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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

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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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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.

John Burke/Getty Images

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.

Bear2016/Getty Images

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.

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

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.

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.

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah, GA

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Savannah is the embodiment of the idyllic Southern city, with grand old mansions, green parks with ornate fountains and huge moss-draped trees, and cobbled streets along the waterfront. These all combine to provide a beguiling charm and make it one of the highlights of Georgia .

Savannah lies on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Savannah River, directly on the border with South Carolina. It was the first town in North America to be laid out on a regular plan, part of which was a large number of lovely historic squares dotted throughout the city.

The city was spared from destruction at the hands of Union troops at the end of the Civil War, and as a result, it is full of rare examples of original Southern architecture. Today, Savannah is a bustling modern city that retains its historic charm while welcoming tourists to experience all it has to offer.

Begin your sightseeing adventure with our list of the top attractions in Savannah, Georgia.

1. Bull Street & the Savannah Historic District

2. forsyth park, 3. bonaventure cemetery, 4. river street, 5. cathedral of st. john the baptist, 6. owens-thomas house & slave quarters, 7. national museum of the mighty eighth air force, 8. telfair academy of arts and sciences, 9. squares of savannah, 10. juliette gordon low birthplace, 11. ralph mark gilbert civil rights museum, 12. first african baptist church, 13. fort mcallister state historic park, 14. old fort jackson, 15. city market, 16. wormsloe historic site, 17. webb military museum, 18. skidaway island state park, 19. ships of the sea maritime museum, where to stay in savannah for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to savannah, map of tourist attractions in savannah, ga, savannah, ga - climate chart.

The best way of getting to know the impeccably preserved Savannah Historic District is to take a stroll along Bull Street and the side streets that extend in either direction. The starting point is City Hall , built in 1905, at the intersection of Bull and Bay Streets. Opposite City Hall is the U.S. Customs House , built in 1852 on the site of the colony's first public building.

To the south of this is Johnson Square , the first public square laid out in the newly planned town, with the Christ Episcopal Church built in 1838 on the site of the colony's first church of 1733. There are many historic squares to explore in this section of Savannah, so take your time to explore, camera at the ready.

Along this stretch are numerous coffee shops and restaurants, some with outdoor tables that are perfect for people-watching.

You can also enjoy Bull Street from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage. A number of reputable companies provide these excursions, including Savannah Carriage Tours , which offers 45-minute rides that include up to eight of the city's most elegant squares. Also fun are the handy Savannah Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours , where you can learn a little history while sightseeing and gathering ideas about places to explore in greater detail later.

Forsyth Park is the largest and most visited park in Savannah. Created in the mid-19th century at a time when large parks were extremely fashionable in American cities, it remains a magnet for tourists and locals alike.

The park's most important feature is its large cast-iron fountain. Added to the park's north end in 1858, it has remained the primary feature of this 30-acre green space ever since, with several periods of restoration, including the most recent major restoration in the late 1980s.

In the spring, the park puts on a great display of color when the azaleas are in full bloom. Within the park are a number of notable public amenities including a visitor center and Band Shell, along with a café, snack bar, and tennis courts.

Forsyth Park is also a lovely area to walk, with large shady trees and many pleasant paved paths to explore. Surrounding the park are a number of interesting old buildings that provide an elegant backdrop and set the scene for no end of memorable photos.

Whenever I visit Forsyth Park, I head back to the Historic District following one of the less-traveled routes such as Barnard or Montgomery Streets, or even one of the less-traveled north-south side streets. They're safe, and letting your curiosity get the better of you will lead to no end of pretty corners of the city you may not otherwise have experienced.

Address: 2 W Gaston Street, Savannah, Georgia

Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the best-known historic cemeteries in the country, loved for its sprawling Victorian layout and beautiful stonework monuments. The grounds are spectacular, with massive oak trees draped with hanging moss. If the setting looks familiar, it may be because it was featured as a setting for the novel and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

The cemetery covers more than 100 acres, and its historic district is more than 14 acres and is home to graves from as early as 1846. In addition to stunning marble tombs, the cemetery is the final resting place for nearly 1,300 veterans of the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and other conflicts.

A rewarding way to visit the cemetery is on a Bonaventure Cemetery Tour . Guided by a local historian and author, you'll hear fascinating stories about the cemetery and the famous people who were laid to rest here.

Address: 330 Bonaventure Road, Savannah, Georgia

Iron steps lead down from Factors Walk to Savannah's historic riverfront district, an always bustling area along River Street that features well-preserved old warehouses, many of them now occupied by shops, restaurants, and hotels.

At this popular area to visit day or night, a recent multi-million-dollar expansion has added even more fun things to do on the south bank of the Savannah River. The luxurious new JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District hotel and a state-of-the-art music venue, Plant Riverside, at the west end of River Street greatly expanded the offerings, adding new dining experiences and a cluster of high-end shops and galleries.

Excellent views of the port and suspension bridge can be had from here or from Hutchinson Island. An ideal way to get the best Riverfront photo ops is by taking the free ferry that brings you to the island and back, a ride that is particularly lovely in the evening. Another option is to take a trip aboard the Georgia Queen, a replica riverboat that offers dinner cruises along the Savannah River.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah was built in the 1870s and then rebuilt in 1899 after a severe fire. It took more than a decade to redecorate the new cathedral. The building again underwent restoration work in the 1950s and 60s, and more work was done in the 80s and 90s.

The interior is a delight, with marble railings and floors and a marble altar. The main altar, carved in Italy, weighs 9,000 pounds and is certainly impressive. Join one of the docent-led tours to learn more from an expert well-versed in the church's history.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is also well-known for its incredible Renaissance-style murals and a pipe organ with 2,308 pipes. Above the organ is the Great Rose Window, with panels radiating out from the images of St. Cecilia in the middle.

Address: 222 East Harris Street, Savannah, Georgia

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is Savannah's most important historic home thanks to its dedication to looking at the lives of the enslaved people who worked and lived here. The Slave Quarters are just part of the exhibits, which look at daily life for the 14 enslaved workers who ran the home, worked the grounds, and raised the children.

Tours of the home discuss the complicated nature of relationships between the slave owners, children, and slaves themselves, and encourage visitors to continue to ask questions after they leave. The home is a National Historic Landmark and is operated by the Telfair Museums.

Address: 124 Abercorn Street, Savannah, Georgia

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force , located just outside Savannah, is one of the nation's top museums dedicated to World War II history. In addition to a memorial and extensive information about the Eighth Air Force regiment, the museum has many historic exhibits that explore various phases of the conflict.

The tour begins with an introduction to Germany in the wake of WWI and a look at how the Nazi regime was able to rise to power with the use of propaganda. Exhibits also include films about life as a bomber pilot and a re-created airfield, as well as dioramas and interactive exhibits.

Museum collections include a B-17 Flying Fortress and other WWII aircraft, as well as scale models. There are also extensive displays containing the personal stories and belongings of members of the Mighty Eighth.

Address: 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, Georgia

The Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences , more commonly called the Telfair Museum of Art, has been operated by the Georgia Historical Society since it opened in 1886, and it is the oldest art museum in the state. Art Collections include European and American works in a variety of media with a focus on 19th- and 20th-century art.

Among the featured artists are Robert Henri, George Luks, and Childe Hassam. The museum is also home to a sculpture gallery and rotunda added by architect Detlef Lienau. The building that houses the museum, a 200-year-old mansion designed in the Neoclassical Regency style, is equally impressive.

The museum includes 19th-century period rooms and offers a self-guided audio tour that focuses on the architecture. Guided tours are also available, free of charge, and delve into the museum's history and details about its content.

Address: 121 Barnard Street, Savannah, Georgia

Savannah's many public squares are one of its most attractive qualities, especially on a hot city afternoon when you need a spot of shade and a few moments with nature. These are the best places to visit in Savannah for peace and relaxation.

Several of the most popular squares are located along historic Bull Street , including Chippewa Square , which is known for its appearance in the film Forrest Gump ; the city's largest and oldest Johnson Square ; and Madison Square , which is conveniently close to shopping and dining.

Ellis and Franklin Squares are adjacent to the bustling City Market , and Ellis is home to a giant chess set, as well as a lovely fountain and shaded tables.

Crawford Square , located at McDonough and Houston streets, has recreational facilities, including a gazebo and basketball court. Although smaller than most, Columbia Square is a peaceful respite within the surrounding city life.

Other popular squares can be found along Barnard Street, including Chatham Square at Wayne Street, Orleans Square behind the Savannah Civic Center , and Pulaski Square at the intersection of West Macon, which is known for its tremendous live oaks.

The birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low , a founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, was built in 1821. Her family home, which was the first National Historic Landmark in Savannah, has been restored to how it looked in the 1880s and furnished with many original Gordon family pieces.

In the Gallery are some of Gordon's original artworks, as well as some of the family's furnishings and memorabilia. Some of the collections on display in the house include jewelry, photographs, and written material.

The house offers great insight into the lifestyle of the family and of the era. It also describes the achievements of Juliette Gordon Low and the history of the Girl Scouts which is a very popular destination for scout troops of all ages.

Address: 10 East Oglethorpe Avenue, Savannah, Georgia

The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum is named for the man who is credited with being the father of the civil rights movement in Savannah. Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert was a pastor at the First African Baptist Church in Franklin Square and the president of the NAACP in Savannah for eight years.

The museum itself honors Dr. Gilbert and his important roles and also explores the long and arduous path that African Americans have endured from the first slaves in Georgia to the present day. Exhibits include photographs, personal stories, little-known facts, a reading room, and interactive displays, as well as a film.

The museum is located in the former home of the Wage Earners Savings and Loan Bank, significant as being one of the earliest and largest banks for African-Americans.

Address: 460 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Savannah, Georgia

Separated from the always bustling City Market area by Franklin Square on Montgomery Street, the First African Baptist Church has been a place of worship and sanctuary for Savannah's African American population since 1859. Built by both free African Americans and slaves allowed to work on it after toiling in the fields, it has the distinction of being the first brick building to be owned by Georgia's black community.

Interesting features include a series of holes set in the sanctuary's floor that, while designed to look like a decorative flourish, actually served as air holes for escaped slaves hiding in the small space below. The church also played an important role in the Underground Railroad, and later in the Civil Rights Movement.

An excellent museum traces the church's history back even further to 1773, confirming its status as North America's first black Baptist congregation. The museum also displays related artifacts, including church records, handmade quilts, and photos. Guided tours of both the church and the museum are available.

Address: 23 Montgomery Street, Savannah, Georgia

Fort McAllister , now a State Historic Park, was used during the Civil War and contains some of the best-preserved earthwork fortifications of the Confederacy. It is an excellent example of coastal defenses during this time period.

On the grounds are cannons and other military operational items, as well as a Civil War museum with interesting displays and information. Despite its historical significance, many people also visit the park simply for the recreational opportunities and the natural beauty.

The park is located on the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah and offers such activities as camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking in a lovely treed area. There are a limited number of cabins available for rent.

Trails offer places to walk or bike and there is some children's equipment. Since winter months can be cool and midsummer can be blazing hot, spring and fall are generally the best times to visit.

Address: 3894 Fort McAllister Road, Savannah, Georgia

Old Fort Jackson is the oldest standing fort in the state of Georgia. The original brick fort, one of only a few Second System fortifications still left standing in the United States, was begun in 1808.

The fort was manned during the War of 1812 and was also active during the Civil War. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark, preserved and managed by the Coastal Heritage Society. On display at the fort are various exhibits on military history. The fort also features cannon firing demonstrations.

Address: 1 Fort Jackson Road, Savannah, Georgia

Savannah's City Market is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its numerous things to do and upbeat atmosphere. Here, you can find working artist studios; plenty of dining options, from quick bites to full-service restaurants; and a variety of entertainment, from local musicians to nationally known artists.

This is also a prime shopping destination, home to a wide variety of boutiques, an old-fashioned country store, a sweet shop with homemade candy, and even an entire store for dogs.

Location: Between Ellis Square and Franklin Square, Savannah

If you are looking for a bit of peace and quiet outside the city center, head to Wormsloe Historic Site . As you pass through the historic gate, you'll find a wide walkway and other trails winding their way under sprawling live oaks draped with moss.

The trails take you past the "Tabby" and other buildings of this one-time plantation owned by one of Georgia's founders. The site is an excellent day trip for families. Costumed docents will interact with your family and tell you about what they are working on and the history of Wormsloe.

The site is spread out over 822 acres and is a mix of forest, marsh, and former farmlands.

Address: 601 Skidaway Road, Savannah, Georgia

History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Webb Military Museum , located in historic downtown Savannah. Here, you can view a variety of military artifacts that cover all branches and conflicts, from the Civil War right through to the modern day.

Highlights of the museum's large private collection include numerous military uniforms, helmets and headgear, medals, artifacts, and memorabilia related to conflicts within the US and abroad. Guided tours can be arranged with advance notice, and a shop selling related souvenirs is located on the premises.

Address: 411 E York Street, Savannah, Georgia

Ideally located only a short distance from downtown Savannah is Skidaway Island State Park . The park is great for those who are traveling in an RV or prefer to camp, as opposed to staying in Savannah's pricey downtown hotels.

The park is home to wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and wading birds. Scenic walking trails lead through typical coastal flora to lookouts with views of the Skidaway Narrows.

Set peacefully under live oaks with hanging Spanish moss are 87 sites suitable for RVs or tents. All sites have electricity, and a few sites have sewer service as well. Also available are three cabins complete with beds, a kitchen, bathrooms with showers, and air conditioning.

Address: 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, Georgia

Another great Savannah attraction that's within a short stroll of the historic downtown district is the Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum . Set in the lovely, early-19th century William Scarbrough House, this fascinating museum preserves Savannah's rich maritime history.

Highlights include a large collection of scale model replicas of vessels with connections to the city and its river port, along with artifacts, paintings, and photos. Interesting displays also tell the story of the home's original resident, William Scarbrough, who made and later lost his fortune as the owner of the Savannah Steamship Company. Other displays deal with the Civil War period and Savannah's role in the slave trade.

In addition to informative guided tours, the Ships of the Sea Museum features an array of fascinating programming related to the city's maritime history. These include regular lectures and talks, educational programs for young and old alike, as well as art shows and workshops. A gift shop is also located on-site, and guided tours are available.

The museum is also home to one of the best, and quietest, gardens in Savannah. It's free to enter, and as the historic district's largest private garden, it offers a pleasant sanctuary from the crowds visiting the Historic District across the street. All plant species here are native to Georgia, with most examples being available at the time the garden was originally laid out in the 1800s. A later addition was the official Savannah weather station, the kiosk of which can still be seen today.

Address: 41 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Savannah, Georgia

To fully appreciate Savannah's genteel Southern charm, historical squares, moss-draped oak trees, antebellum mansions, great restaurants, and quaint shops, it's best to stay right downtown, in the Historic District. The waterfront and Bull Street are the two main tourist focal points of this area, so staying within walking distance of either of these is preferable. Below are some highly-rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• On Lafayette Square in the Historic District, the Hamilton-Turner Inn is a beautiful 1873 mansion and was featured in the movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil . This charming inn features 17 individually designed suites, with high ceilings, four poster beds, claw-foot tubs, and other fine antique furnishings.
• With a fabulous location along the waterfront, The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection is an elegant hotel in a romantic 18th-century building, with views over the water and the Historic District.
• Another great choice for those wanting to be close to the action on River Street is the brand-new JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District . Occupying the city's old power plant, the hotel has a unique museum-like quality that appeals to all ages.
• The 4-star River Street Inn is a classy boutique hotel set in an old cotton warehouse dating from 1817. Featuring chic rooms, many with superb views over the Savannah River, this great hotel is just steps away from Bull Street and the Historic Savannah district.
• In the heart of the old city, steps from Bull Street, the Eliza Thompson House is a boutique hotel with a true Southern feel. Built-in 1847, the property consists of a main house and carriage house, with 25 individually designed rooms, a lovely courtyard patio, and lush gardens. For something a little more contemporary but equally enticing, The Kimpton Brice Hotel is the best bet.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On the edge of the Historic District, near Emmet Park and overlooking the riverfront, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Savanah Historic District/Riverfront has a rooftop pool and patio.
• The Marshall House , dating from the mid-19th century, is a small, delightful hotel, with an awesome location near the excellent shopping on East Broughton Street.
• Overlooking Savannah's famous Forsyth Park is the Forsyth Park Inn , a historic Queen Victoria mansion with high ceilings, huge doors, and quaint indoor and outdoor sitting areas. This is a B&B, serving a full gourmet breakfast.

Budget Hotels:

• True budget hotels are found a short distance outside the city center. La Quinta Inn & Suites and Super 8 by Wyndham both offer basic, comfortable rooms and are an easy 15-minute drive from the Historic District.
• Sightseeing by Trolley: One of the most convenient ways to get the most out of your sightseeing is the Savannah Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour , which gives you flexibility while getting to all of the city's top tourist attractions. A well-versed guide will provide fascinating commentary about the city's history and culture as the trolley makes its route along 15 stops, including major sites like Forsyth Park , the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace , and City Market .
• Walking Tour: The 90-minute Savannah Walking Tour gives tourists the opportunity to take in the beauty of Savannah at a slower pace while learning about the city's rich history as a strategic port and center of colonial government. Beginning in the beautiful Reynolds Square , the tour explores Savannah Historic District's many landmarks, both the well-known and those known only to locals.
• Cemetery Tour: Tourists who are looking for a meaningful visit to the city's famous cemetery will want to book one of the Bonaventure Cemetery Journeys with Shannon Scott , local historian, author, and storyteller. During the two-hour tour of this magnificent cemetery, tourists will learn about Victorian burial traditions, artwork and symbolism within the cemetery, and other fascinating details.

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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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Visiting the 22 Historic Squares of Savannah – Tips, History, and Beautiful Photos

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on December 24, 2023
• Published on March 30, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

The most surprising things I found in Savannah were the historic squares. From the comfort of an open-air tour bus, I learned each square’s interesting identities and history. By foot, I explored the statues and monuments beneath the shade of gargantuan oak trees. There was no doubt about it – the historic squares of Savannah were the city’s best feature.

Savannah isn’t exactly the oldest city in the country – that title is held by St. Augustine about 150 miles further south – but Savannah claims to be the oldest planned city in the country. An interesting distinction – and one I have not been able to verify or debunk yet.

The squares were part of James Oglethorpe’s master plan when he founded Savannah in 1733. Originally, there were four squares. As the city grew, the number of squares increased to a maximum of twenty-four. But only twenty-two remain today.

The squares are the most iconic part of Savannah, featured in movies and books and visited by millions every year. Find out how you can explore the squares, the interesting history of each, and what you’ll find inside – and sometimes under – the squares.

Did You Know? None of the historic squares of Savannah are actually square. Each square is approximately 200 feet long on two sides and 100 – 300 feet long on the adjacent sides.

Map of Historic Squares of Savannah

How to use this map: Click the icon in the top-left corner to open the Map Legend, then click on any of the legend items to display more information. If you have a Google account, click the star beside the map’s name to save this map to your account, then access the map from your smartphone during your trip.

Getting Around the Squares

Would you like to know the second-most surprising thing I found in Savannah? Free public parking. It’s not often I find free public parking in big cities or popular tourism destinations.

However, free public parking was scarce, especially after 5 p.m. and on weekends. If you are an early rise – which I am not – you can probably get a parking space beside one of the squares. Otherwise, you’re left to the numerous parking garages just north of the squares – and potentially long walks to reach them all.

The best way to get around the squares is with the Old Towne Trolley tours. Purchase a ticket for the open-air tour bus with the option to hop on and off all day long. The tour company features a dozen stops throughout Savannah, with many of them located at the best squares.

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The First Four Squares

When James Oglethorpe founded Savannah in 1733, he had a master plan. The city would be built around a series of public squares. The squares would be used for community kitchens, markets, and military drills. Private homes, businesses, government buildings, and churches would be built around the squares.

Four squares were initially laid out in 1733 with the city’s founding – Johnson Square, Wright Square, Ellis Square, and Telfair Square. However, Oglethorpe’s plan called for six squares, so Reynolds Square and Oglethorpe Square were soon added.

An additional nine were added in 1796. By 1856, twenty-four squares were laid throughout the city – but by 1985, only twenty-two remained. Whatever happened to the lost squares of Savannah?

Bryan and Montgomery Streets

Franklin square.

Standing in this peaceful square at the western edge of downtown Savannah it’s hard to imagine it was once dissected by a busy highway. But in the 1980s, the square – named after Benjamin Franklin – was restored to its original layout from 1790.

Trees line the perimeter of a large brick plaza and interconnected sidewalks. At the center, the Haitian Monument dominates visitors’ attention. The monument is dedicated to the Freedom Fighters – a group of Haitians who fought for the Patriots at the Siege of Savannah during the Revolutionary War . One of the fighters depicted in the monument is Henri Christophe – just 12 years old at the time – who would later become King of Haiti.

Nearby attractions: The City Market covers two blocks along the pedestrian-only West St. Julian Street, where you’ll find lots of retail shops, local dining, and the American Prohibition Museum . Along Montgomery Street, you’ll find even more dining options, including Pounce Cat Café – a coffee shop filled with cats for a different kind of caffeinated experience.

Bryan and Barnard Streets

Ellis square.

Ellis Square was one of the original squares laid out in 1733 – and one of the first destroyed in the name of progress. In 1954, the trees were cut down, and the grass was pulled up to make way for a parking garage. It took nearly fifty years, but in 2004 the city demolished the parking garage and restored the square.

The sparsely decorated square is ringed by a row of trees and left with patches of grass between concrete plazas. There is no monument displayed in the center of this square, but you can visit the Johnny Mercer Statue at the west end. Mercer’s fame in Savannah is tied to his hit single “Moon River,” a song that is still celebrated throughout the city.

Nearby attractions: The City Market covers two blocks along the pedestrian-only West St. Julian Street, where you’ll find lots of retail shops, local dining, and the American Prohibition Museum . Surrounding the other sides of the square are some great restaurants like B&D Burgers , Goose Feathers , and Mabel’s Cupcake Emporium .

Bryan and Bull Streets

Johnson square.

Of the original six squares laid out in 1733, Johnson Square is the oldest. Named after a royal governor of South Carolina, the square is covered in shade from a thick canopy of oak trees. Despite being near the center of downtown, it’s often a peaceful place to spend an afternoon.

The center of the square is dominated by the 50-foot-tall Nathaniel Green Monument. Built in 1825, the monument is dedicated to the second in command of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War . Greene and his son are buried beneath the monument.

Nearby attractions: Take a look up Bull Street from the edge of Johnson Square for a view of the spectacular City Hall with a gilded dome. Most of the businesses surrounding the square are banks, but on the corner of East Congress and Bull Streets, you’ll find Jen’s & Friends – a nice local bar where everyone wants to learn your name.

Bryan and Abercorn Streets

Reynolds square.

You won’t regret a morning spent on a park bench in Reynolds Square. Laid out in 1733, the square features oak trees and manicured flower gardens between the crisscrossing brick pedestrian paths.

At the center of the square – beneath an opening in the canopy of oak trees – is the John Wesley Statue. Wesley arrived in the Georgia colony in 1736 and founded the Methodist church.

Nearby attractions: The Lucas Theatre for the Arts is owned by the Savannah College of Art and Design – locally called SCAD. It’s an excellent place for performing arts and special events in the city. The Olde Pink House Restaurant is located inside the Habersham House. Built in 1771, it’s one of the oldest homes in Savannah and listed as a National Landmark.

National Park Week 2024

Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.

Bryan and Habersham Streets

Warren square.

Tucked away behind a three-story parking garage, Warren Square is a beautiful place to visit – but not many tourists ever venture there. It’s one of the few squares in the city that does not feature a statue, monument, or water fountain of any kind. The large patch of grass in the middle is frequently used by locals to read a book or have a picnic.

Nearby attractions: There are no attractions to visit surrounding this square.

Bryan and Houstin Streets

Washington square.

Located at the eastern edge of downtown Savannah, Washington Square was named after George Washington. In 1791, Washington embarked on the Southern Tour – a grande adventure to thank everyone in the south for voting him as the United States’ first president. The square was laid out just a year before he arrived in the city and named in his honor.

Similar to Warren Square, Washington square does not feature any statues, monuments, or water fountains.

State and Barnard Streets

Telfair square.

Originally called St. James Square when it was laid out in 1733, by 1883, it had been renamed in honor of Edward Telfair – a three-time governor of Georgia. Since that time, the Telfair family has had a significant impact on Savannah with the creation of the Telfair Museums .

Although the square features no statues or monuments, it is a gorgeous example of a public park space. Flower gardens line the perimeter and fill the brick streets with color. The corners are reserved for a small garden surrounded by benches to enjoy the scenery. The grassy field in the middle is the perfect play date with your furry friend.

Nearby attractions: The Jepson Center for the Arts and Telfair Academy are two components of the Telfair Museums located around the square. Trinity United Methodist Church – built in 1848 – is the oldest Methodist church in Savannah.

State and Bull Streets

Wright square.

When this square was laid out in 1733, it was initially called Percival Square. In 1763, it was renamed Wright Square. It’s one of the most visited squares in Savannah, with numerous monuments and nearby attractions to visit.

The center of the square is dominated by the William Washington Gordon Monument. Built in 1883, it is dedicated to the founder of the Central of Georgia Railroad. But the most interesting monument is a giant boulder sitting in the corner of the square – the Tomochichi Monument. The monument is dedicated to the Yamacraw chief who helped Oglethorpe acquire the land for Savannah.

Nearby attractions: Soda Pop Shoppe is a great local restaurant designed like a classic diner – and serving some of the best hot dogs in the city. Lutheran Church of The Ascension is one of the most gorgeous churches in Savannah – founded in 1741. This church was built in 1843. Take a walk down Bull Street to find the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace . Born in 1860, Juliette Low gathered 18 girls from a local school and founded the Girl Scouts of the USA.

State and Abercorn Streets

Oglethorpe square.

Laid out in 1742, this was the last square James Oglethorpe developed before leaving the Georgia colony. No monuments or statues adorn this square, however, there is the interesting Moravian Pedestal. Commemorating missionaries who visited the city in 1735, the pedestal was erected in 1933.

Although the square is sparsely populated with historical markers or statues, it is still a pleasant place to sit on a bench and enjoy the city.

Nearby attractions: The Owens-Thomas House was built in 1819 and features some of the most stunning architecture in Savannah. The President’s Quarters Inn is not only one of the most comfortable places to spend a night in the city – it’s also a deeply historic place. Each of the 16 rooms is named after a president who has visited Savannah!

State and Habersham Streets

Columbia square.

Columbia Square – laid out in 1799 – is devoid of any towering monuments. However, at the center of this modest square is the Wormsloe Fountain. It was initially located at Wormsloe Plantation – the estate for Noble Jones, one of Savannah’s first settlers. In 1970, the fountain was moved to the square to become its only feature.

Nearby attractions: The Davenport House Museum offers tours of the historic home. Built in 1820, it was the first home restored by the Historic Savannah Foundation. The Kehoe House is one of the best bed and breakfast in downtown Savannah, located inside a historic home built in 1893.

State and Houston Streets

Greene square.

At the eastern edge of downtown, Greene Square – laid out in 1799 – is one of the least decorated squares in Savannah. A few trees provide a smattering of shade in the summer, and about a dozen benches offer a respite from the long walk to get there.

Hull and Barnard Streets

Orleans square.

Laid out in 1799, Orleans Square is named after the Battle of New Orleans fought during the War of 1812 – a battle that defined the military career of Andrew Jackson. It’s one of the few squares in Savannah that features a water fountain in the center – this particular fountain is dedicated to German immigrants.

Nearby attractions: The Harper-Fowlkes House is one of the house museums operated by the Coastal Heritage Society in Savannah.

Hull and Bull Streets

Chippewa square.

Savannah’s popularity rose to new heights when Forrest Gump became one of the most beloved movies of all time. Scenes throughout the movie were shot on location at Chippewa Square with Gump – played by Tom Hanks – sitting on a bench at the edge of the square. The famous bench is no longer there, but people still visit the square for the chance to see the filming location.

Laid out in 1841, the square was named after the Battle of Chippewa. At the center of the square is the towering Oglethorpe Statue, dedicated to Savannah’s founder, James Oglethorpe.

Nearby attractions: The Savannah Theatre – opened in 1818 – is the oldest continually running performance theater in the country. The Gallery Espresso sits on the corner of Perry and Bull Streets – it’s a wonderful coffee shop with comfortable seating and large picture windows.

Hull and Houston Streets

Crawford square.

Crawford Square is very different from the other historic squares of Savannah – it features a basketball court and gazebo in the center. It’s a favorite for the local teens to shoot hoops but one of the least-visited by tourists.

Laid out in 1841, the square is named after William Crawford – governor, judge, senator, Secretary of War, and Secretary of the Treasury.

Harris and Barnard Streets

Pulaski square.

Pulaski Square is a large, gorgeous square that does not feature a single statue, monument, or water fountain. Despite the lack of historical markers, the square is a wonderful place to visit for relaxation.

Laid out in 1837, the square is named after General Casimir Pulaski. The Polish nobleman fought for the Patriots during the Revolutionary War, dying during the Siege of Savannah.

READ MORE: Discovering Fort Pulaski National Monument in Georgia

Harris and Bull Streets

Madison square.

Laid out in 1839, this square was named after President James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. The large brick plaza and interconnecting pedestrian paths beneath giant oak trees make this a remarkable square to visit.

At the center, the Sergeant William Jasper Statue depicts the young soldier raising a flag at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, the first British attack on South Carolina during the Revolutionary War . Jasper died during the ill-fated Siege of Savannah when Patriot forces attempted to retake Savannah from British control.

Nearby attractions: The Green-Meldrim House – built in the 1850s for Charles Green – is one of the greatest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Savannah. Gryphon is one of the restaurants operated by the Savannah College of Art and Design – and happens to be one of the best brunch spots in the city. ShopSCAD is a beautiful building to explore even if you don’t plan to buy anything – but be warned, the gift shop features lots of stunning artwork that will undoubtedly tempt you!

Harris and Abercorn Streets

Lafayette square.

Despite the relative plainness of Lafayette Square, it is one of the most-visited historic squares in Savannah. At the center, a gorgeous water fountain draws attention – it marks the 250th anniversary of the Georgia colony’s founding.

Named after the Marquis de Lafayette – a French aristocrat who served under General George Washington during the Revolutionary War.

Nearby attractions: The biggest draw for visitors to the square is the view of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist . Founded in the 1700s, the current building was started in 1873 and finished three years later. The Andrew Low House was built for Juliette Gordon Low’s father – and was the house where she died in 1927.

Harris and Habersham Streets

Troup square.

Laid out in 1851, this square was named after George Michael Troup – a governor of Georgia. The square is simplistic at best with a variety of trees and little else, but it does feature the Armillary Sphere. The interesting device – made of sculpted bronze – is used for locating astronomical objects in the night sky.

Taylor and Barnard Streets

Chatham square.

Chatham Square – laid out in 1847 – is a gorgeous public park with a thick canopy over crisscrossing brick pedestrian paths. However, with no statues or monuments to explore, there is little reason to visit other than to say you have been there. The square was named after William Pitt, the First Earl of Chatham.

Taylor and Bull Streets

Monterey square.

Laid out in 1847, this square was named after the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican-American War. It’s a beautiful square with towering trees, patches of manicured grass, and flower gardens.

The center of the square is wrapped in a black wrought iron fence around the Casimir Pulaski Monument. The monument is dedicated to General Pulaski, a Polish nobleman who fought with the Patriots during the Revolutionary War.

Nearby attractions: Like many people, I fell in love with Savannah after reading John Berendt’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The most pivotal location in the book and subsequent film was the Mercer-Williams House . Built from 1860-1871, the house was purchased by Jim Williams in the 1950s and restored as his private residence. The Congregation Mickve Israel – consecrated in 1878 – is descended from the largest group of Jewish immigrants ever to reach Colonial America.

Taylor and Abercorn Streets

Taylor square.

In 2022, the Savannah City Council voted to “remove” his name from the square. But without a replacement, they called it “The Square Formerly Known as Calhoun Square.” In mid-2023, the city council finally voted to rename the square after Susie King Taylor.

Taylor was born in 1848 to enslaved parents. After gaining her freedom, she traveled to Savannah to live with a grandmother who secretly taught her how to read and write. During the Civil War, Taylor treated wounded soldiers as an army nurse. Later, she opened Savannah’s first African-American schools.

Although no monuments or memorials exist in the park, the city plans to soon add interpretive signs about Taylor’s life and works.

Did You Know?

The Savannah Belles Ferry has four boats in its fleet providing free passage for pedestrians crossing the Savannah River between downtown and the convention center. Each of the ships is named after a significant “belle,” or a strong southern woman. One of the ships bears the name of Susie King Taylor.

Taylor and Habersham Streets

Whitefield square.

Named after Reverend George Whitefield – founder of Bethesda Orphanage – this square is not only the last on this list, it was also the last square laid out in Savannah in 1851. Whitefield arrived from England in 1738 and was one of the founding members of the Methodist church. The orphanage he created in 1740 is the oldest in the United States.

The only thing to visit in Whitefield Square is a gorgeous gazebo at the very center. Despite the square’s location at the edge of downtown and lack of a bus stop along the Old Town Trolley Tour, it is worth visiting for the peaceful opportunity to sit in a kind of urban silence.

Where to Stay in Savannah

Savannah has no shortage of fantastic overnight accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels to swanky B&Bs. Here are a few options to help you choose where to stay.

The Hyatt Regency is one of a few riverfront hotels in Savannah. The spacious lobby is a great place for large traveling groups to mingle. The exquisite rooms offer the best in privacy while also providing a stellar view of the city skyline.

Hotel Indigo is a modern chic hotel chain, but it’s clean and comfortable and located in the heart of the historic district. Choose from rooms with one or two beds or go for a suite with one or two beds and sleeper sofa.

The Marshall House is one of the most popular historic inns in Savannah – and for good reason. Rooms in the boutique hotel come with one or two beds and a various array of other amenities like fireplace, real wood furniture, and a gorgeous balcony.

Hampton Inn & Suites is my favorite hotel chain and this one is a great choice. Choose from rooms with one or two beds or opt for the studio suite with additional sleeper sofa. Amenities include free on-site parking and a fantastic free breakfast.

The Thunderbird Inn looks like a classic 1960s-era motel on the outside, but the inside has been completely renovated with modern furniture and amenities. Rooms include one kind bed or two queens, hardwood floors, and mini fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chippewa Square is the most famous square in Savannah – and you’ve probably seen it even if you’ve never visited the city. It’s where Tom Hanks filmed scenes in Forest Gump, sitting on a bench waiting for the bus to arrive.

There are 22 squares in Savannah. However, there were as many as 24 squares but two were lost to modern development.

The original four squares in Savannah were Johnson Square, Wright Square, Ellis Square, and Telfair Square.

Yes, all the squares in Savannah are open to the public. In fact, they were initially designed by the city’s founder, James Oglethorpe, as public squares.

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Where to Stay in Savannah: Historic District Stays You’ll Absolutely Love

T he Historic and Victorian Districts of Savannah offer visitors a variety of luxury hotels and inns to choose from. If you’re trying to find a historic hotel with southern charm or a charming inn with all the amenities, Savannah has something to offer everyone. We’ve got options for you to check-in when you’re in the Historic and Victorian Districts in Savannah.

The historic neighborhoods of Savannah are some of Georgia’s most beautiful. The area is filled with stunning Victorian-style homes, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and parks. Visitors to the area will enjoy taking a stroll through the neighborhoods to see the unique architecture and learn about the amazing history of this fascinating area. There are also a number of great museums and attractions in the area that offer an insight into the culture and heritage of Savannah, from the Underground Railroad to the film industry. Whether you are looking for a place to stay during your next vacation or just want to explore one of the most distinct areas in the country, the  Victorian District  is definitely worth a visit.

Choosing Where to Stay in Savannah

How do you choose where to stay in Savannah? Do you just find a hotel that’s the right price or do you look for character or location? Luckily, Savannah has historic stays from the riverfront to the neighborhoods, so no matter where you choose you’ll be sure to have a visit that is true to the Hostess City’s charm.

Here’s a map to give you an idea of the layout of Savannah’s districts.

The Historic District

If you are looking at what is officially called the “Historic District” you’ll be trying to find a hotel that’s just up from the river and then within about six blocks to the south and four blocks to the east or west of Bull Street. This is where you’ll find the main shopping areas, TONS of restaurants, bakeries and bars, and the primary gathering areas for Savannah. City Market, Ellis Square and Liberty Street fall within the Historic District.

The Victorian District

Continue south and you come to the “Victorian District” which is split into East and West by Forsyth Park. While this area is primarily bedroom neighborhoods (where people actually live, including where we live) there are quite a few historic inns and hotels peppered throughout. Most of these properties are in large Victorian houses and are run like traditional bed and breakfasts. The perks of staying in the Victorian District are the quiet calm, the small cafes and easy access to Forsyth Park, which is the heart of Savannah Life.

Starland and South Savannah

Lastly, the Starland Metropolitan neighborhood and areas to the south of Forsyth Park are very residential. This is also much more of an up-and-coming neighborhood. SCAD, the Savannah College of Art and Design, has several buildings here so there is a strong student vibe. You’ll find lots of restaurants along Bull Street and 37th Street. I like this part of Savannah, but it is much less glossy/fancy than the Historic or Victorian Districts.

Top Historic District Hotels and Inns in Savannah

Since we’re all about enjoying the historic atmosphere of Savannah, we’ve put together our top picks for Historic District stays. We’ve chosen a few from different areas within the Historic District, Victorian District and even as far south as the Starland District. Any of these inns are great options for a delightful visit to Savannah.

The Gastonian

The Gastonian is a historic inn situated in two adjoining mansions that were built in 1868 and feature Regency-Italianate style architecture. The Gastonian offers luxurious accommodations and is just a 3-minute walk from  Forsyth Park  and 1 mile from I-16. Guests can enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest while staying at this unique inn. A bonus of this particular location is that parking is really easy!

Book the Gastonian on Gaston Street here!

The Grant Hotel

The Grant Hotel is a beautiful, historic space that’s within walking distance of many  shops and restaurants , located directly on Broughton Street. The hotel offers a variety of unique and stylish apartments, each with its own amenities. There is also an on-site fitness center and laundry facilities. The Grant Hotel is a great place to stay for business or pleasure.

Note:  being directly on Broughton Street does mean that you’re going to be in the busiest part of downtown, which is good and bad.

Book the Grant Hotel on Broughton Street here!

Justine Inn

The Justine Inn is a fully restored 1877 brownstone is just two blocks  from Forsyth Park  and within walking distance of all the great places that Savannah has to offer. Justine Inn offers the perfect mix of historic charm and modern luxury, and it’s got that colorful kitschy flare you might be looking for in a historic inn by the park. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, the Justine Inn provides a quiet oasis to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

Book the Justine Inn by Forsyth Park here!

Amethyst Garden Inn

Amethyst Garden not only has a rich history, but its originality shines through in its character as well. This private mansion dates back to 1885 and has been fully restored with Magazine-worthy results. I love that it’s purple! If you’re looking for elegance during your stay and wish to immerse yourself in some Southern Victorian luxury, then look no further than Amethyst Garden!

Something that, I think, is quite the bonus about the location here and what makes the Amethyst Garden Inn a great spot to stay in the Historic District is that it’s east of Forsyth Park. Directly around Bull Street and near Broughton is where most visitors will tend to flock to. The Amethyst Garden Inn is very close to the cathedral and several less-visited squares.

Book the Amethyst Garden Inn here!

The Marshall House

The Marshall House is an elegant boutique hotel to book a stay in for its convenient location near many of Savannah’s attractions and its refined, elegant atmosphere. The hotel is situated in a landmark building from 1851 and offers snug, simple rooms. Suites and upgraded rooms are also available and include additional amenities such as claw-foot tubs, wide living rooms, decorative fireplaces, and/or access to a shared balcony with rocking chairs. Kids aged 12 and under can stay at the hotel for free.

The Marshall House really is one of those iconic Savannah buildings, and as you walk on Broughton you can’t miss it. There are tons of restaurants and bars within steps of the Marshall House, so it’s an easy location, especially if you’re doing a bachelorette party trip or are visiting for the first time.

Book the Marshall House here!

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is an excellent example of an antebellum home. It has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur and offers modern amenities and luxury accommodations. The inn is close to Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, where you can find shopping, dining options, and Telfair Museums. If you’re looking for a historic and elegant place to stay in Savannah, the Kehoe House should be at the top of your list!

But okay, here’s the thing: the Kehoe House is considered to be one of the  haunted places  to stay in Savannah. It’s on several ghost tours and some guests choose to stay here specifically because they’ve heard it’s haunted. I don’t go for the whole haunted house thing, but a lot of people do, so this may be just the perfect inn for those folks.

Book the Kehoe House here!

The Isetta Inn

The Isetta Inn, in Savannah, Georgia is a unique stopover for travelers. It offers guests a safe and affordable place to stay while providing easy access to the city’s arts community. The Inn is also a popular destination for outdoor adventurers, as Savannah is home to beautiful parks and nature preserves.

The Isetta Inn is one of the most unique places to stay in Savannah and truly is unusual. The decor, the art, the vibe… Check out the  Isetta’s website  to really get a good feel of its unusual character.3

Note:  the location of the Isetta Inn is not terribly far from Forsyth Park, but it’s much more in a bedroom community than a tourist area. There are lots of great restaurants, including the Vault ( Asian fusion restaurant ) and Starland Yard.

The Olde Harbour Inn

The Olde Harbour Inn is a charming hotel located on the waterfront, so you can enjoy dazzling views of the river and the city. The rooms are chic and comfortable, with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. Plus, the hotel offers free wine and cheese receptions in the lounge every night!

I really like the location of the Olde Harbour Inn because it’s at the eastern end of River Street, so it’s a bit more quiet and great for morning walks. It’s easy access from here to the DOT trolley line or if you’re doing a  riverboat cruise .

Book the Olde Harbour Inn here!

The Hamilton-Turner Inn of Savannah

The Hamilton-Turner Inn of Savannah is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a luxurious and historic experience. The Inn is within walking distance of many of the city’s most popular attractions. The rooms and suites at the Inn are elegantly appointed with plush furnishings and décor, and all feature flat-screen TVs and high-speed Internet access. Some rooms even have fireplaces, balconies, 4-poster beds, and claw-foot or whirlpool tubs. In addition to a delicious breakfast served each morning in an opulent dining room, guests of the Hamilton-Turner Inn can enjoy free afternoon refreshments and an evening happy hour with wine and snacks.

A landscaped brick courtyard provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Savannah weather. Also, the Hamilton-Turner Inn is close to my FAVORITE square: Troup Square, which features a large, beautiful zodiac compass sundial. Really cool! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a historic vacation, the Hamilton-Turner Inn of Savannah is the perfect place to stay.

Book the Hamilton-Turner Inn here!

If you’re looking for a gorgeous and charming place to stay in Savannah, be sure to check out the Historic and Victorian Districts. Full of beautifully restored homes and hotels that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, I know you’ll find a wonderful place for a getaway.

We love to help people plan their travels, so if you have any questions or additional suggestions that you recommend, please leave a comment or  send us a note . We’re happy to share more!

Head of FEMA praises Savannah canal project, environmental justice focus in visit to city

Future work to control persistent flooding in two historic Black West Savannah neighborhoods is a first step toward protecting an area of the city “marginalized by underinvestment” for decades, officials said Tuesday. 

The $42 million project aims to address perpetual drainage issues along the two-century-old Springfield Canal that too often have left the Carver Village and Cloverdale communities under water, Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell said Tuesday during a visit to Savannah. 

She joined other dignitaries who gathered along the banks of the canal to celebrate a $30 million Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities  grant that will fund the bulk of the work. The city is covering the rest of the cost. 

The federal funding is being awarded through President Joe Biden’s Justice40 Initiative , which targets communities left largely unprotected from environmental hazards and pollution. 

'Our biggest threat is displacement'

While the grant is in response to issues in Carver Village and Cloverdale, the work will improve drainage for 17 neighborhoods across 1,200 acres, Criswell said. 

“The West Side of Savannah will be better protected from the repetitive flooding it has seen ... for generations to come,” she added. “This is what I would call a positive return on investment that's keeping people safe, but also keeping them in their homes.” 

The objective of the work is to make the area's storm-water system capable of withstanding a once-in-a-century extreme rain event, although Criswell acknowledged that climate change is fueling more instances of intense precipitation. Bridges over the canal also will be upgraded.

Even without extreme weather, storm-water systems designed for another era are becoming overwhelmed.

"We see so many places where infrastructure is aging," Criswell said. "It cannot keep up with the demands and increased pressure on it from increased population. And so, projects like (Springfield Canal) are really going to help bring that infrastructure resiliency, up to a level where it meets the resiliency of the people that it is supporting."

Savannah Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier, a fourth-generation West Savannah resident whose district includes the canal area, noted that climate resiliency also impacts neighborhood stability. 

“Our biggest threat, at this time, is displacement,” she said. “The people here are resilient. The infrastructure is not. But help is on the way.” 

Lanier also touched on the area's past while looking forward to a time when West Side residents are no longer revisited by rising floodwater.

“Back in the 1820s, when this canal was being constructed, the slave men who labored to dig the 16-and-a-half miles in impossible conditions had to have been thinking about you,” she said to the handful of residents who'd gathered for the event outside Enmarket Arena. “I'm sure someone had to think that their children's children’s children would benefit from their investment and from their suffering. And we kept that faith, and that faith has brought us through.” 

Project, grant have bipartisan support

Mayor Van Johnson, who served for 16 years as alderman in the same West Side district where he still lives, praised the cooperation between local, state and federal officials in securing the grant. 

"When disasters come, people don't care what team you're on,” he explained. “You all have to wear the same jerseys, and we do that here in this community.” 

U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, a Republican whose district includes Savannah and the entire 100-mile Georgia coast, has opposed Biden’s climate-related funding initiatives but said he supports the Savannah grant.  

“You’re not going to have to worry when it starts to rain that your house is going to flood,” Carter said. “It’s because of projects like this, it’s because of the resilience that this city is building (and) that this district is building (that) we’re going to be able to save them from that worry.” 

Tom Perez, a senior adviser to Biden and former U.S. Secretary of Labor, noted that the Justice40 grants bring a national quest for equity to the local level. 

“It's an initiative to make sure that ZIP code never again in our country determines destiny,” he said.  

John Deem covers climate change and the environment in coastal Georgia. He can be reached at [email protected]  

State soccer quarterfinals: See who Savannah teams are matched up with in Elite Eight

There are five teams still alive in the GHSA soccer playoffs, with three girls teams, and a pair of boys teams, competing in the state quarterfinals this week.

Here's a look at the matchups, with a look back on how these squads advanced to the Elite Eight.

Savannah Country Day (14-2-1) at Oconee County (14-1-5), Monday, 5 p.m.

The Hornets have a rematch with an Oconee County squad that knocked them out of the playoffs in the quarterfinals last year en route to winning the state championship.

SCD is coming off a win over visiting Morgan County on Tuesday in a game that came down to penalty kicks after being tied at the end of regulation and two overtimes at 2-2. SCD prevailed 3-2 on penalty kicks.

Senior AC Davis scored the first goals for the Hornets, and freshman Madison Buenos connected from distance on the second. Sophomore Emma Bromley had an assists for SCD.

The Hornets have been balanced offensively — Sophia Okumu leads the team with 16 goals and six assists. Harris Stone had 15 goals and 10 assists and Reese Bailey has 14 goals with nine assists, while Davis has netted 13 goals and dished out 11 assists.

"That was such a crazy game (in the win over Morgan County)," Davis said after the celebration on the field. "I'm proud of how we stuck through the physical aspect of things in the second half. This gives us a lot of confidence heading into the second round."

SCD Coach David Hooker said his squad was peppering the Morgan County goal in the first half, but wasn't able to take advantage of several opportunities. He praised the work of freshman keeper Alice Edwards, who made a big save on a penalty kick to help seal the game.

"I've been impressed with our togetherness this season," Hooker said. "We're really young with just two seniors on the team, but we've shown a willingness to work together."

St. Vincent's (11-5-1) at Wesleyan (17-1-1), Monday, April 29, 4 p.m.

SVA was the No. 2 seed out of Region 3-3A after SCD edged the Saints 1-0 in a match to decide the region title. The Saints beat Jackson 6-0 in the first round and went on the road to take down Richmond Academy 2-0 on Tuesday.

Olivia Atkins scored both goals for SVA, and McCall Schivera had an assists in the win over Richmond Academy.

Now, the Saints are on the road to face Wesleyan, which entered the playoffs ranked No. 2 in the state among Class 3A teams by Score Atlanta, just behind No. 1 Oconee County.

Savannah Arts (16-4) at Model (19-1), Monday, April 29, 5:30 p.m.

The Panthers have rolled through the first two rounds of the playoffs with a 10-0 win over Central Macon and a 7-0 victory over Jeff Davis. Katelyn Sadley scored a pair of goals in the win over Jeff Davis, and Amelia Reci and Jordan Gunn each had two assists and a goal. Reci, the standout sophomore, has 47 goals and 12 assists, while the freshman Gunn has 26 assists and 19 goals.

Model has a pair of stars of its own in senior Sophie Lawing (44 goals and 18 assists) and sophomore Molly Allmon (26 goals and 23 assists).

Class A Division I

Mt. vernon (9-4-4) at woodville-tompkins (11-4-1), tuesday at memorial stadium, 5 p.m..

Woodville-Tompkins is back in the state quarterfinals for the second year in a row after Luis Lopez put on a show in a 7-2 win over Temple.

The senior, who set the Wolverines record for career goals earlier in the season, found the back of the net four times against Temple and assisted on two other goals. Lopez has 28 goals and seven assists on the year.

Mikael Daniels, freshman Chris Varner (16 goals, four assists on the season) and Adrian Trujillo-Herrera also scored for the Wolverines.

"I was impressed with our recovery in the second half after giving up two goals early," said seventh-year head coach Woodville Coach Kaleb Pinckney, who picked up his 101st career win with the victory. "Luis (Lopez) put a lot of pressure on the back line. He's an intense player, and he's like a Swiss Army Knife with his combination of finesse and toughness. He can get down and dirty and score those hard-fought goals."

Savannah Country Day (15-0-1) at Hebron Christian (13-1-2), Tuesday, April 30, 6 p.m.

SCD entered the playoffs ranked No. 1 among Class 3A teams by Score Atlanta, with Hebron Christian, ranked No. 3. This is a rematch of last year's quarterfinal when Hebron Christian edged the Hornets on penalty kicks after a 2-2 tie through regulation and two overtimes.

SCD looked impressive again Wednesday in a 4-0 win over Richmond Academy. Senior Wesley Hooker had a pair of assists and Chase Buerger had a pair of goals. Hyers Holland and Athon Herris also had goals for SCD in the win.

Michael Hincker, in his ninth season leading the program, said the key to his squad's success stems from a team-first approach.

"It's not just one player who is doing all the work, we're sharing responsibility and that's a testament to each player," Hincker said. "Whether it's helping by making a touch leading to a through ball, or having our leading scorer in Wesley (Hooker) setting up goals with a pair of assists — everyone is putting in shifts and playing their roles."

The matchup with Hebron Christian has a local angle as Chad Griffith, the former longtime Calvary Day coach and athletic director, is the head coach of Hebron Christian.

Dennis Knight covers sports for the Savannah Morning News. Contact him at [email protected]. Twitter: @DennisKnightSMN

When is the best time to visit Savannah?

Aug 9, 2023 • 5 min read

Hop on a trolley to explore Savannah when you get a little tired of walking © The Good Brigade / Getty Images

Travelers flock to Savannah , Georgia, to see its picture-perfect scenery – like a time capsule of years past with carefully preserved architecture.

Savannah’s location in the coastal plain region puts it in a subtropical climate, meaning visitors can enjoy mild temperatures nearly year-round. But each season brings its own advantages and drawbacks. Summer is the most popular, but the heat can be overwhelming, and prices are at their highest. The winter, meanwhile, offers discounted rates but fewer things to do in terms of events.

But no matter what time of year you’re drawn to the Hostess City, you’re sure to enjoy yourself. Here's everything you need to know about what each season holds in Savannah.

January to February is the best time for budget travelers

Considered to be Savannah’s low season, the first months of the year are ideal for visitors looking to get the most for their money. Hotel prices can be at their lowest, apart from the dates around the New Year. For those used to cold temperatures, a winter trip to Savannah can be very comfortable, as it never dips well below 40°F.

If you’re looking to travel with your beloved, this is a great time for a weekend getaway as you can get a good deal on a hotel room, which leaves extra cash for a nice dinner and spa treatment. This is also the best time of year for first-time travelers and those looking to see the top sites without the crowds. It’s easy to hop on the trolley or a walking tour.

You also won’t have to face long lines at places you’d typically have to wait for, like Mrs Wilkes Boarding House , a famous family-style restaurant that has been serving up hearty Southern fare since 1943.

March to June is the best for cultural events

Despite the balmy temperatures through these months, it’s also Savannah’s high season due to the abundance of things to do, including some of the city’s most popular annual events, and the influx of spring break travelers. With the azaleas in bloom, photo ops are all around you.

If you want to be one of the many revelers attending the annual St Patrick’s Day festivities, be sure to book your hotel well ahead of time and bring plenty of green to wear! The month of June is an excellent time to check out Savannah’s landmarks focusing on its Black history, like the Pin Point Heritage Museum , the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum , the Savannah African Art Museum and the Beach Institute African-American Cultural Center .

Expect to pay a premium for those hotel rooms, so book well in advance if you can. Making meal reservations is also a good idea, especially if you want a table at bucket-list-worthy establishments like The Grey and Husk . Expect to wait in line at walk-up spots like Leopold’s Ice Cream as well, and eat quickly as your sweets will begin to melt with temperatures ranging between 50 to 70F.

July to mid-September is best for museum-hopping

The other low season in Savannah is the peak of summer, and if you visit during this time, you’ll quickly learn why. The heat and humidity can be overwhelming, especially to the uninitiated, when temperatures reach 90F and above.

But the silver lining is that there are some deals to be had for visitors when it comes to hotel prices. It’s a wise idea to include “hotels with pools” in your search parameters. The Westin Savannah , the Perry Lane Hotel and the Thompson Savannah are all excellent spots to cool off after an afternoon of exploring.

If you plan to hit the beach, get an early start heading to Tybee Island because many others will have the same idea. The water may not be exactly refreshing, but it’s at least better than sweating it out on River Street.

But if the heat gets to be too much for you, seek solace inside Savannah’s museums and cultural attractions. Between the two buildings of the Telfair Museums , you can see hundreds of years’ worth of art, not to mention the dozens of historic house museums. There are also museums curated to specific interests, including the Savannah Children’s Museum and the American Prohibition Museum , with its own speakeasy.

Summer also signals the start of the minor league baseball season. The Savannah Bananas have a very  enthusiastic fanbase , so you’ll want to secure those tickets early! And when you go, be sure to deck yourself out in yellow, just as the locals do.

Mid-September to December is the best for the outdoors

The fall and early winter are Savannah’s best weather periods, though they also bring the rainy season – come prepared with an umbrella in case you get caught in a sudden but brief storm. This also falls during hurricane season, but because the city is located on the river instead of directly on the ocean, impacts are infrequent.

Hotels can be at their most affordable, especially if you’re visiting in conjunction with one of the many events like Halloween, the Tybee Pirate Festival , the SCAD Savannah Film Festival or Savannah Pride .

The weather is at its best for spending time outside, whether you’re looking to enjoy holiday shopping on Broughton Street, outdoor dining on one of Savannah’s plentiful patios or hiking the trails at Skidaway Island State Park . The mosquitoes have also, blessedly, disappeared for the season, but if you’re back in the woods, be mindful of ticks. This is also the ideal time to explore the nearby islands, like Little Tybee , by kayak.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated August 2023

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Breaking news, 54 spring breakers arrested in savannah bash amid booze-soaked brawls, beach flooded with trash.

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The party was over for dozens of party animals amid an out-of-control, booze-fueled spring break bash in Savannah, Ga. last weekend .

Tybee Island police arrested 54 rowdy spring breakers and issued 116 citations during the massive “Orange Crush” beach rager at the tourist hotspot.

Authorities also recovered three stolen firearms and a stolen vehicle during the island festivities.

While the number of arrests seems high for Orange Crush weekend, the number of partiers who landed in cuffs decreased from five years ago

In 2019, 81 people were arrested during the event, which crammed as many as 50,000 college students on the tiny 3-square-mile island on average.

However, island community leaders were ready to take on the historically boisterous crowd.

Local leaders implemented unprecedented traffic and public safety measures after last year’s event, which became violent and chaotic, according to AJC .

Over 100 additional police officers from the Georgia State Patrol, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and other local police departments were called last weekend to help Tybee Island’s 12-person police force maintain order.

Two women were caught on video  duking it out on the beach over the weekend , resulting in both their bathing suit tops appearing to fly off their bodies, drawing a strong reaction from the crowd.

Multiple clips posted online from the weekend showed both men and women crowding a boardwalk as fights continued to erupt.

In addition to the violence, Tybee Island officials say there was enough trash left on the beach Saturday to fill more than 10 all-terrain vehicle carts.

Unfortunately, at 6:54 p.m., high tide hit, and some of the trash sprawled across the beach washed into the ocean, according to the outlet.

The festival gained a reputation in the 1990s for its wild atmosphere.

Savannah State University, whose main campus is 16 miles from Tybee Island, disassociated with the event in 1991 over of the high incidence of crime.

But the event returned to Tybee Island last year for the first time since 2020, and with it all the drama.

However, a group of Savannah State students helped with the cleanup efforts on Monday, according to  WJCL .

While the event seemed to go off the hinges again this year, Tybee Island Mayor Brian West called it “manageable” due to the community’s “preparation” and thanked all who volunteered to help keep things in check.

“We had a very large crowd on the beach yesterday that enjoyed their spring break activities and were polite and cooperative with our authorities,” West wrote in a statement to the outlet.

“We’re very grateful to the many volunteers and public servants that made this weekend, so far, a manageable event. We currently have a large number of spring breakers on the beach who are again enjoying themselves and being cooperative.”

West did note that the crowd did “leave a lot of trash” on the beach.

Tybee Island’s interim city manager, Michelle Owens, told the outlet that they “were successful in eliminating the chaos and disorderly conduct from last year.”

Tybee Island wasn’t the only area to feel the brunt of the partiers.

The city of Savannah also dealt with many spring breakers running amok downtown.

The crowd grew so large that the Savannah Police Department was forced to temporarily shut down West Congress Street — a road littered with late-night bars and clubs.

But Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said things turned out just fine with the “protocol” the city had in place.

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“From an enforcement perspective, we stopped the unpermitted activities and engaged with them,” Johnson said, according to AJC Politics. “At that age, you just want to have a good time.”

Johnson himself was downtown on Friday for an unrelated Earth Day event but was able to speak with some of the partiers enjoying his city.

Johnson is a Savannah State University alumnus and one of the organizers who helped stage Orange Crush parties in the early days, according to the outlet.

While speaking with some of the students from his alma mater, Johnson said, he was bestowed the nickname “OC OG.”

“They got a kick out of that,” Johnson told the outlet, “and I guess I did, too.”

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Parent item expand the sub menu, paris provisional calendar is out: dries van noten to present his final men’s show, the best street style from milan design week, l catterton acquires majority stake in kiko milano, savannah james’ style through the years: lebron james’ wife’s court side looks, red carpets and fashion weeks.

LeBron James' wife has a style all her own that's gone through an evolution over the years.

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Savannah James is the wife of professional basketball player and decorated athlete LeBron James . The couple has been married for more than 10 years. During her time in the spotlight, Savannah James’ style has gone through an evolution, with her fashion sensibility and approach to style growing on and off the basketball courts , including on front rows during Paris Fashion Weeks.

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Sophia bush and ashlyn harris make red carpet debut in coordinated harbison studio outfits at white house correspondents' dinner 2024, molly ringwald in custom cong tri gown, rachel brosnahan in jonathan cohen and more white house correspondents' dinner 2024 red carpet arrivals.

“It’s one thing to get with a starlet, someone who’s famous and wants to change up their style or introduce themselves to a new audience, but this was something that was all-around different,” the stylist explained further. “When I first started working with her it was like she was literally taking steps out of her cocoon,” Icon said.

Since Icon began working with James, her style has reached an entirely new level. It’s elevated, but it’s still true to who she is. “Hitting the scene, doing carpets and taking these bold choices was a seed that I’ve been watering over time,” Icon said. “As of recently, it’s really blossoming and she’s getting the hang of what all of this means and how she’s being inserted into the conversation from a fashion perspective,” Icon told WWD.

These days, whether she’s hitting the red carpet or watching her husband on the court, James’ style has a new level of confidence. While sitting court side to watch the Los Angeles Lakers, for whom her husband plays, take on the Indiana Pacers in March 2024, James wore a Balenciaga hoodie with her hair styled in a shiny white-silver look.

Savannah James’ Style Through the Years: LeBron James’ Wife’s Fashion Evolution [PHOTOS]

She has undergone a style evolution and metamorphosis, emerging from her cocoon after being coaxed out by the likes of Icon and more in the fashion industry. She’s only just begun to spread her wings.

Click below to see Savannah James’ style through the years.

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White House Correspondents' Dinner 2024 - See Photos of Every Celebrity Attendee!

Some of Hollywood’s biggest stars descended on Washington, DC to attend the 2024 White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night (April 27) at The Washington Hilton.

Hosted by Colin Jost , the event featured a celebrity guestlist including the likes of Chris Pine , Rachel Brosnahan , Da’Vine Joy Randolph , Coco Rocha , Billy Porter and Fran Drescher .

In all, there were more than 30 stars who posed on the red carpet. Since the guestlist was so full, we pulled together all of the photos you need to see with the fashion credits.

Head inside to see photos of everyone who attended the event…

Keep scrolling to see photos of all of the stars who attended the 2024 White House Correspondents’ Dinner…

Molly Ringwald

FYI: Molly is wearing custom Cong Tri .

John Quinones

Hiroyuki Sanada

Sunny Hostin

FYI: Coco is wearing Christian Siriano SS24 RTW .

Deborah Roberts/strong>

Lynda Carter

Rachel Brosnahan

FYI: Rachel is wearing Jonathan Cohen FW24 RTW and Cicada and Suzanne Kalan jewelry.

Lorne Michaels

Rufus Sewell

Keri Russell

FYI: Keri is wearing Markarian FW24 RTW .

Jordan Klepper

Lester Holt

Wilson Cruz

Karine Jean-Pierre

Fran Drescher

Savannah Guthrie

Kristen Welker

Ashlyn Harris and Sophia Bush

FYI: Ashlyn and Sophia are wearing Harbison Studio .

Jermaine Dupri

Kyle MacLachlan and Desiree Gruber

Brittany Cartwright

Billy Porter

Rosario Dawson

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Aldis Hodge

James Austin Johnson

Al Sharpton

Jean Reno with Zofia Borucka

Joely Fisher

Madison Prewett

Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost

FYI: Colin is wearing Giorgio Armani , and Scarlett is wearing Giorgio Armani Prive .

John Fetterman

Wolf Blitzer

Naomi Biden and Peter Neal

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Would you travel on a nuclear-powered cruise ship.

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Is the future of cruise ships, nuclear energy?

Cruises are increasingly popular but not the most environmentally-friendly option for travelers keen to keep carbon emissions low. It's also true that cruise companies need to meet goals of being carbon-neutral by 2050—one possible solution then, would be to start building nuclear-powered cruise ships.

Using nuclear power for shipping is not new. There are currently 200 nuclear reactors on ships globally, mostly submarines and naval ships. In the 1950s, the U.S. government built a passenger boat run on nuclear power—it could hold 60 travelers and lots of cargo—but it was rife with issues, not entirely related to its energy source. Now, the NS Savannah sits inside a dock in Baltimore, designed more as a proof-of-concept than anything else, reports NPR .

The forward part of the ship held a pressurized water reactor that used low-enriched uranium to produce heat—the steam that was produced ran the ship's turbines, spun the propellors and so produced electricity to power the ship up to 20 knots, equivalent to the speed of many cruise ships today. The Russian government also commissioned Sevmorput, a nuclear-powered cargo ship in 1988, that's still in operation. Two other boats—the Japanese Mutsu and the German Otto Hahn—started out life as nuclear but were fitted to take diesel later on.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the United Nations agency that regulates global shipping and it's set a target of carbon neutrality by 2050 for the cruise industry—shipping currently produces 300 million tonnes of carbon emissions every year, around 3% of global emissions.

This obviously poses some issues, because while boats are being built more efficiently, cruise ships are increasing in size—the largest, Icon of the Seas, set sail this year, and ships are installing ever-more diverse activities onboard, such as go-karting, moving bars, zip lines, rollercoasters and skydiving and surfing simulators.

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Most ships still run on diesel fuel with about one quarter now using alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas, methanol, or hybrid propulsion—all lower in carbon emissions. According to the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) there are 25 ships using Liquified Natural Gas that will start operating in the next five years. Seven ships belonging to Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line are also coming online that are methanol ready or methanol capable. Carnival is also looking to retrofit ships to take methanol. One of the issues though is that these fuels could be used for other purposes, as could the green power that produces them.

At the annual Seatrade Cruise Global conference that took place in Miami this month, industry leaders believe that using nuclear technology is increasingly a possibility. Inside the NS Savannah, there is a small wooden cube that fits into a person's hand that represents the volume of uranium needed to allow the ship to travel 454,000 nautical miles to circumnavigate the world more than a dozen times (a boat traveling the same distance on fuel would need 28 million gallons). These ships could go for years without refueling (some usually carry some diesel in reserve), can carry more passengers and/or cargo without the need for large fuel tanks and more importantly, fourth generator nuclear reactors are smaller and make operations much simpler.

Cruise ships have long lives and could theoretically be retrofitted with nuclear power when they go in for a refit. Some companies are engaged in studies for using nuclear power aboard ships, like the partnership between Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri and Newcleo—the results of a feasibility study to assess the practicality of deploying a 30-megawatt reactor on marine vessels is due at the end of this year.

The NS Savannah taught a lot of lessons about how to run a nuclear passenger ship but also laid bare some problems. It can be difficult docking a ship that runs on nuclear fuel into harbors—special documentation is naturally required, people need to be trained on what to do in emergencies and some countries, like New Zealand, have all out bans on nuclear ships entering their waters.

And finally, the biggest problem might just be the paying customer—unsurprisingly, many people believe the public might not be particularly favorable to the idea.

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