16 Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Visitors
Savannah, Georgia—a city with a rich history, scenic beauty, and Southern charm—stands as one of America’s most captivating destinations. This “Hostess City of the South” was founded in 1733, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States. Savannah is known for its oak-lined streets, picturesque public squares, maritime roots, and antebellum architecture. Boasting a mix of cobblestone roads, well-preserved mansions, and unique local attractions, Savannah offers visitors something for everyone, whether they are history enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, or foodies. In this guide, we’ll explore 16 must-do activities that will allow you to experience the essence of Savannah in its entirety.
1. Explore Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is the heart and soul of Savannah’s outdoor life. Covering 30 acres, this expansive park is located in the historic district and is one of the oldest public parks in the U.S., dating back to the 1840s. It is known for its iconic Forsyth Fountain, which was installed in 1858. Modeled after the fountains in Paris, it’s a favorite photo spot for both tourists and locals.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Forsyth Park offers an array of activities. You can take a leisurely stroll through its tree-lined paths, enjoy a picnic on the wide-open lawns, or visit the Saturday farmers’ market for fresh local produce. The park also has a playground and café for families with young children. Events like concerts, craft fairs, and community festivals frequently occur here, making it a thriving community hub.
Forsyth Park is more than just an urban park—it encapsulates what makes Savannah special. It’s a place where history, nature, and community converge.
2. Stroll Down River Street
A visit to Savannah wouldn’t be complete without exploring the historic River Street. Stretching parallel to the Savannah River, River Street is a cobblestone road that features historic cotton warehouses turned into boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Here, you’ll find a vibrant array of activities that carry the city’s maritime legacy.
River Street offers riverfront dining with breathtaking views of the large container ships and paddle-wheelers that pass by, making it a perfect location for a leisurely meal. You can also embark on a scenic riverboat cruise, which provides a unique vantage point of Savannah’s skyline and a serene experience along the river.
Don’t miss the Waving Girl statue along the river walk. The statue commemorates Florence Martus, who for over 40 years waved to every ship entering the port, a testament to the city’s warm welcome and inclusive spirit. Street performers, local vendors, and seasonal festivals hosted on River Street make it an ever-vibrant spot of activity for visiting tourists.
3. Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a must-see for every visitor to Savannah. Built in the French Gothic style, this cathedral is one of the most photographed landmarks in the entire city. The history of St. John’s dates back to 1876, and the cathedral has since been recognized as one of the most beautiful in the United States.
Walking into the Cathedral, you’ll immediately be swept away by its grandeur: high arches, rows of intricate stained-glass windows imported from Austria, and murals that depict biblical scenes. Whether you’re there for religious purposes or purely out of admiration for its architectural beauty, it is a peaceful and awe-inspiring destination.
Visitors are welcome to attend services or explore the building during open visiting hours. If you’re into photography, try capturing the cathedral at different times of the day—especially during sunrise or sunset when the outdoor lighting creates a serene glow upon its spires.
4. Take a Ghost Tour
Savannah’s reputation as America’s most haunted city attracts ghost hunters and enthusiasts from around the world. The city’s rich history of war, piracy, and untimely deaths contributes to a storied past filled with eerie tales and hauntings. Taking a ghost tour is one of the most popular ways to explore this supernatural side of Savannah.
There are a variety of ghost tour options in the city, from walking tours and trolley tours to even hearse tours. Walking tours usually guide visitors through Savannah’s haunted squares, such as Colonial Park Cemetery, where thousands of burials trace back to the American Revolution and Civil War. You might also pass by haunted homes like the Sorrel-Weed House, where many have reported spine-chilling experiences.
Trolley tours, meanwhile, offer narrated histories of notoriously haunted locations, making them a comfortable yet spooky way to learn about the city’s dark past. For those searching for an extra chill, hearse tours provide a quirky yet thrilling way to delve into the paranormal.
Whether you’re a skeptical observer or a firm believer in the supernatural, Ghost Tours offer a unique look into Savannah’s haunted reputation and rich history.
5. Discover Wormsloe Historic Site
The Wormsloe Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into Savannah’s colonial past and features one of the most remarkable entrances in Georgia. The grand avenue, lined with over 400 live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, creates a visual masterpiece that has become an Instagram favorite.
Located about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Wormsloe dates back to 1736 when it served as a plantation belonging to Noble Jones, one of Georgia’s colonial founders. The site includes ruins of the original tabby house, walking trails, and interpretive exhibits about colonial Georgia. Visitors can wander through the oak-lined avenue, explore the ruins, and visit the small museum displaying artifacts from the colonial period.
Wormsloe also offers guided hikes through its trails, where you’ll encounter marshes, wildlife, and scenic views of the Skidaway River. The site is perfect for those interested in history and nature, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Savannah.
6. Explore Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery is not just any graveyard—it’s a hauntingly beautiful place that tells the stories of Savannah’s most notable citizens. Situated along the Wilmington River, Bonaventure is known for its oak trees draped in Spanish moss, elaborate statues, and poetic gravestones.
One of the most famous residents of Bonaventure is Johnny Mercer, the celebrated songwriter who wrote “Moon River” and numerous other hits. You’ll also find the graves of poet Conrad Aiken and other notable figures of Savannah’s past. Bonaventure actually became nationally famous when it was featured in John Berendt’s best-selling novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Walk through this expansive cemetery, either on your own or as part of a guided tour, and you’ll find yourself immersed in Savannah’s Southern Gothic atmosphere. From lyrical epitaphs to intricate stone-carved angels, Bonaventure offers beauty amidst the theme of mortality.
7. Visit Tybee Island
Just a 20-minute drive from Savannah’s historic district, Tybee Island is the perfect beach getaway. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and wide, sandy beaches, Tybee offers visitors an opportunity to soak up some sun, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or embark on a dolphin-watching tour.
Tybee Island is home to historical landmarks worth exploring as well. The Tybee Island Lighthouse, standing since 1773 and one of the oldest lighthouses in the country, offers panoramic views of the island and coastline. Nearby, Fort Pulaski National Monument is a well-preserved Civil War-era fort that played a key role in wartime strategies. It’s a must-see for history buffs and those simply looking to appreciate some well-preserved historical architecture.
Aside from its historical significance, Tybee offers plenty of outdoor activities including kayaking, birdwatching, and cycling. Families, in particular, can enjoy dolphin tours, mini golf, and proximity to fresh seafood restaurants scattered across the island. Whether you’re seeking sun, history, or both, Tybee Island promises a day full of adventure.
8. Take a Trolley Tour Through the Historic District
Savannah’s historic district is vast, and one of the best ways to experience it without tiring yourself out from walking is by taking a trolley tour. These hop-on-hop-off guided tours provide an educational and convenient way to explore the city’s top historical landmarks.
Most tours take you to the city’s key attractions, including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace (the founder of the Girl Scouts), the Mercer-Williams House Museum (made famous by Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil), and several of Savannah’s beautifully maintained public squares.
The benefit of a trolley tour is the ability to hop off at points of interest, explore the sites, and then jump back on when you’ve finished. Tours are led by guides who provide historical insights and entertaining anecdotes about Savannah’s past, architecture, and famous residents.
For first-time visitors, the trolley tour offers the perfect balance between exploring and learning. Many companies even have themed tours, such as holiday-themed routes or nighttime ghost tours, giving you customized options to fit your interests.
9. Walk Through City Market
City Market is the beating heart of Savannah’s arts and entertainment scene. This vibrant area, located in the heart of the historic district, is home to art galleries, shops, restaurants, and live music performances that echo through the open-air squares.
Stroll through City Market’s four-block pedestrian area to browse local artworks, grab a bite to eat, or shop for souvenirs. Visiting in the afternoon offers a more leisurely, laid-back experience, but those looking for high-energy nightlife will not be disappointed—by evening, live bands fill the area with music, creating a lively atmosphere. Some of the area’s best-known galleries, like the Tiffani Taylor Gallery, blend art with Southern hospitality, offering vibrant modern works for you to browse.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack from local eateries or picking up thoughtfully crafted artwork, City Market offers a fun, lively peak into Savannah’s local culture and artistic communities.
10. Visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
One of the most significant historic homes in Savannah, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters offers visitors an important look into the antebellum South. The home, which dates back to 1819, is considered one of the best examples of Regency architecture in the country.
What sets this house apart from other historic residences are the preserved slave quarters found in the back of the property. The museum provides an educational experience that delves deep into Southern history, including the lives of both the wealthy families and the enslaved workers who maintained these grand residences.
Guided tours take visitors through the home’s elaborately furnished rooms, which include original furnishings and historical artifacts, before moving to the slave quarters where you’ll find interpretive exhibits that reveal the realities of slavery in the 19th century.
The Owens-Thomas House provides a holistic and sometimes painful view of Savannah’s past, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in this chapter of American history.
11. Tour the Savannah African Art Museum
Since opening in 2016, the Savannah African Art Museum has become a hidden gem in the city’s cultural landscape. The museum houses an extensive collection of over 1,000 African art pieces, ranging from masks and sculptures to textiles and ceremonial artifacts, representing cultures from West and Central Africa.
The museum offers free admission, though donations are always welcome. Guided tours are available for those interested in more in-depth explanations of the artifacts on display and the stories they tell about tribal life in Africa. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating perspective on the spiritual, cultural, and societal significance of the objects within their historical contexts.
This attraction is perfect for families, school groups, and art lovers who want to explore a different side of Savannah’s museums and immerse themselves in a global cultural experience.
12. Explore Skidaway Island State Park
If you’re a lover of the outdoors, Skidaway Island State Park is a must-visit destination while in Savannah. Located just 25 minutes from the historic downtown area, Skidaway Island offers a peaceful escape with miles of nature trails that wind through coastal marshes, forests, and salt flats.
The park is especially popular for birdwatching, as it serves as a habitat for egrets, herons, and other coastal birds. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the various observation platforms that overlook the marshes, offering scenic views and great photo opportunities.
Skidaway Island also has camping facilities for those wanting to extend their trip into an overnight nature retreat. Whether you’re hiking or simply enjoying the picnic areas, Skidaway Island provides a personal connection to Savannah’s coastal beauty and local wildlife.
13. Visit Leopold’s Ice Cream
A trip to Savannah wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream, a beloved local institution since 1919. Founded by the Leopold brothers, Greek immigrants, this ice cream parlor stocks classic flavors like Tutti Frutti and Butter Pecan.
Leopold’s has retained much of its early 20th-century charm, from the original soda fountain to retro decor, making it a destination in its own right. Despite its old-school vibes, it’s very much a modern favorite for both tourists and locals, so expect lines on hotter days.
Treat yourself to Savannah’s most famous sweet treat at Leopold’s and cool down between activities in the city with their indulgent flavors.
14. Take a Carriage Ride Through Historic Squares
Romantic and charming, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Savannah’s historic district is a unique way to see the city’s famed squares and antebellum homes. Savannah boasts 22 public squares, each with its own historical significance and aesthetic charm, and a carriage ride is the perfect way to take it all in at a relaxed pace that allows for more appreciation of the details that make Savannah so special.
Carriage tours typically last about an hour and offer rest stops at notable squares like Chippewa Square, made famous by the movie Forrest Gump, and Madison Square, home to colonial-era monuments.
Visitors can book either private rides for more intimacy or join a guided group. Either way, the narrated journey offers a new perspective on Savannah’s layout and historical wealth.
15. Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
The birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, is a popular site for both Scouts and history enthusiasts alike. The elegant Regency-style mansion offers a glimpse into Savannah’s 19th-century social life and reflects the personal history of one of the city’s most influential women.
The house is a National Historic Landmark and contains original family furnishings, personal memorabilia, and important artifacts from the early days of the Girl Scouts. For current and former Girl Scouts, the birthplace is a pilgrimage site that celebrates the legacy of scouting.
Visitors can explore the museum on a guided tour, learning about Juliette’s life, her love of art, and how she came to establish the now-global Girl Scouts movement. It’s a slice of local and national history in one beautifully preserved home.
16. Enjoy a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Dolphin-watching tours are among the most popular family-friendly activities offered near Tybee Island, and they offer visitors the chance to observe Savannah’s abundant marine life up close. These guided boat tours allow you to travel along the coast, where bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted.
Tour operators provide educational insights about the local ecosystems, including information about dolphins’ behaviors, breeding habits, and conservation efforts to protect the region’s wildlife.
Best conducted in the warmer months, dolphin-watching tours do tend to fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to book ahead. Many tours offer family-friendly packages, making this activity an exciting and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
FAQs
- What is Savannah best known for?
Savannah is renowned for its historic charm, with cobblestone streets, Southern hospitality, and beautifully preserved antebellum architecture. Some of the city’s most famous draws include Forsyth Park, River Street, and its reputation for ghost stories. - How many days do you need in Savannah?
Ideally, you’ll want at least 2 to 3 days in Savannah to explore the historic district, visit key landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica and River Street, and take a day trip to destinations like Tybee Island and Wormsloe Historic Site. - What is there to do in Savannah at night?
Savannah comes alive in the evening with ghost tours, riverfront dining, and live music performances. Walking through the lit squares and parks is also a favorite activity at nighttime. - Is Tybee Island worth visiting?
Absolutely. Tybee Island is located only 20 minutes from downtown Savannah and offers beautiful beaches, historical landmarks like Fort Pulaski, and outdoor activities like dolphin-watching and kayaking. - What are some free things to do in Savannah?
Savannah offers a range of activities that don’t require a ticket, including visiting Forsyth Park, strolling through its public squares, taking self-guided walking tours around notable architecture, and browsing the galleries at City Market.
Conclusion: Why Savannah Should Be on Your Travel List
Savannah, Georgia, is a destination that transcends time. Its history, from colonial times to antebellum culture, is palpable at every corner, yet it’s a city that’s also very much alive today. From the lush landscapes and grand structures of Forsyth Park to the hustle of River Street, this Southern gem has something for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to its history, its haunted legends, its art scenes, or its natural beauty, Savannah is a destination you’ll remember long after your visit.
Plan your trip to experience the perfect balance of history, culture, and relaxation in one of the most unique cities in the South.
