30 Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah casts a unique spell with its moss-draped oak trees, historic squares, and palpable Southern charm. Wandering through its beautifully preserved historic district feels like stepping back in time, and visitors will find a wealth of experiences, including many delightful free things to do in Savannah, like exploring Forsyth Park or admiring the architecture along Jones Street. The city blends history, art, and a touch of mystery effortlessly.
This guide highlights 30 distinct ways to soak up the enchanting atmosphere of Georgia’s oldest city. From historic homes and haunting cemeteries to lively riverfronts and delicious Lowcountry cuisine, prepare to discover the captivating spirit that makes Savannah a beloved destination. Get ready to explore its squares, streets, and stories.
Historic Squares & Parks
Forsyth Park: Relax or stroll through Savannah’s largest and most famous park, known for its iconic fountain, walking paths, and beautiful live oaks. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching or enjoying a leisurely afternoon picnic.
Chippewa Square: Visit the square famous for the park bench scenes in the movie Forrest Gump (the bench itself is now in a museum). Admire the statue of General Oglethorpe and enjoy the central location in the historic district.
Explore the Squares: Wander through several of Savannah’s 22 unique historic squares, each with its own monuments, landscaping, and character. Discovering these green oases is a quintessential Savannah pastime.
Ellis Square: Enjoy this modern square adjacent to City Market, often featuring splash pads for kids and serving as a lively gathering space. It provides a contemporary contrast to the historic squares nearby.
Colonial Park Cemetery: Walk through one of Savannah’s oldest cemeteries, dating back to the mid-18th century. Read the historic headstones and reflect on the city’s past in this atmospheric burial ground.
Riverfront & City Market Buzz
River Street: Stroll along the cobblestone street lining the Savannah River, browsing unique shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in historic cotton warehouses. Watch massive container ships glide by for a sense of the working port.
Savannah Riverboat Cruise: Take a sightseeing or dinner cruise aboard a traditional riverboat for scenic views of the waterfront and the Talmadge Memorial Bridge. It offers a different perspective of the city from the water.
Factors Walk: Explore the unique multi-level walkways and iron bridges connecting River Street to the bluff above. Discover hidden shops and restaurants tucked into this historic architectural feature.
Plant Riverside District: Experience the vibrant entertainment complex housed in a former power plant along the riverfront. Enjoy diverse dining options, rooftop bars, live music, and unique shops in this modern destination.
City Market: Wander through this four-block open-air marketplace featuring shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. It’s a lively hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, day or night.
Historic Homes & Museums
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: Tour this stunning English Regency mansion, exploring its architectural innovations and learning about the lives of both the wealthy owners and the enslaved people who lived and worked there. It offers important insights into antebellum urban life.
Telfair Academy: Visit the oldest public art museum in the South, housed in a beautiful neoclassical mansion. Admire 19th- and 20th-century American and European art in its elegant period rooms.
Jepson Center for the Arts: Explore contemporary art exhibitions and the Telfair’s permanent collection in this modern architectural counterpart to the Telfair Academy. It features dynamic traveling shows and a hands-on gallery for kids.
Mercer Williams House Museum: Tour the famed house featured in the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Admire the private collection of furnishings and art while hearing stories about its intriguing history.
Davenport House Museum: Visit one of the earliest restored homes in the Historic District, showcasing Federal-style architecture. Learn about the efforts of the Historic Savannah Foundation to preserve the city’s architectural heritage.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace: Explore the childhood home of the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Take a guided tour to learn about her life and the history of the Girl Scouts.
American Prohibition Museum: Step back into the era of speakeasies and bootleggers at this unique museum in City Market. Explore interactive exhibits and even enjoy a cocktail in the authentic speakeasy.
First African Baptist Church: Visit one of the oldest continuously active African American congregations in North America, organized in 1773. Take a tour to learn about its rich history, including its role in the Underground Railroad.
SCAD Museum of Art: Discover contemporary art from internationally acclaimed and emerging artists affiliated with the Savannah College of Art and Design. The museum features dynamic exhibitions in a modern, renovated railway depot.
Spooky Savannah & Cemeteries
Bonaventure Cemetery: Wander through this hauntingly beautiful Victorian cemetery famed for its Spanish moss-draped oaks, elaborate monuments, and role in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Guided tours offer insights into its history and notable residents.
Ghost Tour: Embark on one of Savannah’s many walking ghost tours or haunted pub crawls after dark. Hear chilling tales of paranormal activity and local legends that contribute to the city’s reputation as America’s most haunted city.
Beyond the Historic Core
Wormsloe State Historic Site: Drive down the breathtaking avenue sheltered by massive live oaks draped in Spanish moss leading to the tabby ruins of a colonial estate. It’s arguably one of the most photographed spots in Savannah.
Starland District: Explore this vibrant, revitalized neighborhood known for its colorful murals, quirky vintage shops, unique boutiques, and independent restaurants. Discover emerging artists and enjoy the creative, off-beat vibe.
Skidaway Island State Park: Hike trails through maritime forest and salt marsh overlooking the Skidaway Narrows Intracoastal Waterway. Look for wildlife like deer and fiddler crabs in this beautiful natural setting just outside the city.
Fort Pulaski National Monument: Visit the well-preserved 19th-century masonry fort located between Savannah and Tybee Island. Learn about its Civil War history and explore the ramparts offering views of the Savannah River.
Food & Drink Delights
Leopold’s Ice Cream: Wait in line (it’s worth it!) for a scoop of delicious, old-fashioned ice cream at this iconic Broughton Street parlor, unchanged since 1919. Enjoy classic flavors and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: Experience traditional Southern family-style dining by sharing large platters of fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and numerous other comfort foods at communal tables. Arrive early as lines form quickly for this legendary lunch spot.
Try Lowcountry Cuisine: Sample dishes characteristic of the coastal region, often featuring fresh seafood like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, or oysters. Many restaurants offer delicious interpretations of these regional specialties.
Perry Lane Rooftop Bar (Peregrin): Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and stunning panoramic views of the city skyline from this stylish rooftop bar. It’s a perfect spot for sunset drinks or an evening gathering.
Take a Food Tour: Explore Savannah’s culinary scene with a guided walking food tour, sampling local specialties and learning about food history from various restaurants and shops. It’s a fun way to discover hidden culinary gems.
