While this story is most likely a myth, who could fault the Union general’s decision? Nestled along the banks of the tranquil Savannah River, the charming southern town is teeming with picturesque antebellum mansions, cobblestone streets, elegant churches and gardens filled with colorful azaleas. Aside from its beauty, there’s plenty for you and your family to do in this city that looks like it came out of a painting. Discover these top things to do with this Savannah travel guide and go explore this southern city!
1. Forsyth Park—GREEN URBAN SETTING
Beauty comes in all forms at the 30-acre Forsyth Park, situated in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. Amble around the scenic one-mile perimeter or soak up an array of heady scents in the aromatic garden designed for the blind. Instead of sharing or liking photos, enjoy them in person by snapping a shot of the whole family in front of the ornate Forsyth Park Fountain, the city’s iconic white cast iron fountain, built in 1858. Mix and mingle with locals at the park during various cultural and civic celebrations. Pack a picnic and enjoy a family-friendly movie under the evening stars, let local troupes wow you with theatrical productions staged at the intimate amphitheater, or sample goods from regional merchants at the Farmer’s Market held each Saturday morning.
2. THE CATHEDRAL OF St. JOHN THE BAPTIST—SACRED SPACE
You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the magnificence of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. While the original 1799 structure was destroyed in a fire, the present building dates to the 1870s. The lavish French Gothic cathedral will leave you awe-struck with more than 80 stained glass windows, gold-leaf detailing, an Italian marble altar, enormous pipe organ and 200-foot twin steeples. If you’d like to worship in this immaculate setting, mass is held seven days a week. During some services, the church also provides a nursery for fussy little ones.
3. RIVER STREET—WATERFRONT SHOPS & RESTAURANTS
Once an industrial zone filled with smoke-pluming cotton warehouses, River Street is now a nine-block thoroughfare that's jam-packed with tourists. Spend your day searching for finds in specialty boutiques, perusing local artistry in cozy galleries, chowing down on fresh fish in restaurants or nursing a cold pint in the pubs. As a throwback to its historic origins, the waterfront cobblestone street is lined with old-fashioned gas lamps, businesses housed in refurbished rustic brick buildings and old-fashioned streetcars traveling up and down its center. Take a load off on a bench Pause to watch massive barges and quaint riverboats work their way down the Savannah.
4. HISTORIC SQUARES—22 LITTLE TREASURES
Escape the sights and sounds of the city by stepping into one of Savannah’s 22 historic squares. Kids can run free in the pockets of green space while adults marvel at the enormous live oak trees, whose massive canopies ward off the blistering summer sun. Relax on a park bench with a book—the gentle trickle of nearby fountains will confirm that these are the city’s most peaceful spots. Tucked away in the city’s historic district, most of the squares are surrounded by colorful homes and exquisite churches. Learn about Savannah’s storied history and famed residents by reading the numerous plaques scattered throughout the squares.
5. BONAVENTURE CEMETERY—HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL
There’s nothing morose about visiting a cemetery when the site is as breathtakingly beautiful as Bonaventure Cemetery. Perched high above the waters of the Wilmington River, the 160-acre cemetery looks oddly enchanting with its display of marble tombstones, Gothic statues and lush green landscape. Admission is free, as are the guided tours offered on the second weekend of every month. Before you leave, pay your respects to such local legends as poet Conrad Aiken and songwriter Johnny Mercer, both buried at Bonaventure.
6. TYBEE ISLAND—FUN IN THE SUN
Every vacation requires a day at the beach, and Savannah delivers just that with Tybee Island, a paradise retreat located just 30 minutes east of the city. Work on your tan along the island’s 5 miles of pristine beaches or cool off with a dip in the Atlantic waters. If you need a bigger adrenaline rush, you’re in luck, as the island is also a hot spot for water sports like jet skiing, kiteboarding, sea kayaking, parasailing and stand-up paddle boarding. Fun is always in fashion on Tybee Island, no matter the date. Year-round celebrations include 4th of July Fireworks, Mardi Gras parties, a Christmas parade and even an annual Pirate Festival.
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