Is City Market free to visit?

Yes. City Market is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the shops, galleries, and public spaces without an admission fee.

How much time should I spend at City Market?

Most visitors spend between one and three hours shopping, dining, and exploring the district.

Is City Market worth visiting?

Absolutely. City Market offers one of Savannah’s best combinations of local shopping, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment, all within the Historic District.

Is City Market good for families?

Yes. Families enjoy the open pedestrian-friendly layout, candy stores, restaurants, and frequent live entertainment.

Does City Market have live music?

Yes. Many restaurants and outdoor venues feature live music throughout the week, particularly during the evenings and weekends.

Can you walk to City Market from River Street?

Yes. City Market is only a few minutes’ walk from River Street, making it easy to experience both attractions during the same outing.

Things to Do

City Market

Who It's For

Budget-Friendly

Children

Couples

Families

First-Time Visitors

Foodies

Groups

Luxury Experience

Photography

Romantic

Seniors

Shopping

Solo Travelers

Location

Savannah Historic District

Best Time To Visit

Afternoon

Evening

Night

Duration

1-2 Hours

Half Day

Best Seasons

Year Round

Environment

Outdoor

Type of Experience

Attraction

Shopping

Located just a few blocks from River Street, City Market has been a gathering place in Savannah for more than two centuries. Today, its four open-air blocks are filled with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, live music venues, cafés, and specialty shops, making it one of the city’s most popular destinations for visitors exploring the Historic District.

Whether you’re searching for locally made artwork, enjoying lunch on an outdoor patio, listening to live music after dinner, or simply wandering through Savannah’s charming streets, City Market offers an atmosphere that blends history with modern Southern hospitality. It’s an easy place to spend an hour—or an entire afternoon—and pairs perfectly with nearby attractions like River Street and Savannah Riverboat Cruises.

Why We Recommend It

City Market is one of our favorite recommendations because it offers something for nearly every visitor. Unlike attractions that focus on a single experience, City Market combines shopping, dining, entertainment, and local art into one walkable destination.

Guests often visit more than once during their stay. It’s equally enjoyable for grabbing coffee in the morning, shopping during the afternoon, or enjoying dinner and live music in the evening. Because everything is concentrated within a few historic blocks, it’s easy to explore without feeling rushed, making it an excellent stop for families, couples, and first-time visitors alike.

History

Savannah’s City Market dates back to the early 1800s when it served as the city’s central marketplace for produce, livestock, and everyday goods. Farmers and merchants gathered here to sell fresh food and supplies, making it one of Savannah’s busiest commercial centers for generations.

Although much of the original market was demolished during urban renewal efforts in the mid-20th century, the district was thoughtfully revitalized in the 1980s. Today, City Market preserves its historic character while welcoming visitors with restaurants, galleries, shops, and entertainment. It remains one of the best places to experience Savannah’s vibrant local culture while walking through one of the city’s most historic commercial districts.

What We Like

City Market feels distinctly Savannah. Rather than being dominated by national retailers, you’ll find independent artists, local restaurants, unique boutiques, and live musicians creating an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and authentic.

We especially enjoy the variety. One visit might include browsing local artwork, sampling handmade pralines, and enjoying lunch on an outdoor patio. Another could involve evening cocktails, live jazz, and shopping for gifts before heading back to your vacation rental.

It’s also one of the easiest places to recommend because it appeals to nearly every type of traveler and fits comfortably into almost any itinerary.

Things To Know Before You Go

Take Your Time

City Market is best experienced by wandering. Allow yourself time to browse galleries, shops, and restaurants rather than rushing through.

Visit During the Evening

Many restaurants feature live music in the evenings, creating one of Savannah’s most enjoyable nightlife atmospheres.

Explore the Art Galleries

Several working artists and galleries showcase original paintings, photography, jewelry, and locally inspired artwork throughout the district.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

City Market connects easily with River Street, Ellis Square, and Broughton Street, making it a natural stop during a full day of walking.

Shop Local

Many of the boutiques feature products made by Savannah artists and Georgia businesses, making it an excellent place to find unique souvenirs.

Pair It With Nearby Attractions

City Market is within easy walking distance of River Street, Savannah Riverboat Cruises, Ellis Square, and many of Savannah’s best restaurants.

FAQs

City Market is one of those places that captures Savannah’s personality perfectly. Whether you’re enjoying local cuisine, discovering regional artists, listening to live music, or simply taking in the lively atmosphere, it’s a destination that encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the city at their own pace.

Our Savannah Historic District Vacation Rentals place you within walking distance of City Market, River Street, Forsyth Park, Savannah Riverboat Cruises, and many of Savannah’s most popular restaurants and attractions, allowing you to experience the very best of the Hostess City without ever needing to venture far from home.