Savannah, Georgia, is a city full of charm, mystery, and history. Whether you’re strolling through beautiful green squares or admiring historic mansions, Savannah has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top 15 spots to visit that will make your trip memorable and uniquely Savannah.
Stroll Through Forsyth Park
Address: Drayton Street and East Park Avenue
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in the 1840s, Forsyth Park remains a symbol of community spirit, hosting events and gatherings in its iconic green space.
What to Expect: Stroll through 30 acres featuring gardens, fountains, and shaded walking paths ideal for relaxation and photos.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry is free. Facilities include restrooms, cafes, and a playground for families.
Forsyth Park, in Savannah’s Historic District, is a 30-acre haven for locals and visitors alike. The park’s most iconic feature, the Forsyth Fountain, was modeled after fountains in Paris, adding a European touch to this Southern gem. War memorials and the ancient Candler Oak Tree contribute to its historical charm. The park also hosts events like the Savannah Jazz Festival in the fall, where food trucks and local vendors come together, creating a vibrant community space perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Take a Historic District Walking Tour
Address: 11 W Gordon St, Savannah
| Type | Historic Homes/Mansions, Tours, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Savannah’s Historic District preserves 18th- and 19th-century architecture and showcases the city’s colonial past.
What to Expect: Discover cobblestone streets, town squares, and landmarks through guided tours that reveal Savannah’s unique heritage.
Visitor Information: Tours are available year-round; fees vary by tour company and theme (e.g., haunted, architectural).
Savannah’s Historic District, with its 22 squares and cobblestone streets, offers a rich journey through time. Guided walking tours immerse visitors in Savannah’s fascinating history, covering themes from colonial days to haunted tales of the past. Each tour is tailored to unique interests—there are dog-friendly, comedy, and bike tours, to name a few. Exploring this district allows visitors to appreciate the well-preserved architecture, Spanish moss-draped trees, and stories that make Savannah one of America’s most captivating historic cities.
Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Address: 222 East Harris St.
| Type | Free, Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: Built in 1876, this Gothic-style cathedral is central to Savannah’s Catholic community and history.
What to Expect: Marvel at stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and intricate carvings throughout the sacred space.
Visitor Information: Open daily; donations welcome. Check schedules for Mass times; photography allowed outside of services.
Towering over Lafayette Square, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a testament to Savannah’s architectural beauty. Built in the Gothic style, this cathedral showcases impressive spires, Italian marble, and intricate stained-glass windows that illuminate the interior in stunning color. Guided and self-guided tours are available, providing insight into the cathedral’s rich history and cultural significance. Open for services, it welcomes all, whether seeking spiritual solace or marveling at its architectural and artistic grandeur.
Explore Bonaventure Cemetery
Address: 330 Bonaventure Rd.
| Type | Free, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1846, this cemetery is known for Victorian-style graves and as a setting in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
What to Expect: Walk along peaceful, tree-lined paths and explore unique statues and monuments in a serene setting.
Visitor Information: Open from dawn to dusk; free entry. Guided tours are available for historical context.
Known for its haunting beauty, Bonaventure Cemetery is both a historical landmark and a place of peace. The cemetery spans over 100 acres and features ornate Victorian tombstones and stunning statues, creating a setting both eerie and beautiful. Among its famous residents are poet Conrad Aiken and songwriter Johnny Mercer, adding to its allure. Walking tours share stories of notable individuals and Savannah’s complex history, making Bonaventure a must-see for those interested in art, history, and quiet reflection.
Shop and Dine on River Street
Address: River Street
| Type | Free, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Once a hub of trade, River Street now showcases a revitalized waterfront with shops and eateries.
What to Expect: Enjoy views of the Savannah River, local boutiques, street performers, and dining options.
Visitor Information: Open daily; most shops operate from 10 AM to 6 PM. No entry fee; various paid parking options nearby.
River Street, with its bustling energy and scenic views of the Savannah River, is a favorite spot for shopping, dining, and taking in local culture. Once filled with cotton warehouses, the area now boasts an array of souvenir shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Unique shops sell everything from antiques to artisanal candies, while local eateries offer fresh seafood and classic Southern dishes. Evening strolls along the river offer a chance to enjoy Savannah’s beauty, especially as the sun sets over the water.
Tour the Old Sorrel-Weed House
Address: 6 W. Harris St.
| Type | Museums, Tours, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Built in the 1840s, this house is a classic example of Greek Revival architecture and is rumored to be haunted.
What to Expect: Learn about Savannah’s 19th-century life and ghostly tales in this well-preserved historic mansion.
Visitor Information: Open daily for historic and ghost tours; tickets vary based on tour t
The Sorrel-Weed House, an impressive Greek Revival mansion, is known for its architectural beauty and haunted history. Built in the 1840s, the home has earned a reputation as one of Savannah’s most haunted sites, attracting ghost tour enthusiasts. Featured in movies and documentaries, it offers day tours that delve into its history and evening tours for those curious about the paranormal. The house’s elegant design and eerie past make it a memorable visit for both history buffs and thrill-seekers.
See the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters
Address: 124 Abercorn St.
| Type | Museums, Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Built in 1819, this house provides insights into both affluent and enslaved lives of early 19th-century Savannah.
What to Expect: Explore Regency architecture, historical artifacts, and informative tours highlighting the lives of its residents.
Visitor Information: Open daily; admission included in Telfair Museum tickets. Tours begin hourly.
The Owens-Thomas House, part of the Telfair Museum, provides a compelling look into 19th-century life for both the wealthy and the enslaved. This historic home showcases beautiful Regency architecture, luxurious interiors, and original slave quarters, offering a nuanced view of Savannah’s past. Tours share personal stories of the people who lived and worked here, providing insight into both privilege and resilience. It’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the complexities of Southern history.
Discover Fort Pulaski National Monument
Address: 1 Cokesbury Island
| Type | Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Constructed in the 19th century, Fort Pulaski was pivotal during the Civil War due to its strategic location.
What to Expect: Walk through historic fortifications, explore scenic trails, and join guided tours on military history.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry fees apply. Free admission for visitors under 16; park rangers offer tours at scheduled times.
Fort Pulaski, built in the 19th century, is steeped in Civil War history and holds significance as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The fort’s innovative design, once deemed “impregnable,” was challenged during the war, marking a pivotal moment in military strategy. Visitors can explore the fort’s underground tunnels, scenic trails, and historical exhibits, learning about its strategic importance and the lives of those who served here. Fort Pulaski remains a fascinating site for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Head to Tybee Island
Address: 30 Meddin Dr.
| Type | Beaches, Free, Neighborhood/Area, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Known for its historic lighthouse and vibrant beaches, Tybee Island has been a popular coastal retreat for over a century.
What to Expect: Enjoy beachfront activities, dining, scenic views, and a historic lighthouse with museum exhibits.
Visitor Information: Accessible year-round; parking fees may apply. Lighthouse tours have an entry fee.
A short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island offers a perfect beach escape with its sandy shores, historic lighthouse, and laid-back vibe. The island is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, with many cozy beachfront cafes and shops nearby. For nature lovers, Little Tybee Island, a protected nature preserve, is only accessible by boat and offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and camping. Tybee’s relaxed ambiance provides a refreshing contrast to Savannah’s historic charm, making it a favorite getaway.
Step Inside the Mercer-Williams House
Address: 429 Bull St, Savannah
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Built in 1860, this Italianate mansion is known for its architecture and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame.
What to Expect: Discover elegant rooms, antique furnishings, and historic tales in this well-preserved landmark.
Visitor Information: Open for tours; tickets available at the door. Tours provide historical context on the house and its famed residents.
The Mercer-Williams House, a beautiful mansion built in 1860, is a site with both historical intrigue and cultural significance. It gained national fame in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, a novel that explores Savannah’s eccentric characters and haunting atmosphere. The house’s grand design, from its Italianate architecture to its lush garden, captures Savannah’s antebellum elegance. Visitors can tour its interior, appreciating the artwork, antiques, and the captivating, mysterious stories connected to the house.
Relax at Wormsloe Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Rd.
| Type | Natural Wonders, Tours, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in the 1730s, Wormsloe preserves Savannah’s early colonial history and natural beauty.
What to Expect: Walk along the live oak avenue, explore trails, and visit a small museum showcasing colonial artifacts.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry fees apply. Check seasonal hours for activities and additional programs.
Wormsloe Historic Site is known for its breathtaking oak-lined drive and historical significance. As one of Georgia’s oldest plantation sites, it offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy scenic trails, discover marshlands, and learn about early colonial life. The estate’s museum presents artifacts from the colonial era, while the paths provide access to serene views and glimpses of local wildlife. Wormsloe’s iconic entrance, framed by moss-draped oak trees, is a popular photo spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Visit the SCAD Museum of Art
Address: 201 E. 37th St.
| Type | Museums, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established by the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2011, the museum emphasizes modern and multimedia art.
What to Expect: Encounter rotating exhibitions, installations, and contemporary artworks by SCAD students and international artists.
Visitor Information: Open daily; entry fees vary. Discounts available for students, seniors, and military personnel.
The SCAD Museum of Art, run by the Savannah College of Art and Design, is a vibrant center for contemporary art. Exhibitions feature work by established and emerging artists from around the world, with a focus on innovative installations and multimedia art. The museum’s rotating displays and permanent collection offer visitors a dynamic art experience. Housed in an award-winning historic building, SCAD Museum provides a rich cultural experience, reflecting Savannah’s thriving art scene and creative community.
Take a Savannah Riverboat Cruise
Address: Savannah, GA, USA
| Type | sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Savannah’s riverboats commemorate the city’s maritime and trading heritage, dating back to its founding days.
What to Expect: Experience panoramic views of the river, onboard dining, and live entertainment. Options include sunset and dinner cruises.
Visitor Information: Cruise times vary; ticket purchase required. Dining and entertainment packages available.
A riverboat cruise along the Savannah River offers a unique perspective of the city’s waterfront and historic districts. Options range from narrated sightseeing tours that dive into Savannah’s history to themed dinner cruises with live music and entertainment. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the skyline, the iconic Talmadge Memorial Bridge, and passing cargo ships. The riverboat experience combines sightseeing with relaxation, making it a memorable way to soak in Savannah’s scenic charm from the water.
Go to the Savannah History Museum
Address: 303 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Located in a historic train station, the museum details Savannah’s growth from its founding to modern times.
What to Expect: View historical artifacts, Civil War exhibits, and Forrest Gump memorabilia from filming in the city.
Visitor Information: Open daily; admission fees apply. Tours and educational programs are available for deeper insights.
The Savannah History Museum, located in an old train station, offers an in-depth look at the city’s rich past. Exhibits cover everything from Savannah’s founding in 1733 to its role in the Civil War, the Victorian era, and beyond. Visitors can see items like General Sherman’s field tent and costumes from Forrest Gump, filmed in Savannah. This museum provides an engaging experience for history buffs and casual tourists alike, making it an educational and enjoyable part of any visit to Savannah.
Walk Around Chippewa Square
Address: Savannah, GA 31401
| Type | Sightseeing, quaint cafes, gardens, |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Created in 1815, Chippewa Square honors Savannah’s founder, James Oglethorpe, and features the famous park bench from Forrest Gump.
What to Expect: Take in scenic views, historic statues, and a charming blend of greenery amid city streets.
Visitor Information: Open daily and free to explore. Ideal for photos, relaxation, and picnics.
Chippewa Square, one of Savannah’s most beloved public squares, is famous for the bench scene from Forrest Gump. Surrounded by historic buildings and quaint cafes, the square offers a serene spot to relax and people-watch. It features a statue of James Oglethorpe, Savannah’s founder, honoring his legacy. Visitors can appreciate the landscaped gardens, shaded by massive oak trees. Chippewa Square encapsulates the charm of Savannah, making it an ideal spot for a quiet afternoon or a scenic photo opportunity.
