Savannah, Georgia, is a city where history whispers through moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, and grand antebellum mansions. Known for its Southern charm, vibrant culture, and well-preserved historic district, Savannah offers a blend of timeless beauty and modern allure. History buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, Savannah’s rich tapestry of experiences will captivate you. Explores the top things to do in historic Savannah, guiding you through its iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable activities.
1. Stroll Through Savannah’s Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District is the heart of the city, spanning 2.5 square miles and encompassing 22 picturesque squares. Each square is a mini-park, adorned with fountains, statues, and ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Walking through this district feels like stepping into a living museum, with 18th- and 19th-century architecture at every turn.
- What to Do: Take a leisurely self-guided walk or join a guided tour to learn about the district’s history. Start at Forsyth Park, a 30-acre green space with a stunning cast-iron fountain, perfect for photos. Visit Chippewa Square, famous for its role in Forrest Gump (though the bench is now in a museum). Explore Monterey Square, home to the Mercer-Williams House, featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
- Why It’s Special: The district is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the U.S., with over 1,000 historically significant buildings.
- Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the cobblestone streets, and download the Savannah Historic District map from VisitSavannah.com for a self-guided tour.
2. Tour Historic Homes and Museums
Savannah’s historic homes and museums offer a glimpse into its past, from the opulence of the antebellum era to the struggles of the Civil War and beyond.
- Mercer-Williams House: This Italianate mansion, built in 1860, is a must-visit for fans of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Guided tours showcase its antique furnishings and scandalous history.
- Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: National Historic Landmark, this 1819 Regency-style home provides insight into Savannah’s complex history, including the lives of enslaved people. The preserved slave quarters are a poignant highlight.
- Davenport House Museum: This 1820 Federal-style home offers tours focusing on early 19th-century life, with costumed guides sharing stories of the Davenport family.
- Telfair Museums: Comprising three sites—the Telfair Academy, Jepson Center, and Owens-Thomas House—these museums showcase art, architecture, and history. The Jepson Center’s modern art exhibits contrast beautifully with the historic Telfair Academy.
- Why It’s Special: These sites blend architectural beauty with narratives of Savannah’s triumphs and challenges, including its role in slavery and the Civil War.
- Pro Tip: Purchase a Telfair Museums combo ticket for access to all three sites, saving time and money.
3. Explore River Street
Savannah’s River Street, along the Savannah River, is a lively waterfront lined with cobblestone paths, historic warehouses, and vibrant shops, restaurants, and bars. Once a hub for cotton exports, it’s now a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.
- What to Do: Browse unique boutiques, sample pralines at River Street Sweets, or enjoy seafood at The Shrimp Factory. Take a sunset stroll along the riverfront, watch cargo ships pass, or hop on a Savannah Riverboat Cruise for a narrated tour with dinner and live music.
- Why It’s Special: The blend of historic charm and modern energy makes River Street a quintessential Savannah experience.
- Pro Tip: Visit during the monthly First Friday Fireworks (seasonal) for a festive atmosphere with live music and street vendors.
4. Visit Bonaventure Cemetery
Made famous by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful 100-acre site known for its Victorian-era sculptures, moss-covered oaks, and serene river views. It’s less a place of mourning and more a work of art.
- What to Do: Take a guided tour to learn about notable figures buried here, like poet Conrad Aiken and songwriter Johnny Mercer. Marvel at iconic statues, such as the “Bird Girl” (now relocated to the Telfair Museums). Photographers will find endless inspiration.
- Why It’s Special: The cemetery’s ethereal beauty and historical significance make it one of Savannah’s most iconic sites.
- Pro Tip: Respect the grounds by sticking to paths and avoiding flash photography. Free self-guided tours are available via the Bonaventure Historical Society’s app.
5. Indulge in Savannah’s Culinary Scene
Savannah’s food scene is a delicious mix of Southern comfort, Lowcountry cuisine, and innovative fine dining. From fried green tomatoes to shrimp and grits, the city’s flavors reflect its coastal roots and cultural diversity.
- Top Restaurants:
- The Olde Pink House: Historic mansion serving upscale Southern dishes like crispy flounder and pecan-crusted chicken. Reserve a table in the atmospheric basement tavern.
- Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: Family-style eatery offering soul food classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. Arrive early to avoid long lines.
- The Grey: Housed in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal, this James Beard Award-winning restaurant blends Southern and global flavors.
- Husk Savannah: Modern take on Southern cuisine, emphasizing local ingredients in a historic setting.
- Food Tours: Join a Savannah Taste Experience tour to sample dishes across multiple restaurants while learning about the city’s culinary history.
- Why It’s Special: Savannah’s food reflects its multicultural heritage, with influences from Gullah-Geechee, African, and European traditions.
- Pro Tip: Book reservations for popular spots like The Olde Pink House well in advance, especially for dinner.
6. Take a Ghost Tour
Savannah is often called one of America’s most haunted cities, thanks to its long history of wars, epidemics, and tragedies. Ghost tours are a fun and spooky way to explore its darker side.
- Types of Tours:
- Walking Tours: Companies like Ghosts & Gravestones or Blue Orb Tours lead nighttime strolls through haunted squares, cemeteries, and mansions.
- Trolley Tours: Hop on a Old Town Trolley Ghost Tour for a narrated ride past eerie sites like the Sorrel-Weed House.
- Pub Crawls: Combine spirits with spirits on a haunted pub crawl, visiting bars like Moon River Brewing Company, known for paranormal activity.
- Why It’s Special: Even skeptics will enjoy the storytelling and historical tidbits woven into these tours.
- Pro Tip: Book tours in advance, especially during October, when Halloween brings larger crowds.
7. Discover Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is Savannah’s crown jewel, a 30-acre oasis perfect for picnics, people-watching, and relaxation. Its iconic fountain, built in 1858, is a symbol of the city.
- What to Do: Snap photos by the fountain, play frisbee on the open lawns, or visit the Garden of Fragrance, designed for the visually impaired with scented plants. On Saturdays, check out the Forsyth Farmers’ Market for local produce, crafts, and live music.
- Why It’s Special: The park is a gathering place for locals and visitors, embodying Savannah’s community spirit.
- Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise for a peaceful experience and stunning light for photography.
8. Experience Savannah’s Art and Culture
Savannah’s creative scene thrives, thanks to institutions like the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and a vibrant community of artists.
- SCAD Museum of Art: This contemporary museum features rotating exhibits, from fashion to photography, in a restored 1850s railroad depot.
- City Market: Four-block open-air market with art galleries, live music, and eateries. Visit The Art Center for local works or catch a performance at The Savannah Theatre.
- First Friday Art March: Held monthly in the Starland District, this event showcases galleries, studios, and food trucks in a hip, bohemian neighborhood.
- Why It’s Special: Savannah’s art scene blends traditional Southern aesthetics with cutting-edge creativity.
- Pro Tip: Check SCAD’s event calendar for free lectures, film screenings, or exhibitions open to the public.
9. Relax on Tybee Island
Just 18 miles from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island offers a laid-back beach escape with sandy shores, historic sites, and fresh seafood.
- What to Do: Swim or sunbathe at Tybee Beach, climb the 178 steps of the Tybee Island Lighthouse for panoramic views, or explore Fort Pulaski National Monument, a Civil War-era fort. Kayak through salt marshes or join a dolphin-watching tour.
- Why It’s Special: Tybee’s small-town vibe and natural beauty make it a perfect day trip from Savannah.
- Pro Tip: Rent bikes to explore the island’s flat terrain, and dine at The Crab Shack for a casual seafood feast.
10. Attend a Festival or Event
Savannah’s calendar is packed with festivals celebrating its music, food, and heritage, adding vibrancy to any visit.
- Savannah Music Festival (March-April): World-class event featuring jazz, classical, and folk performances across historic venues.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March): One of the largest in the U.S., with green-clad crowds, floats, and river dyeing.
- Savannah Food & Wine Festival (November): Week of tastings, chef demos, and wine dinners showcasing Lowcountry cuisine.
- Savannah Book Festival (February): Literary haven with author talks and book signings in the squares.
- Why It’s Special: These events highlight Savannah’s cultural diversity and festive spirit.
- Pro Tip: Book accommodations early for major events like St. Patrick’s Day, as hotels fill up quickly.
11. Wander Through Wormsloe Historic Site
Wormsloe, just outside downtown, is famous for its breathtaking avenue of live oaks, one of Savannah’s most photographed spots. This 1730s plantation site offers history and natural beauty.
- What to Do: Walk or drive the oak-lined avenue, visit the museum to learn about colonial Georgia, and explore tabby ruins and nature trails. Costumed interpreters demonstrate 18th-century life during special events.
- Why It’s Special: The iconic oak tunnel is a bucket-list experience, evoking Savannah’s timeless allure.
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
12. Shop Local Boutiques and Markets
Savannah’s shopping scene ranges from quirky boutiques to bustling markets, offering everything from handmade crafts to high-end fashion.
- Broughton Street: The city’s main shopping artery, lined with stores like The Paris Market (eclectic home goods) and Savannah Bee Company (honey-based products).
- City Market: Pedestrian-friendly area with shops selling local art, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Starland District: Trendy neighborhood with vintage shops, thrift stores, and indie boutiques like Graveface Records & Curiosities.
- Why It’s Special: Savannah’s shops reflect its creative and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Pro Tip: Look for locally made items, like pralines or Gullah-Geechee crafts, for authentic souvenirs.
Practical Tips for Visiting Savannah
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and vibrant festivals. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is quieter with fewer crowds.
- Getting Around: The Historic District is walkable, but the DOT Trolley (free) and Old Town Trolley Tours (paid) are convenient. Rideshare apps like Uber are widely available.
- Where to Stay: Choose a historic inn like The Marshall House or a boutique hotel like The Cotton Sail for charm. Book early for peak seasons.
- Parking: Street parking is metered; use the ParkSavannah app for convenience. Public garages are available near City Market and River Street.
- Safety: Savannah is generally safe, but stick to well-lit areas at night, especially on ghost tours or pub crawls.
Why Savannah Steals Your Heart
Savannah, Georgia, is more than a destination – it’s an experience that lingers long after you leave. Its historic charm, from the oak-lined squares to the tales of ghosts and glory, invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Sipping sweet tea in Forsyth Park, exploring haunted mansions, or dancing to jazz on River Street, Savannah weaves a spell of beauty, history that’s uniquely its own.
Plan your trip to this Southern gem and discover why Savannah is a timeless treasure, where every corner holds a story and every visit feels like coming home.
FAQs
What are the top attractions in historic Savannah, Georgia?
Top attractions include Forsyth Park, River Street, Bonaventure Cemetery, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the historic Savannah squares.
Are there guided tours available in historic Savannah?
Yes, Savannah offers a variety of guided tours including walking tours, trolley tours, ghost tours, and historic home tours, all showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
What is the best time to visit historic Savannah, Georgia?
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are the best times to visit, offering pleasant weather and colorful scenery, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Can I explore historic Savannah on foot?
Absolutely! Historic Savannah is known for its walkability. The grid layout, shady squares, and scenic streets make it ideal for walking tours.
Are there any free things to do in historic Savannah?
Yes, you can enjoy free activities like strolling through Forsyth Park, visiting historic squares, exploring River Street, and admiring the city’s beautiful architecture.
What are some romantic things to do in historic Savannah?
Couples can enjoy a carriage ride, a riverboat cruise, sunset walks in the squares, or a cozy dinner at a historic restaurant in the downtown area.
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