Savannah is the oldest city in the state of Georgia, and a visit there will transport you back in time. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets and stop for a quick bite or in one of the shops along the way. Here’s a little guide to help you make the most of your time in Savannah.
Where to Stay
Begin your trip to Savannah by booking a stay at the adorable and possibly haunted Eliza Thompson House. Step out of the front door and you’ll already be in the heart of historical Old Town Savannah, surrounded by antebellum mansions and just a short walk from Forsyth Park.
What to Do
Get oriented by taking a walking tour. Pick your poison: a historical overview with fun anecdotes or a spooky night walk to hear about crimes or ghosts. Either way, you’ll get the lay of the land and some more context about Savannah for the rest of your visit.
If you’ve read or seen Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, you’re probably already familiar with Bonaventure Cemetery. Situated on a beautiful bluff over the Wilmington River, this beautifully eerie cemetery is on a former plantation and features some of the most ornate burial plots you’ll ever see. Cemeteries might not seem like the type of thing you want to see while on a vacation, but you won’t want to miss this one.
Take a stroll through Savannah’s famous Forsyth Park, a 30-acre green space in the historic district. You’ve probably seen the park’s iconic two-tiered cast-iron fountain surrounded by Spanish moss trees, so now is your chance to see it in person.
Support local art students by purchasing their work. Savannah is home to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), one of the United States’ top art schools. The college has a boutique shop called shopSCAD, which features pieces by students and faculty.
What to Eat
There’s no shortage of things to eat in Savannah. If you’re hoping for some traditional Southern fare, try the delectable shrimp and grits from A.lure. There’s no fancy twist here, just exactly as you’d expect from a little old Southern lady’s kitchen.
If you’re after beautiful ambiance to accompany your delicious food, The Olde Pink House is popular among locals and tourists alike. This spot serves up Southern food in a beautiful colonial mansion, which features live music in the cellar tavern. Try the pecan-crusted chicken with blackberry bourbon glaze, a sweet potato with pecan-vanilla butter, and collards. You won’t be disappointed!
Do you have a sweet tooth? Leopold’s Ice Cream was founded in 1919 by three brothers from Greece and has been Savannah’s favorite ice cream shop since. Offering over 20 everyday flavors and over 20 seasonal or special flavors, you’ll find something to please your palate and cool you down on a hot summer’s day.
No matter what you decide to do in Savannah, you’re sure to fall in love with its beautiful and historic southern charm. It’s hard not to be enamored with this city!
