best places to go in savannah ga 5 fun places​

Why Savannah GA Should Be on Your Travel List

Have you ever walked into a city and felt like you were stepping into a living storybook? That’s exactly what Savannah, Georgia feels like. With its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and a dash of Southern charm, Savannah has an irresistible magnetism. Whether you’re into haunted history, local eats, stunning parks, or quirky shops, this city is one of those places where every corner whispers something magical.

This article is your friendly guide to the best places to go in Savannah GA—five fun spots that capture the city’s essence. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or just dreaming about it, get ready to uncover experiences that are unforgettable and soul-refreshing.

Forsyth Park: The Soul of Savannah

Think of Forsyth Park as the Central Park of Savannah, just with way more Southern charm. Right in the heart of the historic district, this 30-acre stretch of greenery is like the city’s living room—a place where locals jog, tourists snap selfies, and musicians strum guitars under the shade.

You know those iconic photos of a beautiful fountain surrounded by Spanish moss? Yep, that’s Forsyth Park.

But there’s more than just a pretty face here. The park hosts weekly farmer’s markets, art festivals, and open-air concerts. You’ll often spot artists sketching the fountain or yoga classes soaking in the sunrise. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and your heart gets a little quieter.

If you’re traveling with kids or pets, there’s even a playground and dog area. And if you’re into people-watching, grab a coffee from the nearby Sentient Bean, find a bench, and just soak in the Savannah vibes.

Local Tip: Visit at golden hour—right before sunset. The light filtering through the trees makes everything feel straight out of a movie.

River Street: Where History Meets Hype

Imagine cobblestones underfoot, the scent of pralines in the air, and paddleboats drifting lazily along the Savannah River. Welcome to River Street—a bustling promenade that’s equal parts historic landmark and tourist paradise.

This is where Savannah’s old soul meets modern excitement. Converted cotton warehouses now house unique boutiques, pubs, galleries, and restaurants. Grab a drink and walk the cobblestones as street performers strum guitars or paint caricatures. You might even meet a friendly ghost or two—it is Savannah, after all.

Foodie’s Heaven? Absolutely. Try shrimp and grits at Vic’s on the River or indulge in a fried green tomato BLT at Huey’s.

There’s also a ferry service you can hop on for a quick ride across the river—great views, and it’s free!

Why It’s a Must-Go: River Street offers a perfect mix of old-school Savannah and current-day culture. It’s lively, scenic, and soaked in charm.

Bonaventure Cemetery: Beauty in Stillness

Okay, hear us out—yes, a cemetery made our list. But Bonaventure Cemetery isn’t just any cemetery. It’s art. It’s poetry. It’s history carved in stone.

Situated on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, Bonaventure is filled with ornate headstones, angelic sculptures, and ancient oaks dressed in Spanish moss. Walking through it feels like drifting through a Southern Gothic novel. It’s haunting, yes—but also deeply peaceful.

Fun Fact: This spot gained international fame after being featured in the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Since then, it’s become a pilgrimage site for literature lovers and photographers alike.

Tour or Solo Stroll? Both options are great. Guided tours give you insight into the fascinating stories behind the monuments. But wandering alone allows you to absorb the beauty and serenity in your own time.

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds.

Savannah Historic District: Time Travel, Anyone?

The entire Historic District feels like one big open-air museum. Spanning 2.5 square miles, this area holds more than twenty city squares—each with its own personality, monuments, and history.

The architecture alone is worth the walk—Georgian, Federal, Gothic Revival—you name it, Savannah flaunts it. And every corner tells a story, from haunted mansions to Revolutionary War sites.

Love walking tours? There’s a tour for everyone here—ghost tours, food tours, architectural walks, and even pub crawls. You can explore on foot, by trolley, or even in a horse-drawn carriage.

Don’t Miss: The Mercer-Williams House (yes, the one from the book), Chippewa Square (where Forrest Gump sat on a bench), and Jones Street (often called the prettiest street in America).

Analogy Time: If Charleston is your polished Southern belle, Savannah is her artsy, slightly mysterious sister with a secret smile.

Wormsloe Historic Site: A Tunnel of Time

Wormsloe isn’t just a historic site—it’s a cinematic experience. Picture a mile-long avenue flanked by towering live oaks forming a canopy overhead. Light filters through the leaves like something out of a fairy tale. It’s one of Savannah’s most iconic scenes, and once you see it, you’ll understand why.

At the end of that dreamy road lies the ruins of a colonial estate, originally owned by Noble Jones, one of Georgia’s first settlers. There’s a museum, walking trails, and interpretive signage, but honestly—the view alone is worth the trip.

Best for: History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone with a camera.

Metaphor Moment: Visiting Wormsloe is like flipping open a worn, beloved book. The trees are the pages, and each step you take is like reading another line of history.

Tybee Island: A Beach Break with Southern Flare

Okay, technically Tybee Island is about 20 minutes outside Savannah, but it’s so tied to the city’s identity that leaving it off this list would be a crime.

Tybee offers sandy toes, salty air, and all the laid-back coastal vibes you crave after a few days of historic walking tours. There’s paddleboarding, kayaking, dolphin tours, and of course, the iconic Tybee Island Light Station—the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia.

Family-Friendly? Totally. The beaches are clean, calm, and easy to navigate. There are cute cafes and seafood joints like The Crab Shack where you can eat with your hands and feed baby alligators (seriously).

Tip: Stay for sunset. It’s worth every golden second.

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): Creative Heartbeat of the City

Savannah isn’t just about the past—it’s also home to one of the most influential art schools in the U.S.: SCAD. And this school doesn’t just stay on campus—it spills into the entire city.

You’ll find SCAD galleries, student-run shops, fashion exhibits, and even restored theaters like the SCADshow and Lucas Theatre. The energy? Fresh, creative, and inspiring.

Perfect for: Art lovers, design geeks, or anyone curious about the next generation of creators.

Don’t Miss: SCAD Museum of Art—modern, bold, and beautifully curated.

Leopold’s Ice Cream: A Taste of Nostalgia

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Savannah’s sweetest institution—Leopold’s Ice Cream. Founded in 1919, this retro soda shop serves up handmade ice cream that feels like stepping back in time.

The shop itself is vintage perfection—marble counters, black-and-white floors, and movie memorabilia (the founder was also a Hollywood producer!).

Must-Try Flavors: Tutti Frutti (their original recipe), Honey Almond & Cream, or the seasonal Peach.

Insider Tip: The line can be long, especially on weekends—but it moves fast, and yes, it’s worth the wait.

Conclusion: Savannah’s Charm is in the Details

Savannah isn’t a place you rush through—it’s a place you savor. It wraps you in charm, whispers secrets through moss-covered oaks, and invites you to slow down and stay a little longer.

Whether you’re strolling through history, chilling at the beach, or indulging in sweets, Savannah has something magical for everyone. It’s a place where the past and present dance together under the Southern sun.

So pack your walking shoes, charge your camera, and bring an open heart. Because in Savannah, every moment is a memory in the making.

FAQs

1. What is the best time of year to visit Savannah GA?
Spring (March to May) is ideal for mild weather and blooming flowers. Fall (September to November) also offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

2. Is Savannah GA walkable for tourists?
Absolutely! The Historic District is very pedestrian-friendly. You can explore most attractions on foot or via trolley tours.

3. Are there free things to do in Savannah GA?
Yes! Enjoy Forsyth Park, explore the Historic District, visit city squares, and walk along River Street—all without spending a dime.

4. Is Savannah family-friendly?
Definitely. From parks to beach day trips to family-friendly restaurants and attractions, Savannah offers plenty for kids and adults alike.

5. How many days should I spend in Savannah GA?
Three to four days is perfect for a well-rounded visit, covering history, nature, food, and beach fun.