The Ultimate Travel Guide to Savannah, Georgia
Updated: May 6
Please note that if you make a purchase through the links I provide, I may earn a small commission. Rest assured, you will not be charged any extra fees, so it's a win-win situation for everyone!
If you're seeking a city brimming with a fascinating past and a thriving cultural ambiance, your search ends in Savannah, Georgia. This storied city stands among the most popular tourist destinations in the South, catering to visitors of all ages. Within this article, you'll discover an all-inclusive manual encompassing essential information for your visit to Savannah. It covers everything from lodging and dining recommendations to the most captivating sights to explore.
Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia
Explore the Historic District
Savannah's Historic District is a must-visit, known for its well-preserved architecture and picturesque squares. Take a leisurely stroll along cobblestone streets and marvel at the beautifully restored 18th and 19th-century buildings.
Forsyth Park
This expansive urban park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Enjoy a relaxing picnic, take a walk through the fragrant gardens, or simply sit and people-watch. The park is also home to the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain, a popular photo spot.
Bonaventure Cemetery
This hauntingly beautiful cemetery is a must-see for history and nature enthusiasts. Take a guided tour or explore on your own to admire the intricate tombstones, majestic oak trees, and serene atmosphere. It's also the final resting place of notable figures like Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken.
Mercer-Williams House
Fans of the novel and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" shouldn't miss a visit to the Mercer-Williams House. This stunning mansion offers guided tours that provide insight into the city's history and the real-life events that inspired the story.
Tybee Island
Just a short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Spend a day lounging on the sand, exploring the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, or indulging in fresh seafood at one of the island's many restaurants.
Savannah City Market
Visit this bustling marketplace in the heart of the Historic District. Browse through unique shops, art galleries, and boutiques. Enjoy live music, street performances, and savor a variety of dining options, including local seafood and international cuisine.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Admire the stunning architecture of this Roman Catholic cathedral, which is known for its intricate stained glass windows and ornate interior. Attend a service or simply take in the peaceful ambiance of this historic place of worship.
Owens-Thomas House
Step back in time with a visit to the Owens-Thomas House, a historic house museum that showcases exquisite Regency-style architecture and period furnishings. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the house and its former occupants.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Pay a visit to the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Take a guided tour of this National Historic Landmark and learn about Low's life and her impact on the organization.
Take a Ghost Tour
Known for its haunted history, Savannah is a popular destination for ghost enthusiasts. Join a guided ghost tour to hear chilling tales and visit spooky locations, including haunted mansions, cemeteries, and squares.
Wormsloe Historic Site
Venture just outside of Savannah to visit Wormsloe Historic Site, where you'll find a stunning oak-lined avenue leading to the ruins of the colonial estate. Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque surroundings and learn about Georgia's early settlers.
Coffee Shops in Savannah, Georgia
The Paris Market & Brocante
The Paris Market Savannah is a charming bi-level boutique that offers an eclectic range of antiques, housewares, gifts and jewelry. It has been named "The Most Beautiful Coffee Shop in Georgia" by Architectural Digest. The café serves coffee, espresso drinks and tea as well as fresh-baked pastries and sandwiches. With plush velvet banquettes in the inside to marble bistro tables outside you can spend your afternoon here people watching on Broughton Street while enjoying Southern sunshine!
Address: 36 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
Café M
If you know me well, then you would probably already know that I love exploring new cafes! Recently, in my travels to Savannah, I came across a cute Parisian café called Café M. They have some delicious savory and sweet treats along with fresh brewed coffee.The staff is always friendly and they serve pastries alongside their espresso drinks as well as different types of teas. It has a quaint French feel with lots of artworks throughout the cafe's interior. space which makes it really beautiful - just steps away from River Street on Bay Street! With its perfect location near Savannah's Historic Downtown District this popular spot is sure to be your next favorite café-right downtown as soon as you walkout the door or sonearby for all those willing and able to travel by car or bike(also there are many alcoholic drinks available too!).
Address: 128 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
Mirabelle Cafe (Savannah)
Mirabelle Cafe is a casual and chic daytime destination known for its gourmet waffles, pastries ,and specialty coffee drinks.
Address: 313 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
Foxy Loxy Cafe + The Coffee Fox
The Foxy Loxy Cafe + The Coffee Fox is a cute retro-chic cafe offering espresso drinks, pour-overs, and pastries. They also serve cheese plates, wine and beer.
Addresses:
1919 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401
102 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
Franklin’s Cafe
If you’re looking for a coffee shop with character, you can’t go wrong with Franklin’s. It is a charming and cozy coffee shop that has been a local favorite for decades. It serves delicious coffee drinks, sandwiches, and other snacks. The atmosphere is ideal for reading and relaxing. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Address: 5 W Liberty St, Savannah, GA 31401
Origin Coffee Bar
Origin Coffee Bar is a place for everyone: a comfortable space where you can meet up with friends, work on a project, or relax with a cup of coffee. No matter the reason you stop in, we aim to make sure you leave feeling better than when you came in.
Address: 356 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
Gryphon Tea Room
When I was in Savannah, one of my favorite places to visit is the Gryphon Tea Room. The tea room provides a traditional Southern-style serving of desserts and teas with plenty of charm! It’s a gorgeous spot for tea and dessert. This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a quaint, romantic setting for your sweetheart, family, or friends to enjoy a nice meal and dessert. The setting of the tea room is very charming and warm. The traditional Southern style of the building adds to the ambiance of the setting with the mahogany bookcases & stained glass. Don't forget to experience the afternoon tea ($20 per person)
It includes a selection of tea sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and jam, assorted pastries, and petit fours.
Address: 337 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401
Where to Eat in Savannah, Georgia
The Olde Pink House
Southern cuisine served in an elegant Colonial mansion and live music in the cellar tavern.
Address: 23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Leopold's is a popular ice cream parlor with always-changing flavors, including regular and seasonal varieties. They also serve soup & sandwiches. Part of Leopold's appeal is their marble soda fountain.
Address: 212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
The Collins Quarter
The Collins Quarter is a fresh new café, with quick-service options and seating. It's also perfect for groups or individuals looking to experience something new. The café was designed to be comfortable and down-to-earth with convenient locations on Bull St. and Drayton St., as well as offering specialty coffee paired with innovative cuisine in an environment that's unique from the norm - giving visitors an opportunity to explore Savannah all over again!
Addresses:
151 Bull St. Savannah, GA 31401
621 Drayton St. Savannah, GA 31401
Maple Street Biscuit Company
Maple Street Biscuit Company is a cafe serving delicious comfort food for breakfast and lunch that has the perfect mix of Southern flavors with a modern twist.You can find breakfast sandwiches, sides, and more from this casual eatery!
Address: 220 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
The Pirate’s House
The Pirates House is located on one of the most historic spots in Georgia and became famous for hosting pirates and sailors from all around the world. It has been entertaining guests since 1753 with a bount of delicious food, drink, and rousing good times!
Address: 20 E Broad St, Savannah, GA 31401
Ghost Coast Distillery
If you're ever in Savannah, Ghost Coast Distillery is a must! They embrace the spirit of this southern city and its rich history. It's been around since just before prohibition, so it knows all about what was going on back then. Most importantly for us though? Getting to talk about these amazing facts with our friends over some cocktails at their tasting room!
Address: 641 Indian St, Savannah, GA 31401
Vic’s On The River
One of my favorite places in Savannah was Vic's On The River. It is a beautiful old cotton warehouse overlooking the Savannah River and Historic River Street with a large outdoor patio and an indoor dining room perfect for enjoying some appetizers. My dish of choice was pecan-fried flounder, fried calamari, and crawfish beignets with a classic pecan pie to finish it all off! I recommend trying the "Savannah Peach" cocktail while you are there too! While you are in town make sure to walk over to historic river street which has tons of shopping centers (shops), restaurants, and more!
Address: 26 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
Treylor Park
On my first night in Savannah, I came across a restaurant called Treylor Park. It was such a cute place with delicious food and service. The fish and chips entree I ordered for dinner was really good-flavourful yet filling at the same time!
Address: 115 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
Kitchen & The Emporium Wine Market
Savannah is a city rich in history and culture - surrounded by lush greenery, amazing sites, and eclectic food. One of the most popular spots to visit is Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market, where there's always something happening. During my travels I found this local hotspot bursting with a vibrant energy that offers cuisine for all tastes at an approachable price point. There are drinks for every palette and meals from small bites to large plates perfect for sharing or solo, dining-whatever your preference may be! The best part about this community hub? You get what you pay for: fresh pastries, wine market offerings, coffee blends like Bowerbird's unique blend only available on-site and so much more! It doesn't cost much but offers quality fare that both surprises and amazes visitors who come back time after time, looking forward to experiencing new flavors each visit.
Address: 254 E Perry St, Savannah, GA 31401
These are only a few of the many incredible restaurants in this Southern city, but they are all worth a visit. Savannah is a hub of culture, history, and some of the most delicious food in the country.
Where to Stay in Savannah, Georgia
The Brice Hotel
This chic hotel is known for its stylish design and contemporary atmosphere. With a prime location in the historic district, it offers amenities like a rooftop pool, fitness center, and a restaurant serving Southern-inspired cuisine.
The Drayton Hotel
Situated in a historic building, The Drayton Hotel offers luxury accommodation in the heart of Savannah. Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of the hotel, which boasts sophisticated rooms, a rooftop lounge, and a fine dining restaurant.
River Street Inn
Located on Savannah's historic River Street, this charming hotel offers a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history. Stay in well-appointed rooms, enjoy river views, and explore the vibrant riverfront area with its shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Andaz Savannah
This contemporary boutique hotel combines modern design with Southern hospitality. Located in the historic district, it offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, a restaurant featuring local flavors, and a 24-hour fitness center.
The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront
Situated on the picturesque River Street, this boutique hotel showcases a blend of elegance and Southern charm. Experience luxurious rooms, river views, a rooftop lounge, and a renowned restaurant serving regional cuisine.
The Marshall House
As Savannah's oldest hotel, The Marshall House is steeped in history and charm. Located in the historic district, it offers comfortable rooms, a cozy courtyard, and a complimentary wine and cheese reception.Additionally, The Marshall House has gained a reputation for its paranormal activity, making it an intriguing destination for those fascinated by the supernatural. Embrace the ambiance of this haunted hotel as you immerse yourself in its captivating past and embrace the modern comforts it offers.
The Alida
This contemporary hotel combines modern design with Southern hospitality. Located near the Savannah River, it offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, a restaurant with local cuisine, and a fitness center.
Mansion on Forsyth Park
Nestled near Forsyth Park, this opulent hotel offers a luxurious experience with its grand architecture and lavish décor. Enjoy upscale rooms, a spa, an art gallery, and exquisite dining options.
Best Time to Visit Savannah, Georgia
I can attest that the best time to visit this enchanting city is during the spring and fall seasons. From my personal experience, these seasons offer pleasant weather, vibrant colors, and a variety of exciting events.In the spring, Savannah comes alive with blooming azaleas, dogwoods, and other beautiful flowers. The temperatures are mild, ranging from the 60s to the 70s making it perfect for exploring the city's historic districts, strolling along the riverfront, and enjoying outdoor activities. In the fall, Savannah showcases its stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for your visit. The weather remains comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to the 80s. During these seasons, you can also avoid the peak tourist crowds that flock to Savannah during the summer and winter holidays. With fewer visitors, you can fully immerse yourself in the city's rich history, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the renowned Southern hospitality that Savannah is known for. However, it's worth noting that Savannah's weather can be unpredictable at times. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and come prepared with layers and rain gear, as showers can occur throughout the year.
Savannah, Georgia, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and Southern charm. From exploring the meticulously preserved historic districts to indulging in delicious cuisine and immersing yourself in the local arts scene, Savannah offers a multitude of experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're wandering the cobblestone streets, admiring the iconic architecture, or strolling along the riverfront, you'll be captivated by the city's unique atmosphere. With a plethora of attractions, including world-class museums, picturesque parks, and a thriving culinary scene, Savannah has something to offer every traveler. By following this Ultimate Travel Guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the city, discover its hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories in the charming city of Savannah, Georgia.
Comments