Carriage rides to romantic candlelit dinners, cobblestone streets, and old Victorian mansions among majestic live oaks make Savannah getaways perfect for Valentine’s Day. Perhaps it’s part of the reason Savannah was recently named as the third best romantic getaway in America by U.S. News. Don’t overlook Savannah getaways for the whole family, either. Valentine’s Day 2019 falls on a Thursday this year followed by a long President’s Day weekend (no school on Monday).
The weather is usually mild in Savannah this time of year, and the winter Camellias are in full bloom. The crowds are gone out at nearby Tybee Island, and the beach is perfect for hunting shells on a long winter beach walk. It’ll be chilly enough after dark to snuggle up in front of a romantic fire in a condo or vacation home. It’s a short drive into Savannah where there’s always something going on from visiting the city’s museums to partying on the riverfront. Here are some suggestions for an exciting and romantic Valentine’s Day/President’s Day weekend for Savannah getaways.
Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise
Savannah Riverboat Cruises love to celebrate holidays, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. Celebrate with them on a Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise February 14th, 15th or 16th. The two-hour cruise features a four-course dinner, live entertainment, house wine or champagne, a bouquet of fresh-cut roses, and dancing, all in one inclusive price. Even the menu sounds romantic: She-crab Soup, Georgia Peach Salad, Filet Mignon Au Poivre, Riverboat Crème Brulee, and more. Boarding begins at 6 p.m. and departure is at 7 p.m. Make reservations in advance.
AURA Fest
Held on Saturday, Feb. 16, AURA Fest is a one-day underground rock festival to be held at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. There will be food trucks, music, and other activities. It’s all a part of Crossing Horizons, an event to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Steamship Savannah’s historic voyage in 1819 that ushered in a new era of oceanic travel.
Savannah Irish Festival
A prelude to the huge St. Patrick’s Day festival in Savannah next month, the Savannah Irish Festival has been held each year in February for over three decades. The festival brings top Irish musical acts and Irish dancers, and lots of fun activities to Georgia’s oldest city. It all happens on the weekend of Feb 1-17th at the Savannah Civic Center. Find out more at savannahirish.org.
Savannah Black Heritage Festival
Since February is Black History Month, this festival begins on the first and continues until the 21st, so you’ll get to experience some of the best of the festival over Valentine’s and President’s Day weekend. It’s celebrated through the visual and performing arts, cultural education, crafts, and ethnic cuisine. There will be music in every genre, lectures, historic tours, and more. Find out more at savannahblackheritage festival.com.
Savannah Book Festival
Since it’s February, celebrate your love for books at this annual festival held this year on Feb.14th-16th. Over 40 authors will gather in seven venues scattered throughout Savannah’s beautiful squares in the Historic District. Author presentations are free and open to the public on Saturday. Get tickets for all other events at tickets.savannahboxoffice.com.