers they brew up is the Savannah Brown Ale, but you can also try other year round offerings, like the Tybee Island Blonde, Southern Delight Praline Amber Ale and the Coco Pina Gose.

15. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

Have a little girl in your travel group? Then you may want to make a point to swing by the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, a house museum created specifically for girls, and celebrating the woman who founded the American Girl Scouts.

Juliette was born in the home, now owned by the Girl Scouts of the USA, in 1860, and it was there, in 1912, that she kicked off the creation of the Girl Scouts.

Forty-minute guided tours are available Monday through Saturday, and online ticket purchases are recommended in advance.

16. The University of Georgia Aquarium

This marine education center and aquarium is located on Skidaway Island, near downtown Savannah.

There are lots of exhibits on the marine animals that live nearest the state, but there are also lots of other exhibits, that show off interesting things, and not even always marine animals.

There are also exhibits on things like wooly mammoths and mastodons, as both of the ancient creatures once upon a time lived within the area.

17. Hearse Ghost Tours

If a regular trolley tour isn’t really your style, maybe a ghost tour will be more up your alley? Maybe even a ghost tour that takes place in a hearse? That’s right, this ghost tour begins by picking you and your travel companions up from your hotel in a real hearse that was used for real funerals for more than 15 years.

You’ll see much of the city’s history, but also hear about its darker side, as you take it all in.

It’s definitely not your average outing.

You may like :  15 Best Day Trips from Savannah

18. The Mercer-Williams House

Literature fans out there will want to add this particular house tour to their itinerary.

The stately mansion was once home to lyricist Johnny Mercer, but also Jim Williams, straight from the pages of John Berendt’s “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Williams is known as the only individual in the state to have ever been tried four times for the same crime — a grisly murder that took place right within the house.

While you can’t see the supposed murder site, you can explore the rest of the house, including the furnishings dating back to the 1700s.

19. The Andrew Low House

You’re probably thinking that Savannah is the city of home tours, and you’re probably right.

Here’s another worth a stop! The Andrew Low House was built in 1848 and features an Italianate exterior, and much opulence and elegance.

If the name sounds familiar, it should! This home is another that was in the family of Juliette Gordon Low.

After her death, this particular home was purchased by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Georgia, and eventually opened to the public about 75 years ago.

20. Tricentennial Park

If you’re looking for a fun and convenient way to spend a day with the kiddos, but still fit in a little education and some interesting sights for mom and dad, head over to Tricentennial Park.

Here you’ll find three different museums — the Savannah History Museum and Battlefield Memorial Park, the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Savannah Children’s Museum.

Obviously the latter is one you’ll definitely want to visit with children in tow, but then pick between the other two at your discretion, and depending upon what your kids are most likely to love.

21. Leopold’s

No matter your age, a great way to end a day in Savannah is with a stop at Leopold’s. The little ice cream shop has stayed the same since 1919, when it was opened by Hollywood producer Stratton Leopold. There’s always a line, but it’ll be well worth it.

The ice cream is made on site with awesome ingredients and using old recipes that have been handed down through the generations. The signature flavor I suggest you try is the Tutti-Fruitt.

22. The Olde Pink House Restaurant

Combine romance and ghosts? Why not?! That’s exactly what the Olde Pink House does. I think the beautiful setting is super-elegant, with chandeliers, 18th-century architecture and a lovely dining room fireplace.

The cuisine is Southern, but elevated, so you won’t have to worry about too much butter popping the buttons on your dress.

But, beyond the shiny exterior are some ghostly visitors.

23. Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

So maybe your kids don’t like trains…maybe they like boats? If that’s the case, head to this museum, where you can see all kinds of memorabilia revolving around the ships of the 1700s and 1800s.

The home where the museum is housed? It was once the home of the same man who owned the very first steamship to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean.

Even if you’re not up for all the boat stuff, the museum is also unique in that it has one of the largest gardens in Savannah’s historic district.

Book online : Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum Self-Guided Tour

24. Colonial Park Cemetery

If you can’t make it to Bonaventure, stop by the Colonial Park Cemetery, which is also old and super creepy.

It’s been in business since 1750, and you can see graves from some of the very first colonists, as well as many, many of those who died during the yellow-fever epidemic of 1820. Needless to say, it’s pretty popular for ghost hunting after dark.

25. Fort McAllister State Park

Famous for sustaining many attacks during the Civil War, Fort McAllister would finally fall under General Sherman.

The cool thing? You can actually camp onsite. During your stay, enjoy the museum, which has lots of Civil War artifacts, but also all the nearby wetland wildlife.

25 Best Things to Do in Savannah (Georgia) in 2023:

• Forsyth Park
• Old Savannah Trolley Tours
• City Market
• The Owens-Thomas House
• Telfair Museum of Art
• The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
• The Historic Savannah Theatre
• Wormsloe Historic Site
• The Savannah Waterfront
• The Wilkes House
• Bonaventure Cemetery
• Old Fort Jackson Historic Site
• Fort Pulaski National Monument
• Coastal Empire Brew Co.
• Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
• The University of Georgia Aquarium
• Hearse Ghost Tours
• The Mercer-Williams House
• The Andrew Low House
• Tricentennial Park
• The Olde Pink House Restaurant
• Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
• Colonial Park Cemetery
• Fort McAllister State Park

Savannah First-Timer's Guide

Plan the Perfect Trip to Savannah

11 Quirky and Fun Things To Do in Savannah Georgia

• THINGS TO DO
• by Erin Clarkson

If there’s one word no one would ever use to describe Savannah, it’s “ boring .” In case you’ve never visited the city before, allow me to be the first to tell you: Savannah is downright weird .

Even better, it’s a city that celebrates its own quirkiness!

Eccentric personalities thrive here, mainly because they feel right at home amongst so many other peculiar characters.

Being a bit of an oddball myself, I tend to gravitate towards the unusual.

I like to seek out lesser-known attractions, and it’s always a goal of mine to discover as many hidden gems as possible… and then share them with you .

For that reason, don’t expect this to be a generic bucket list of things to do in Savannah . I’ve already created a list of “must-see” spots in Savannah that covers the basics. Instead, the list below is unique and a bit goofy — just like many Savannahians!

Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.

Table of Contents

Quick Answers: Fun Things To Do in Savannah GA

As I mentioned above, Savannah is a city made for entertainment. After all, we’re known for covering our historic statues in googly eyes and for being home to Tik Tok’s most beloved baseball team, the Savannah Bananas.

In a hurry? Here are three of the most popular activities: ➡️ Need a laugh? The unscripted comedy shows at Front Porch Improv are hilarious. ➡️ Feelin’ fancy? Get chauffeured around the city in a stylish vintage Citroën. ➡️ Tired of boring history lessons? Book the Savannah for Morons comedy trolley.

Ready? Let’s get to the fun stuff!

Pose with Gangsters at Prohibition Museum

Visiting American Prohibition Museum is one of my favorite things to do in City Market !

The museum is the only one in America that focuses on the history of the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. It details the many ways in which Southerners (in particular) survived dry times during the Prohibition era.

You’ll learn about speakeasies, Rum Runners, hooch, and the art of makin’ moonshine.

The exhibits are very informative and display authentic items from the era, such as wooden Tommy Guns, moonshine stills, and “prescription” whiskey bottles.

You’ll also learn the role of gangsters during Prohibition and will discover how mobsters disrupted the KKK. You’ll even learn how the ban on alcohol actually contributed to spread of organized crime.

Part of the fun of the museum is that it’s rather interactive. For example, you can pose in a lineup next to Al Capone or learn how to dance The Charleston. (There’s a funny element to the dance that you’ll discover during the tour.)

The wax figures throughout the museum are some of the most realistic I’ve ever seen!

At the end of the tour, there’s an option to visit the museum’s on-site speakeasy. However, in a true throwback to the Prohibition era, they don’t sell alcohol on Sundays .

Once, during Prohibition, I was forced to live for days on nothing but food and water.” ~WC Fields

Time to Allot: 30 minutes to an hour (more if stopping by the speakeasy) Cost: $15-25/person for the museum + speakeasy (drinks extra) Best For: Families with teens or young adults, or as a rainy day activity Prohibition Museum | 209 W Saint Julian Street, Savannah, GA 31401

Related Reading: Savannah Trolley Tour Reviews: Which One is Best?

Create Custom Drinks at a Speakeasy

As mentioned above, if you decide to visit Prohibition Museum, they’ll invite you into their authentic 1920s-era speakeasy, Congress Street Up, at the end of the tour.

You can also sign up to take a separate cocktail class with one of their mixologists. Their talented bartenders will give you a hands-on lesson in cocktail creation.

You’ll get to sample a variety of cocktails, will learn a bit of history about the craft, and then you’ll get to work creating your own delicious concoctions.

Time to Allot: 1-2 hours Cost: Varies, depending how thirsty you are Best For: College graduation party, date night, bachelor/bachelorette parties Congress Street UP | 220 W Congress Street

Visit a Serial Killer Museum

Yes, you read that right; Savannah has a serial killer museum!

It’s a passion project started by murderabilia collectors Ryan Graveface and Chloe Manon, and I’d say it’s one of the more unique places to go in Savannah.

Ryan, in particular, is slightly obsessed with the macabre. He’s been stockpiling a collection of all things serial killer-related for decades.

The couple used to house their collection at Graveface Records — their funky vinyl shop located in the heart of the Starland District.

However, as they amassed more oddities, they finally took the plunge and opened a separate two-story museum along Savannah’s touristy riverfront area.

I was a Patreon supporter during the planning stages of the museum, and one of my favorite membership perks was watching sneak peeks as Ryan unboxed packages of John Wayne Gacy’s creepy clown artwork.

The behind-the-scenes stories he told during the unboxings were incredible!

He spoke of trips to visit serial killers in prison and described conversations he’d had with death row inmates — one of whom even insinuated “where the bodies were buried.”

Graveface Museum is where you’ll currently find Ryan and Chloe’s ever-growing collection of oddities. They rotate the displays on regular basis, so there’s always something new to see.

The museum is divided into separate rooms — each with a unique theme. In addition to serial killer memorabilia, you’ll find displays on UFOs, cults, roadside attractions, and circus sideshow freaks.

One of the rooms is even full of vintage pinball machines. You’ll get unlimited pinball play time (during business hours) for 24 hours with your museum ticket purchase.

Time to Allot: From 1.5 to 3 hours Cost: Approximately $20 per person Best For: True Crime fanatics or as a rainy day activity Graveface Museum | 410 E Lower Factors Walk, Savannah, GA 31401

Related Reading: 21 Photos That’ll Make You Want to Visit Factors Walk

Take a Comedy Trolley Tour

If you prefer your history served with a side of knee-slapping laughter, you’re going to want to add the Savannah for Morons trolley tour to your itinerary.

It’s a high energy tour, and the comedic geniuses who run it will keep you in stitches for nearly 90-minutes straight.

The self-labeled “Morons” interact heavily with trolley participants, and also have a habit of spilling their antics out into the streets of the Historic District.

While the Morons do add a few tidbits of Savannah history into the mix, overall it’s much more of a comedy tour than a true history tour.

Make Note: Since the tour is interspersed with bits of inappropriate humor, it’s not for the place for “Trudy McPrudy” types (aka: anyone with an extremely conservative personality).

Time to Allot: 1.5 Hours Cost: Approximately $60 per person Best For: Bachelor/bachelorette parties, group activities Savannah for Morons | 223 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401

Support an Indie Bookstore

Did you know Savannah became the popular tourist mecca it is today thanks in part to a book?

The folks working in Savannah’s tourism industry should be forever grateful to John Berendt for penning “ Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ,” since it’s still driving visitors to the city today — decades after it was first published.

You can pick up your own copy of “The Book” at one of our fantastic local indie bookstores. The Book Lady and E. Shaver Bookseller are two that I recommend.

E. Shaver is my personal favorite. They offer a fantastic selection of books authored by locals, and they also have a nice selection of bestsellers, rare indie finds, and local souvenirs.

While you’re exploring the shop, don’t be surprised if you stumble across one of the resident cats lounging around on the floor or taking up a spot in that oh-so-comfy chair you were hoping to sink into.

They currently have four friendly felines that have full run of the place: Mr. Eliot, Skimbleshanks, Bartleby, and Morticia. Here’s what a typical day looks like for Mr. Eliot and Bartleby:

Time to Allot: 1-2 hours (or more!) Cost: As little or as much as you spend on books and collectibles Best For: Bibliophiles, solo travelers, or as a rainy day activity E. Shaver, Bookseller | 326 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401

Sing Along at a Dueling Piano Bar

If you’ve never experienced a dueling piano bar before, you’re in for a real treat at Savannah Smiles Dueling Piano Bar.

The bar features two musicians who “duel” to outperform one another. They each have a goal to win the crowd over.

The pianists don’t perform from a standard set list, but instead take requests from the audience. Feel free to pick your favorite upbeat song and make a request!

The bar is 21+, and they stay open until 3 a.m. — although they stop serving food at 2.

Time to Allot: 1-3 hours Cost: Varies, depending on drinks and alcohol purchased Best For: Bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations Savannah Smiles Dueling Piano Bar | 314 Williamson Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401

Catch a Drag Show

Thanks in part to the original diva, the one and only, the incomparable Lady Chablis (I would say “may she rest in peace,” but I truly hope she’s still stirring up trouble somewhere), Savannah has quite the thriving drag scene.

You can experience the fun for yourself by going on a pub crawl led by one of Savannah’s sassy drag queens . They’ll even give you a drag name of your own for the night!

The tour starts out with drinks at El Rocko, and then ventures by popular karaoke spots like Club One — where Lady Chablis was a fixture for years.

Thanks to Savannah’s open-container policy, you can carry to go cups with you from bar to bar while exploring the city’s entertainment zone.

The tour ends with the group dancing the night away at the Tree House in City Market , but the fun doesn’t have to stop there…

W Congress Street, Whitaker/Broughton/Bay streets, and the Plant Riverside District are all active nightlife zones within easy walking distance — just in case you decide to keep the party going.

Yassss, Queen!

Time to Allot: 2 hours Cost: Approximately $35 Best For: Bachelor/bachelorette parties, girl trips Club One | 1 Jefferson Street, Savannah, GA 31401

Snuggle with Kittens at Pounce Cat Cafe

Pounce Cat Cafe is another unique concept! It’s a combination of a cat shelter and adoption agency + wine and snack bar.

Sound intriguing? It is!

It’s a great place to score some kitten cuddle time while also supporting a very worthy cause.

Instead of having cats locked up in cages in a shelter, the cafe gives them a safe place to relax and enjoy human interaction while waiting to be adopted.

Here’s how it works:

• Make a reservation online.
• Show up at the provided time.
• Head to the bar and choose from a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll have to pay for the wine, but one non-alcoholic drink is included with your entry fee. If you’re hungry, you can also take your pick of a handful of yummy sweet treats provided by a local favorite, Foxy Loxy.
• Find a cozy spot to sit down, and then wait patiently.
• Enjoy feelings of blissfulness as kittens surround you to snuggle, purr, play, and do all the cute things that kittens generally love to do.

All of the cats in the cafe have been rescued from local shelters, provided with health checkups plus the necessary shots, and are available for adoption.

Visiting the cafe is a great way to test your compatibility with a potential future companion before taking one home.

Time to Allot: One hour Cost: Approximately $15 per visit (plus $3 for wine) Best For: Teens, mother/daughter experiences, or as a rainy day activity Pounce Cat Cafe | 404 W Broughton Street, Savannah, GA 31401

Catch a Comedy Show at Front Porch Improv

Front Porch Improv is home to Savannah’s most popular comedy group.

The building is located along the southern end of the Starland District , and it makes for a great date night spot (after having dinner at one of Starland’s incredible restaurants , of course).

Just as the title suggests: expect improv! The skits are spontaneous and fast-paced, and the performers will keep you entertained for the duration of the show. They offer a Friday night show and a Saturday Night LIVE in Savannah! performance.

The folks from Savannah for Morons (mentioned above) often get in on the act, so if you’ve experienced their trolley tour before, you can expect the same high energy levels at Front Porch Improv.

Unlike some improv acts, you won’t be pulled on stage and embarrassed during the show. Sometimes the performers will ask questions to spur audience participation, but it’s not the type of place where they make anyone feel uncomfortable in the name of “comedy”.

Front Porch Improv offers reasonably-priced alcoholic drinks, and they provide popcorn to snack on during the show. Overall, it’s a pretty laid-back experience and perfect for a casual evening out!

Make Note: While the show isn’t overtly raunchy, it is better suited for adults than kids.

Time to Allot: 2-3 hours Cost: Approximately $10 (plus inexpensive drinks) Best For: Date night, small group activity, or as a rainy night activity Front Porch Improv | 210 W Victory Drive, Savannah, GA 31405

Cruise Around Town in a Vintage Car

If you want to explore the city in style, try booking a private guided tour in a vintage burgundy and black Citroën.

The Citroën’s owner, Daniel Richardson, is both a vintage car aficionado and a Savannah history buff. He’ll happily share his knowledge on either subject as he chauffeurs you around the area.

Just let him know in advance if you’d like to customize the tour in any way, and he’ll do his best to tailor it to your specifications.

Time to Allot: 1 hr 30 min Cost: Approximately $125 for 2 people Best For: Couples, anniversary celebration, sightseeing Vintage Car Tour | Meet at any location in the Historic District or have Daniel pick you up at your hotel.

Plan a Savannah Scavenger Hunt

Who doesn’t love a scavenger hunt?! It’s a fantastic way to stay entertained while you’re making memories in a new city.

A scavenger hunt is also a great way to keep kids busy! After all, while parents enjoy strolling along Savannah’s prettiest streets to admire all the beautiful architecture, the kids… not so much .

Here are a few things to look for during a scavenger hunt:

• Horse Hitches: You can find them throughout the Historic District. There are many on the south side of Emmet Park, and they can also be found in front of homes and businesses.
• Fishy Downspouts: You’ll notice these throughout the Historic District, as well. The can be found on Jones Street, Taylor Street, near The Olde Pink House, and in many other areas. Some people refer to them as “trout spouts.”
• Pineapples: Pineapples are symbol of Southern hospitality (unless they’re upside down, which indicates a whole ‘nother level of hospitality!), and they’re a popular decor item in Savannah. You can spot them atop wrought iron fences, carved into doors, and used as decorative lighting.
• Panhandle Slim Art: Panhandle Slim is a popular folk artist in Savannah. You can spot his colorful paintings on the sides of homes and businesses throughout the area — perhaps most predominantly in Starland and the Victorian District.

The City of Savannah website includes helpful printable educational scavenger hunt activities for kids.

Visiting Savannah Georgia: Helpful Resources

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, I’ve created a few resources to help you out.

• Savannah Georgia Vacation Guide :  This is the place to start if you don’t know much about Savannah and want a brief overview of the city.
• Free Resource Library :  When you join my email list you’ll gain access to helpful printables, like my checklist of 50 things to do on foot in the Historic District (no car necessary).
• Savannah First-Timer’s Guide :  If you’re the type of traveler who wants all of your information in one handy guide, my ebook is the best way to go. It’s the easiest way to start planning your trip!

Looking for More Things To Do in Savannah?

There are so many fun things to do around here; I don’t think it’s possible to get bored in Savannah! Here are a few additional posts you might want to check out:

• Black History Tours in Savannah: Which Ones Are Best?
• Bonaventure Cemetery Tour: Top Tips and Must-See Spots
• Savannah Trolley Tour Reviews: How to Pick the Best Option

What are your favorite fun things to do in Savannah Georgia? Drop a comment below!

Love this post? Pin it now to save for later!

3 Comments on 11 Quirky and Fun Things To Do in Savannah Georgia

This has been THE best and most fun site I’ve come across while planning my Savannah vacation! Thank you for these fun & quirky suggestions; many of them are now on our must-do list!

We are about to take our second trip to Savannah in April and I was looking for some different things to do. Erin, your website has been a fantastic source of information! Thank you so much!!!

I’m glad it helped! Enjoy your trip. The jasmine should be blooming in April, and it will be beautiful 🙂

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Wander With Alex

Visiting Savannah? 12 Attractions to Add to Your Itinerary

Posted: June 6, 2023 | Last updated: June 6, 2023

#1 – Plant Riverside District

Recommended by Denise of ChefDenise.com

No visit to Savannah would be complete without visiting the Plant Riverside District located on the south end of the famed River Street. The Plant Riverside District offers lots of things to do. You can spend an hour or a day taking in some live-entertainment and strolling the wide brick path along the Savannah River.

The repurposed 1912 power plant is filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries. Savannah's open container policy allows those over 21 to carry alcoholic beverages in clear plastic cups in the historic area. So, it's probably no coincidence that there's a tavern at the beginning of the Plant Riverside District. If you're not ready for a drink when you start, you'll have plenty of opportunities along the way.

Stop in at Generator Hall and hang out on a lounge chair under a glass dinosaur if you need a respite. When hunger hits, you're never far from an eatery. Savannah is one of the best foodie cities of the South, right up there with New Orleans and Charleston .

Everything from gourmet cookies and candy to barbecue and oysters can be found here on the river. Grab a snack at one of the outdoor venues like the Riverside Biergarten or the District Smokehouse and watch the Georgia Queen and barges pass by. 

At night time, the Plant River District is even more lively. Go up to the roof top bar at Electric Moon for some of the best views of it all. Visiting the Plant Riverside District is one of the top things to do in Savannah. 

#2 – Garden of Good & Evil Walking Tour

Recommended by Terri of FemaleSoloTrek.com

Another popular thing to do in Savannah is seeing Savannah, GA, through the eyes of author John Berendt. Author of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this New Yorker scribe put modern-day Savannah on the map with his tale of lust, sex, and murder.

If you are obsessed with the real-life story of the insular and close-knit world of historic Savannah, consider a Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil walking tour (such as Savannah Tours on Viator).

Typically, a two-hour jaunt, your guide will dish up the gossip as well as the treachery of the true-crime story. Who doesn't want to know if it was murder or self-defense when "shots rang out in Savannah's grandest mansion in the misty, early morning hours of May 2, 1981." Did antique dealer Jim Williams kill his lover Danny Hansford?

The typical stops on this walking tour are Forsyth Park, Mercer Williams House Museum, Monterey Square, Churchill's Pub, Jones Street, and Clary's Café. After the tour, consider touring Williams' home, which is now a museum.

You can separately book a walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery. It is highly recommended to read the book before you take this tour then, you can quiz your tour guide on perplexing questions.

#3 – Tybee Island

Recommended by Inna from PlanetDreaming.com

Tybee is a city as well as an island located in Chatham County, Georgia, in the easternmost part of the state. Situated about 28 miles away from Savannah, it's a popular tourist destination for visitors from the city and countrywide. 

Due to its strategic location near the mouth of the Savannah River, Tybee Island was once visited by pirates quite often. It is also known as Savannah Beach, thanks to the proximity of the state's capital. Tybee is a nature-lovers paradise, too, since you can easily spot numerous bird species and even endangered loggerhead turtles.

There are two main historic locations – the Civil War Fort Pulaski and the Tybee Island Lighthouse.

Today, you can walk around the fort to see the towers, moats, drawbridges, and other structures. What’s interesting about visiting this place is seeing the reconstructions that make you feel like you stepped back in time. You can roam around on your own or take part in one of the ranger-led tours, which are an excellent opportunity to get to know the fort and learn about some interesting historical facts.

Besides these landmarks, Tybee is a perfect beach destination for families and couples where you can enjoy watersports, try delicious seafood, spot wildlife, and even learn some historical facts. There are lots to see and do while visiting Tybee Island. Visiting Tybee Island is one of the top things to do in Savannah. 

#4 – Forsyth Park

Recommended by Sydney of AWorldInReach.com

If you're visiting Savannah, Georgia , and looking for the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon, take a stroll to Forsyth Park. This large park in Savannah's Historic District has walking paths, shady spots for relaxing, sports and recreation areas, and a large centerpiece fountain that is one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Forsyth Park is located in the southern part of the Historic District, about a 25-minute walk from the River Street area of Savannah. The walk from River Street down to the park is scenic and perfect for exploring the city. Along the way, admire Savannah's scenery, from historic squares to gorgeous architecture.

Plus, Savannah's open container laws allow you to enjoy alcoholic beverages while walking through the Historic District, so grab a frozen daiquiri from Wet Willie's on River Street to keep you cool on your walk. You could also plan a stop at Leopold's, the best ice cream shop in town.

Once you arrive at Forsyth Park, you can keep walking on the park's walking paths, start a game of frisbee or tennis, hang out on a bench and people-watch, or stop to admire the park's scenery. Don't forget to grab a photo of the beautiful Forsyth Fountain!

#5 – Breakfast at Mirabelle

Recommended by Elena of CarryOnChronicles.com

The southern gem of Savannah is a foodie's paradise! One of the local favorite spots for a delicious breakfast is Mirabelle. Housed in a charming building dating back to the 1800s, Mirabelle sits on Abercorn Street in the beautiful Historic District. Located just across the street from the iconic St. Johns Cathedral,

Mirabelle specializes in authentic liege waffles inspired by Belgian street food. Waffles are available with a wide variety of sweet toppings, from peach compote to lemon-lavender curd crème, to ricotta, to cinnamon streusel.

Plus, guests will appreciate the lovely presentation and attention to detail given to each waffle. Alternatively, if you're in more of a savory mood, Mirabelle also offers a variety of tasty paninis.

In addition to mouth-watering delights, the interior of Mirabelle is incredibly charming and welcoming. In fact, with its Instagrammable interior, it's easily one of the best Savannah photo spots !

Plus, beyond enjoying the tasty treats they serve, you can also book a stay at one of the vintage-style boutique suites at Mirabelle, located just above the café.

These are perfect if you're looking to explore the numerous gems of the Historic District, including the beautiful Lafayette Square, located just nearby.

#6 – Fort Pulaski National Monument

Recommended by Alison of ExplorationSolo.com

Built in 1847 to protect Savannah's waterway, Fort Pulaski played a pivotal role in the Civil War. In a key battle, Union forces overtook the fort in 1862, crippling the Southern supply chain.

Now a National Monument just 15 miles from downtown Savannah, it's a great place to visit and spend a few hours and perfectly safe for solo travelers visiting the Savannah area.

Even if you're not a history buff, the beautiful red brick fort on Cockspur Island has a park-like setting. Green grass, palm trees, and blue water greet you upon entering.

You can explore the fort, see how the soldiers lived, and get an up-close view of the artillery they used. Around the exterior is evidence of the battle with damage from cannon fire.

Beyond Fort Pulaski, Cockspur Island offers four walking trails. Most guests enjoy the Lighthouse Overlook Trail for views of the Cockspur Island Lighthouse.

For those more adventurous, try the two-mile Historic Dike System Trail, which circles Fort Pulaski. As you enjoy views of the Island and Savannah River, you'll also encounter sandy beaches and areas to stop for a picnic lunch.

You can easily spend half a day at Fort Pulaski, and $10 per person, it's a good deal. If you need more time, your ticket is good for seven consecutive days. It's a perfect way to get away from the crowds and see a piece of history.

#7 – Wormsloe Historic Site

Recommended by Yulia of MissTourist.com

History lover or not, Wormslow Historic Site is adored by all who visit and is a must-stop during your trip to Savannah! The historic estate was originally owned by a carpenter named Noble Jones. Home to the oldest structure still standing in Savannah today, the estate, as well as the ruins of Noble Jone's house, date back to 1745.

With 500 acres to explore, either with a guided tour or a solo wander, there is certainly something here to suit every taste. The picturesque plantation is just begging to be the star of a photoshoot, and the forest welcomes you with miles of trails to walk and ponder. Don't miss the incredible views of the Isle of Hope, and be sure to check out the official website to see if any special events are happening during your visit.

What's more, Wormslow Historic Site couldn't be any more convenient to access. Jump in the car, and within 15 mins from your hotel in Savannah , the prestigious gates will be waiting to welcome you with open arms. Entry costs $10 for adults and is open daily from 9 am-5 pm.

#8 – Owens-Thomas House

Recommended by StoriesbySoumya.com

One of the best things to do in Savannah, Georgia, is to take a tour of the historic Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters.

Located in the heart of Downtown Savannah, Owens-Thomas House is an old, Regency-style mansion with a complicated history. It was built in the early 19th century and was home to George Welshman Owens, his family, and his retinue of enslaved people for more than a hundred years. In the 1800s, nineteen to fifteen enslaved people lived on this property.

Owens-Thomas House is one of the best historic sites in Savannah . A visit here allows you to explore fine Regency architecture, visit period rooms stacked with decorative art, and learn about the complex history of enslaved people who kept the house up and running. A tour of the former slave quarters is an eye-opening experience.

Other highlights at the mansion include a beautiful parterre garden, a carriage house, and several workspaces, including the butler's pantry and a working cellar that features the city's early indoor plumbing systems.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters are open every day from 10:00am – 5:00pm. Purchase your ticket online here and check in onsite to be part of a guided tour. Tours happen every 15 minutes. 

#9 – Mercer Williams House

Recommended by Erin of SavannahFirstTimer.com

The always-intriguing Mercer Williams house has been drawing visitors to Savannah for decades – ever since John Berendt published his best-selling novel, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" in 1994.

The book focuses on the life of local philanthropist and restoration expert Jim Williams, who was accused of shooting a young prostitute named Danny Hansford. The shooting took place during Williams' popular annual Christmas gala, and many of Savannah's elite were gathered at the home at the time.

Hansford and Williams’ relationship had been a tumultuous one, and Williams claimed the shooting was in self-defense. He was tried four times in the state of Georgia before finally being acquitted on the charge of murder. Less than a year after his return to the Mer cer Williams House , Williams' body was found in the study — ironically in almost the exact same location where Hansford was originally shot.

The home is no stranger to tragedy. It sat empty and abandoned for a while and fell into a state of neglect. During that time, a young boy named Tommy Downs snuck into the house and stumbled to his death from one of the upper levels (some say he was pushed). Visitors can still see the missing spike where he was impaled on the beautifully wrought iron fence below.

These days, members of Williams’ family still reside in the home, which has been impeccably restored. They allow visitors to tour a few rooms on the ground floor of the beautiful home. 

#10 – Bonaventure Cemetery

Recommended by Sam of FindLoveandTravel.com

Bonaventure Cemetery is easily one of the most unique places to add to your Savannah itinerary . It is located on a scenic bluff just east of the city. Not only is it the largest cemetery in Savannah, with over 100 acres, but likely one of the most famous as well. Originally a plantation, part of the land was sold to be a private cemetery in 1846. Eventually, Bonaventure Cemetery became public in 1907.

So why is it so famous? Besides several notable people being buried here, including Johnny Mercer, the cemetery was featured in the Novel and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. 

Furthermore, it is known as one of the most beautiful cemeteries sprawling with giant live oak trees blanketed in Spanish Moss. During springtime in Savannah, the cemetery is bursting with azalea blooms, giving the sense you really are walking through a garden rather than tombs. 

Like the rest of Savannah, the cemetery is indeed considered haunted. One of the most famous graves to visit is that of Little Gracie Watkins, who died when she was 6 of pneumonia. You can even consider taking a tour of the cemetery! 

You can visit the cemetery free Monday through Sunday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

#11 – American Prohibition Museum

The American Prohibition Museum is a must-see attraction for visitors to Savannah, GA. Located in the heart of downtown near River Street, this museum offers a fascinating look at one of America’s most significant departures from traditional social norms.

Through interactive exhibits and carefully curated artifacts and memorabilia, the museum tells the story of America’s brief foray into alcohol prohibition and its lasting impact on our society today.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for an entertaining experience that will leave you feeling enlightened, the American Prohibition Museum should certainly be on your list of things to do in Savannah.

#12 – National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Located in Savannah, Georgia, the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. The museum pays tribute to the brave men and women who fought in the skies during World War II, highlighting their incredible feats as well as the equipment and technology that made such accomplishments possible.

You can explore a variety of exhibits and displays, including a fascinating collection of restored aircraft and cockpit simulators. Whether you are a longtime fan of military history or simply have an interest in aviation and its role in combat, this museum is sure to leave you inspired.

So if you’re looking for something truly unique on your next trip to Savannah, add the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force to your itinerary!

Final Thoughts

Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the United States. With its antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque squares, Savannah exudes an undeniable Southern charm that attracts tourists from all corners of the country.

Of course, aside from its beauty, Savannah also offers a wealth of fun activities for you to enjoy. Whether you are exploring on your own or taking a guided tour of some of the city’s best-loved landmarks, we highly recommend a visit to Savannah as one of your next vacation destinations. You won’t be disappointed!

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The 18 Most Beautiful Places In Georgia, According To A Born-And-Raised Local

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the breezy barrier islands, the Peach State is full of surprises.

Growing up somewhere, it can be easy to become immune to its unique virtues. Georgia is home to sweeping farmlands and soaring mountain ranges, lush pine forests and breezy barrier islands, and even bustling cities and charming small towns . With no shortage of topographies and landmarks to explore, the Peach State won’t leave any visitor wondering about its natural appeal. 

As a born-and-raised Georgia native, I’ve explored the state and its varying locales, having spent days wandering the cobblestone streets of Savannah, climbing up the Blue Ridge Mountains, touring Atlanta museums, and biking on a beach cruiser in many a coastal town. While there’d be no way to round up every special place in the state, I’m happy to list some favorites. Here are the 18 most beautiful places in Georgia, according to a local. 

Jekyll Island

This Georgia barrier island on the Atlantic Coast—between Jacksonville and Savannah—offers more than 20 miles of bike trails and walking routes that meander through marshes and hover atop wooden boardwalks. Seasonal ranger walks allow you to experience the area's scenic wonders, and travelers with binoculars flock to walking trails for self-guided nature tours and afternoons spent spotting birds beneath the trees. 

Tallulah Gorge State Park

SeanPavonePhoto /Getty Images

Along the border between Georgia and South Carolina sits Tallulah Falls, a small town abounding in natural blessings. The biggest draw in the area is  Tallulah Gorge State Park , the centerpiece of which is the namesake gorge that has been dubbed one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia." It stretches two miles long and drops almost 1,000 feet deep, carved out over centuries by the Tallulah River. The Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail is one of the best ways to see the gorge and take in the beauty of the landscape.

Cumberland Island

Steeped in history, this enchanting Georgia barrier island feels suspended in time. Today, Cumberland Island is mostly protected land under the classification of  National Seashore . The 17-mile-long strip of land remains largely in its natural state, populated by dense maritime forest of live oaks, saw palmetto, sabal palms, and pines. Explore the many historic ruins and natural wonders scattered across the island.

Little Grand Canyon

Getty Images/SeanPavonePhoto

Also claimed as one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia," Providence Canyon State Park  is a 2,706-acre recreation area with unique geological formations you wouldn't necessarily expect to see in the Peach State. Arizona, Enjoy views of the canyons from the Rim Trail or get a little more adventurous by hiking to the bottom of the deepest canyons. One of the most popular hikes, the 5-mile Canyon Loop Trail, circles nine of the canyons.

With less than 1,000 residents, this charming Bavarian town centered on around 2 square miles is undoubtedly tiny—and feels like you're far away from Georgia. The steeply pitched roofs, quaint cross-gables, and colorful half-timbering exude fairytale charm, and Helen being so close to the mountains of Georgia offers unmatched outdoor recreation. Its annual Oktoberfest brings visitors flocking in the fall for revelry.

Rock City Gardens

Southern Living

Right near the border of northwest Georgia and Tennessee, you'll find a true natural marvel of massive ancient rock formations, panoramic views, and beautiful gardens with over 400 native plant species. Rock City Gardens rests atop Lookout Mountain, and offers many ways to explore, including the 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail that highlights caves, rock formations, and more.

St. Simons Island

Georgia’s largest barrier island, which is known for its moss-hung oak trees, feels like a true escape. Beyond the quiet beaches and breezy outdoor activities, the walkable village on St. Simons Island has you feeling like a main character in a novel. Make sure to check out the scenic Christ Church Frederica , which is one of the oldest churches in the state.

Forsyth Park

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

While you can freely take a walk through any one of Savannah's many city squares and parks—which pop up every few blocks, ensuring you're never too far from a green space to wander—the biggest and perhaps most beautiful in the historic district is the 30-acre  Forsyth Park , which neighbors The Savannah College of Art and Design and has a majestic fountain and lots of paths winding beneath moss-draped oak trees.

Downtown Thomasville

Robbie Caponetto

On a sunny day, there's no better place to be than walking around the cobblestone streets of downtown Thomasville—a small town in southwest Georgia—which has shops and restaurants aplenty and captures a charming town-square feeling that is hard to come by nowadays. While the town is surrounded by its signature (and utterly gorgeous) farmlands and hunting camps, you'll not need to stray far from the downtown blocks. Make sure to stop into local boutiques for wares to bring home.

Callaway Resort & Gardens

Getty Images/Anchasa Mitchell

Sprawled over 2,500 acres, Callaway Resort & Gardens is located within the town of Pine Mountain and brings visitors year-round for seasonal events, outdoor recreation, and blooming floral displays, particularly in the spring. There are miles of trails and gardens to keep you busy all day, including the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, which is surrounded by gardens and filled with fluttering butterflies.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is one of Georgia's most lush and verdant gems that stretches for 867,000 mountainous and wooded acres. On a clear day, you can see four states from  Brasstown Bald Visitor Information Center , which is the highest point in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level. Expect sweeping 360-degree views after a curvy, scenic drive and a short, paved path to the peak.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

Getty Images/RodClementPhotography

About three hours from Macon, you'll find a truly unique 54-acre site—the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site —that happens to be the most intact Native American Mississippian culture site in the Southeast, featuring six earthen mounds, as well as a plaza, village site, and more. You can walk a nature trail along the Etowah River and check out artifacts of how early civilizations lived off the land and the forest.

Macon Cherry Blossom Festival

In March, around 350,000 Yoshino flowering cherry trees paint this small town pink. (Washington, D.C., by comparison, has only around 3,800 of them.) During the 10-day  International Cherry Blossom Festival,  thousands of people fill the streets of Macon to ring in spring with a parade, concerts, food and drink specials, and a giant fair. 

Atlanta History Center

Getty Images

Encompassing 33 acres of gardens, historic homes, and art and culture exhibitions, the Atlanta History Center is as much as breathtaking visit for the site alone as it is for the many attractions. Run by the Atlanta Historical Society, it was founded in 1926 to preserve and study Atlanta history.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Getty Images/HABesen

The largest wetland in the South and another of the state's "Seven Natural Wonders," Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a 402,000-acre refuge for turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, numerous birds, and more. It is also estimated that 12,000 alligators live within the refuge, too. Visitors can rent canoes or opt for guided boat tours to take in the swamp and its many critters. 

Ian Dagnall/Alamy

Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming small town offers sweeping views and plenty to do, with hiking trails for the adventurous, an impressive collection of North Georgia wineries for weekend tours and tastings, and a historic town square with worn brick facades centered around a courthouse, which dates back to the state's early 19th-century gold rush. Plus, it gets decked out for Christmas, if you're ever looking for a Hallmark movie-worthy setting.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Alison Miksch

Founded in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Garden spreads over 30 acres adjacent to the grassy sprawl of Piedmont Park, and its footprint includes many lush gardens, walkways, and art installations. As you explore, don’t miss the Fuqua Orchid Center, where you can see one of the most diverse collections of these plants in the world (it contains over 2,000 species of the delicate blooms). Additionally, it puts on an incredibly festive display during the holiday season.

Lake Lanier

Just around 45 minutes from Atlanta, man-made Lake Lanier is as pretty as it is expansive, stretching 38,000 acres. A favorite summer destination for Georgia natives, there are plenty of activities to partake in, from enjoying a boat day or kayaking the lake's many bays and isles. Sunsets here are the epitome of the beauty of Southern lake days.

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Food Lovers Are Heading to Savannah and So Should You

The dining scene in this charming Southern city is heating up.

Caroline is a Southern-born and New York-based restaurant industry writer, casserole aficionado, and former prep cook. She has covered the hospitality industry for more than a decade.

WILL CROOKS

I arrived at Late Air in the last minutes of a Friday night “apero hour” and ordered a fizzy bianco vermouth-pét nat cocktail and a plate of pickled Georgia shrimp. Next, the bartender poured me a glass of sparkling Chardonnay from Beaujolais to go with a tangle of green beans, peanuts, and crunchy tofu. With its quirky menu and new-to-me bottles, the natural wine bar reminded me of my favorite spots in New York, Mexico City, and Paris. But I was snacking and sipping in Savannah, the Spanish moss-draped town of 150,000 in coastal Georgia.

Growing up, Savannah was the closest thing I had to a big city. I lived 95 country miles away, and every few months, my mom would load us into our minivan and drive to Savannah to shop. We’d eat lunch at Spanky’s, a restaurant that claims to have invented the chicken finger, or at a chain restaurant near the mall. Occasionally, we went downtown for a cheeseburger at the old-school Crystal Beer Parlor. But meals were mostly incidental. 

Indeed, no one would have considered Savannah a food destination until a decade ago, things started to change, with investment in the city’s downtown — and with the 2014 arrival of game-changing restaurant The Grey. Mashama Bailey and John O. Morisano opened The Grey in an art deco Greyhound bus station, and ever since the restaurant’s progressive Southern cooking has drawn travelers, locals, national press, and cooks to Savannah. That slow river of transformation became a flood during the pandemic, when Savannah’s less-restrictive COVID policies and warm weather fueled a boom in tourism. Now, the Hostess City can count a destination-worthy restaurant and bar scene to its many charms — contemporary art, historic architecture, oak-lined squares, and liberal open container laws, among them.

COURTESY OF BROCHU’S

On my most recent visit, in walking distance of Forsyth Park, some of the city’s most picturesque acres, I polished off a bowl of bucatini bolstered with umami-rich sardines and anchovies at Saint Bibiana, a modern Italian restaurant opened by recent transplant Derek Simcik. Down the street, I scoped out Strangebird, a Southern-meets-Mexican barbecue joint inside a renovated Streamliner diner where chefs Daniel “Nilo” Aranza and Felipe Vera engineer a delightfully sloppy birria burger and salsa macha-topped refried butter beans. Strangebird is the latest restaurant from restaurateur Brandon Carter, who has opened three restaurants in Savannah since 2021. The others are Common Thread, a fine-dining spot set in a Victorian mansion, and Wildflower Cafe at the Jepson Center, a contemporary art museum. 

Yes, tourists still line up for pizza slices at Vinnie Van GoGo’s and legendary fried chicken lunches at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House, but these mainstays don’t offer the town’s only pizza and chicken worth waiting for. At Vittoria Pizzeria, Kyle Jacovino sells blistered Neopolitan-ish pies made with naturally leavened dough; I savored one of his farmers market pizzas topped with merguez bolognese, ramps, and morels. Jacovino arrived in town the same year that The Grey opened, as chef of Hugh Acheson’s short-lived The Florence, and decided to stay. “It’s a cool town. It’s not hyper stressful. It’s affordable to live in and raise a family,” he says. 

COURTESY OF VITTORIA PIZZA

Around the corner, at Brochu’s Family Tradition, I tucked into their whole chicken dinner, a tray packed with fried thighs brined in chamomile tea, charred breast, chicken salad, biscuits and gravy, with housemade sunchoke hot sauce and pickles. Chef Andrew Brochu had originally planned on opening his Southern-inflected concept in Chicago, where he had worked at Alinea and Roister. The pandemic squashed that dream, and he started over in Savannah, where his wife Sophie grew up. “It took COVID to make us say, ‘Let’s go down South and see what’s going on,’” says Brochu. “I found the space here, and we just bought a home.”

Todd Harris, another Chicago transplant, moved to Savannah in 2021 and took over the kitchen at Garage at Victory North, a favorite late-night hangout spot, the following year. “Savannah was attractive because Mashama was here,” he says. At Garage at Victory North, Harris celebrates Southern ingredients, including okra he grows in a backyard garden and collard greens he dresses up into a Caesar salad, and weaves one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic dishes, red rice, into a creamy, must-order risotto. 

GABRIELA HERMAN/GALLERY STOCK

The juxtaposition of old and new is what makes Savannah exciting right now for diners — and chefs. The city has always had a wealth of history and culture to share, but now there’s a deeper bench of hospitality talent to tell its stories on the plate.

On my last night in town, a Monday, I popped into Over Yonder, a honky tonk bar and industry hangout. I expected the place to be empty but had to elbow my way to the bar to order a cheeseburger and ranch water. Across the room, I spotted Ryan Landers, the bartender who’d poured my wine at Late Air a few days before. Brandon Carter and his culinary team were there too. We may have shared a few tequila shots. “I love the energy of this city,” said Carter, as we raised our glasses to Savannah.

Where to eat in Savannah

COURTESY OF DOTTIE’S

Brochu’s Family Tradition

Chef Andrew Brochu traded Michelin trappings for a fun, no-frills restaurant in the artsy Starland District neighborhood. Pull up to the bar at Brochu's for grilled oysters and a piña colada slushie.

The Garage at Victory North

At this bar , restaurant, and late-night hangout in Starland District , start with a classic cocktail, and build a meal around Savannah red rice, oxtail, and buttermilk fried chicken.

Common Thread

At Brandon Carter’s debut Savannah restaurant, Common Thread , you’ll dine in a lovingly restored Victorian home and eat the region’s best produce tucked into okonomiyaki, fermented into kimchi, sidled next to Georgia beef, and drizzled with huancaina sauce.

Strange Bird

Expect to sit next to a sweet tea–sipping local at this Southern-meets-Mexican barbecue joint , where birria burgers, shrimp burritos, and barbacoa tacos reign supreme.

Saint Bibiana

This modern Italian restaurant from chef Derek Simcik, a recent transplant, anchors the new  Hotel Bardo . Every dish at Saint Bibiana — even the burrata and the grilled branzino — has nuance and intrigue layered in.

Grab a falafel or sabich pita, and head to Forsyth Park for a picnic, or enjoy a saucy shakshuka at fast-casual Israeli newcomer Shuk .

Pizzeria Vittoria

Kyle Jacovino’s pizzeria anchors the Starland Yard food truck park. Order a beer nearby while you wait for an ideal Margherita or a cheffy market pie.

Former New Yorkers, chefs Christopher Meenan and Ericka Phillips opened this all-day café and market, dedicated to Phillips’ great-grandmother. Stop in Dottie's for a towering shrimp po’boy while shopping on Broughton.

Where to drink in Savannah

PETER FRANK EDWARDS/REDUX

After living in New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, and Virginia Beach, Madeline Ott and Colin Breland chose Savannah for their natural-wine bar Late Air . The couple has introduced 50 bottles to the state since opening.

Savoy Society

Jane Fishel has owned bars in Savannah since 2012, and her airy downtown spot, Savory Society , touts advanced bartending — there are amaros, infusions, and cheese in cocktails — without attitude.

Over Yonder

You have to walk through Moodright’s, a bar and duckpin bowling alley, to reach this late-night hot spot. Locals love the double-stacked smash burgers and Georgia-brewed Creature Comforts beer at Over Yonder .

Where to stay in Savannah

Perry lane hotel.

At the intimate, art-filled Perry Lane Hotel , guests are greeted with Cava and can mosey to the first-floor bar, The Wayward, for complimentary happy-hour cocktails. Chef Daniel Herget left a plum post in South Beach to lead the hotel’s restaurant, The Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market.  Rooms from $309

JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

This historic power plant–turned–hotel holds a concert venue and a serious collection of gemstones, geodes, and fossils. Watch cargo ships steer in and out of the city’s busy port while you slurp oysters at District Seafood, one of 11 restaurants and bars on-site.  Rooms from $299

Thompson Savannah

Art curated by local gallerist Susan Laney fills the lobby of this hotel near River Street’s eastern edge. From the hotel, you can snag a breakfast sandwich at Stevedore Bakery before strolling along the Savannah River or sipping a culinary cocktail at rooftop Bar Julian.  Rooms from $269

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When and where you can see April's Pink Moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 4:39 PM EDT / CBS News

Astronomy fans can check out the Pink Moon this month as April's full moon rises.

April's full moon will reach peak illumination at 7:49 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, but it will appear full from Monday through Thursday morning, according to NASA . The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S. 

Why is April's full moon known as the Pink Moon?

Full moon names often come from seasons, historical crops and the behavior of certain animals. The "Pink Moon" moniker unfortunately has nothing to do with the moon's color, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac. Instead, it's connected to the early springtime bloom of certain wildflowers, including one native to eastern North America often called "moss pink."

April's full moon goes by several other names, too, including Breaking Ice Moon, Moon When the Streams are Again Navigable, Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs and Moon of the Red Grass Appearing. It also has several names connected to animals, including Moon When the Ducks Come Back, Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs, Frog Moon and Sucker Moon.

NASA notes it's also the Pesach or Passover Moon — the Jewish holiday begins this year on Monday evening. This full moon also corresponds with the Hanuman Jayanti festival on the Hindu lunisolar calendar in most regions, according to the space agency. 

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this spring?

The Eta Aquariids meteor shower is estimated to peak Saturday, May 4 through Sunday, May 5. And May's full moon, the Flower Moon, reaches peak illumination on May 23. 

In case you missed it,  the Lyrid meteor shower  peaked late Sunday night, between April 21 and 22.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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