Is the Savannah History Museum worth visiting?

Absolutely. It provides one of the best introductions to Savannah’s history while showcasing artifacts that span nearly three centuries.

Is the original Forrest Gump bench here?

Yes. The original bench used during filming is preserved inside the Savannah History Museum.

How long should I spend at the museum?

Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring the exhibits.

Is the museum family friendly?

Yes. Families enjoy the interactive exhibits, transportation displays, military history, and famous movie memorabilia.

Can I visit the Railroad Museum the same day?

Yes. The Savannah History Museum and Georgia State Railroad Museum sit adjacent to one another and are frequently visited together.

Is the museum within walking distance of downtown Savannah?

Yes. The museum is located within Savannah’s Historic District and is easily accessible from nearby hotels, restaurants, and vacation rentals.

Things to Do

Savannah History Museum

Who It's For

ADA Friendly

Children

Couples

Families

First-Time Visitors

Groups

History Buffs

Indoor

Rainy Day

Seniors

Solo Travelers

Location

Savannah Historic District

Best Time To Visit

Afternoon

Morning

Duration

1-2 Hours

Best Seasons

Year Round

Environment

Indoor

Type of Experience

Museum

The Savannah History Museum is one of the best places to begin your exploration of Georgia’s oldest city. Located inside the historic Central of Georgia Railway passenger shed, the museum tells the story of Savannah from its founding in 1733 through the Revolutionary War, Civil War, industrial growth, and modern day.

With engaging exhibits, historic artifacts, military collections, and one of the city’s most recognizable movie props, the museum offers visitors an excellent introduction to the people, events, and innovations that shaped Savannah into the destination it is today.

Why We Recommend It

We often recommend the Savannah History Museum early in a guest’s stay because it provides valuable context for everything they’ll experience throughout the Historic District.

Rather than simply displaying artifacts, the museum helps visitors understand how Savannah evolved over nearly three centuries. After learning the city’s story here, walking through River Street, Forsyth Park, City Market, and Savannah’s famous squares becomes even more meaningful.

History

The Savannah History Museum occupies the former Central of Georgia Railway passenger station, an important transportation hub dating back to the mid-1800s. Today, the museum preserves more than 250 years of Savannah’s history through permanent exhibits, historic collections, military artifacts, decorative arts, and transportation displays.

Perhaps its most famous artifact is the original park bench used during the filming of Forrest Gump. While many visitors mistakenly look for the bench in Chippewa Square, it is preserved here inside the museum, making it one of Savannah’s most photographed exhibits.

What We Like

The museum does an outstanding job presenting Savannah’s history in a way that’s approachable for everyone. Whether you’re interested in colonial history, railroads, military heritage, or popular culture, there’s something here that adds depth to your visit.

We also appreciate its location. Sitting next to the Georgia State Railroad Museum, it’s easy to experience both attractions together while remaining just minutes from the rest of Savannah’s Historic District.

Things To Know Before You Go

See the Original Forrest Gump Bench

The famous movie bench is displayed here—not in Chippewa Square.

Pair It With the Railroad Museum

Both museums are located side by side and make an excellent half-day experience.

Allow Time to Read the Exhibits

The museum contains far more than movie memorabilia, with fascinating displays covering every era of Savannah’s history.

Great First Stop

Visiting early in your trip provides valuable historical context for the rest of your Savannah itinerary.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The museum is easy to explore, and many guests continue walking through the Historic District afterward.

Great Rainy-Day Activity

The Savannah History Museum is one of the city’s best indoor attractions when weather changes your plans.

FAQs

The Savannah History Museum provides the perfect foundation for exploring one of America’s most historic cities. Whether you’re discovering the city’s colonial beginnings, admiring the original Forrest Gump bench, or learning how Savannah evolved into the cultural destination it is today, it’s a rewarding stop for visitors of every age.

Our Savannah Historic District Vacation Rentals place you just minutes from the Savannah History Museum, Georgia State Railroad Museum, River Street, City Market, and many of Savannah’s most celebrated attractions.