Things To Do In Savannah

For a New Yorker like me, the Southern charm of Savannah is an experience you’ll never forget. From the twenty-two squares & authentic history to the hundreds of pubs & open container laws, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. This destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, girl’s trips & solo travelers. You will quickly find that you will be on your feet all day before you can say you are bored. As mentioned, there are tons of things to do here so let’s talk about my favorites, shall we?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many days will you need?

Traveling in Savannah Georgia is perfect for a weekend trip up until seven days. It is recommended to fly in on a Friday or Saturday and leaving Tuesday to get the best deals. For those that have plans to venture to Tybee Beach, I’d travel there for the whole day since it is a 30-minute drive from Savannah. 

What is the best time to arrive?

Things open around 10 am so if you’re planning on taking an early morning flight, you’re essentially wasting your time since you won’t be able to go into the museums and most likely your check-in is later in the day. You might be able to hold your luggage at a hotel for a fee, so make sure you call in advance to figure that out.

Where should you stay?

Savannah is a walking city meaning that you can find yourself within a 15-minute walk radius of just about everything. The closer you are to River Street, the more expensive since that’s where most bars and attractions are. Want to save a few bucks? Here are my recommendations.

What are some of the local laws here?

As mentioned earlier, the no-container law allows you to drink alcohol all around the city without getting into trouble. Even if you’re currently sipping on a drink, other pubs allow you to go in there without a fuss. They all support each other and are just happy to have your business. To check out the whole list of rules, click here! https://www.savannahga.gov/740/Rules-Regulations

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Best Things To Do In Savannah, Georgia

Now the awaited list. When I say there are tons of things to do here, I mean it. After spending five days here, I feel like I covered all of Savannah, and am so excited to share with you my list of places!

Fun For Big Groups

1. Pedal Pub: Welcome to Pedal Pub, where biking meets bar crawls. Whether you are in a big or small group, everyone must join in on the pedal pub fun! For $40, this takes you on a two-hour tour throughout the city. This tour was nothing but good energy and don’t worry if you’re not a great biker, they have some seats that don’t need any pedaling. Pro Tip: With your pedal pub bracelet you are guaranteed deals on drinks throughout the trip so doing this first is a must to save money!! Get tickets here

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Affordable/ Best Bank For Your Buck

1. Free Walking Tours: In every city, I recommend doing free walking tours so that you can get a real glimpse of the history of the city that you are visiting. The tour guides are so knowledgeable & entertaining. You’ll quickly find out that this city is one of the most charming ones you have ever been to & can’t stop taking pics.
   • Stop along the walking tour: Wright Square, Telfair Square, Wright Square, Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace, The Parker Companies, Chippewa Square, Savannah Theater Company, Old Sorrel Weed House, Madison Square, Jones St, Monterey Square, John Mercer House, George Armstrong’s House, Forsyth Park
     • Pro Tip: Try doing this at the beginning of the trip so that you can learn about the history & even though it is free, the gratuity is highly recommended. Check it out here

Most Spooky

1. Ghost Tours: One of the most anticipated events of the trip, the ghost tour. The perfect way to end the trip for sure! Pro Tip: Feeling a bit superstitious? Do this the night before your trip so that you don’t get too spooked out! Check it out here
2. Colonial Park Cemetery: Stop by to pay respects to the dead and learn about the rich history of Savannah!
3. Bonaventure Cemetery: One of the most famous cemeteries in the world, Bonaventure Cemetery needs to be on your list! When you have the chance to visit, visit!! Pro Tip: Don’t bike there as you pass through non-developed areas and there are not many people nearby!

Bonaventure Cemetery

Ghost Tours

Nature Lovers Unite

1. Savannah Squares: Looking for a way to wind down after walking all day? Then lay down, read a book, have a picnic, or even take a nap in one of the twenty-two squares. Pro Tip: Here are my favorites that feel like mini parks! (Telfair Square, Chippewa Square, Orleans Square, Lafayette Square, Pulaski Square, Wright Square, Oglethorpe Square)
2. Forsyth Park: Forsyth Park is on everyone’s list of destinations to travel to & I mean for good reason. This park is breathtaking and adds for a tranquil picnic day to hang around. Pro Tip: Book your stay close to this spot so that you can take a morning stroll every day here!

Aesthetic Vibes Perfect for a Good Photo Op

1. The Olde Pink House: A staple (and rather aesthetic) attraction here in Savannah! Welcome to The Pink House! Whether you’re dining here or just looking on by, it’s an iconic symbol of sweet ole Savannah! Pro Tip: If you take the walking tour, you’ll find out why the house is pink- because they didn’t use pink paint.
2. Gallery 209: Gallery 2019 along River Street is the place to be! They feature local artists who capture the Savannah landmarks. Pro Tip: The gallery is two stories high so don’t miss the top floor!
3. Factors Walk: Become the main character in your fairytale movie and walk along Factors Walk. From the cute ambiance to the ivy arches, this is a photo-op, and nothing else to it! Pro Tip: Do this while walking to River Street since it’s just a photo-op
4. Walk along Jones Street: While on the free tours in Savannah, they mentioned that Jones Street has the most charming homes you’ll find in the area. Taking a quick walk around here is so worth it!

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Top Museums To Visit

1. Prohibition Museum: There is only one prohibition museum in the country, and this is it! To think the city (along with the whole country) went 14 years without alcohol to now an open container law and more bars per radius than any other state I have visited is just wow! Pro Tip: Get the ticket with the speakeasy afterward for nostalgia. Oh & buy the earrings, you’ll know what I mean.
2. Telfair Museums: Pro Tip: Your ticket has access to the Telfair Academy, Owen-Thomas House & Slave Quarter & the Jepson Center as well. (& they offer discounts for students)Check it out here
   • Telfair Academy: Open 10 am-5 pm, the Telfair Academy has it all. From 19th & 20th-century period rooms that take you back in time. The European and American art is inspiring to say the least with tons of cute souvenirs at the gift shop. 
   • Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Tours: Open 10 am-4 pm, this is a must while you’re in Georgia. Get a glimpse of the slave quarters and the history of how slaves made such a profound impact on society. Take a glimpse into this glamorous mansion and the unethical measures they took to acquire this much wealth.
   • Jepson Center: Fan of modern art? Then this museum is a no-brainer. The Jepson Center has everything from modern architecture & art to an outdoor patio overlooking some great views of Savannah! It’s open from 10 am-5 pm and I’d recommend starting at the top and making your way down!

Prohibition Museum – Telfair Academy – Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Tours – Jepson Center

Quick Stop By

1. Rent A Bike at Flip Flop Shops: As much as a walking city this is, you can imagine that it’s a very friendly bike city as well. Over at Flip Flop Shops, I got the two-hour bike rental ($20) and got the opportunity to get lost and explore the city! Pro Tip: If the workers can, I’d try to split them into two, one-hour bike rentals so that you can go for an hour ride in the morning! It’s a great way to start the day! Check it out here
2. The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist: A breathtaking church with an unbelievably intricate interior. Pro Tip: Hang out in Lafayette Square afterward, the atmosphere is so peaceful!
3. Lilu Farms: Lots of great products here to choose from! Can’t say much else, you gotta go to see for yourself!
4. Savannah Fabric Co: A cute little fabric store that was right in front of Oglethorpe Square. Pro Tip: Check out Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Tours right after this since it’s close by!

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The Best Food In Savannah, Georgia

Now the food here in Savannah is the reason why some people travel across the globe. The cuisine is something you can’t give up or cheap out on. Food is the way to some people’s hearts and in this case, all of Georgia’s. Here are my top food recommendations for your next trip to Savannah, GA!

Any Seafood Lovers Here?

1. Sorry Charlie’s Oyster Bar: Oysters in Savannah are a must and coming here to get a taste of it all was everything!!! Highly recommend sitting at the bar & getting the Blue Point & Happy ones which were the best! Can’t wait for you to see for yourself. 

Authentic & Historic

1. Pirates House: Visit at your own risk! A rather haunted spot is the Pirates House. The menu here screams Savannah, please go here on your trip- you won’t regret it!
2. 17Hundred90 Inn & Restaurant: Another haunted spot, but a keeper for sure. The food here is delicious and will make you feel like you’re a local!

When You’re Traveling With Picky Eaters

1. Little Duck Diner: A very 1920s diner that is right in the heart of the town. Pro Tip: The food is a big greasy, so I’d get something light here especially if you’re starting out the trip!
2. Lady & Sons: The official flagship restaurant for the one and only Paula Deen. This place is perfect for big groups and has that southern-style Savannah kick to it! Pro Tip: They have family-style portions so you can pick at whatever you’d like and share with your friends.

For Those With A Sweet Tooth

1. The Peach Cobbler Factory: If you come here and don’t have anything peach, then why are you doing it?  Pro Tip: Get the dessert flight because the apple & banana pudding is just as good

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The Best Bars In Savannah, Georgia

Now I mentioned this open container law quite a bit, but aside from getting your roadside drinks, here are the best places where you’ll want to spend your money. Drinks are pretty inexpensive (coming from a Brooklynite). Compared to $15-$20 drinks, mixed cocktails are easily $8 here, a great deal for your bank account! Let’s get to it, my favorite bars- here we go!

Bars With An Authentic Southern Charm

1. Bar Bubbly: The best spot if you’re waiting to check into your Airbnb/Hotel whichever, you need to come here! The ambiance here is something unmatched and adds to the Southern charm. If you enjoy speakeasies for the antique charm, then this spot is for you!! Pro Tip: Get the mimosa, it’s the freshest one I have ever had and he squeezes them fresh in the juicer at the place.
2. PS Tavern: This gave a true authentic pub feeling that has delicious drinks and there were deals with the pedal pub that you have to check out. The place is very close to River Street to stop on by before you go to the water.

Looking To Party? Head Here!

1. Totally Awesome Bar: This is probably one of the most enjoyable bars that I have been to. The vibe here is just great with pool tables, arcade games & silent disco. 10/10 recommend coming here for a great night out. Pro Tip: They have free pool & silent disco on Mondays!
2. Congress Street Social Club: A chill, local outdoor bar that’s perfect for soaking up some sun & enjoying the nice weather, the Congress Street Social Club is your best bet. Drinks are great & the outdoor couches, pool table, and outdoor grill all add to a great vibe. Pro Tip: The outdoor grill has the perfect hotdogs & chicken skewers to get that perfect mid-day snack.
3. Pour Larry’s: A great bar in the center of town with tons of games and even a fun photo booth to send to your phone for lifelong memories! Pro Tip: Even though it’s a stop on the pedal pub, you’ll want to spend more time here!
4. Barrel House South: A vibe for sure! They have lots of space here that’s perfect for drinking games, dancing & pool tables as well!

Experiencing Southern Life

1. Saddlebags: Get the true Southern experience by learning how to line dance & even ride the bull! Overall, such a fun bar with great energy! Pro Tip: They’re closed Monday-Wednesday!

Great Views

1. Top Deck: Rooftop bar overlooking River Street. Great views & there’s even cornhole to play while you wait for your food!
2. The Nest Skytop Rooftop Lounge: Another rooftop bar that’s right next to Top Deck.

Refreshing Drinks

1. The Georgia Tasting Room: The most delicious frozen wines I have ever had. They offered a ton of different flavors. From key lime to peach & more. You have to check this out for yourself.
2. Wet Willies: Also offering frozen wines, this place is right in the center making it perfect to pop on and get a drink before you walk around the town! (Their chicken fingers & fries were also delicious)

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There You Have It

The Brooklynite Abroad strikes again and damn thirty-six places in 5 places is insane!! I did that and am so excited to share these recommendations with you. Savannah is a beautiful city and to have discovered it all makes me so happy. While embarking on the walking tours and biking around, I feel like a local in a weird way. I know the lay of the land well, and the best places to go, and can’t wait for you to see them for yourself! Let me know when you plan on going and let’s keep on exploring together!