Things to do in Savannah

Things to do in  Savannah

Even the ghosts are friendly

Oh, Savannah. This Southern city charms with its oak trees, dangling Spanish moss, cobblestone squares, and Antebellum architecture. Getting lost in the Savannah Historic District on foot or by bike is one of the city’s top pleasures—expect to discover cemeteries, boutiques, and enticing cafés along the way. The best things to do in Savannah often involve history: climb aboard a trolley for an informative tour, join a spooky nighttime stroll, or sign up for a themed tour to discover Savannah’s food, theater, or nightlife scenes.

Top 15 attractions in Savannah

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

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The oldest Roman Catholic Church in Georgia, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is one of Savannah’s top historical, architectural, and religious attractions. The cathedral’s towering twin spires and French Gothic-style architecture set it apart against the Savannah skyline. Upclose, visitors can admire intricate details dating back to 1900.More

Savannah Historic District

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Grand antebellum homes and historic plazas lined with live oaks are just some of the sights that define Savannah’s Historic District. Considered the heart of the city, the Historic District is not only the centerpiece of a Savannah vacation but also where to find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, and historic attractions.More

Colonial Park Cemetery

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When it was established in 1750, Colonial Park Cemetery was Savannah's main cemetery. It expanded three times to accommodate 9,000 graves across 6 acres (2.4 hectares). A century later, the cemetery ceased burials. Today, visitors can walk among the graves, many of which have historical markers describing local people and events.More

Savannah River Street

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It is virtually impossible for Savannah visitors to miss River Street. A broad waterfront promenade lined with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, River Street is one of the main arteries of the historic city. The street also features a pedestrian-only path, perfect for leisurely strolls with unbeatable Savannah River views.More

Forsyth Park

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Forsyth Park, in the middle of historical downtown Savannah, has been a key city landmark since the mid-1800s. Named after the 33rd governor of Georgia, John Forsyth, who donated 20 acres (8 hectares) of land, the park is known for the large Parisian-style fountain located at the north end and the Spanish moss dripping from the oak trees.More

Savannah City Market

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Dating back to the 18th century, Savannah City Market has long been the commercial and social center of historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. The market is known locally as the “art and soul” of Savannah, a nod to the numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that make it such an important part of Savannah's social fabric.More

Chippewa Square

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Chippewa Square in the Savannah Historic District charms with its moss-draped trees, inviting park benches, and shaded walkways. Visitors will find a statue of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia, but not the park bench from Forrest Gump; this prop from the 1994 movie has been moved to a museum. The square is much more than a film backdrop, though, and offers a place to rest and people-watch between visiting historic buildings, cafés, and boutiques in the surrounding area.More

Madison Square

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Madison Square is one of the 22 remaining public squares designed in Savannah's historic district in the 1830s. Named after President James Madison, it’s known by locals as Jasper Square, referring to Savannah native Sgt. William Jasper who fought in the Revolutionary War. Today, Madison Square is a popular stop for sightseeing.More

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

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Once home to Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, this historic mansion has been restored to its 19th-century glory and offers tours and hosts Girl Scout events. Visit the first National Historic Landmark in Savannah to see exhibits that follow the Low family and the genesis of the Girl Scouts.More

Mercer Williams House Museum

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Designed by architect John Norris, the Mercer Williams House Museum was constructed in the 1860s, then restored a century later by antiques dealer Jim Williams. Considered one of the most beautiful houses in Savannah, it’s also known as a setting for the book and movieMidnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.More

Bonaventure Cemetery

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Made famous by the novel and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery sits on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River in historic Savannah. The Southern Gothic cemetery comprises 160 acres (65 hectares) of sculptures, mausoleums, marble headstones, and live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss.More

Sorrel Weed House

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Built in the mid-19th century for shipping merchant Francis Sorrel, Sorrel Weed House became a State Historic Landmark in 1954, one of the first in Georgia. It’s also believed to be one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah, and has been featured on TV shows likeGhost Hunters and Travel Channel’sMost Terrifying Places in America.More

Wormsloe State Historic Site

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Live oaks draped in Spanish moss greet you at Wormsloe State Historic Site. Delve into the history of early Georgia settlers at this Savannah-area historic colonial estate by walking the ruins and watching live reenactments. Learn about founder Noble Jones, explore hiking trails, and enjoy views of the Isle of Hope.More

Columbia Square

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Mature oak trees and a central fountain are charming features of Columbia Square, one of Savannah’s more peaceful historic squares. Beautiful preserved buildings and luxurious bed-and-breakfasts lure visitors to this neck of the woods, and the square offers plenty of park benches for people-watching or picnics. Shaded paths offer a place to relax during a wider exploration of the Savannah Historic District.More

Andrew Low House

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The brick, Italian-villa style Andrew Low House was built for wealthy cotton farm Andrew Low in 1847. Now a timepiece preserved in Savannah’s Historic District, the mansion provides today’s visitors with a look into the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy 19th-century Georgia household. You can visit parlors, dining rooms, and bedrooms that are decorated as if frozen in time.More

Trip ideas

A Spooky City Guide to Savannah

A Spooky City Guide to Savannah

Top activities in Savannah

Savannah Land & Sea Combo: City Sightseeing Trolley Tour with Riverboat Cruise
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Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour
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Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tour

Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tour

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Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour
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Historic Savannah Guided Walking Tour
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Savannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour
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All about Savannah

When to visit

Savannah is especially pleasant to visit in the spring and fall. If you visit Savannah in summer, be prepared for hot, humid temperatures, although nearby beaches do provide some relief. Popular annual events include the Savannah Jazz Festival in September, Savannah Food and Wine Festival in November, and Sidewalk Arts Festival in April. The city is also a popular destination for St. Patrick’s Day, although some visitors may prefer to avoid the spring break-style crowds.

Getting around

Savannah is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot. Bike rentals provide another quick and efficient way to explore. One of the most popular ways for tourists to get around is by the old-fashioned trolley tour. The city also offers horse-drawn carriage tours, group tours, and private tours. A car rental isn’t needed for travelers planning on staying within Savannah, but helpful for attractions further afield. Taxis are also available.

Traveler tips

As much as Savannah is known for its historic landmarks, it's also home to a bustling contemporary art scene that's due, in large part, to its local university, Savannah College of Art and Design. Travelers may want to seek out local galleries, live music events, independent bookstores, jewelry shops, clothing stores run by local designers, cafés, and more to engage with Savannah’s cultural and artistic side.

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English
Attractions
32
Tours
247
Reviews
55,311
EN
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People Also Ask

What is Savannah known for?

Savannah is known for its historic architecture, fun nightlife, nearby beaches, and hearty Southern food. This coastal city in Georgia is popular for its Historic District with grand antebellum homes and charming plazas lined with dramatic trees. It’s a scenic and welcoming city with good tourist infrastructure.

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How many days do you need in Savannah?

Plan at least two to three days in Savannah. You can explore the Historic District, tour scenic cemeteries, and ride the hop-on hop-off trolley to learn about architecture. Other fun options include a riverboat cruise, a walking ghost tour, or a visit to nearby Tybee Beach.

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What activities are popular in Savannah?

Popular activities in Savannah include bike tours, riverboat cruises, and a scenic hop-on hop-off trolley. Cemetery tours, museum visits, and culinary tours are also tourist favorites in this coastal city. Join the locals at nearby Tybee Beach for an afternoon of swimming and relaxing in the sand.

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What is the best month to visit Savannah, Georgia?

The best time to visit Savannah is in the spring. Temperatures are pleasant and the parks are in bloom during April and May. The summer months, with high temperatures and humidity, can be unpleasant. Some travelers are drawn to Savannah in March for its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

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What can’t I miss in Savannah?

In Savannah, Georgia, don’t miss the Historic District and the city’s many beautiful squares, parks, and plazas. Explore the Historic District on foot or by bike to see the city’s architecture, museums, art galleries, and bookstores. Don’t miss the cemeteries, either.

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Is Savannah worth visiting?

Yes, Savannah is worth visiting. This coastal city in Georgia is home to a charming Historic District with beautiful architecture, parks, and squares. From spooky cemetery tours to contemporary art galleries to quality restaurants, Savannah offers a variety of fun things to do for travelers.

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