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Savannah Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing savannah.

Savannah, or at least its historic downtown, is very walkable. Wear comfy shoes when you hit the streets.

onemoreroad

The "real" Savannah can be found by strolling her 22 squares. Wander from Bay street to Forsyth Park and come back a different route.

ScoutandBoo

The highlight of Savannah is those beautiful squares, shaded with enormous live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. You can walk in the shade almost anywhere, and most of the squares have some kind of seating.

julesencore15

There are historic house museums and art galleries to visit during rainy weather (or anytime, really) plus the Savannah Visitor’s Center has the Savannah History Museum … Savannah's rain doesn’t last all day but tends to come and go. Don't let the rain keep you from enjoying the city.

Stroll River Street for a few minutes and duck into one of the candy shops for a free praline sample. Don't spend all of your time on River Street because there's a lot more to Savannah than just River Street.

Make dinner reservations, and don’t be surprised if popular breakfast and lunch spots have lines out the front.

Make sure you leave time to simply wander the cobblestoned streets. The most popular areas are easily accessible on foot, and getting just a little lost is always a romantic adventure!

For us, it is beautiful, historic, eerie, romantic, sultry and truly southern because of its general atmosphere. A real walking city with great people, great seafood and excellent sweet tea.

For me Savannah is a town that is littered in both history and ghosts; it is not known as America's most haunted city for nothing.

A wonderful blend of the Old South and young art students.

If you're looking for a laid back city with a little quirkiness thrown in, Savannah is the place.

What is the best way to get there?

Savannah/Hilton Head Island International Airport is 10 miles from the city center. Rental cars, shuttles, and taxis are available on the lower level.

Amtrak’s Palmetto and Silver Service trains run between New York and Miami with three southbound and three northbound trains stopping at the station every day.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Savannah from overseas, use the State Department’s  Visa Wizard  to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring: A great time to visit Savannah is from March to May when the magnificent azaleas and dogwoods are blooming and the city is alive with St. Patrick's Day celebrations and the Savannah Music Festival. High temperatures in this season are between 65°F and 79°F (18°C - 26°C). Spring does, however, bring crowds, high rates, and booked-out hotels. An alternative is to visit between September and November when it is much quieter and daily high temperatures go from 86°F (30°C) in September to 69°F (20°C) in November.

The Historic District is easy to explore by foot, though you should limit your exploration to the daytime.

If you tire of walking, you can page or call a pedicab. These usually cost $1 a minute for a ride.

Driving is usually fairly easy in Savannah but note that finding parking around the Historic District can be challenging.

Chatham Area Transit operates buses around the city as well as the free dot Shuttle (Route #5) around the Historic District; the free Savannah Belles Ferry, and a free streetcar along River Street on weekends.

For more information about the network and fares,  see here .

ridesharing

Uber and Lyft are available in Savannah on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Eastern Standard Time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in the United States is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.

What is the currency?

The U.S. Dollar.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip.

$1 a drink or $2 for a more labor-intensive cocktail

$1-3 per bag

Housekeeper

$2-3 per night

Taxis/rideshare

Shuttle driver.

$1-$2 per person

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years old.

Take your drink to go

Savannah’s open container laws allow you to walk around downtown historic Savannah with your beverage in a plastic container. Just ask for a “to go” cup at the bar.

Don't trespass

Respect private property; especially around the famed Rainbow Row where residents have been bothered by people photographing their homes.

Say "hello"

Locals are warm and friendly. Smile and say hello and you might make a new friend and get some great local insights.

There’s a more relaxed pace of life in the south. Embrace the laid-back pace.

• River Street Inn
• Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District / Riverfront
• The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa
• JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District
• Chive Sea Bar & Lounge
• Olde Pink House Restaurant
• Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
• Cotton & Rye
• Crystal Beer Parlor
• Savannah Historic District
• Olde Pink House
• Wormsloe Historic Site
• Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
• Forsyth Park
• Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
• 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise
• Savannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour
• Savannah to Tybee Island with Dolphin Cruise
• Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tour

Visit Savannah | Eat, Play and Stay

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Savannah

You can eat where pirates use to live., seven blocks west from where general oglethorpe landed in 1733, the pirate’s house history begins. savannah’s world famous pirates’ house is located on one of the most historic spots in georgia. it was first opened in 1753 as an inn for seafarers, and fast became a meeting point for pirates and sailors from the seven seas. since then, the pirates’ house has been entertaining visitors with a bounty of delicious food, drink, and rousing good times.

You can slow ride in historic downtown Savannah. 

Slow down savannah—come for a ride with savannah slow ride savannah slow ride is the original, 100% pedal-powered, eco-friendly way to see savannah, georgia. their fifteen person bicycle tours (you read that right, fifteen people on one bike) take you through savannah’s beautiful historic downtown. their “crawlers” are locally owned, manufactured and operated. they offer a variety of 2 hour-long tours for locals and tourists alike and have daily “mix ‘n match” rides for smaller groups or take advantage of our multiple bike tours. they have the largest fleet of “crawlers” (8 to be exact) in savannah to accommodate large corporate team building, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, graduation celebrations, retirement parties or family outings. come check out their slow ride and leave the hustle and bustle behind. (shenanigans included.), you can be at the beach in 20 minutes from downtown. , tybee island is a barrier island and small city near savannah, georgia. it’s known for its wide, sandy beaches, including south beach, with a pier and pavilion. in the island’s north, fort screven has 19th-century concrete gun batteries and the tybee island light station and museum. the still-functioning 18th-century lighthouse has been rebuilt many times. the museum, in battery garland, focuses on local history..

You can visit the home of one of the greatest songwriters ever!

John herndon mercer was an american lyricist, songwriter, and singer. he was also a record label executive who co-founded capitol records with music industry businessman buddy desylva and glenn e. wallichs. he is best known as a tin pan alley lyricist, but he also composed music. johnny mercer was born in savannah on november 18th, 1909., you can shop until you drop on broughton street, broughton street in historic downtown savannah offers a variety of shopping and dining experiences. shop local low country stores for coastal decor,  eat ice cream at world-famous leopold’s and stop by your favorite national retailers like lululemon or urban outfitters.  check out the new starbucks at the corner of broughton street and drayton street..

You can eat low-country cuisine. 

Known for southern cooking like paul deen’s restaurant , savannah has some of the best mouthwatering low country cooking you’ll find anywhere east of the mississippi river. try mrs. wilkes for a true southern low country experience or the olde pink house for a memorable dinner on one of the historic squares., you can visit the greatest art school in the country, scad prepares talented students for creative professions through engaged teaching and learning in a positively oriented university environment. scad’s campus covers most of downtown savannah and can easily be identified by its signage. if you’re traveling with your high-school-age children, check out scad , you can walk savannah’s historic squares laid out by general oglethorpe., the u.s. city of savannah, georgia was laid out in 1733 around four open squares , each surrounded by four residential (“tything”) blocks and four civic (“trust”) blocks. once the four wards were developed in the mid-1730s, two additional wards were laid out. the layout of a square and eight surrounding blocks was known as a “ward.” the original plan (now known as the oglethorpe plan) was part of a larger regional plan that included gardens, farms, and “outlying villages.” while some authorities believe that the original plan allowed for the growth of the city and thus expansion of the grid, the regional plan suggests otherwise: the ratio of town lots to country lots was in balance and growth of the urban grid would have destroyed that balance..

You can rest in the shade of angels oaks.

While walking downtown savannah you find angel oak trees everywhere. take time to enjoy the canopy of one of these gentle giants and take in the beauty of historic savannah., you can have drinks on a rooftop bar and watch cargo ships travel down the savannah river. , boom savannah is home to some of the best rooftop bars in the low country. stop by cotton sail or rocks on the rooftop and watch container ships pass by while you’re sipping on a mint julep visit savannah and visit often., related posts.

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Savannah First-Timer's Guide

Plan the Perfect Trip to Savannah

25 Epic Things To Do in Savannah in 2024: Tips From a Local

If you’re looking for things to in Savannah, you’ve landed in the right place! I’m always out exploring the Historic District and discovering fun new things to do and see.

I’ve come up with a list of my favorite attractions and activities to keep you entertained during your trip.

Trust me…Savannah is a city where you shouldn’t ever feel bored!

Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.

If you’re new around here, first of all… welcome! I’m happy to have you here.

My name is Erin, and I authored the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide .

I guess you could say I make my living telling people what to do in Savannah, so I know a thing or two about fun ways to keep busy in the city!

Cemeteries | Black History | Walking Tours | Squares | Trolleys | Unusual

Cemeteries in Savannah

To learn what makes Savannah so special, it’s important to first explore the city’s incredible past. What better way to do so than at one of our beautiful cemeteries?

Colonial Park Cemetery

Colonial Park Cemetery is located in Savannah’s Historic District. You can easily walk to it or take the free DOT shuttles to be dropped off within one block of its gates.

There’s no need to do a guided tour; just read my post about it, and then explore it on your own!

Bonaventure Cemetery

Now, Bonaventure Cemetery is known for being one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world .

It’s located on the outskirts of the city, so you’ll need a ride to get to it.

So much history is contained within its gates and the cemetery is so massive that I think it’s absolutely worth it to pay for a guided tour. You’ll get your money’s worth.

I consider it one of the top “must-see” places in Savannah ! However, please keep in mind that it is an active cemetery, and always respect anyone who is there to visit loved ones.

Recommended Cemetery Tours:

• Bonaventure Dash Tours
• Bonaventure Don Tours
• Savannah Cruzers [mobility-impaired option]

Related Reading: These 3 Cemeteries in Savannah are Worth a Visit

Savannah Black History Tours

There’s no doubt Savannah is a city with a complicated and troubled past.

A Black history tour is one of the best ways to understand the vast contributions made by African Americans — both enslaved and freed — to this city.

A few of the most significant tours include the Owens Thomas House and Slave Quarters, First African Baptist Church, and Pin Point Heritage Museum.

My post about the best Black history tours in Savannah will help you learn more about the many options that are available, but I can’t stress enough how important it is to just choose an option — any option (they’re all good) — and go !

In addition to the places listed above, you can also take a guided walking tour led by one of Savannah’s local historians. Sistah Patt of Underground Tours of Savannah gives an incredible tour.

Recommended Guided Black History Tours:

• Owens Thomas House and Slave Quarters
• First African Baptist Church
• Sistah Patt’s Tour

Related Reading: 11 Black History Tours to Help You Better Understand Savannah

Savannah Walking Tours

As long as you’re physically able, the best way to get around Savannah is by foot!

It’s so much easier to notice all the incredible details of the city when you’re walking, and it’s better for our environment, too.

It’s very common for tourists to tell me they took 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day during their vacations!

The majority of the time they’re having so much fun exploring that they don’t even realize how far they’ve walked until they check their step counter at the end of the day.

Jones Street

If you only have time to stroll down one street, I suggest beautiful Jones Street. It’s considered the prettiest street in Savannah , and it definitely lives up to the hype!

Here are some photos as proof:

Many of the homes along Jones Street were built in the mid 1800s and have historic plaques near the front door indicating the home’s age.

Factors Walk

One of my personal favorite places to take a walk in Savannah is along historic Factors Walk.

It’s where you’ll find unique Savannah landmarks like the Old Cotton Exchange building and the mysterious Cluskey Vaults.

Factors Walk looks (and sometimes feels ) rather spooky, and it’s one of the best places to explore in Savannah if you want to feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

River Street

Finally, one of the most classic Savannah activities you can do is take a sunset stroll along River Street to watch the cargo ships come into port.

Visitors are always surprised to see how the ships tower over the buildings along River Street.

Check the Marine Traffic website before you go to see when the biggest cargo ships will be coming through the area!

Recommended Historic District Walking Tours:

• Architectural Tours of Savannah
• Noble Jones Walking Tour
• Genteel & Bard Historic Walking Tour

Related Reading: Savannah Georgia Must-See Spots for First-Time Visitors

Squares in Savannah

Savannah is built on a unique grid system that includes 22+ “squares” (aka: miniature parks or green spaces) where you can stop to relax and enjoy the shade.

If you’re doing a walking tour of Savannah, I suggest exploring each square as you pass by.

The squares typically contain historic markers that provide interesting facts about the square or the homes and buildings surrounding it.

The squares look different with each season, so it’s hard to pick a favorite.

I tend to favor the quieter options located in the more residential areas of the city versus the ones closer to the river.

Thanks to the popular movie, “Forrest Gump,” Chippewa Square is probably the most well-known square in Savannah.

Recommended Squares to Visit:

• Troup Square
• Monterey Square
• Chippewa Square

⭐ Insider Tip: The squares also make a great place to do some people watching! Savannah is a known for its eccentric residents and many tend to hang out in the squares.

Savannah Trolly Tours

If you have mobility issues or aren’t accustomed to the oppressive heat and humidity during the summer months in Savannah, then you might want to try a trolley tour on your first day instead of walking.

Trolley tours provide a good overview of the city and will help you get the lay of the land.

The non-stop trolley tours are the fastest option, since they only take an hour to 90 minutes of your time.

The hop-on/hop-off tours take all day, but you’ll spend most of your time off the trolley and out exploring the landmarks at each stop.

To give you an idea of what you’ll see on a hop-on/hop-off trolley tour, I created a helpful itinerary that’s loaded with photos of the many beautiful attractions you can visit along the route.

Recommended Trolley Tours:

• Panoramic (Open-Air) Trolley
• OST Hop-On/Hop-Off Trolley
• OTT Hop-On/Hop-Off Trolley

Haunted Tours in Savannah

If you were to ask me about the most popular activity in the city, I’d have to say the ghost tours win by a long shot.

It’s practically a rite of passage to do a ghost tour while you’re visiting Savannah!

Take a Guided Ghost Tour

In fact, there are so many to choose from that I’ve written a separate detailed post about all of the different options: The Best Ghost Tours in Savannah .

It lists the top options based on tour type, including walking tours, pub crawls, haunted house tours, paranormal tours, haunted trolley tours , family-friendly tours, and more!

Hunt for Ghosts on Your Own

As fun as the guided tours are, you can also explore many of the most haunted locations on your own using my most haunted places in Savannah post to plan your route. (You might actually get a little more spooked if you aren’t strolling around amongst a crowd of tourists!)

Visit a Haunted Mansion

Now…if you actually want to venture inside a haunted mansion, the Sorrel-Weed House might be your best bet. It’s one of the only (reportedly) haunted homes in the city that visitors can actually tour.

They even offer after-hours paranormal lock-ins, for those of you who are really brave!

No matter which ghost tours you opt to do, they’re all in good fun and are a nice way to meet new people while you’re visiting Savannah.

Suggested Ghost Tours:

• Genteel & Bard Dark History & Ghost Encounter Tour
• Historic Savannah Theatre 3-Hour Paranormal Investigation
• Sorrel Weed House Tour
• Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour [mobility-impaired option]

Unusual Things To Do

I mentioned the city is known for its eccentric characters, right?

Well, eccentric residents create quirky businesses!

I’ve written extensively about some of the more unusual things to do in Savannah , and that list is a long one.

It includes options like visiting a serial killer museum, taking a cocktail class at an authentic speakeasy, exploring the city with self-proclaimed “morons,” and going on a pub crawl with a drag queen!

Explore the Plant Riverside District

If you’re traveling with kids, try heading to the west end of River Street to explore the lobby of the JW Marriott Plant Riverside.

It’s set up like a natural history museum and has exhibits featuring a unique collection of geodes and historic artifacts. The lobby’s most memorable feature is a giant 135-foot chrome dinosaur!

Plant Riverside District is considered an “Entertainment Zone,” so there are plenty of activities (like free concerts) in the area.

See the City from the Water

Another popular activity for first-time visitors along the riverfront is a dinner cruise on the iconic Georgia Queen.

The steamboat offers a unique way to see the warehouse district from the water, and some of the cruises include dinner and/or drinks.

The free Savannah Belles ferry is another (much faster) way to see Savannah from the water. It offers a quick round trip from one side of the river to the other.

Hang Out in a Bookstore

On of my personal favorite Savannah activities is to spend time relaxing in E. Shaver, bookseller.

The totally charming indie bookstore is filled with unique reads — many by local authors — and souvenirs that have a local twist.

While you’re there, pick up a copy of my favorite locally-authored book, “ Sketching Savannah ” by the talented Ivan Chow.

Suggested Unique Tours:

• Sunset Steamboat Cruise
• Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise
• “Savannah for Morons” Comedy Trolley Tour

Related Reading

In case you were too busy reading and missed some of the posts mentioned above, here are a few favorites again so you can circle back:

• Must-See Spots for First-Time Visitors to Savannah, Georgia
• These 3 Incredible Cemeteries in Savannah are Worth a Visit
• 11 Black History Tours in Savannah to Educate and Inspire You
• Savannah Trolley Tour Reviews: Which Option is Best?
• A Local’s Take on the Spookiest Ghost Tours in Savannah

Savannah Travel Guide

If you’re in the midst of planning your trip to Savannah, I have a few resources to help you out.

• Free Resource Library :  When you join my email list you get 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 place, my ebook is the best way to go. It combines my top travel tips from this website into a handy downloadable guide.

When you purchase my ebook, you’ll gain access to a private Facebook group where you can ask questions about your upcoming trip and see photos from others who have recently visited.

Weather & Climate

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Guide

Best Hotels

Public Transportation

Top Things to Do

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Savannah

Food to Try

Nightlife Guide

Top Restaurants

Your Trip to Savannah: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

From its oak-covered public squares and historic architecture to its moderate climate and coastal beauty, this Georgia city is a worthy year-round destination. Located just four hours from Atlanta and two hours from Charleston , the city is a great side trip from either of those cities as well as a worthy destination in its own right.

With its well-preserved Historic District, endless festivals, interactive museums, award-winning restaurants, and more, Savannah has plenty of activities for all seasons, visitors, and ages. Here's a complete guide about when to visit, where to stay, what to do, getting around, saving money, and more on your visit to Savannah.

Planning Your Trip to Savannah

• Best Time to Visit: With azaleas and flowers in full bloom, favorable weather, and a full roster of festivals like the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, spring is the most popular season for visiting Savannah. Summers can be oppressively hot and humid, but there are nearby beach and water-related activities to help you keep cool, and the city is less crowded in July and August than it is in spring and early summer. Fall offers fantastic weather and fewer tourists than spring, while winter can be chilly, but provides lower hotel rates and smaller crowds.
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Getting Around : Because parking is expensive and navigating one-way streets can be tricky, the Historic District is best explored on foot or via the fare-free Downtown Transportation (DOT) network , which offers shuttle buses and a ferry to popular tourist areas and centrally-located parking garages. The buses operate every ten minutes, starting at 7.am. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends and make 24 stops along both the Downtown and Forsyth Park routes. The broader, fare-based Chatham Area Transit (CAT) offers service to other parts of the cities and surrounding areas, including an express bus to and from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars are also available at the airport.
• Travel Tip: Since traveling by foot is the best way to explore the city, wear comfortable walking shoes. And pack an umbrella for unexpected downpours.

Things to Do

First-time visitors will want to take advantage of the Historic District's 22 public squares   , including Forsyth Park , which features 30 acres of greenery, walking paths, and a distinctive Parisian-inspired central fountain. Other free options include exploring the 100-acre Victorian-era Bonaventure Cemetery , strolling the galleries and restaurants that occupy the old warehouses of River Street, and touring historic houses of worship like Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the oldest Catholic Church in Georgia, and the First African Baptist Church .

Other noteworthy attractions include the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low , the longest-running live performance theatre in America   , Savannah’s Telfair Museum (the Southeast's oldest public art museum), the SCAD Museum of Art , the Savannah History Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, and the Savannah Botanical Gardens .

Given its location on the Savannah River and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, boating, and paddle boarding in both the city and nearby areas like Tybee Island and Skidaway Island State Park.

Food and drink lovers will want to explore the area's top bars, breweries, and restaurants.

Some of the top experiences in Savannah include:

• A trolley tour of the historic district . Both Old Town Trolley Tours and Old Savannah Tours offer narrated, hop-on, hop-off tours of the city. Both trolleys depart from the Visitors Center at 15-20 minute intervals. They include stops at points of interest like River Street, the Savannah History Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, City Market, and Forsyth Park.
• Southern cuisine at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House. Come hungry and ready to make new friends at this 19th-century era boarding house turned restaurant, where Southern favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, butter beans, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and coleslaw are served family-style at communal tables.
• River Street. This promenade runs along the southern portion of the city's riverfront and is brimming with shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants, many of them housed in historic warehouses. Stroll the cobblestone streets, ride a historic street car along the riverfront, take a dolphin or river tour, or enjoy the free ferry ride to Hutchinson Island.

Explore more activities in Savannah with our guides to the city's spookiest spots and best things to do .

What to Eat and Drink

As a coastal city, Savannah is an excellent spot for seafood as well as traditional Low Country cuisine. You can also find a variety of international fare, from classic Italian pizza to upscale Australian bistro fare. The city also has a thriving nightlife, with both dive bars and elegant cocktail joints, as well as several local breweries and distilleries.

No trip to the city is complete without a visit to The Grey, a 1930s Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal turned modern Southern restaurant. Chef and co-owner Mashama Bailey won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2019   for her thoughtful soul food that takes advantage of local and seasonal produce like crab with Carolina Gold heritage rice and bell peppers and smothered quail with blackening spice, Creole spice, and grit cakes.

Other top Savannah dining destinations include the Olde Pink House , which specializes in Low Country cuisine in the city's only surviving 18th-century mansion, and Elizabeth on 37th , which offers new American fare, including a chef's tasting menu.

For more casual options, try whole-hog Carolina BBQ with the fixings, at B's Cracklin' BBQ, vegan-friendly brunch at Fox and Fig Cafe, all-day breakfast at Collins Quarter , Neapolitan pizza at Vinnie Van Go-Go , and both beef and veggie burgers at Green Truck Pub .

Want to sample some of everything? Opt First Squares food tour, which includes an overview of the city's culinary history as well as tastings at six restaurants and food purveyors in the Historic District.

A far as bars, Kevin Barry's Irish Pub on River Street, Ordinary Pub at City Market, the rooftop bar Perch at Local 11 Ten  overlooking Forsyth Park, and the Savannah Distillery Ale House, with over 100 craft beers in the Historic District, are all reliable options. Savannah is also home to several local breweries and distilleries, including Ghost Coast Distillery (whiskey, rum, gin, bourbon, and other spirits), Southbound Brewing Company , and Coastal Empire Beer Co , of which offer tours and tastings.

Where to Stay

• Historic District: From luxury options like the DeSoto Savannah on Madison Square, like the riverfront adjacent Alida , and the boutique Perry Lane to reliable chains like the Hampton Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites and the pet-friendly Kimpton Brice , the historic district has hotel options for every budget and is the most convenient to the city's biggest and most popular attractions.
• Midtown: Just a 10-minute drive from the Historic District, Midtown is a quieter option with plenty of restaurants, parks, and activities for visitors. Most standard chains like Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn & Suites and the La Quinta Inn have properties here.
• Pooler: For travelers on a budget, there are several options near the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, like the Best Western Plus, Comfort Inn & Suites, and Quality Inn, all of which are about a 20-minute drive from downtown.

Getting There

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) offers direct flights to and from Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Newark, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., and other U.S. cities via major airlines like American, Delta, JetBlue, and United.

The drive from the airport to downtown is approximately 20-25 minutes. You can rent a car at the airport or catch a rideshare like Lyft or Uber or hail a taxi just outside of the baggage claim. Chatham Area Transit also offers bus service to and from several points in the city, including downtown.

Savannah is an easy drive from nearby major cities like Charleston, South Carolina (108 miles north), Atlanta (250 miles), and Jacksonville, Florida (140 miles). Most of the city's hotels have parking lots or valet, so driving a car into the city isn't an issue, as long as you don't mind paying parking fees.

Money-Saving Tips

• Take advantage of the city's public green spaces and parks. With 22 public squares in the Historic District alone, you're never far from a free place to wander and marvel at the city's trees, flowers, and architecture.
• Book a hotel in offseason. Hotel rates can skyrocket during tourist seasons (particularly spring through the end of June), so try visiting during a less busy month like February or August.
• Tour churches and cemeteries. These are some of the city's most notable spaces and many, like Bonaventure Cemetery (the city's most extensive and featured prominently in the book and later the film version of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil"), have free walking tours.
• Consider purchasing a city TourPass, which has one, two, and three-day options starting at $72 for adults and $42 for children. The pass includes admission to over 30 top city attractions like the Savannah History Museum and Telfair Academy, plus trolley privileges.

Visit Savannah . "Savannah's Squares and Parks."

Visit Savannah . "Step Inside America's Longest Running Live Performance Theatre."

James Beard Foundation . "The 2019 James Beard Award Winners." May 6, 2019.

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Courtesy of Chris Moore - Exploring Light Photography | Getty Images

Why Go To Savannah

Savannah, with its Spanish moss, Southern accents, historic bed-and-breakfasts  and creepy graveyards, is a lot like  Charleston, South Carolina . But this city about 100 miles to the south has an eccentric streak. Savannah College of Art and Design students mix with ghost hunters and preservationists, while Southern restaurants share street blocks with edgy cafes and restored theaters. The quirky characters in the true crime story, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,"   say it all. Yes, eccentricity is the name of the game, but if that's not your "box of chocolates," as Tom Hanks famously said in the Savannah-filmed "Forrest Gump," maybe history  or nightlife is.

Savannah's antebellum past seeps from nearly every corner – it's home to one of the oldest Black churches in North America and Fort Pulaski acted as a safe haven for enslaved people to escape to freedom. But regardless of if you're in town to immerse yourself in history, see the sights, sample the tasty Southern cuisine or spend a few nights bar-hopping, Savannah knows how to show visitors a good time.

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Georgia
• # 2 in Best Cheap Couples Getaways for 2024
• # 3 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South

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Best of Savannah

Best hotels in savannah.

• # 1 in Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Savannah
• # 2 in JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District
• # 3 in The Alida, Savannah, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Best Things to Do in Savannah

• # 1 in Take a walk in Forsyth Park
• # 2 in Go on a Savannah history tour
• # 3 in Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

Popular Tours

Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

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Savannah Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Savannah is from March to July when warm temperatures coax the tree leaves and azalea blooms out of hibernation. A cache of festivals also fill this high season, though because the weather is ideal, hotel rates may be on the pricey side. Late winter – January and February – is low season, and the drop in temperatures comes with a drop in hotel rates. Shoulder season (mid-September to mid-November) is a sweet spot in Savannah tourism: The summer crowds clear (along with the sweltering temps) and lodging prices take a dip before the busy holiday season hits.

Weather in Savannah

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Study up Read or watch "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" before you visit. This work of nonfiction – in both book and film versions – will give you an idea of Savannah's ambiance.

Take a to-go cup There aren't any open container laws here, so feel free to take your beer or cocktail to go in a plastic cup.

Take your time Did you know this Georgia city is sometimes nicknamed  Slow-vannah ? You're in the South now, so slow down and enjoy it at a snail's pace.

Book a tour Whether you want to learn more about Savannah's historic squares, taste your way through the city's dining scene or go on a ghost hunt , there's a guided tour for you.

How to Save Money in Savannah

Book in the offseason   Hotel prices fall in January and February, allowing you to get the ambience of a Historic District inn at the price of a chain.

Book a hotel near the airport  The rooms near the Savannah/Hilton Head airport are very affordable – about $100-plus less than an inn in the Historic District. And you're only a quick drive away from all the downtown action.

Book online  You can save a few dollars by booking your  trolley tour  (a must) online.

What to Eat

Yes, you're in the South. And yes, you'll find some fried food here, but if that's all you're expecting, then you've got Savannah all wrong. Thanks to its coastal location, Savannah offers a little bit of everything, and it's quickly becoming a formidable culinary rival to Atlanta. 

If southern comfort food is what you're after,  The Olde Pink House  should be at the top of your list. Practically an attraction in itself, the restaurant is housed within a blush-colored stucco mansion built in the late 1700s for James Habersham Jr., one of Savannah's early cotton brokers. Before becoming a restaurant, it was also the site of the First Bank of Georgia in the 1800s. Because of its unique history, eating here feels like taking a step back in time, with the whole house (both upstairs and downstairs) used for dining. After dinner, sneak down to the speakeasy-like cellar underneath the restaurant for a drink by the fireplace and to hear some tunes by a local pianist or jazz musician.

Next up on your list:  Leopold's Ice Cream . Though this 20th-century soda shop isn't as ancient as The Olde Pink House, it's still considered a Savannah institution, featuring some of the same fixtures (including the black marble soda fountain) from the original store. Come here for an old-fashioned milkshake or a double scoop of one of the shop's original ice cream flavors like Tutti Fruitti.

Savannah is also home to numerous Black-owned restaurants serving up incredible comfort food. Check out Sisters of the New South  for traditional Southern dishes like smothered pork chops and oxtail, or Geneva's Famous Chicken & Cornbread Co. for succulent fried chicken, wings and cornbread.

Though Savannah has its fair share of deep-rooted eateries that act as the foundation of the area's dining scene, the city also manages to host a collection of more contemporary spots that receive just as much acclaim from visitors and critics alike. You'll be transported to Melbourne, Australia, at  Collins Quarter , a cafe that features staples from the Australian owner's hometown. And for some Savannah-style barbecue, head to  Sandfly BBQ . For a more contemporary take on Southern cuisine and farm-to-table menus, consider making reservations at  Local 11 Ten  or  Cotton & Rye . 

Savannah is home to a rollicking nightlife scene (in part because of its lack of open container laws), so plan to go for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail to sample some of the city's more unique venues. If beer is your drink of choice, head to  Southbound Brewing Company (Savannah's first microbrewery) or Moon River Brewing Company (which features an outdoor beer garden). For inventive cocktails and mouthwatering martinis, try  Treylor Park or Jen's & Friends . For a comprehensive overview of Savannah's unique dining scene, consider tagging along with a local on a  food tour .

Savannah is known for its Southern hospitality and in turn, is generally very safe. Visitors most likely will not run into any problems, especially in the touristy Historic District. However, you should still use common sense when exploring the area and keep an eye on your valuables. Use a cab if you're unsure of where you're going, and walk in groups. River Street , in particular, can get quite rowdy at night.

The area outside of the Historic District is relatively less tourist-friendly, so you should not go south of Forsyth Park .

Getting Around Savannah

The best way to get around Savannah is on foot and by car. This compact city of 22 squares, filled with lively fountains, eclectic sculptures, shade trees and flowers, is most easily (and enjoyably) explored by walking or biking. Driving will enable you to go where your feet can't, but be sure to come prepared with lots of quarters to feed the hungry parking meters. Savannah also operates a fleet of buses, which make stops throughout the city and its outskirts. Cabs and ride-hailing services are another way to get around, and these can be hailed or called ahead. Visitors can also take a free ferry ride to Hutchinson Island via the Savannah Belles Ferry. To get from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located about 10 miles northwest of the city, you can take a shuttle, bus, rental car or taxi.

Thanks to its charming atmosphere and cozy bed-and-breakfasts, Savannah is often regarded as one of America's top romantic getaways . 

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Things To Do

Best hotels.

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GEORGIA , NORTH AMERICA , savannah , UNITED STATES · October 4, 2018 Last Updated on March 13, 2024

A FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE TO SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

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Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the Southern United States. It has been painstakingly preserved and restored, so visiting this small Southern city feels like stepping back in time.

From the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss to the elegant antebellum mansions, Savannah maintains the look and feel of another time.

Despite its historic charm, Savannah is also a very forward-thinking city, with a vibrant arts culture and a bohemian feel. It’s also the perfect place to spend a weekend exploring local food, history, culture, and shopping!

Here are my top tips for your first time visiting Savannah!

GETTING AROUND SAVANNAH

Savannah is a very pedestrian-friendly city . When it was first founded, it was laid out in a grid pattern around 22 tree-lined public squares.

These beautiful historic squares make walking around is very enjoyable, and you can easily get around all of downtown and the historic district on foot.

That being said, there is very little public transportation in Savannah, so if you want to go further afield (like to nearby Tybee Island on the coast) you will need a car. Uber and taxis are available around most of Savannah.

WHAT TO DO IN SAVANNAH

There is so much to do in Savannah, whether you’re interested in history, food, arts, or culture. Here are some of my top recommendations for things to do on your visit to Savannah:

• Forsyth Park : This beautiful park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can easily spend a whole afternoon relaxing under the live oaks and people-watching.
• Visit the Riverfront : Savannah was once a bustling port city, and the riverfront area has now been turned into a bustling shopping street.
• Check out an Art Museum : Savannah is a city known for art – after all, it’s home to the famous Savannah College of Art and Design. If you want to check out some art on your visit I recommend the SCAD Museum or the Telfair Museum .
• Walk through Savannah’s squares : Savannah contains 22 historic squares, each one like a miniature park. Some of the prettiest squares are Monterey Square, Lafayette Square, and Oglethorpe Square.
• Go shopping : From local boutiques to unique design stores to gourmet candy stories, you can find it all in Savannah. One of the best places to go shopping in the city is Broughton Street.
• Bonaventure Cemetery : Made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery is a beautiful (and creepy!) cemetery with lots of Southern Gothic flair.
• Take a ghost tour : Savannah is supposedly one of the most haunted cities in the United States, after New Orleans. There are plenty of ghost tours running nightly that will take you through some of the city’s spookiest spots.
• Eat some comfort food : Don’t miss eating some authentic Southern comfort food on your trip to Savannah! The best place for it is Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room , where you’ll be served heaping plates of comfort food “family style” at communal tables.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH

There are countless places to stay in Savannah , from large hotel chains to smaller boutique properties to unique Airbnbs.

To get a true local experience, it’s best to book one of the amazing Airbnbs in Savannah !

If a hotel is more your style, some of the best-reviewed properties include:

• Ballastone Inn
• Kehoe House
• Perry Lane Hotel
• Andaz Savannah

WHERE TO EAT

Savannah is famous for its Southern cuisine. Some local specialties are pimento cheese, buttermilk biscuits, fried green tomatoes, fried chicken, grits, pecan pie, and pralines! Here are a few of my favorite places to eat :

• Cafe M : This adorable French patisserie right by the river has delicious macarons, pain au chocolat, and croissants. It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick breakfast or snack.
• Collins Quarter : Run by Australian expats, Collins Quarter is the best place to go for brunch in Savannah. They have delicious brunch favorites like avocado toast, eggs Benedict, and brioche French toast.
• Soho South Cafe : Chic, fun restaurant housed in a former automotive service station. Really good soups and sandwiches, perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room : If you only eat one meal in Savannah, it should be lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room! Family owned since 1943, this restaurant serves traditional Southern comfort food at communal tables. They’re only open from 11 AM to 2 PM on weekdays, so get there early to avoid waiting in line!
• Leopold’s Ice Cream : After a long day of walking around in the heat, Leopold’s is the perfect place to stop for some delicious ice cream to cool you down.

WHERE TO SHOP IN SAVANNAH

If you love shopping, here are some of the most popular shopping streets in the city!

• Broughton Street : Broughton Street is the main shopping street in the city. You’ll find brand name stores like Free People and Urban Outfitters along with smaller boutiques. Don’t miss the beautiful Paris Market concept store.
• Whitaker Street : Located near Forsyth Park in Savannah’s Downtown Design District, Whitaker Street is home to lots of cute boutiques and design stores.
• River Street : This charming cobblestone street is located right along the river, as the name implies. While it’s pretty touristy, it’s the perfect place to go if you want to do some Savannah souvenir shopping!

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SAVANNAH

In my opinion, the best time of year to visit is fall ! Many of the historic mansions will be decorated beautifully with pumpkins and fall foliage, and if you’re interested in the spooky/haunted aspect of the city, then what better time is there to go than around Halloween?

The weather is subtropical meaning it is warm and humid all the time. Summers are the hottest, with temperatures reaching into the nineties during most of June through August. Spring and fall are a little cooler, but even during winter it never gets truly “cold” in Savannah with temperatures rarely dipping below the sixties!

READ BEFORE YOU GO

I highly recommend reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt before your visit. This is the book that launched Savannah to fame in the 1990s. Before its publication, Savannah had been forgotten about by most of the country. However, this book revitalized tourism in the city and made it more popular than ever.

It’s a dramatic retelling of a true crime story that occurred in Savannah in the 1980s, and it paints a fascinating portrayal of Savannah, its history, and its residents. If you weren’t already planning a trip, reading this book will make you want to book a plane ticket and go as soon as you can!

OTHER PLACES TO SEE

I’ve covered most of the top activities, places to eat, and places to shop, but I wanted to include a few other famous sights and landmarks that are worth stopping by at during your trip:

• Cathedral of St. John the Baptist : a Beautiful church that’s supposedly haunted.
• Chippewa Square : Home to the famous bench where Forrest Gump sat!
• Mercer House : The historic mansion from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
• Jones Street : Voted the most beautiful street in America by Southern Living.
• Owens-Thomas House : Another beautiful historic mansion in Savannah.
• Sorrel-Weed House : a Historic mansion that is also supposedly haunted!
• Juliette Gordon Low House : Home to the founder of the Girl Scouts.
• ShopSCAD : Buy local art from SCAD students and alumni.

Savannah, Georgia is truly a wonderful city and I hope this post has inspired you to plan a visit sometime soon!

Have you ever been to Savannah? If you have any additional tips for our readers or questions please leave these in the comments below.

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Ashleigh says

October 4, 2018 at 7:02 am

Yes, Savannah is gorgeous in the fall and at Christmas time. Broughton St. is beautifully decorated and the atmosphere is very festive. Being a Savannah native, I tend to over look so many of the pretty places you can visit here. This post was really helpful for me to rediscover my city. Thanks!

October 5, 2018 at 2:12 pm

Thanks Ashleigh! I am jealous you’re a Savannah native – it’s such a pretty city!

October 5, 2018 at 4:59 pm

You should come visit!!

ML Towne says

October 5, 2018 at 3:55 am

Savannah is an “open container” city which makes it loads of fun for a gals visit.

Henry Collins says

November 2, 2018 at 11:56 am

These are great places to visit in Georgie. Looks like I’ll have to do a road trip this summer.

November 14, 2019 at 7:33 pm

Is Savannah decorated a lot at Christmas time? As far as the river walk.

November 15, 2019 at 8:13 am

Oh yes! River st is gorgeous at Christmas. Actually, all of downtown looks really festive. You’ll have to check out Broughton st as well.

November 16, 2019 at 8:19 pm

Awesome thx so much for your reply!

Nicholl Spence says

April 18, 2021 at 3:29 am

I love Savannah so much! I went there back in February and truly fell in love with the city. 🙂 This is an amazing guide!

Don Davies says

September 12, 2021 at 3:24 am

I’m no first timer and this blog really gives an in depth and true picture of the beauty of Savannah GA and what exciting things to do there! I’ve really been a regular vacationer at Savannah. Of course I always research on the best cheap hotels in Savannah GA and itineraries on websites like this and https://www.visitsavannah.com/savannah-deals-special-offers most of the time before I go on vacation yearly! Thanks for the best advice!

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Resplendent with elegant townhouses, antebellum mansions, greenery filled public squares and mammoth oak trees bedecked in Spanish moss, Savannah is a gorgeous and culturally rich city.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Bonaventure Cemetery

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Forsyth Park

The 33-acre Forsyth Park, Savannah’s largest, was named after Georgia’s 33rd governor John Forsyth and is home to the most famous fountain in the city…

Laurel Grove Cemetery

In a city filled with cemeteries, Laurel Grove is among the most picturesque. The Victorian-era gravesites hint at the city’s history and the lovely…

Wormsloe Historic Site

A short drive from downtown, on the beautiful Isle of Hope, this is one of the most photographed sites in town. As soon as you enter, you feel as if you…

Little Tybee Island

This uninhabited barrier island, only accessible by boat or kayak, is just south of Tybee Island and is actually double its size. The preserved land is…

Mercer-Williams House

Although Jim Williams, the Savannah art dealer portrayed by Kevin Spacey in the film version of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, died back in 1990…

North Beach

With fewer services and a vibe that feels more remote, this stretch of beach is a great place to relax. You can watch massive container ships drift in…

Telfair Academy

Considered Savannah's top art museum, the historic Telfair family mansion is filled with 19th-century American art and silver and a smattering of European…

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The top 8 things to do in savannah.

Sisters of the New South

This laid-back cafe beloved of locals serves up Southern soul-food favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The red-velvet cake is among the best we've…

SCAD Museum of Art

Architecturally striking (but what else would you expect from this school of design?), this brick, steel, concrete and glass longhouse delivers your…

A wonderfully retro makeover of the 1960s Greyhound Bus Terminal gives us one of Savannah's culinary darlings, where chef Mashama Bailey's 'Port City…

Tybee Pier & Pavilion

Tybee's main beachside hub, with public bathrooms, concessions and a long fishing pier. Tables in the pavilion are available to rent by the hour.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Located on Cockspur Island at the mouth of the Savannah River, Fort Pulaski was constructed after President James Madison ordered coastal fortifications…

Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home

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Savannah Travel Guide

Savannah, Georgia is a city of many faces, both a bona fide necropolis with some of the most haunted places in the U.S. within its limits and a warm and welcoming city with delicious food and joyous outdoor events. Savannah really does have something for everyone. History buffs will love its many tours, conducted by walking, horse-drawn carriages, and by trolley. Foodies will love sampling the best dishes from the many award-winning restaurants and bakeries. Nature-lovers won't want to miss the hiking and stunning vistas on Tybee and Whitemarsh Islands. Music-lovers will be drawn by the many festivals spanning every genre, both indoor and outdoor. And there are few better places to visit if you're interested in paranormal activities — world-renowned Bonaventure Cemetery, the infamous Gribble House, and more are all contained within the most haunted city in America.

Eastern Standard Time

Best Time to Go

Savannah is an amazing place to go to escape winter, as it rarely gets cooler than around 40 degrees and is frequently in the lovely and temperate mid-fifties. And Savannah is an underrated Halloween destination – the city thrives on its history, much of which is a little spooky. Ghost tours of specific haunted places and of the city as a whole are popular year-round but kick it up a notch in late September. If you choose to visit during the summer, know that it gets quite hot and muggy, but the live music and seasonal cuisine makes it entirely worth it. Spring and fall are always lovely times to travel, and moreso when your destination tends toward humidity — Savannah's spring and fall are less muggy, but still warm, and are particularly excellent choices if your goal is to enjoy Savannah's surrounding islands.

Things to Know

Savannah is a decent-sized city, but visitors almost never go beyond the Historic District. It's not that other areas lack for things to do; more that the Historic District has most of the things that Savannah is most famous for, is very walkable, and has the largest concentration of hotels.

Savannah really embraces its identity as one of the spookiest cities in America. There's a reason this guide focuses so much on the haunted attractions of the city; there are so many of them, and it is a favorite destination for history buffs, ghost chasers, and anyone who likes a good haunted house tour. There are many other things to do in Savannah, but the city is the subject of one of the most best-selling true crime novels of all time, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt, and has been the subject of some of the most-viewed episodes of beloved ghost hunting shows.

In the true spirit of famed Southern hospitality, Savannah locals are warm, friendly, and more than happy to point you toward their favorite places or help you get where you need to go. Sidewalks tend to be wide, allowing the city to be accessible to folks with wheelchairs; it has very few hills, so people with mobility limitations should find Savannah an easy and enjoyable place to visit.

How to Get Around

Historic Savannah, where most visitors spend their time, is extremely walkable and it's unlikely that you'll need more than your own two feet to see everything you'd like to see. However, if you'd like to venture further or faster, here are your best options.

Trains: Savannah is not serviced by any local light rails, as the city is on the smaller side. There is an Amtrak station if you want to use Savannah as your base to explore surrounding areas of Georgia.

Buses: There are two bus services, the CAT and the DOT. The CAT serves not only Savannah but the surrounding Chatham area, and costs $1.50 per one-way trip. The DOT is completely free, and services 24 stops in the Historic District, including Belles Ferry. The DOT is also ADA-accessible, making it a wonderful service for differently-abled people who want to enjoy all that Savannah has to offer.

Taxis: Yellow cab service is available in Savannah, though visitors usually use it mainly to get from the airport to their hotels. Elite Taxi is the company of choice, with the highest ratings and most frequent recommendations.

Car service: Uber and Lyft are always good options for transportation. If you are an able-bodied person who enjoys walking, you will likely never need a car to get around Savannah proper. However, if you want to visit the islands around the city or have mobility limitations, ordering a car rarely requires much of a wait. As always, you can order a private car or join a carpool.

Best Hotels

The marshall house.

Address: 123 East Broughton Street, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 644-7896 Book Now

First things first: The Marshall House is one of the most popular hotels in Savannah because it is, allegedly, haunted, and the hotel owners and staff embrace the fun of its reputation. Built in 1851, it has seen its fair share of history, and has several historical displays of objects found during renovation. It's an exquisite and comfortable hotel with all of the best Savannah's Historic District has to offer right out of the front door.

Olde Harbour Inn

Address: 508 East Factors Walk, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 234-4100 Book Now

Built in 1812, the beautiful (and pet-friendly) Olde Harbour Inn is one of the oldest in the city. Positioned along the river, it boasts beautiful views and is steps away from some of the most delicious dining Savannah has to offer. The Olde Harbour Inn is also, allegedly, haunted, and they are included in many walking ghost tours.

Planters Inn

Address: 29 Abercorn Street, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (800) 554-1187 Book Now

If you're looking for old-world Southern charm to accentuate your stay in Savannah, look no further than Planters Inn. Another historic hotel, Planters Inn has stayed true to its roots throughout its renovations, and is decorated in a lush and grand style that is a treat to relax in. Many of the rooms overlook Reynolds Square, adding to the feeling that you've taken a little step into the loveliest parts of the past.

Mansion on Forsyth Park

Address: 700 Drayton St, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 238-5158 Book Now

A glamorous, chic, and eclectic hotel, the Mansion on Forsyth Park is famous for its decor and its food. The experience of the hotel is truly a luxe one, where old-world glam meets modern pop color. Abutting Forsyth Park, the Mansion is convenient as well, with a nearby DOT stop and many things to do within walking distance.

Savannah Bed & Breakfast Inn

Address: 121 W Gordon St, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 238-0518 Book Now

A block away from Forsyth Park is another glamorous option, with elegant rooms at a variety of price points — the Savannah Bed & Breakfast Inn categorizes its rooms, and you can opt for a Premium, Traditional, or Value room depending on what your budget is. The standout of the Inn is its gorgeous patio, which feels like something straight out of a storybook, replete with plants, statuary, and a fountain.

Perry Lane Hotel

Address: 256 East Perry Street, Savannah, GA, 31401 Phone: (912) 415-9000 Book Now

If your tastes run more toward mid-century modern, the Perry Lane Hotel was made for you. A modern oasis in the heart of Savannah, it's known for its sophisticated amenities and romantic ambiance. Whether or not you stay here, you'd be remiss not to try the chocolate peanut butter tart at the hotel's restaurant, The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market.

River Street Inn

Address: 124 E. Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 234-6400 Book Now

Once a riverside cotton warehouse, this 200-year-old stunner overlooks the Savannah River and historic River Street, right alongside some of the best dining and sightseeing in the city. The decor in the River Street Inn is a tasteful combination of the old and the new, with original brick details accented by elegant mid-century modern furnishings.

Best Restaurants

Mrs. wilkes' dining room.

Address: 107 West Jones St., Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 232-5997 Website

There's a line awaiting opening every day at Mrs. Wilkes' Southern-style eating where guests share tables for up to 10 people. Serving lunch only, the entire spread — which changes regularly and includes staples like grits, cornbread, okra, fried chicken, and more — will run you $25 for as much as you can eat, cash or Venmo only.

The Olde Pink House

Address: 23 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 232-4286 Website

Built in 1771, this pre-Revolutionary War mansion has been a bank (the vaults are now used as wine cellars), a tea room, and a military building during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Now an upscale Southern restaurant, The Olde Pink House is open for lunch and dinner daily, serving up exceptional seafood, fried chicken, and a stellar selection of wines. Reservations recommended.

Alligator Soul Restaurant

Address: 114 Barnard St Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 232-7899 Website

As with most things in Savannah, Alligator Soul Restaurant began its life as something else — in this case, a grain warehouse, giving the entire establishment an earthy out-of-time feeling that pairs well with its farm-to-table cuisine. The seasonal menu almost always includes at least one alligator dish. Vegetarians and vegans receive the white glove treatment here; while the menu does include several vegetarian appetizers and small plates, for $28, the chef will prepare a unique, off-menu entrée featuring that day's freshest seasonal vegetables. Reservations recommended.

Fox and Fig Cafe

Address: 321 Habersham St., Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 297-6759 Website

Savannah's premier vegan establishment features not only a range of delicious breakfast and lunch options, but some of the most delectable coffees available in the city. Located near many top tourist destinations, Fox and Fig Cafe is a perfect option to refuel with a delicious, plant-based meal and smooth PERC coffee.

Joe's Crab Shack

Address: 504 E River St, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 232-1830 Website

Seafood lovers, rejoice, as there are many options for you to get your fix in Savannah, and few more delicious than the famous Joe's Crab Shack. A casual, family-friendly eatery by the river, Joe's Crab Shack is, predictably, known most for their crab, but don't miss the cajun steampot and the fish and chips.

The Cotton Exchange Tavern

Address: 201 E River St, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 232-7088 Website

If you're looking for casual eating and a gorgeous view, look no further than the Cotton Exchange Tavern. Down-home American cuisine gets a delicious spin with crab dip, grouper fingers, and hush puppies on the menu. With a wide-ranging menu, The Cotton Exchange Tavern is sure to please even the pickiest eater. Don't miss the Tybee Crab Chowder.

Things To Do

Historic house tours.

A primary attraction in Savannah is its record number of historic homes, many of which have been turned into museums. Among them are the Andrew Low House, where the founder of the Girl Scouts grew up; and the Sorrel-Weed House, one of the most haunted places in America.

Savannah Children's Museum

Address: 655 Louisville Rd., Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 651-6823 Website

A play- and exploration-based museum, the Savannah Children's Museum is a fun and affordable destination for those with young children. It is entirely outdoors and features a reading nook, an exploration maze, and a sensory garden, in addition to many programs and activities to participate in during the day.

Savannah Ghost Tours

Tours meet at Wright Square Phone: (912) 441-9277 Website

There are a lot of ghost tour options in Savannah, but the Hauntings Tour by Savannah Ghost Tours is by far one of the most popular. A 90-minute walking tour that's as interesting as it is fun, it's inspired and informed by several books about Savannah's history. Reservations are not required but recommended for large groups. Pet-friendly.

The Club at Savannah Harbor

Address: 2 Resort Dr., Savannah GA 31421 Phone: (912) 201-2240 Website

If you are a golfer, The Club at Savannah Harbor is a must-tee (get it?). A gorgeous, winding course over the tidal wetlands outside Savannah, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city's downtown while you play.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center

Address: 711 Sandtown Road, Savannah, GA 31410​ Phone: (912) 395-1212 Website

Nature lovers won't want to miss the islands surrounding Savannah, including Oatland Island. This small animal sanctuary is a zoo-like preserve with many educational programs, where you can observe species in their native habitats.

Bonaventure Cemetery After Dark

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Phone: (912) 319-5600 Website

A variety of tours are featured in Bonaventure Cemetery, the only cemetery featuring after-dark tours in Savannah. They are themed according to the time of year, and extremely popular – advance ticket purchase is highly recommended.

Savannah Music Festival

Address: 216 East Broughton Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401 Phone: (912) 234-3378 Website

The Savannah Music Festival is the event of the spring, an acclaimed cross-genre festival featuring local and national musical artists, educational programs for children, and more. Hundreds of artists perform over the festival's two-week duration, and it's a guarantee there will be an act for every music lover to enjoy. During the off-season, they also host a number of other music events as well.

Best Shopping

Starland strange and bazaar.

Address: 17 W 41st St, Savannah GA 31401 Website

An eclectic shop full of fun finds, Starland Strange and Bazaar is a Dolly Parton-loving pink oasis in the heart of Metropolitan Savannah. A little further south than most tourists venture, it is nonetheless worth the trip, with a one-of-a-kind shopping experience and no telling what treasures you'll find.

River Street and Rousakis Riverfront Plaza

Address: River St, Savannah GA 31401 Website

Nine blocks of shopping, dining, and river views, including famous River Street Sweets and half a dozen quirky boutique gift shops. It's easy to spend half a day wandering up and down River Street and nabbing candy, one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts, and some gorgeous snaps of the river.

Neighborhood Comics

Address: 1205 Bull St. in Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 349-3095 Website

Two blocks south of Forsyth Park is this gem of a specialty shop, which sells new releases, back issues, graphic novels, collectibles, and more. Neighborhood Comics pride themselves on being inclusive; all are welcome in this comic shop to feel a little more super.

The Cottage Shop

Address: 2422 Abercorn St, Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 233-3820 Website

Long considered Savannah's best boutique gift shop, The Cottage Shop is, in a word, adorable. If you want it, you can probably find it here — from high-end designer pieces to cute interest-based gifts, The Cottage Shop is the kind of place it's very easy to spend hours browsing.

E Shaver Booksellers

Address: 326 Bull St. Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: (912) 234-7257 Website

Support a local bookstore by visiting one of the best — E Shaver Booksellers has been around since 1975, and their selection is varied and carefully curated. New releases and bestsellers are readily available, and E Shaver Booksellers puts on regular events and is host to The Tea Room, where you can pick up delicious premium loose and bagged teas and gorgeous teaware. Plus, there are bookshop cats just begging for a pat.

shopSCAD Savannah

Address: 340 Bull Street Savannah GA 31401 Phone: (912) 525-5180 Website

A gallery-style shop that features work from designers and artists that are or have been part of the Savannah College of Art and Design, shopSCAD is where to go for truly unique jewelry, fine art, home decor, and gifts. Shopping here directly supports the artists, and inventory changes regularly.

Neighborhoods to Know

Historic District — North: The southern Historic District is home to one of the most iconic settings in America: Chippewa Square, where Forrest Gump sat and waited for a bus and told his life story. Most travelers will stick to the Historic Districts, both North and South, as they are the most walkable and feature the vast majority of hot tourist spots. The North district meets the river and contains within its bounds City Market, the Jepson Center, famous River Street, and several of Savannah's many House Museums. The Historic Districts are just that: historic! There's no street to walk down that isn't redolent with Savannah's rich history, and it's easy to spend a full day wandering through the neat, cobbled streets looking at 1800s mansions and parks that predate the United States themselves.

Historic District — South: Don't miss the gorgeous fountain in Forsyth Park, or the many House Museums and boutique shops surrounding the park . An easy walk from the river, the Historic District — South starts at Harris St. and extends most of the way down the park. The Andrew Low House (the home of the founder of the Girl Scouts), Flannery O'Conner's childhood home, and the infamously haunted Mercer Williams house are all within this district.

Victorian District: For any architecture lover, the Victorian District is for you. The 50-block neighborhood is lined with historic and beautifully restored homes that make for a nice relaxing sightseeing stroll. Built as the city's first suburb, the area's architecture mainly dates back to the 1800s. The area abuts Forsyth Park and is just south of the Historic Districts.

Thomas Square Streetcar District: Another centrally located neighborhood, just south of the Victorian District, Thomas Square has plenty of history all its own. Designated a National Historic District in 1997, the area is home to over 1,100 historic buildings, making it one of the country's largest such districts. Named after Thomas Square Park in the center of the neighborhood, some people refer to it as "Metropolitan" or "Mid City" due to its central location.

Spring in Savannah is pleasant and warm, though rainy — the area averages around 15-20 days of rain in March through May. However, with the city in full bloom, there are fewer more beautiful times to go; the temperature during these months ranges from 50-84°F, so be sure to check the weather before you pack.

Summer can be muggy and gets hot, but with that heat comes the southern atmosphere most folks delight in when visiting Georgia and other southern states. With music festivals, events, and outdoor dining galore, Summer is a celebratory time to visit Savannah — just make sure you bring your sunscreen and a water bottle, and an umbrella in case of thunderstorms. Temperatures range from 72-92°F on average.

Fall is a pleasant, dry time in Savannah, with temperatures ranging from 50-86°F on average and little rain compared to the rest of the year. Outdoor dining, walking tours, boat rides, and the like should all still be enjoyable. Nights get a bit cooler, so bring layers if you plan to be out and about all day and into the night.

Winter is a wonderful time to visit Savannah, especially if your goal is to escape the more brutal temperatures of the northern part of the country. Temperatures stay between a cool 41°F to a comfortable 65°F on average, so you should have no problem enjoying outdoor activities such as walking tours and hiking.

Apps to Download

OpenTable : Restaurant reservations and menu previews. iOs | Android

Historic Walking Tour : Self-guided walking tour with customizable routes as well as locals-suggested routes iOs | Android

Download the DOT route map

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8 Reasons Why You Must Visit Savannah

This genteel Georgia city has something for just about everyone.

Dripping with Spanish moss and Southern charm, Savannah’s graceful architecture and rich history make it the perfect place to visit—and use as a base camp for exploring the wilder side of this Georgia gem.

Urban Activities

Go back in time.

In the Historic District of Savannah, you’ll spy the square where Tom Hanks’s character in Forrest Gump waited for the bus, antebellum mansions, and streets paved in cobblestone.

One of your first stops in Savannah should be its world-famous Historic District. More than 20 cobblestoned blocks contain striking antebellum mansions, historic churches, manicured gardens, and parks shaded by towering live oaks. There are 22 historic squares, each with a different personality. ( Chippewa Square is where Tom Hanks’s character waited for the bus in Forrest Gump .) Take a guided walking tour to get a feel for the unique town plan laid out in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, or climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a different perspective.

Park It By The Fountain

Enjoy a stroll through Savannah’s famed Forsyth Park. This urban swath of greenery is perfect for people-watching, sunbathing, and sporting activities with friends and family.

The largest park in the historic district, Forsyth Park has 30 acres of shady paths and sweeping green spaces, always lively with families, joggers, and folks kicking a ball around. The main attraction (and one of Savannah’s most Instagrammed spots) is the Forsyth Park Fountain, built in 1858. Nearby benches provide the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and indulge in some good people-watching. The park also has a unique walled Fragrant Garden, originally designed to be enjoyed by the blind, with braille markers and plantings meant to be touched. On Saturday mornings, check out the Forsyth Farmers Market at the park’s south end.

Explore a Famous Cemetry

Bonaventure Cemetery was started in 1846 and encompasses more than a hundred acres along the Wilmington River. Take in the beauty and the quiet stillness amid elegant tombstones and familial crypts.

One of Savannah’s most iconic locations is Bonaventure Cemetery , some three miles east of downtown. If it looks familiar, you have a good eye: Bonaventure was featured in John Berendt’s blockbuster-hit book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and portions of the movie were filmed here. (The evocative “Bird Girl” statue on the cover of the book became so popular that it was moved to the Jepsen Center for the Arts.) Started in 1846, the cemetery encompasses more than a hundred acres along the picturesque Wilmington River. The historic section of Bonaventure is Victorian, with curving pathways leading past ornate marble carvings and heartbreaking statues of lost loved ones. Free guided tours take place one weekend a month ( see the schedule ), or you can explore it using the cemetery’s app ( iOS and Android ).

Experience the Avenue of Oaks

Wormsloe Historic Site is a scenic drive and home to the oldest standing structure in Savannah. Join a tour to take in the storied past of Noble Jones, the original owner of Wormsloe.

Head about 20 minutes south of the city to take what might be the most picturesque drive of your life—down an avenue of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss—to arrive at the Wormsloe Historic Site , home to the oldest standing structure in Savannah. A walking trail winds through maritime forest to the remains of a fortified house built in 1745 of tabby, a type of concrete. Wormsloe also has a museum, colonial reenactors, and events like the annual Colonial Faire and Muster celebration .

Play on River Street

Spend an easy afternoon on Savannah’s historic River Street , exploring the shops and restaurants housed in former cotton warehouses that line the cobblestone street. Don’t miss Factors Walk , another row of quaint spots to explore, on the bluff above River Street. When you’ve had your fill of shopping and sipping, wander over to Rousakis Riverfront Plaza for an expansive view of the Savannah River and the colorful Savannah Belles ferries heading to and from Hutchinson Island. Check the schedule of events to see what’s happening here while you’re in town—Oktoberfest or a bacon celebration, maybe.

Outdoor Adventures

Bike a rail trail.

Rent a bike and take in the coastal sights on McQeen’s Island Trail, located 10 miles east of Savannah.

Get out and explore the wilder side of the area with a ride or hike along McQueen’s Island Trail . The six-mile trail, about 10 miles east of Savannah, is actually a stretch of the Savannah & Atlantic Railroad line, an excursion railway that took passengers between the city and Tybee Island before it was abandoned in 1933. The trail winds through white sands and cordgrass, at times skirting the south channel of the Savannah River. If you start at the trail’s eastern point, on Tybee Island, rent a bike from Tim’s Beach Gear (north-end location) and take your time cycling back toward the city.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Take a drive in your Subaru Crosstrek from Savannah to Tybee Island, which is close enough for a morning excursion. This quaint stretch of beach offers a retreat from urban life and the opportunity to test your surfing skills.

Often called “Savannah’s Beach,” Tybee Island is close enough for a morning excursion but just far away enough (about 18 miles) that it can feel like another world. Rent a surfboard from North Island Surf and Kayak and head to the Tybee Island pier for some East Coast swells, or get a lesson from the Tybee Surf School on the south end of the island. If you’d rather surf the sand than the waves, stake a spot on quiet North Beach or bustling South Beach and enjoy the view.

Off the Beaten Path

Kayak to a deserted island.

Take a long weekend and kayak from Tybee Island to Little Tybee, only accessible by water. This uninhabited barrier island is perfect for a camping trip.

To really get away from it all—and we mean really get away from it all—kayak from Tybee Island to Little Tybee , an uninhabited barrier island accessible only by water. North Island Surf and Kayak offers guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard eco-tours, with naturalists along to share information about the salt marshes and hardwood hammocks, and to point out the area’s rich wildlife. Sightings of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are common, as are sightings of egrets, herons, and other wading and migratory birds. (Manatees sometimes make an appearance.) If you’d like to stay and experience a night under the Southern stars, North Island will set you up with everything you need to camp—including a hammock in which to sway the day away and a pristine beach all to yourself. Nancy Gupton is a freelance writer, editor, and lover of books, music, and, of course, food. You can follow her on Twitter .

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I Savored Savannah, Georgia On This Delicious Food Tour

S avannah, Georgia is one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations. This beautiful, history-filled city is my hometown, so, needless to say, I know a lot about it, though I haven’t lived there in a decade. The tourism industry is bustling in the Hostess City, and it’s not hard at all to find delightful ways to experience Savannah on a walking tour, carriage tour, or even a ghost tour . I recently had the opportunity to go on the Port City Food Tour with Savannah Taste Experience and I’ve got to say, whether you’re a local or tourist, this is such a fun and delightful way to experience the city while enjoying a few tasty eats! The company offers several great food tours and each looks like a unique way to learn more about the city.

My group met up promptly at the scheduled start time. I loved that it was a small group of only eight people as it gave us the opportunity to chat amongst ourselves as we walked.

Our first stop was zunzi's. i hadn't been here since it was a small hole in the wall, but a few years ago, it moved to a much nicer location., the weather was great, so we enjoyed our conquistador sandwiches on the shaded, airy patio., our next stop was a brief foray into the historic savannah theatre. this is one of the country's oldest continuously operating movie theaters, having opened up in 1818., we then walked to spread bagelry, a recently-opened montreal-style bagel joint that serves up a variety of tasty bagels., the decor was great and i loved the atmosphere. everyone on the tour got a pimento cheese-covered bagel half., between each stop, bailey led us through some of the city's iconic squares, talking about the history of savannah and we got to see some beautiful spots., i was lucky my tour was on such a beautiful day bailey was great about making sure that we had places to stand in the shade. in all, the tour required about one mile of walking at a leisurely pace., our next stop was 22 square in the andaz hotel. i had some incredibly delicious fried green tomatoes as my vegetarian option., the non-vegetarian option at 22 square was the iconic southern classic shrimp and grits., we followed up that delicious dish with a visit to the top of the drayton hotel to stop by st. neo's brassiere, an upscale seafood joint., our final official food tour stop was at the savannah taste experience headquarters. the shop here had a great selection of foods and souvenirs to bring home., we also got to enjoy a serving of a special leopold's flavor: blueberry praline crunch., i had so much fun on the tour that i didn't want to end my food tasting just yet, so i backtracked over to a spot we passed on the way: mint to be mojito., there, i enjoyed a delicious spinach and feta empanada with a superb mango mojito that was the perfect way to cool off and a great end cap for an excellent day of fun..

This was such a delightful experience and I’d definitely consider going on one of the other tours offered by Savannah Taste Experience on my next visit. For more information about this great food tour in Savannah, GA, check out the Savannah Taste Experience website or the Savannah Taste Experience Facebook page. You can book your experience through Viator .

The post I Savored Savannah, Georgia On This Delicious Food Tour appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

Savannah Browse Spring 2024

We are excited to invite you to participate in our Spring 2024 Savannah Browse event on the Armstrong campus on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. The Browse gives campus departments, community businesses and non-profit agencies an opportunity to visit campus and share information about their goods and services with Georgia Southern students, staff, and faculty. It is also an excellent opportunity to directly engage with our incoming and returning students to provide them with knowledge of your business, organization, or campus department’s services.

Campus and community partners are highly encouraged to host tables with food, FUN activities, giveaways or other items that showcase your organization the best! Active and engaging booths help students remember your group and what you have to offer. *New*  Selling items is now permitted. Soliciting contracts is  not  permitted.

GUIDELINES FOR THE SAVANNAH BROWSE

• The event is intended to be an opportunity to provide information to students, faculty, and staff. Selling products and services by vendors during the course of the Savannah Browse is now permitted.
• Businesses that hire Georgia Southern students for part-time employment are encouraged to bring and collect applications from interested students. There shall be no execution of any other type of agreement or contract including the signing of contracts, leaving of deposits, or the completion and acceptance of any type of applications other than job applications.
• Any form of one-to-one advertising is strongly encouraged. This may include free samples, activities, giveaways, brochures, flyers, handouts, coupons, etc.
• Each vendor will be assigned a six-foot table and two chairs. Table locations will be randomly assigned in the order in which registrations are received. Tables will be located outside an the Residential Plaza.
• Products, brochures, signage, etc. should be contained on the six-foot table. Any displays should fit behind the table or in the immediate area around the table (within 2-3 feet).
• Vendor check-in and set-up will occur between 10:00 am and 10:50 am. The fair will begin promptly at 11:00 am.
• ALL participants are encouraged to bring drinks to stay hydrated.
• Participants are encouraged to bring tents to provide shelter. Tents must be self-supporting (no stakes) and no larger than 10 x 10.
• Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, drugs, or any related paraphernalia are not permitted as samples or displays. The promotion of engaging in any such activity is also prohibited.
• Vendors are not permitted to solicit or accept credit card applications during this event.
• Georgia Southern University is not responsible for damaged vendor materials or materials that are left behind.
• There is NO registration fee for this event.
• Off-campus vendors may request up to 2 parking permits. Permits will be emailed by Friday, January 12th , to the point of contacts listed at the time of registration.

To All Vendors:   Please note that the Savannah Browse sponsored by Georgia Southern University is a one-time special event restricted to the date and time specified. These activities and other promotions are not permitted on the campus of Georgia Southern University prior to or following the date and time of the scheduled event.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

You will be able to register for the ‘Boro or Savannah Browse (or both events), using this link. Applications Are Now Open! Deadline to register is: Tuesday, January 9th at 5:00pm or when capacity is reached.

Groups with multiple functional areas or initiatives are asked to consolidate into 1-2 tables, max.

Questions? Please contact us!

Last updated: 12/5/2023

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