Savannah Travel Guide

Savannah, Georgia, is a city that combines historic charm, Spanish moss-draped oaks, and a lively arts and food scene. Its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and vibrant waterfront make it a destination that feels both timeless and inviting. From guided ghost tours and riverfront strolls to locally sourced cuisine and boutique shopping, Savannah offers an unforgettable Southern experience for every traveler. A trip here can be a journey through history, culture, and relaxation all at once.

With a population of around 150,000, Savannah is compact and walkable, yet full of character. Its location near Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport makes it easy to reach, while the city’s streets, trolleys, and bike paths provide charming and convenient ways to explore. Savannah’s warm climate and rich Southern culture give visitors a distinct sense of place, unlike anywhere else in the United States.

Exploring Historic Downtown: Squares, Architecture, and Culture

Squares and Parks

Savannah is famous for its historic squares, 22 in total, each offering a unique blend of green space, monuments, and local history. Chippewa Square, immortalized in the movie Forrest Gump, offers a peaceful setting for people-watching. Monterey Square is surrounded by stunning historic homes, including the Mercer Williams House Museum, which draws architecture enthusiasts and fans of Savannah history alike. Forsyth Park is the city’s crown jewel, spanning 30 acres with walking paths, fountains, and gardens.

Historic Homes and Architecture

Savannah’s architecture reflects its colonial past and antebellum elegance. Visitors can tour the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, known for its Regency-style architecture and stories from Savannah’s past, or explore the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum, celebrating the founder of the Girl Scouts. The Telfair Academy and the Jepson Center offer fine art collections in beautifully preserved buildings, blending history and culture seamlessly.

Walking tours through the Historic District provide an intimate look at cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and beautifully restored townhomes. Many homes are open to the public, and the stories behind them offer insight into the city’s rich past.

Museums and Cultural Centers

Art lovers will enjoy the SCAD Museum of Art, part of the Savannah College of Art and Design, showcasing contemporary works by emerging and established artists. History enthusiasts can visit the Savannah History Museum or the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage.

The Historic Savannah Theatre, one of the oldest operating theaters in the country, offers live performances, from musicals to classic plays. Local music venues and galleries throughout the city highlight the thriving arts scene that blends traditional Southern culture with modern creativity.

Savannah’s Riverfront: Shops, Restaurants, and Scenic Views

The Savannah Waterfront is a lively destination that offers a mix of history, shopping, and dining. River Street, lined with cobblestones and historic buildings, hosts boutiques, galleries, and antique shops. Visitors can watch ships glide along the Savannah River while enjoying local delicacies from seafood restaurants or casual cafes.

Savannah’s seafood scene is not to be missed. From Lowcountry boils to shrimp and grits, the city offers dishes that showcase the flavors of the region. Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, a family-style Southern eatery, provides a traditional culinary experience, while The Grey, housed in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal, offers a modern twist on Southern cuisine.

Evening strolls along the river allow visitors to enjoy the warm breeze, live music, and the charming sight of old warehouses turned into shops and restaurants. Paddleboarding and riverboat cruises add an adventurous perspective to exploring the waterway.

Neighborhoods to Explore Beyond Downtown

Starland District and Victorian District

The Starland District is a hub for creativity and nightlife. Art galleries, local breweries, and eclectic restaurants make it a favorite for those seeking a modern, energetic vibe. Regular events such as First Friday art walks highlight local talent and community engagement.

The Victorian District, meanwhile, features grand 19th-century homes with ornate ironwork and intricate woodwork. Walking through this neighborhood feels like stepping back in time, and photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the architectural details and tree-lined streets.

Savannah’s Historic Squares

Beyond the famous squares downtown, neighborhoods like Columbia Square and Lafayette Square provide quieter, intimate glimpses into the city’s layout and history. Many of these areas are ideal for leisurely strolls, morning jogs, or discovering hidden cafes and boutiques tucked away behind historic facades.

Ghost Tours and Haunted Savannah

Savannah has earned a reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities. Ghost tours guide visitors through centuries-old cemeteries, historic inns, and shadowy alleys. Bonaventure Cemetery, with its hauntingly beautiful statues and moss-draped trees, is a must-see for fans of history and the macabre alike.

Haunted pub crawls combine storytelling with local beverages, offering a playful yet spine-tingling experience. Even if ghost stories are not your thing, the tours provide fascinating insights into Savannah’s past and culture.

Outdoor Adventures and Coastal Escapes

Savannah’s charm extends beyond its streets and squares. Tybee Island, just a short drive from downtown, offers sandy beaches, tidal pools, and historic lighthouses. Visitors can kayak through marshes, go dolphin watching, or simply relax by the Atlantic Ocean.

Savannah also provides plenty of opportunities for biking and walking tours through scenic neighborhoods and along the waterfront. Botanical gardens and nearby state parks allow for encounters with native flora and fauna, giving travelers a refreshing contrast to the historic cityscape.

Festivals and Events

Savannah hosts a variety of events year-round that celebrate music, food, art, and culture. The Savannah Music Festival features a mix of jazz, classical, and contemporary performances. The Savannah Film Festival draws filmmakers and celebrities from around the world, while the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest in the country, fills the city with music, green attire, and festivities.

Seasonal farmers’ markets, art walks, and food festivals offer local flavor and the chance to mingle with residents and fellow travelers. No matter the time of year, Savannah presents engaging activities that appeal to all interests.

Food and Dining in Savannah

Savannah’s culinary scene combines Southern tradition with contemporary innovation. Classic dishes such as fried green tomatoes, she-crab soup, and pecan pie can be found in family-run restaurants and historic eateries. For seafood lovers, fresh catches from the Atlantic are a highlight, with local specialties like shrimp and grits, oysters, and crab cakes.

Downtown offers upscale dining experiences alongside cozy cafes. The Collins Quarter provides an Australian-inspired menu in a chic setting, while Treylor Park takes a playful approach with creative Southern dishes and craft cocktails. For a casual bite, Leopold’s Ice Cream, a vintage soda fountain, is perfect for families or a nostalgic treat.

Savannah also boasts coffee shops, bakeries, and artisan markets where visitors can sample regional flavors and handmade goods, making food exploration a key part of any visit.

Where to Stay in Savannah

Downtown

• The Gastonian: A charming bed-and-breakfast housed in historic mansions, offering a personal and intimate experience.
• The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection: Stylish accommodations with a rooftop bar overlooking the historic district.
• Hyatt Regency Savannah: Modern amenities combined with views of the Savannah River.

Tybee Island

• Tybee Island Inn: Cozy beachfront lodging with a relaxed atmosphere.
• The DeSoto Beach Hotel: Offers ocean views and easy access to local attractions.
• Beachfront Cottages: Perfect for families or groups seeking a home-like experience near the sand.

Historic Neighborhoods

• Hamilton-Turner Inn: Luxurious Victorian-style rooms with modern amenities in a historic setting.
• Andaz Savannah, by Hyatt: Contemporary boutique hotel with riverfront access and a lively ambiance.

Tips for Planning Your Savannah Visit

• Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) provide mild weather, blooming gardens, and manageable crowds.
• Transportation: Walking is ideal in the Historic District, but trolleys, bikes, and ride-shares make it easy to venture farther. Consider renting a car for trips to Tybee Island or nearby plantations.

Experience the Charm of Savannah

Savannah invites travelers to slow down, take in the history, and enjoy the local culture. From historic squares and haunted tours to riverfront dining and coastal adventures, the city provides a diverse range of experiences. Art, music, food, and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry come together to create a city that feels both vibrant and timeless.

For those considering making Savannah home, Public Storage can help with the transition, offering convenient storage solutions for your belongings while you settle into your new surroundings.