A jewel of the South, wandering around Savannah feels like walking into an antebellum dream. Every street and every corner reveal new delights to be discovered, all steeped in southern charm (read: colonial architecture, enormous oaks, and charming parks).
Savannah in eminently walkable (and bonus, dog friendly!). Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of a delightful day in Savannah.
Why Savannah?
Savannah is known for a unique combination of city squares, charming architecture, great food, and straight up friendliness.
Its Historic District
The oldest city in the state of Georgia, its prosperity is evident in its charming historic district. Colonial-era mansions overlooking city squares is a hallmark of this southern destination. Many have been turned into museums – take a tour, or just marvel at the beautifully preserved antebellum architecture.
The best way to experience Historic Savannah is by foot; the entire historic district fits within two square miles.
Its Squares
Savannah has 22 squares (read: public parks) all throughout its historic district. Each square is a unique break from urbanization and an excellent place to enjoy a coffee and people watch. Make it a goal to visit all 22 during your visit, and marvel at the beauty of Spanish moss-covered ancient oaks.
Its Food
Savannah is a foodie’s paradise. Check out this post by Visit Savannah to discover Savannah best eats.
Its People
People in Savannah are just straight up nice (think southern Canadians). No matter where you go, everyone is happy to have a conversation with a complete stranger. Bonus: Savannah is insanely dog friendly! Our furry friends are even allowed on some museum and building tours!
Where to Go
Park at Visitor’s Center, Savannah is best enjoyed by foot. Parking is cheap, and the first hour is free. Once there, head to –
Bull Street
Savannah is laid out in a grid. Bull Street bisects the historic district, and is the main road to walk down. Running from Forsyth Park in the south to the Savannah River to the north, you’ll find squares, charming coffee shops (check out Gallery Espresso), and boutique shops. Start anywhere on Bull Street and walk in either direction, you really can’t go wrong.
From Bull Street you’ll have access to charming side streets and more squares.
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is a charming city park, complete with a tree-lined walkway, fountain, and monument. The park is quite large, and is a beautiful spot to hang out on a sunny day. Stroll around the fountain, talk to local artists, and marvel at the beauty of the trees and side paths.
River Street
Housed in what used to be cotton warehouses, today River Street is filled with history, charming shops, and great restaurants. Check out River Street Sweets and Savannah’s Candy Kitchen for delicious Southern treats, or make your way to the River Street Market and browse local crafts.
What to Do
Take a Trolley Tour
While Savannah is fantastic to explore on foot, we understand that this isn’t also an option for everybody. Savannah offers a host of hop-on hop-off trolley tours. They’re a great way to see the sights while saving your feet! Bonus: many tour companies offer free parking if you’ve signed up for a tour.
Explore a Historic Home
Many of Savannah’s historic houses have been converted into museums. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and settlement of early Savannah. Check out this great list of available tours by Go South! Savannah, which can be found here.
Let your Wanderlust Free
Just go and explore. Savannah has a wealth of great art galleries, boutique shops, bakeries, and coffee shops. Follow your feet (or your nose!) and see where they take you. Sip a coffee, marvel at the architecture, and people watch at a square.
Savannah is yours to explore. Let your wanderlust free, and see where it takes you.
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