Visiting Savannah is an experience in Southern hospitality in a charming historical setting. Spend some time in this quaint and quirky town on the coast of South Georgia and see why Savannah vacations are top-rated in worldwide travel guides. The town, laid out in 22 squares by General James Oglethorpe, was spared from destruction in the Civil War and presented to President Lincoln in 1864 as a Christmas gift by Sherman, the Union general who captured it. Well over a century later, history buffs, foodies, and fun lovers of all stripes flock to Savannah vacation rentals for the following attractions and more. There are plenty of things to do when visiting Savannah, GA. Here are top recommendations:
Stroll Savannah’s Historic District
Since our winters are mild, visiting Savannah any time of the year is perfect for a walk through the Historic District. The squares are lined with live oaks draped in Spanish moss and fascinating period architecture. You will happen upon historic homes like the Mercer House from the book and movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and Girl Scout’s founder Juliette Gordon Low, museums, and monuments. Explore on your own or join a ghost tour, carriage ride or one of many specialty Savannah tours. The District buzzes with activity all year with festivals, music, art, and culture. Savannah vacation rentals make it possible to stay in the midst of it all.
Savannah’s Authentic Southern Cusine
The town’s food scene deserves particular attention on Savannah vacations. Sample fried green tomatoes, ham-hocked collard greens, fried chicken and other Southern delights in homey restaurants like Sisters and Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. You’ll find fine dining featuring exquisite low country recipes with fresh local seafood in upscale restaurants like Elizabeth on 37th, and the Olde Pink House. Make room for a Southern-style buffet at The Lady & Sons made famous by chef Paula Deen.
Savannah’s Historical Landmarks
Savannah’s historic sites aren’t limited to mansions and museums downtown. Wormsloe Historic Site 20 minutes south of the city is the oldest standing structure in the city. The picturesque drive under a canopy of live oaks is worth the trip to see the remains of the house built of tabby back in 1745. The site has a museum and colonial reenactors.
Visit Bonaventure Cemetary one of Savannah’s most iconic sites. You will likely find it looks familiar since it was featured in the hit movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The famous Bird Girl statue has been moved to the Jepsen Center for the Arts, but you will still see the headstones and family crypts of Savannah’s most notable residents in an eerily beautiful setting.
River Street and Savannah’s Beach
Savannah’s historic River Street is a mecca of shops, restaurants, and nightclubs housed in old cotton warehouses. Watch huge ships travel the channel to Savannah Harbor while dining and sipping cocktails. You’ll likely find a special event to celebrate on River Street every month on the calendar from St. Patrick’s Day to Oktoberfest.
Tybee Island is Savannah’s Beach and has earned a destination reputation of its own. It’s close enough (18 miles) for an afternoon excursion from Savannah on a hot day or check into a variety of Tybee Island Vacation rentals to enjoy this wide sandy South Georgia beach.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or beach goer, there’s plenty of things to do when visiting Savannah, GA.