Visiting Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, GA (my home) is a city of beauty, charm, stunning architecture, southern hospitality, and rich history.  The first thing that you notice when you enter the city is the iconic tree-lined streets and historic homes.  It gives you that warm feeling, letting you know that you are welcome to slow down and enjoy simplicity.

 

 

 

 

If you want to visit Savannah, it is easy to get around the hot spots by foot.  Enjoy a relaxing walk around Forsyth Park, our peaceful gathering place with flowers, fountains, and plenty of open green lawn to picnic and play games.  Also enjoy our historic district that features 22 historical squares that tell the stories of the city’s founders.

 

 

 

 

If you do not care to explore the city by foot, there is also the option of catching the Old Town Trolly Tours and Old Savannah Tours.  These are great starting points for new visitors to the city.  I like the convenience of being able to hop on and hop off as this gives you the versatility to move freely between attractions while being able to enjoy knowledgeable guided commentary.

 

 

 

 

Other must see experiences Savannah has to offer are:

 

• River Street (the shops, riverboat cruises, restaurants, and gorgeous riverfront views)

• City Market (our historic open-air market overflowing with art, food, and entertainment)

• Plant Riverside District (our vibrant central hub for exploring culture, exciting nightlife, restaurants, shops, and panoramic views from rooftop bars)

• The Savannah Squares (22 historic parks in the historic downtown area featuring monuments, life oaks, offering scenic views and intimate spaces to enjoy leisurely)

• Broughton Street (feel free to spend time shopping and purchasing souvenirs as these streets offer unique boutiques and quality shopping experiences)

• The Telfair Museums (The Telfair Academy, Jepson Center, Owens-Thomas House)

• The Juliet Gordon Low Birthplace (The original home of the matriarch of the Girl Scouts)

• Leopald’s Ice Cream (Legendary home made ice cream)

• Wormsloe Historic Site (breathtaking oak-lined avenue perfect for beautiful pictures)

• Starland Yard (a fun outdoor food truck park with live music and tasty drinks)

• The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum (capturing and detailing the civil rights movement in Savannah)

• Tybee Island Beach (less than 25 minutes away from downtown Savannah, it is a perfect getaway to relax and unwind on the serene beaches, and visit the historic lighthouse)

 

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to food and cuisine, in my opinion, it doesn’t get any better than Savannah’s flavorful mix of low country, southern comfort, and fresh coastal seafood.  My favorite restaurants that Bae and I frequently visit are (in no particular order):

 

 

These are my most recommended restaurants, but of course, there are hundreds of restaurants that offer a variety of dining experiences ranging from upscale dining to casual spots with outdoor patios.

 

 

 

 

 

*Must Try Foods*

 

There are 2 of my favorites that come to mind.  Of course I am going to suggest the Fried Seafood (shrimp, fish, oysters), and the She-Crab Soup.  Once you try them, you will immediately know why they are my favorites.

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Hotel & Lodging*

 

Savannah has hundreds of hotels with great accommodations ranging from $160 (off season, September to November) to $350 (peak season, March to May) per night.  These are the hotels that I recommend because of their convenience, location, and accommodations:

 

 

 

*The best time for visiting Savannah*

 

The best time for visiting the city is in the spring and fall.  Temperatures are usually comfortable and make for a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy the beautiful flowers and sights  around the city, the concerts, and the different festivals.  It gets quite hot during the summer months as the Savannah heat and humidity completely saturates your senses.  If you know, you know!

Lastly, a bit of guidance from a local resident.  A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy all that Savannah has to offer without feeling rushed.  For newcomers to the city, Day one, I recommend taking the Old Town Trolly Tour as this will give you a general layout of the city.  Then I would visit the City Market to enjoy live music, art, and local cuisine.  Day two, I recommend spending some time in Forsyth Park.  Plan a picnic on the vast green open space and soak up the beautiful atmosphere.  Then I would explore the nearby historical squares, shops, and cafes.  End the day on River Street and the Plant Riverside District.  Day three, take the short drive from downtown Savannah to Tybee Island and unwind and relax on the beach.  Don’t forget to visit Fannie’s on the Beach for some delicious fried seafood and great cocktails.

All that’s left is for you to come visit and ENJOY!  Take care!

 

James