Savannah, Georgia, is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful historic buildings, lush parks, and Southern hospitality. The city is a popular tourist destination and offers an array of attractions and activities for visitors.
Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and charm. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, there are plenty of things to see and do in Savannah. From beautiful parks to historic landmarks to delicious cuisine, this city has something for everyone.
Interesting facts about Savannah:
- Savannah is known as the “Hostess City of the South” due to its reputation for southern hospitality.
- Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe.
- The city was named after the Savannah River, which flows through the city and into the Atlantic Ocean.
- Savannah is home to 22 historic squares, which are beautiful green spaces located throughout the city’s historic district.
- The city’s historic district is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.
- Savannah is known for its stunning architecture, including beautiful homes and churches in a variety of styles, such as Gothic, Greek Revival, and Victorian.
- The city was a major center for the cotton trade in the 19th century, and many of its historic buildings were built by wealthy cotton merchants.
- Savannah played a significant role in the Civil War, and visitors can still see many landmarks and monuments related to the conflict throughout the city.
- The city is also known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, with important figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and W.W. Law calling Savannah home.
- Savannah is a popular filming location and has been featured in movies such as “Forrest Gump,” “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” and “The Legend of Bagger Vance.”
In this article, we will explore the 20 best things to do in Savannah, Georgia.
Visit Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is a 30-acre park located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. The park is known for its iconic fountain, which dates back to 1858. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, have a picnic, or take part in one of the many events that take place throughout the year, such as the Savannah Jazz Festival or the Savannah Food and Wine Festival.
Forsyth Park is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful scenery of Savannah. The park is surrounded by stunning historic buildings, including the Mercer-Williams House, which was featured in the book and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Visitors can also enjoy a game of frisbee or soccer on the park’s expansive lawn, or take a walk through the Fragrant Garden, which is filled with beautiful flowers and plants.
Take a Tour of Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery is a beautiful and historic cemetery located just outside of Savannah. The cemetery dates back to the early 19th century and is the final resting place of many notable figures, including songwriter Johnny Mercer and poet Conrad Aiken. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cemetery and learn about its history and notable residents.
A tour of Bonaventure Cemetery is a unique and fascinating way to learn about Savannah’s rich history. The cemetery is known for its stunning sculptures and ornate tombstones, as well as its lush and picturesque landscaping. Visitors can also learn about the history of burial practices in Savannah and the role of cemeteries in Southern culture.
Explore the Historic District
Savannah’s historic district is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The district is filled with beautiful architecture, including 18th and 19th-century homes and buildings. Visitors can take a walking tour of the district or hop on a trolley for a guided tour.
Exploring the historic district is a great way to experience Savannah’s unique charm and character. The district is home to many of Savannah’s most iconic landmarks, including the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Visitors can also take a stroll down the picturesque Jones Street, which is often referred to as the prettiest street in Savannah.
Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a beautiful and historic church located in the heart of Savannah. The cathedral dates back to 1876 and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the cathedral or attend one of its many services.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and religious history. The cathedral’s ornate interior features stunning murals and intricate woodwork, as well as a beautiful pipe organ. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the cathedral and learn about its history and significance in Savannah’s religious community.
Take a Riverboat Cruise
A riverboat cruise is a fun and unique way to explore Savannah. Visitors can take a cruise down the Savannah River and enjoy beautiful views of the city’s skyline and waterfront. Some riverboat cruises also offer dinner and entertainment options.
Visit Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a beautiful barrier island located just 20 minutes from Savannah. The island offers miles of beautiful beaches, as well as a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and other outdoor activities, or take a guided tour of the island’s historic landmarks.
Tybee Island is a perfect destination for a day trip from Savannah. The island’s beautiful beaches are a great place to relax and soak up the sun, while the downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can also take a tour of the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, which dates back to 1736 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.
Take a Ghost Tour
Savannah is known for its rich history and haunted past. Taking a ghost tour is a fun way to learn about the city’s spooky legends and haunted buildings. Visitors can choose from a variety of ghost tours, including walking tours, trolley tours, and hearse tours.
A ghost tour is a unique and entertaining way to learn about Savannah’s history and folklore. Visitors can explore the city’s haunted landmarks, including the Sorrel-Weed House and the Kehoe House, and learn about the spirits and ghosts that are said to haunt them. Some tours also include visits to the city’s cemeteries and other spooky locations.
Visit Wormsloe Historic Site
Wormsloe Historic Site is a beautiful park located just outside of Savannah. The park is known for its beautiful live oak trees and historic ruins. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about its history and significance.
Wormsloe Historic Site is a must-visit for anyone interested in Savannah’s colonial history. The park is home to the ruins of a 17th-century fort, as well as a museum and a nature trail. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s beautiful live oak trees, which are draped in Spanish moss and create a picturesque setting for photography.
Take a Trolley Tour
A trolley tour is a fun and convenient way to explore Savannah’s historic district. Visitors can hop on and off the trolley at their leisure and learn about the city’s history and landmarks along the way.
A trolley tour is a great way to see all of Savannah’s most popular landmarks and attractions in a short amount of time. Visitors can sit back and relax as they ride through the historic district and learn about the city’s rich history and culture. Some trolley tours also offer hop-on, hop-off options, which allow visitors to explore the city’s landmarks at their own pace.
Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is a historic home located in Savannah. The home was once owned by Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of America. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and learn about Low’s life and legacy.
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is a must-visit for anyone interested in women’s history and the Girl Scouts of America. The home is filled with artifacts and memorabilia related to Low’s life and the history of the Girl Scouts. Visitors can also learn about Low’s role in promoting women’s rights and education in the early 20th century.
Explore the Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art
The Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum is home to a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. Visitors can also take part in workshops and lectures hosted by the museum.
Visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is a historic home located in Savannah’s historic district. The home was once owned by a wealthy Savannah family and is now a museum. Visitors can take a tour of the home and learn about its history and the lives of the slaves who lived there.
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Savannah’s history and the role of slavery in the city’s past. The museum offers a unique perspective on the lives of both the wealthy white family who owned the home and the enslaved people who lived and worked there. Visitors can also learn about the architecture and design of the home, which is considered one of the finest examples of English Regency architecture in the United States.
Take a Food Tour
Savannah is known for its delicious Southern cuisine. Taking a food tour is a fun way to sample some of the city’s best dishes and learn about its culinary history. Visitors can choose from a variety of food tours, including walking tours and bike tours.
A food tour is a great way to experience the unique flavors and history of Savannah’s culinary scene. Visitors can try dishes such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and peach cobbler, while also learning about the history of Southern cuisine and the influence of African American, Native American, and European cultures on the city’s food. Some food tours also include visits to local markets and artisanal food shops.
Visit the Telfair Academy
The Telfair Academy is a beautiful museum located in Savannah’s historic district. The museum is home to a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can also take part in workshops and events hosted by the museum.
The Telfair Academy is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in Savannah’s history and culture. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt Peale, George Bellows, and Childe Hassam, as well as decorative arts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s stunning architecture and take part in workshops and events related to the museum’s exhibitions.
Go Shopping on Broughton Street
Broughton Street is a popular shopping destination in Savannah. The street is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, including clothing stores, gift shops, and art galleries. Visitors can also enjoy the street’s charming architecture and historic landmarks.
Shopping on Broughton Street is a fun way to experience Savannah’s unique style and culture. Visitors can browse a variety of shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing to locally-made souvenirs. The street is also home to several historic landmarks, including the iconic Leopold’s Ice Cream parlor, which has been serving up delicious treats since 1919.
Take a Segway Tour
A Segway tour is a fun and unique way to explore Savannah’s historic district. Visitors can glide through the city’s streets and learn about its history and landmarks along the way.
A Segway tour is a great way to see all of Savannah’s most popular landmarks and attractions in a fun and unique way. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of riding a Segway while also learning about the city’s rich history and culture. Some Segway tours also include stops at local shops and restaurants, giving visitors a taste of Savannah’s unique style and cuisine.
Visit the Davenport House Museum
The Davenport House Museum is a historic home located in Savannah’s historic district. The home was once owned by a wealthy Savannah family and is now a museum. Visitors can take a tour of the home and learn about its history and the lives of the people who lived there.
The Davenport House Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Savannah’s history and architecture. The museum offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Savannah’s wealthy residents in the early 19th century. Visitors can learn about the home’s unique architecture and design, as well as the role of slavery in Savannah’s economy at the time.
Visit the Andrew Low House
The Andrew Low House is a historic home located in Savannah’s historic district. The home was once owned by a prominent Savannah family and is now a museum. Visitors can take a tour of the home and learn about its history and the lives of the people who lived there.
The Andrew Low House is a must-visit for anyone interested in Savannah’s history and architecture. The home is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and is filled with artwork, furniture, and other artifacts from the 19th century. Visitors can also learn about the Low family’s prominent role in Savannah’s social and political history.
Take a Bike Tour
A bike tour is a fun and active way to explore Savannah’s historic district. Visitors can ride through the city’s streets and learn about its history and landmarks along the way.
A bike tour is a great way to see all of Savannah’s most popular landmarks and attractions while getting some exercise. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the historic district while also learning about the city’s rich history and culture. Some bike tours also include stops at local parks and other outdoor attractions.
Visit the Savannah Bee Company
The Savannah Bee Company is a must-visit for honey lovers. The company offers a variety of honey-based products, including honeycomb, honey-based skincare products, and mead. Visitors can take a tour of the company’s facilities and learn about the process of making honey.
Visiting the Savannah Bee Company is a fun and educational experience for anyone interested in honey and its many uses. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of honey production, as well as sample the company’s delicious products. The company’s beautiful facilities are also a great place to take photos and enjoy the scenery of Savannah.
Conclusion
Savannah, Georgia, offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to beautiful parks to delicious cuisine, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Savannah is a perfect destination to explore.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Savannah?
The best time to visit Savannah is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.
What is the best way to get around Savannah?
Walking is the best way to explore Savannah’s historic district, but visitors can also take a trolley tour or rent a bike to get around the city.
What is the dress code in Savannah?
Savannah is a relatively casual city, but it’s best to dress up a bit if you’re going out to dinner or attending a formal event.
What are some popular food dishes in Savannah?
Some popular dishes in Savannah include fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and pecan pie.
What is the cost of living in Savannah?
The cost of living in Savannah is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States, making it an affordable destination for visitors.
