Savannah is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the U.S.
It’s known for its cobblestone streets, oak-lined squares, and stunning architecture.
Visitors love its mix of history, Southern charm, and vibrant culture.
This guide covers the best attractions, outdoor adventures, and local experiences.
You’ll find top historic sites, nature escapes, unique tours, and must-visit spots for shopping and dining.
Get ready to plan an unforgettable trip!
Explore Historic & Cultural Sites
1. Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is the heart of Savannah’s historic district.
This 30-acre park is best known for its iconic Forsyth Fountain, one of the most photographed spots in the city.
The park’s tree-lined paths and open green spaces make it a perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
Beyond its beauty, Forsyth Park is a hub for community events.
It hosts free concerts, art fairs, and an open-air farmers’ market every Saturday.
The park also features gardens designed for sensory experiences, a children’s playground, and sports facilities, including tennis and basketball courts.
Street performers and musicians often entertain visitors, adding to the lively atmosphere.
2. Savannah Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District is one of the most well-preserved in the country.
Spanning just one square mile, it’s a walkable area filled with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and beautiful squares shaded by live oaks.
The district is home to fine dining, museums, theaters, and Victorian-era mansions.
River Street, which runs along the Savannah River, is packed with restaurants, shops, and scenic views.
Visitors can also take a ferry ride to Hutchinson Island for a panoramic look at River Street’s historic buildings.
Bull Street is another highlight.
It features some of Savannah’s most famous landmarks, including the Green-Meldrim House, where General Sherman stayed during the Civil War.
The best way to explore the district is on foot, but the Old Town Trolley Tour is a great option.
This hop-on, hop-off tour covers all the major sites with 15 stops, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
3. Wormsloe Historic Site
The Wormsloe Historic Site is famous for its stunning mile-long avenue lined with over 400 live oaks draped in Spanish moss.
This breathtaking entrance is one of the most photographed spots in Savannah.
Located about 20 minutes from downtown, Wormsloe is one of Georgia’s oldest historic sites.
It was once the home of Noble Jones, a colonial settler from 1736.
The site includes the ruins of his original tabby house, as well as walking trails that wind through marshlands and forests.
Visitors can explore a small museum with colonial artifacts, watch costumed interpreters demonstrate historic skills and tools, or take guided hikes along the scenic trails.
The Skidaway River runs through the property, adding to its natural beauty.
If you’re interested in both history and nature, Wormsloe is worth the short trip from downtown Savannah.
4. Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery is one of Savannah’s most beautiful and hauntingly atmospheric sites.
Spanning over 100 acres, it’s known for ornate gravestones, elaborate statues, and centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
This Victorian cemetery is the final resting place of famous figures like songwriter Johnny Mercer, poet Conrad Aiken, and Gracie Watson, a beloved Savannah child whose statue is a popular site.
The cemetery gained worldwide fame after being featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour using the cemetery’s free app or join a guided walking tour to learn about the lives and stories behind the tombstones.
Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as azalea blooms fill the cemetery with color.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bonaventure is a peaceful yet fascinating place to explore.
5. SCAD Museum of Art
Once a railroad depot, the SCAD Museum of Art is now a modern gallery showcasing contemporary works.
It’s part of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), one of the country’s top art schools.
The museum features rotating exhibitions from SCAD students, faculty, and international artists.
Its permanent collection highlights 19th- and 20th-century African American art and photography, while other exhibits focus on Latin American and Mexican art.
Beyond paintings and sculptures, SCAD hosts film screenings, artist lectures, and hands-on art workshops.
Admission is free for students and locals, making it an accessible way to experience Savannah’s thriving art scene.
If you’re interested in contemporary art, this museum is a must-visit.
6. Telfair Museums
The Telfair Museums offer a unique look into Savannah’s art, architecture, and history.
This collection consists of three distinct museums, each telling a different story through its exhibits and design.
The Telfair Academy, located on Barnard Street, is a two-story Regency mansion displaying 19th-century paintings and sculptures.
Its Sculpture Gallery houses over 70 Greco-Roman statue replicas, originally allowing 19th-century Savannahians to experience classical art without traveling overseas.
The Jepson Center is a modern art museum that contrasts the historic Telfair Academy.
It features rotating contemporary exhibits and a children’s museum, where kids can engage with art through hands-on activities.
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, on Abercorn Street, offers a powerful look into the lives of both the wealthy and the enslaved in the 19th century.
Tours focus on the daily experiences of enslaved individuals and provide insight into the harsh realities of the past.
These three museums are within walking distance of each other and are best visited together.
They offer a well-rounded experience, blending fine art, modern creativity, and historical context.
7. Mercer Williams House Museum
The Mercer Williams House Museum is an architectural gem with a fascinating past.
Construction began in 1860 but was delayed by the Civil War, eventually being completed in 1868.
The home is best known for its stunning interior, featuring Regency and Empire-style furniture, rare Chinese porcelain, and 18th- and 19th-century portraits.
Every detail, from the intricate moldings and stained glass dome to the original windows and doorways, has been carefully preserved.
This house is also famous for its connection to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
The book and movie made the home one of Savannah’s most talked-about landmarks.
Guided tours take place most days and run every 40 minutes.
Reservations are recommended, as tour spots fill quickly.
8. Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
Savannah has long been a key port city, and the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum tells the story of its naval history.
Housed in an 1819 mansion, this museum focuses on maritime artifacts, ship models, and paintings.
Visitors can explore nine galleries filled with detailed models of steamships, navy vessels, and colonial-era sailing ships.
Each model is built to scale, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Some highlights include:
- The Steamship Savannah (1818) – The first steam-powered vessel to cross the Atlantic.
- The Anne (1732) – The ship that carried Savannah’s first settlers.
- The Wanderer (1858) – Originally built for speed, later used in the illegal slave trade.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students, with family packages available.
The on-site gift shop offers books and souvenirs related to Savannah’s maritime history.
9. Georgia State Railroad Museum
The Georgia State Railroad Museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts.
It’s located in the old Central of Georgia Railway Savannah Shops, one of the best-preserved antebellum railroad repair facilities in the country.
Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, take guided tours, and even ride an authentic handcar.
The museum also offers train rides on historic locomotives, making it a hit with kids and families.
This National Historic Landmark provides insight into the role railroads played in connecting Savannah to the rest of the country.
It’s one of the best places to experience the city’s industrial past in an interactive way.
10. Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski is a massive Civil War-era fort known for its impressive brick walls, scenic hiking trails, and guided tours.
Built in the 1820s, the fort played a critical role during the Civil War when Union troops bombarded it with rifled artillery, marking a turning point in military history.
Today, visitors can see the cannonball damage still visible in the walls, explore the fort’s moat and tunnels, and watch live weapon demonstrations by park rangers.
Surrounding the fort are salt marshes teeming with wildlife.
Hikers often spot herons, egrets, and even alligators along the trails.
While there is usually a small entrance fee, the National Park Service offers free admission days throughout the year.
11. Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson is Georgia’s oldest brick fort, built in 1801 to defend Savannah’s coastline.
Today, it’s a living history site that brings the past to life with daily cannon firings, period-costumed guides, and interactive exhibits.
Families and history buffs alike will enjoy exploring the fort’s tunnels, barracks, and riverfront views.
Park rangers demonstrate historic military drills and weapons, offering an up-close look at how soldiers lived and defended the fort.
Located just outside downtown, Old Fort Jackson is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It’s an affordable, educational experience that makes history exciting for all ages.
12. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is a must-visit for Girl Scouts and history lovers alike.
This Regency-style mansion was the childhood home of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts USA.
Inside, visitors can explore original furnishings, personal artifacts, and early Girl Scout memorabilia.
Guided tours provide insight into Juliette’s life, her passion for art, and how she started a global movement that continues today.
The house is a National Historic Landmark and one of Savannah’s most popular historic sites.
13. Andrew Low House
The Andrew Low House is an elegant Greek and Gothic Revival mansion built in 1849.
Home to Andrew Low, a successful businessman, and later his son-in-law, Juliette Gordon Low, this house is an architectural treasure.
The interior showcases 19th-century furnishings, chandeliers, and artwork, reflecting the wealth and taste of Savannah’s elite.
Outside, the formal garden is a stunning replica of an 18th-century French design, featuring azaleas, jasmine, and a peaceful courtyard fountain.
Open for tours daily, this mansion gives visitors a look at Savannah’s grand homes and the lives of those who lived in them.
14. Davenport House Museum
The Davenport House, built in 1820, is one of Savannah’s finest examples of Federal-style architecture.
It was originally the home of Isaiah Davenport, a master builder, and later played a vital role in Savannah’s historic preservation movement.
Inside, visitors will find authentic 19th-century furnishings, delicate ceramics, and children’s toys from the era.
The grand staircase, handcrafted woodwork, and large windows highlight the craftsmanship of the time.
The house is also a popular wedding venue, with a charming jasmine-filled garden that can accommodate up to 80 guests.
15. Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
One of Savannah’s most significant historic sites, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters offers a thought-provoking tour on the lives of both the wealthy and the enslaved in the antebellum South.
Built in 1819, this Regency-style mansion is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in the country.
While the main house showcases elegant period furnishings and artwork, the preserved slave quarters at the back of the property provide an unfiltered look into history.
Guided tours explore the complex relationships between the homeowners and the enslaved workers who lived there.
Interpretive exhibits and personal stories bring this history to life, making it an essential stop for those seeking a deeper understanding of Savannah’s past.
16. Savannah African Art Museum
The Savannah African Art Museum is home to over 1,000 African artifacts, including masks, sculptures, textiles, and ceremonial objects.
It focuses on the cultures of West and Central Africa, offering visitors a chance to explore traditions, spirituality, and craftsmanship from across the continent.
Admission is free, and guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the significance and history behind the collection.
17. Pin Point Heritage Museum
The Pin Point Heritage Museum tells the story of Savannah’s Gullah-Geechee community, a group descended from enslaved West Africans who settled in the Lowcountry.
The museum is located in a former oyster and crab factory, where many Gullah-Geechee families once worked.
Visitors can learn about traditional fishing techniques, the Gullah language, and the cultural traditions that have been passed down for generations.
The museum provides a rare glimpse into a community that has shaped Savannah’s identity.
On select days, admission is free, making this an accessible and meaningful stop for anyone interested in local history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy Outdoor & Nature Activities
18. Savannah Botanical Gardens
The Savannah Botanical Gardens is a peaceful, 10-acre green space showcasing a variety of plants, flowers, and walking trails.
Maintained in partnership with local garden clubs, the gardens highlight the beauty of Southern landscaping and offer visitors a chance to explore different plant varieties up close.
Among its highlights is the Rose Garden, home to fragrant blooms, including the stunning Neil Diamond Rose, a favorite for its vibrant color and strong scent.
Other themed gardens include the Cottage Garden, which resembles an old-world English garden with a mix of herbs, produce, and flowering plants, and the Mediterranean Garden, featuring olive trees, lavender, and European flora.
The Rivers of Iris section, bursting with hybrid irises, is particularly breathtaking in spring.
The gardens are free to visit and open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday until 8:45 p.m.
They also serve as a popular wedding venue, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and events.
19. Take a Boat Cruise Down the Savannah River
One of the most scenic ways to experience Savannah is by taking a boat cruise along the Savannah River.
These cruises allow visitors to see the city’s waterfront from a different perspective while learning about its rich maritime history.
Cruises depart from the same location where General James Oglethorpe first landed, offering stunning views of the historic riverfront, the Port of Savannah, and the towering Eugene Talmadge Memorial Bridge.
Along the way, you’ll pass notable landmarks like Hutchinson Island, Old Fort Jackson, and the famous Waving Girl Statue, dedicated to Florence Martus.
There are multiple cruise options, including:
- Sightseeing cruises – Learn about Savannah’s history and landmarks.
- Dinner, lunch, and brunch cruises – Enjoy a meal while taking in the views.
- Sunset cruises – A romantic way to experience the city at dusk.
- Gospel cruises – Featuring live music and Southern hospitality.
For those looking for a free alternative, the Savannah Belles Ferry provides short but scenic river crossings at no cost.
20. Visit Tybee Island Beach
Just 20 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island is the go-to beach destination for visitors looking to relax by the ocean.
This laid-back coastal town features sandy shores, calm waves, and plenty of activities for outdoor lovers.
One of Tybee’s most iconic sites is the Tybee Island Lighthouse, which dates back to 1773. Visitors can climb 178 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
Nearby, Fort Pulaski National Monument offers a glimpse into Civil War history and features well-preserved brick fortifications and scenic walking trails.
Beyond its historical landmarks, Tybee Island is a great place for:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Dolphin-watching tours
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Fishing and birdwatching
21. Explore the Nature Trails
For those who love hiking and birdwatching, Savannah has plenty of nature trails that showcase the beauty of the coastal landscape.
One of the best places to explore is Skidaway Island State Park, located just 25 minutes from downtown.
This peaceful retreat offers miles of trails through marshlands, salt flats, and forests, with observation platforms providing scenic views of the surrounding wildlife.
The park is home to egrets, herons, and other coastal birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and photographers.
Other great nature trails in the area include:
- McQueens Trail
- Fort McAllister State Park
For visitors looking to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors, these trails provide a quiet escape into Savannah’s natural beauty.
22. Hop Aboard the Free Savannah Belles Ferry
A great way to see Savannah’s skyline without spending a dime is by riding the Savannah Belles Ferry.
This free ferry service connects River Street, Hutchinson Island, and the Savannah Convention Center, providing a quick and scenic ride across the river.
While the ferry only takes about five minutes to cross, it offers fantastic views of the waterfront, passing cargo ships, and the sunset over the Talmadge Bridge.
It’s a great option for anyone wanting to see the city from a different perspective.
There are three ferry pick-up locations:
- City Hall Landing – Located at Savannah’s Riverwalk.
- Waving Girl Landing – Near Morrell Park and the Savannah Marriott Riverfront.
- The Westin Landing – At the Savannah Convention Center on Hutchinson Island.
23. Enjoy a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Dolphin-watching tours are one of the best family-friendly activities near Tybee Island.
These boat trips take visitors into the coastal waters where bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted swimming and playing.
Guides on these tours provide educational insights about dolphin behavior, conservation efforts, and the local marine ecosystem.
You’ll also have the chance to see other wildlife, including pelicans, sea turtles, and stingrays.
Most dolphin tours operate seasonally, with the best sightings in the warmer months.
Since these tours are extremely popular, it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot.
Take Unforgettable Tours & Experiences
24. Take a Walking Tour
Walking through Savannah’s historic streets is the best way to experience its beauty up close.
Many guided walking tours take visitors past lush gardens, Spanish moss-covered oak trees, and well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes.
Guides share fascinating stories about Savannah’s architecture, history, and folklore, making the city’s past come alive.
Several organizations offer walking tours, including Free Savannah Tours, which operates on a pay-what-you-wish model.
While the tour itself is free, there is a small booking fee of $2.85 to reserve a spot.
Walking tours are a great way to start your visit, as they provide a solid introduction to the city and often include recommendations for other things to do.
25. Take a Ghost Tour
Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America.
Its long history, filled with wars, fires, and untimely deaths, has left behind more than just historic buildings—it has created a city full of ghost stories.
A ghost tour is one of the best ways to experience Savannah’s eerie side.
Several types of ghost tours are available, from walking tours that explore haunted cemeteries and mansions to trolley tours that provide exclusive access to Savannah’s most notorious paranormal sites.
For a truly unique experience, some tours even take place in converted hearses.
Popular stops on ghost tours include Colonial Park Cemetery and the Sorrel-Weed House, both known for their unsettling pasts.
Those looking for an even more immersive experience can book a stay at one of Savannah’s haunted hotels, including The Marshall House, The Kehoe House, and the 17Hundred90 Inn.
26. Take a Trolley Tour Through the Historic District
For those who prefer to explore Savannah without too much walking, a trolley tour is the perfect option.
These guided tours offer a comfortable way to see Savannah’s historic district while learning about its landmarks and history.
Many trolley tours operate on a hop-on-hop-off system, allowing visitors to explore sites at their own pace before rejoining the tour.
Trolley tours take visitors past some of the city’s most famous locations, including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the Mercer-Williams House Museum, and several of Savannah’s beautifully maintained public squares.
Tour guides provide engaging historical insights and entertaining stories along the way.
For first-time visitors, a trolley tour is an excellent way to get an overview of the city.
Some companies even offer themed tours, such as holiday-themed routes and nighttime ghost tours, providing a variety of ways to experience Savannah’s history.
27. Take a Carriage Ride Through Historic Squares
Savannah’s charm is best experienced at a slow, relaxed pace, and there’s no better way to do that than with a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Carriage tours provide a scenic and romantic way to explore the city’s historic squares while learning about its rich past.
Savannah is home to 22 public squares, each with its own unique history.
Many carriage tours pass through Chippewa Square, famous for its connection to the movie Forrest Gump, as well as Madison Square, which features colonial-era monuments.
Guides share stories about the city’s past, its architecture, and the people who once lived in these grand homes.
Carriage rides are available as private tours for those looking for an intimate experience or as shared group rides for a more social outing.
28. Join a Food Tour
Savannah is known for its Southern cuisine, and the best way to experience it is through a guided food tour.
These tours take visitors on a culinary journey through the city, stopping at local restaurants, bakeries, and food markets to sample some of Savannah’s best dishes.
There are several types of food tours available, including walking tours through the historic district, dessert-focused tours for those with a sweet tooth, and even pub crawls that highlight the city’s best cocktails.
Along the way, guides provide insight into the history and culture behind each dish, making the experience both delicious and educational.
For food lovers, a Savannah food tour is a must.
It’s a fun way to taste the city’s flavors while also exploring its historic streets.
29. Visit Forrest Gump Filming Locations
Fans of Forrest Gump will recognize Chippewa Square as the backdrop for the famous bus bench scenes.
Although the actual bench was a movie prop and is now housed in the Savannah History Museum, the square itself remains one of the most visited filming locations in the city.
Visitors can stroll through the area and imagine the scenes playing out as Forrest told his life story.
While in the square, it’s also worth taking in the surrounding historic buildings and soaking up the atmosphere that made this location so iconic.
Beyond Forrest Gump, Savannah has been the setting for numerous other films, making it a great city to explore for movie lovers.
Shop, Dine & Experience Savannah’s Charm
30. Shop on Broughton Street
Broughton Street is the heart of Savannah’s shopping scene.
Lined with local boutiques, national retailers, and charming cafés, it’s the perfect place to explore at a leisurely pace.
Visitors will find a mix of fashion, antiques, and specialty shops, each offering a unique slice of Savannah’s style.
For those who love home decor and vintage treasures, The Paris Market is a must-visit.
This two-story boutique features curated antiques, artisan goods, and a charming café.
Another standout is Civvies, a secondhand clothing store with an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary fashion.
Broughton Street is also a food lover’s paradise.
Start the day with breakfast at The Funky Brunch Café or The Coffee Fox.
For lunch, grab a healthy bite at Kayak Kafé or enjoy flavorful dishes at Flying Monk Noodle Bar.
Dinner options range from the upscale Alligator Soul to the cozy French bistro Circa 1875.
No visit to Broughton Street is complete without stopping at Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Established in 1919, this legendary ice cream shop has been serving handcrafted flavors for over a century.
It’s a favorite of locals and celebrities alike, with fans including former President Jimmy Carter, actor Ben Affleck, and actress Helen Mirren.
Flavors like Coconut Coffee, Peanut Butter Chippy, and Caramel Swirl keep visitors coming back, while seasonal offerings like Guinness ice cream for St. Patrick’s Day add to the excitement.
Expect a line—it’s worth the wait.
31. Go Antique Shopping
Savannah’s history is reflected in its thriving antique scene.
Throughout the historic district and Thomas Square area, visitors can browse boutique shops, large antique warehouses, and specialty markets.
For those looking for high-end antiques and unique gifts, The Paris Market offers carefully selected treasures from around the world.
If furniture and home decor are more your style, Jere’s Antiques specializes in rare pieces and elegant furnishings.
In the Thomas Square neighborhood, Picker Joe’s Antique Mall and Vintage Market is a paradise for collectors.
This 10,000-square-foot space feels like a museum, with everything from vintage signage and memorabilia to mid-century furniture and classic records.
They even have a vintage soda shop where shoppers can grab a coffee or ice cream while hunting for hidden gems.
For antique lovers, Savannah’s shops offer a glimpse into the past, with treasures waiting to be discovered in every corner.
32. Explore Plant Riverside
Once a historic power plant, Plant Riverside District has been transformed into one of Savannah’s most exciting entertainment destinations.
This lively area features restaurants, rooftop bars, shopping, live music, and even a splash pad for families.
Dining options range from casual pizza joints to upscale steakhouses, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
Art lovers will appreciate the curated shops and galleries, which showcase work from local and international artists.
Those looking for a scenic drink can head to one of the district’s rooftop bars, where cocktails are paired with stunning Savannah River views.
One of the most unique attractions in Plant Riverside is the massive glass dinosaur skeleton inside Generator Hall.
Visitors can explore the lobby of the JW Marriott, which is designed like a natural history museum, complete with enormous geodes, fossils, and interactive exhibits.
For music lovers, District Live hosts concerts and events, making Plant Riverside a go-to spot for nightlife.
33. Tour City Hall
Savannah’s City Hall is an architectural landmark with a golden dome that stands out in the city’s skyline.
Built in 1906, it remains a hub for local government and is open to visitors interested in learning about its history and design.
Free self-guided tours are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
On the first Tuesday of every month at noon, guided tours provide a deeper look into the building’s history, its role in Savannah’s development, and the impressive local art displayed in the rotunda.
Visitors taking a self-guided tour can pick up a history booklet at the security guard station to learn more about the building’s significance.
34. Attend a Free Concert or Event at Emmet Park
Emmet Park is a picturesque green space at the eastern end of Bay Street, known for its Irish heritage and scenic river views.
It’s also a gathering place for free concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
One of the most popular events held here is the Savannah Jazz Festival, which takes place in September.
Sitting under the stars, listening to world-class jazz, with the Savannah River as a backdrop is an unforgettable experience.
Even when there’s no event, Emmet Park is a great place to relax, take a stroll, and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
35. See a Show at the Historic Savannah Theatre
The Savannah Theatre, established in 1818, is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in America.
Over its 200-year history, it has hosted legendary performances, including those by Edwin Booth, brother of John Wilkes Booth.
Despite enduring fires and renovations, the theater remains a key venue for live entertainment.
Visitors can attend musicals, concerts, and comedy performances, all while admiring the Art Deco decor that gives the theater its signature style.
For those interested in Savannah’s ghost stories, the theater offers a Haunted Tour.
Every evening at 10:30 p.m., paranormal investigators guide guests through backstage areas and hidden spaces, using the latest ghost-hunting equipment to track paranormal activity.
