Savannah, Georgia, one of the most popular destinations in the south, and for good reason! A city covered in Spanish moss, boasting with history, culture, and scary ghost stories, Savannah is a must-visit city. There is something to do for every type of person. Romantic getaways, bachelor/bachelorette parties, family/child friendly, history buffs, foodies, ghost-hunters... you name it, Savannah has it. Additionally, Forrest Gump movie lovers rejoice because you can visit the park where Forrest Gump says his iconic line "life is like a box of chocolates...," you know the rest. On top of that, the city lies on the Savannah River with a beautiful walking trail filled with shops, eateries, and cocktail bars galore!
Although you can wander just about anywhere and find something fun, here are the top 10 things to do in Savannah that you won't want to miss.
Top 10 Things to do in Savannah, Georgia:
1. Visit Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is the largest park in the historic Savannah district. Lined with Spanish moss trees, Forsyth park is a must-see point of interest. The park is huge! Concerts, sports, sunbathing, picnics, playgrounds, restaurant on site, and more can be enjoyed here. Additionally, the Saturday morning Farmer's Market is boasting with delicious food, unique shops, homemade breads, and fresh fruits/vegetables. Did I mention Forsyth Park is also super great for people watching?!
2. Dive into the History and Culture
Savannah is unique in that the history and culture is painting the entire city red! Almost anywhere you walk, you will see a monument, statue, or detailed poster about the history of Savannah. Beautiful churches are abundant throughout the city, as well as statues dating back to centuries ago. Savannah is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States.
3. Shop at the Savannah City Market
Shop, dine, play, and see at the Savannah City Market. Located in the North Historic District of Savannah near the river, The Savannah City Market has a lot to offer. There is also an art center upstairs where up and coming artists are showcasing their best pieces. You may even catch them working on their next masterpiece live!
4. Explore Bonaventure Cemetery
Explore one of the world's most beautiful cemeteries, Bonaventure Cemetery. Did you know that Savannah is ranked as one of the most haunted cities in the United States? There any many cemeteries throughout the city of Savannah, so if you don't have a chance to check out Bonaventure, definitely stop to walk through any others you may pass. You can even opt for a ghost tour if you want a bone-chilling experience!
5. Immerse yourself in the arts
Savannah embraces diversity through arts and culture. From pottery-making classes to poetry performances, explore the many offerings of Savannah. SCAD, The Savannah College of Art and Design, is scattered throughout the city, so you are bound to find something new and exciting on nearly every street corner. Fun Fact - SCAD Savannah is the largest of the University's locations, with nearly 70 historic and beautifully renovated facilities interwoven throughout the city!
6. Visit Tybee Island Beach
Tybee Island is Savannah's beach town, located just 18 miles from the city center of Savannah. Consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States, Tybee is a great beach to visit if you have time while in Savannah. Tons of coastline, a huge pier to walk out on, and delicious seafood offerings! My personal favorite - Salt Island Fish & Beer. It's a small little restaurant on the north end of the beach, the food is super fresh and unique, and the beer selection is great!
7. Visit Fort Pulaski
On your drive to/from Tybee Beach, make a pit stop at For Pulaski National Monument. During the American Civil War, the Union Army successfully tested rifled cannon in combat in 1862 here! The Fort was also used as a Prisoner-of-War (POW) camp. Explore Fort Pulaski's spectacular m6oat surrounding its structure, as well as restored rooms containing the confinement space for military personnel, multiple cannons, and a museum full of history. Additionally, you can also walk half a mile to the Cockspur Island Lighthouse. Cost to enter is $10 per person 16+ (free for kids younger than 16).
8. Take a stroll along the Savannah River
River street runs alongside the walking path on the Savannah River. You can walk from one end to the other, from the Marriott Riverfront to the JW Marriott & Conference Center. This is a must-do in Savannah. The river walk is rich in history, shops, dining, and more. You'll see street vendors, performers, the river cruise ship, and more. Wander up and down the alleyways to find hidden gems. Don't forget to stop by Savannah Candy Kitchen to grab a famous homemade gopher and grab unlimited cookie samples from Byrd's Famous Cookies!
9. Visit the Wormsloe Plantation to see the Picturesque Moss Covered Oak Trees
You may have seen pictures of Savannah with a reoccurring backdrop of gorgeous moss covered oak trees lining a beautiful, long street. This iconic picture is taken at the Wormsloe Plantation, just 15 minutes south of Savannah. Although the moss draped oaks can be seen nearly everywhere throughout Savannah, only the Wormsloe Plantation offers the breathtaking avenue sheltered by live oak and Spanish moss. Additionally, the Wormsloe Plantation Historic Site is the famous location of the Tabby Ruins of Wormsloe, the colonial estate of Noble Jones (1702-1775). Tip - if you want to really explore this historic site, bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes and outdoor clothing, as there are many beautiful walking/light hiking trails here. Cost to enter - Adult ($10), Senior ($9), Youth ($4.50), Child under 6 ($2).
10. Eat, Drink, and stuff your face with ice cream!
Savannah has a thriving food scene and it continues to expand. You will find delicious, unique, fresh food options all over the city. Some of the top brunch spots include The Collins Quarter (2 locations) and The Ordinary Pub. Stop by Zunzi's for a delicious sandwich at lunchtime. Grab amazing seafood at Coco & Moss or Chive Sea Bar & Lounge. Last but certainly not least, The Olde Pink House is one of the most famously known restaurants in all of Savannah. Dine on classic southern cuisine in this elegant Mansion built back in 1771. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance (at least a few days beforehand!) as the restaurant fills up quickly and walk-in dining is extremely limited.
Be sure to check out this Savannah Eats Guide for the best food in all of Savannah!
I hope this Top 10 Ten Things to do in Savannah, Georgia guide helps you to fully immerse yourself in the history, culture, and cuisine of Savannah. A remarkable city with so much beauty! Savannah is one of the most walkable cities, so wherever you choose to stay, you are just a short walk from nearly every point of interest.
Looking for where to stay in Savannah? Click HERE.
CHEERS.
Jenna
