Welcome to Savannah
Savannah is a historic coastal city in Georgia, renowned for its tree-lined squares, antebellum architecture, and warm Southern hospitality. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this charming destination offers rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.
From the cobblestone streets of the Historic District to the scenic Savannah River waterfront, every corner tells a story. This guide provides practical information to help you plan your visit, discover top attractions, and make the most of your time in one of America's most beautiful cities.
Savannah was founded in 1733 and holds the distinction of being Georgia's first city. Its well-preserved Historic District spans approximately two and a half square miles and features twenty-two park-like squares surrounded by historic homes, churches, and public buildings. The city's unique urban plan, designed by James Oglethorpe, has earned recognition as a National Historic Landmark District.
Visitors are drawn to Savannah for its walkable streets, horse-drawn carriage tours, and the famous Spanish moss-draped live oaks that create a picturesque canopy throughout the city. The mild coastal climate makes it an appealing destination year-round, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather for exploring on foot.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Savannah boasts a thriving culinary scene featuring Lowcountry cuisine, fresh seafood, and renowned Southern comfort food. The city's riverfront area provides scenic views, shopping opportunities, and numerous dining options along the Savannah River.
Top Attractions and Historic Sites
Forsyth Park
This thirty-acre urban park serves as the crown jewel of Savannah's park system. The iconic Forsyth Fountain, built in 1858, stands as a centerpiece surrounded by walking paths, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for picnics and relaxation.
City Market
Four blocks of restored warehouses now house boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife venues. This pedestrian-friendly area buzzes with energy day and night, offering live music, street performers, and unique shopping experiences.
River Street
The cobblestone waterfront promenade features converted cotton warehouses transformed into shops, restaurants, and galleries. Watch cargo ships pass along the Savannah River while enjoying fresh pralines, local crafts, and riverside dining.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
This stunning French Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline with its twin spires visible from blocks away. The interior features magnificent stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a richly decorated sanctuary that welcomes visitors during non-service hours.
Bonaventure Cemetery
Located just outside the city, this historic cemetery gained fame through literature and film. Its hauntingly beautiful landscape features elaborate Victorian monuments, moss-draped oaks, and serene pathways along the Wilmington River.
Telfair Museums
This trio of museums includes the Telfair Academy, Jepson Center, and Owens-Thomas House. Together they present fine art, decorative arts, and historic interiors spanning centuries of American and European artistic achievement.
Planning Your Visit: Essential Information
Getting Around
Savannah's Historic District is highly walkable, with most major attractions within comfortable walking distance. The city offers free DOT shuttle service throughout the downtown area, making it easy to reach different squares and attractions without a car.
Bicycle rentals and guided bike tours provide another popular way to explore. For those preferring motorized transport, rideshare services operate throughout the city, and several parking garages serve the Historic District.
Best Time to Visit
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming azaleas, making March through May particularly attractive. Fall offers similar pleasant weather with fewer crowds than spring. Summer can be hot and humid, though early morning and evening hours remain comfortable for sightseeing.
Winter sees the fewest visitors and lowest accommodation rates, though some outdoor activities may be limited. The holiday season features special decorations and events throughout the Historic District.
Accommodations and Where to Stay
Historic District Hotels
Staying within the Historic District puts you steps away from major attractions, restaurants, and squares. Numerous boutique hotels occupy restored historic buildings, offering period charm combined with modern amenities. Many feature courtyards, rooftop terraces, and complimentary breakfast service.
Expect premium pricing for this central location, especially during peak seasons and special events. Booking several months in advance is recommended for the best selection and rates.
Bed and Breakfasts
Savannah's reputation for Southern hospitality shines through its many bed and breakfast establishments. These intimate properties often occupy historic homes with period furnishings, personalized service, and homemade breakfast included in your stay.
B and Bs provide a more residential experience than traditional hotels, with hosts offering local recommendations and insider tips. Properties range from grand Victorian mansions to cozy cottages throughout the Historic District.
Midtown and Victorian District
Areas just north of the core Historic District offer more affordable lodging while remaining within walking distance of major attractions. The Victorian District features colorful restored homes and a quieter residential atmosphere.
This location provides good value for budget-conscious travelers who still want easy access to downtown. Several chain hotels and independent properties serve this area with competitive rates and free parking.
Riverfront Properties
Hotels along the Savannah River offer scenic water views and immediate access to River Street attractions. These properties combine convenience with distinctive waterfront ambiance and often feature rooftop bars or restaurants.
Riverfront locations place you in the heart of the action, though this comes with higher noise levels and premium pricing. Consider upper-floor rooms for the best views and reduced street noise.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Savannah's food scene celebrates Lowcountry cuisine, fresh coastal seafood, and time-honored Southern cooking traditions. From casual cafes to fine dining establishments, the city offers diverse culinary experiences at various price points.
Local Specialties
Shrimp and grits stands as Savannah's signature dish, featuring fresh local shrimp served over creamy stone-ground grits. Other regional favorites include she-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, and okra soup.
Don't miss the chance to try fresh Atlantic seafood, particularly blue crab, oysters, and locally caught fish prepared with Southern seasonings and cooking methods.
Dining Districts
City Market and River Street concentrate numerous restaurants in walkable areas perfect for exploring multiple options. The Historic District features scattered gems on nearly every block, from upscale establishments to casual cafes.
Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. Many establishments offer early bird specials or prix-fixe menus providing good value.
Tours and Activities
| Tour Type | Duration | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking Tours | 1 to 2 hours | History enthusiasts, photographers | Comfortable shoes required, weather dependent |
| Trolley Tours | 1 to 1.5 hours | First-time visitors, families | Covered seating, hop-on hop-off options available |
| Horse-Drawn Carriage | 30 to 60 minutes | Romantic outings, special occasions | Slower pace, limited seating, weather sensitive |
| River Boat Cruises | 1 to 2 hours | Scenic views, relaxation | Depart from River Street, dining options available |
| Ghost Tours | 1 to 1.5 hours | Evening entertainment, thrill seekers | Evening departures, some walking required |
Shopping and Souvenirs
Local Art and Crafts
Savannah supports a vibrant community of local artists working in various mediums. Galleries throughout the Historic District display paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media works by regional creators.
City Market houses numerous artist studios where you can watch creators at work and purchase original pieces directly. Many galleries offer shipping services for larger purchases.
Specialty Shops
Boutique shops offer unique finds including Southern-made goods, artisanal foods, and locally designed clothing and accessories. River Street features numerous specialty stores selling pralines, spices, and Savannah-themed souvenirs.
Several shops focus exclusively on Southern cookbooks, local history books, and regional art prints that make meaningful mementos of your visit.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Accessibility
Most major attractions in the Historic District are wheelchair accessible, though some historic buildings have limitations due to their age and preservation status. The free DOT shuttle buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts.
Sidewalks throughout the Historic District are generally well-maintained, though some cobblestone areas on River Street may present challenges for mobility devices.
Safety Considerations
Savannah's Historic District is generally safe for visitors, with regular police patrols and good lighting in main tourist areas. As with any destination, maintain awareness of your surroundings and secure valuables.
Stick to well-traveled streets after dark and use designated crosswalks. The city's grid pattern and numbered streets make navigation straightforward.
Special Events and Seasonal Highlights
Spring Events
The St. Patrick's Day celebration ranks among the largest in the United States, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors. The Savannah Music Festival brings acclaimed performers to venues throughout the city each March. Azaleas bloom spectacularly in March and April.
Fall and Winter
The Savannah Jazz Festival occurs each September, featuring free outdoor concerts and ticketed evening performances. Holiday celebrations include the Tour of Homes, festive decorations throughout the squares, and special seasonal events at historic properties.
Day Trips and Nearby Excursions
Coastal Destinations
Tybee Island lies just eighteen miles east of Savannah, offering beaches, a historic lighthouse, and casual beach town atmosphere. The island provides a pleasant contrast to Savannah's urban historic character.
Fort Pulaski National Monument protects a massive brick fortification on Cockspur Island, accessible via a short drive from downtown Savannah.
Historic Plantations
Several historic plantations in the surrounding area offer guided tours providing context about antebellum life and the complex history of the region. These properties feature preserved architecture, gardens, and educational programming.
Plan for half-day excursions when visiting these sites, as they require driving time and deserve adequate time for touring and reflection.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Savannah rewards visitors who take time to slow down and savor the atmosphere. Allow yourself to wander without a strict itinerary, discovering hidden squares, architectural details, and local cafes that make each visit unique.
Recommended Itinerary Length
A minimum of two full days allows you to experience the Historic District's highlights at a comfortable pace. Three to four days provides time for deeper exploration, museum visits, and perhaps a day trip to nearby attractions.
Many visitors find themselves returning to Savannah, as the city's charm reveals new discoveries with each visit.
Budget Considerations
Accommodations represent the largest expense, with Historic District properties commanding premium rates especially during peak seasons. Dining costs vary widely, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Many attractions, including the squares themselves, Forsyth Park, and window-shopping along River Street, cost nothing to enjoy. Several museums offer free admission days or discounted evening hours.
Final Thoughts
Savannah stands as one of America's most distinctive and rewarding travel destinations. Its combination of preserved historic architecture, walkable urban design, Southern hospitality, and coastal location creates an experience found nowhere else.
Whether you come for the history, the food, the architecture, or simply the pleasure of strolling beneath moss-draped oaks in park-like squares, Savannah delivers memorable experiences. The city's manageable size means you can see a great deal in a short visit, yet its depth ensures there is always more to discover.
Plan your visit with attention to seasonal events and weather patterns. Book accommodations well in advance for peak periods. Allow time for unhurried exploration, lingering over meals, and simply absorbing the atmosphere that has captivated visitors for generations.
From your first walk through a sun-dappled square to your final farewell along the riverfront, Savannah offers a genuine connection to history, culture, and the enduring appeal of the American South. Your visit will create memories worth treasuring and likely inspire your return.
Explore a selection of useful resources and local information across education, nightlife, and community news.
Alex Costin – Websites
A portfolio and information hub for web projects, showcasing examples and services related to website design and development.
New English Center – Russia
Resources and information for English learning in Russia, including courses, materials, and support for students and teachers.
Worcester Nightlife – England
A guide to nightlife in Worcester, England, featuring bars, clubs, events, and local entertainment recommendations.
2Let2Cardiff – Cardiff News
Local news and updates for Cardiff, covering community stories, events, and developments relevant to residents and visitors.