What to Do in Savannah, GA: A Guide to the Hostess City

What to Do in Savannah, GA: A Guide to the Hostess City

Savannah, Georgia, is a charming city with a rich history and culture. Founded in 1733, Savannah is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delicious food. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a foodie, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Savannah.

One of the best ways to explore Savannah is on foot. The city's historic district is home to many beautiful buildings, including the Forsyth Park Fountain, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the Owens-Thomas House. You can also take a walk along the Savannah Riverfront, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and bars. If you're looking for a more active way to explore the city, you can rent a bike or take a carriage ride.

In addition to its many historical and cultural attractions, Savannah is also home to a number of parks and gardens. Forsyth Park is a popular spot for picnics and concerts, while the Savannah Botanical Gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. If you're looking for a more adventurous activity, you can go kayaking or canoeing on the Savannah River.

what to do in savannah ga

Explore historic district.

  • Walk along riverfront.
  • Visit Forsyth Park.
  • See Cathedral of St. John.
  • Take carriage ride.
  • Visit botanical gardens.
  • Go kayaking or canoeing.
  • Enjoy local food.

With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Savannah has something to offer everyone.

Walk along riverfront.

One of the best ways to enjoy Savannah's beauty is to take a walk along the Savannah Riverfront. This scenic walkway stretches for over a mile along the Savannah River, offering stunning views of the river, the city skyline, and the Talmadge Memorial Bridge.

As you walk along the Riverfront, you'll pass by a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. You can stop for a bite to eat, a drink, or some shopping, or simply relax and enjoy the view. The Riverfront is also a great place to people-watch, as it's always bustling with activity.

If you're looking for a more active way to enjoy the Riverfront, you can rent a bike or take a Segway tour. You can also take a boat tour of the Savannah River, which is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, a walk along the Savannah Riverfront is a must-do for any visitor to the city.

Here are some of the things you can see and do along the Savannah Riverfront:

  • Visit the Savannah History Museum.
  • Take a boat tour of the Savannah River.
  • Have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants.
  • Shop for souvenirs at the gift shops.
  • Relax and enjoy the view of the river.

Visit Forsyth Park.

Forsyth Park is one of Savannah's most popular parks, and for good reason. This beautiful park has something to offer everyone, from lush gardens and walking trails to a playground and a café.

  • Explore the gardens.

    Forsyth Park is home to a variety of beautiful gardens, including the Forsyth Park Rose Garden, the Forsyth Park Japanese Garden, and the Forsyth Park Sensory Garden. These gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

  • Walk or bike the trails.

    Forsyth Park has a network of walking and biking trails that wind through the park's gardens and woods. These trails are a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the park's scenery.

  • Visit the playground.

    Forsyth Park has a large playground with a variety of play equipment for children of all ages. The playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy and have some fun.

  • Grab a bite to eat at the café.

    The Forsyth Park Café is a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink. The café offers a variety of menu items, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts.

Forsyth Park is a great place to visit for a relaxing day in the park. Whether you're looking to explore the gardens, walk the trails, play with the kids, or simply relax with a picnic lunch, Forsyth Park has something for everyone.

See Cathedral of St. John.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a must-see for any visitor to Savannah. This beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of the city's historic district and is a popular spot for weddings and other special events.

  • Admire the architecture.

    The Cathedral of St. John is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. The cathedral's exterior is made of brownstone and features intricate carvings and sculptures. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive, with its high ceilings, stained glass windows, and marble floors.

  • Take a tour.

    The Cathedral of St. John offers guided tours for visitors. These tours are a great way to learn more about the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are available Monday through Saturday at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:00 PM.

  • Attend a service.

    If you're visiting Savannah on a Sunday, you can attend a service at the Cathedral of St. John. Services are held at 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, and 5:00 PM. Attending a service is a great way to experience the cathedral's beautiful architecture and music.

  • Visit the gift shop.

    The Cathedral of St. John has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and religious items. The gift shop is located in the cathedral's narthex and is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The Cathedral of St. John is a beautiful and historic building that is a must-see for any visitor to Savannah.

Take carriage ride.

One of the best ways to see the historic district of Savannah is to take a carriage ride. These horse-drawn carriages are a fun and relaxing way to learn about the city's history and architecture. Carriage rides typically last for about an hour and cover the main sights of the historic district, including Forsyth Park, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the Owens-Thomas House.

Carriage rides are available from a number of different companies in Savannah. You can find carriage rides at the following locations:

  • City Market
  • Forsyth Park
  • Madison Square
  • The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Prices for carriage rides vary depending on the company and the length of the ride. However, most carriage rides cost between $20 and $40 per person.

Carriage rides are a great way to see the sights of Savannah and learn about the city's history. They're also a fun and romantic way to spend an afternoon or evening.

Here are some tips for taking a carriage ride in Savannah:

  • Book your ride in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak season.
  • Arrive at your pick-up location early.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat if you're taking a ride during the day.
  • Ask your driver about the sights you're passing by.
  • Enjoy the ride!

Visit botanical gardens.

The Savannah Botanical Gardens is a beautiful 100-acre garden located just a few miles from downtown Savannah. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of walking trails and educational exhibits.

The Savannah Botanical Gardens is divided into several different sections, including:

  • The Formal Gardens: This section of the gardens features a variety of colorful flowers and plants, as well as a reflecting pool and a gazebo.
  • The Native Plant Garden: This section of the gardens features a variety of plants that are native to Georgia and the surrounding region.
  • The Woodland Garden: This section of the gardens features a variety of trees and shrubs, as well as a walking trail.
  • The Children's Garden: This section of the gardens features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for children.

The Savannah Botanical Gardens also has a number of special events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and plant sales. The gardens are a great place to visit for a relaxing day out in nature.

Here are some tips for visiting the Savannah Botanical Gardens:

  • Plan your visit ahead of time by checking the gardens' website for information on current events and exhibits.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat if you're visiting during the day.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the gardens.
  • Allow plenty of time to explore the gardens. There's a lot to see, so you don't want to feel rushed.

Go kayaking or canoeing.

Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore Savannah's waterways and get some exercise at the same time. There are a number of places in Savannah where you can rent kayaks and canoes, including:

  • Savannah Canoe and Kayak
  • Savannah Kayak Company
  • Okefenokee Adventures
  • Explore the Savannah River.

    The Savannah River is a great place to kayak or canoe. You can paddle along the riverfront and see the city from a different perspective. You can also paddle to one of the many islands in the river, such as Hutchinson Island or Elba Island.

  • Explore the creeks and marshes.

    Savannah is home to a number of creeks and marshes, which are also great places to kayak or canoe. You can paddle through the creeks and marshes and see the wildlife that lives there, such as birds, fish, and alligators.

  • Take a guided tour.

    If you're new to kayaking or canoeing, you can take a guided tour. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the area and see the sights. You can also rent kayaks or canoes from the tour company.

  • Bring your own kayak or canoe.

    If you have your own kayak or canoe, you can bring it with you to Savannah. There are a number of places in the city where you can launch your kayak or canoe, including the Savannah River, the creeks, and the marshes.

Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to enjoy the beauty of Savannah and get some exercise at the same time. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, there's a place for you to kayak or canoe in Savannah.

Enjoy local food.

Savannah is a foodie's paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants serving up everything from classic Southern cuisine to international fare. Here are some of the local dishes you should try when you're in Savannah:

  • Shrimp and grits. This classic Southern dish is made with fresh shrimp, grits, and a creamy sauce. It's a hearty and delicious meal that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
  • Lowcountry boil. This seafood feast is made with shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes. It's a great dish to share with friends and family.
  • Fried green tomatoes. These are green tomatoes that are coated in cornmeal and fried until they're golden brown. They're a delicious appetizer or side dish.
  • Pecan pie. This classic Southern dessert is made with pecans, sugar, butter, and eggs. It's a sweet and decadent treat that's perfect for any occasion.

In addition to these classic dishes, Savannah is also home to a number of innovative restaurants that are serving up new and exciting dishes. Here are a few of the restaurants you should check out:

  • The Grey. This restaurant is located in a historic building and serves up modern Southern cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect to find delicious and creative dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room. This family-style restaurant has been serving up classic Southern dishes since 1943. The menu is simple, but everything is delicious. Be sure to try the fried chicken and the collard greens.
  • Zunzi's. This restaurant is known for its Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including jerk chicken, curry goat, and roti. The food is flavorful and delicious.

No matter what your taste, you're sure to find something to love in Savannah's culinary scene. Be sure to sample some of the local dishes when you're in town.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about what to do in Savannah, GA:

Question 1: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah?
Answer 1: Some of the best things to do in Savannah include exploring the historic district, taking a walk along the Savannah Riverfront, visiting Forsyth Park, seeing the Cathedral of St. John, taking a carriage ride, visiting the botanical gardens, kayaking or canoeing, and enjoying the local food.

Question 2: What are some of the best places to eat in Savannah?
Answer 2: Savannah has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from classic Southern cuisine to international fare. Some of the best places to eat in Savannah include The Grey, Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, and Zunzi's.

Question 3: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah for families?
Answer 3: Savannah is a great city for families. Some of the best things to do in Savannah for families include visiting the Savannah Children's Museum, taking a boat tour of the Savannah River, and visiting the Savannah Botanical Gardens.

Question 4: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah for couples?
Answer 4: Savannah is a romantic city with a lot to offer couples. Some of the best things to do in Savannah for couples include taking a carriage ride through the historic district, having dinner at a romantic restaurant, and taking a walk along the Savannah Riverfront.

Question 5: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah for history buffs?
Answer 5: Savannah is a city with a rich history. Some of the best things to do in Savannah for history buffs include visiting the Savannah History Museum, taking a guided tour of the historic district, and visiting the Owens-Thomas House.

Question 6: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah for outdoor enthusiasts?
Answer 6: Savannah is a great city for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best things to do in Savannah for outdoor enthusiasts include kayaking or canoeing on the Savannah River, hiking in the Forsyth Park, and biking along the Savannah Riverfront.

Question 7: What are some of the best things to do in Savannah for art lovers?
Answer 7: Savannah is home to a vibrant arts scene. Some of the best things to do in Savannah for art lovers include visiting the Telfair Museums, attending a performance at the Savannah Theatre, and visiting the Jepson Center for the Arts.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:

These are just a few of the many things you can do in Savannah, GA. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, Savannah is a great city to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

In addition to the things listed in the FAQ, here are a few tips for planning your trip to Savannah:

Tips

Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Savannah, GA:

Tip 1: Book your hotel in advance. Savannah is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your hotel in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

Tip 2: Take advantage of the free walking tours. There are a number of free walking tours available in Savannah. These tours are a great way to learn about the city's history and see some of the most popular sights.

Tip 3: Visit the city market. The City Market is a great place to find souvenirs, art, and local food. The market is open every day of the week.

Tip 4: Take a boat tour of the Savannah River. A boat tour of the Savannah River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are a number of different boat tour companies to choose from.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:

These are just a few tips to help you plan your trip to Savannah. With a little planning, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Now that you know what to do and how to plan your trip, it's time to start packing your bags and getting ready for your adventure in Savannah!

Conclusion

Savannah is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, food, or just relaxing on the riverfront, you're sure to find something to love in Savannah.

In this article, we've provided you with a comprehensive guide to what to do in Savannah. We've covered everything from the top attractions to the best places to eat and stay. We've also included a few tips to help you plan your trip.

Now that you know what to do in Savannah, it's time to start planning your trip. Be sure to book your hotel in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. And don't forget to take advantage of the free walking tours and boat tours. These tours are a great way to learn about the city's history and see some of the most popular sights.

We hope you have a wonderful time in Savannah! This city is full of charm and Southern hospitality, and we're sure you'll fall in love with it.

Images References :