Here is my complete Savannah, GA travel guide! This city is one of America’s best-preserved places, with history in its mossy oaks and cobblestone streets. Last year, it drew in over 17 million visitors with its nice Antebellum architecture and special Southern character. We’ll see the whole Savannah historic district, from the famous waterfront to its 22 public squares. I’ll show you the must-see spots, including many free things to do in Savannah, and help you plan your trip.
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1. River Street & The Savannah Riverwalk
This waterfront is the active heart of the city. The cobblestone streets are made from old ship ballast stones. Former cotton warehouses now hold a mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. I really liked the views along this historic street, a key part of any visit to the River Street Savannah area.
- Special Feature: Watch massive cargo ships glide by on the river.
- Where to Stay: River Street Inn, 124 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Shops 10 AM–9 PM; bars and restaurants open later.
- Hidden Gem: Find the “Waving Girl” statue at the east end.
2. Forsyth Park
This is the top green space in Savannah, a big 30-acre park. It’s a great spot for a walk, with paths shaded by large oak trees. The park’s most well-known feature is its 1858 fountain, a must-see when visiting Forsyth Park. It’s an ideal spot to relax and is one of the best things to do in Savannah.
- Special Feature: The popular 1858 fountain, modeled after those in Paris.
- Where to Stay: Hotel Bardo Savannah, 201 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Hidden Gem: The Fragrant Garden for the Blind on the west side.
3. Chippewa Square
Known as one of the prettiest Savannah historic squares, this spot became famous from the movie Forrest Gump. While the movie’s bench is now in a museum, the square is still a good gathering place. It’s centered around a statue of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia, making it a central point in the city’s layout.
- Special Feature: The filming location for the Forrest Gump bench scenes.
- Where to Stay: Perry Lane Hotel, 256 E Perry St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Open 24 hours.
- Hidden Gem: See a show at the Savannah Theatre, America’s oldest.
4. Jones Street
Often called one of the nicest residential streets in America, Jones Street feels like a step back in time. With its brick-paved road and federal-style houses shaded by a canopy of live oaks, it shows Savannah’s timeless quality. A quiet walk here is a highlight when seeing the Savannah historic district, away from the crowds.
- Special Feature: It’s frequently called “the prettiest street in America.”
- Where to Stay: Eliza Thompson House, 5 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Public street, open 24 hours.
- Hidden Gem: Look for the historic home of Joe Odom from a famous book.
5. The Gingerbread House
Located just outside of downtown, this is one of the most-seen mansions in Savannah. Built in 1899, it is a good example of Steamboat Gothic architecture. The detailed, gingerbread-like woodwork on its exterior looks like something from a storybook. It is a must-see highlight mentioned in every good Savannah GA travel guide.
- Special Feature: An outstanding example of “Steamboat Gothic” architecture.
- Where to Stay: The Marshall House, 123 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: View from outside only; it is a private event venue.
- Hidden Gem: It’s next door to Foxy Loxy, a popular local coffee shop.
6. Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
This French Gothic Revival cathedral is a real work of art. With its towering 214-foot twin spires and big stained-glass windows, it is one of the most visually interesting churches in the South. The interior is very nice, making it a peaceful stop in the Savannah historic district for quiet reflection.
- Special Feature: French Gothic architecture and soaring twin spires.
- Where to Stay: The DeSoto Savannah, 15 E Liberty, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Mon-Sat 9 AM–11:45 AM & 12:45 PM–5 PM for tours.
- Hidden Gem: The detailed Rose Window above the main entrance.
7. First African Baptist Church
This church holds deep historical importance as one of the oldest Black churches in North America. Completed in 1859 by its members, the building was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Its history gives a real look into the city’s past. A service can be one of the most meaningful free things to do in Savannah. It’s one of the most historic things to do in Savannah.
- Special Feature: A historic stop on the Underground Railroad.
- Where to Stay: Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District, 201 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Tours Tue-Sat at 11 AM, 2 PM, 4 PM; Sun at 1 PM.
- Hidden Gem: Holes in the floorboards were air holes for escapees.
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8. The Pirates’ House
Dating back to 1753, this historic restaurant was once a gathering place for sailors and pirates. It is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. The decor, history, and Southern food make The Pirates’ House an interesting dining experience for the whole family. The food was quite good.
- Special Feature: Famously mentioned in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
- Where to Stay: The Brice, A Kimpton Hotel, 601 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Open daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Hidden Gem: Ask the staff about the secret tunnel in the rum cellar.
9. The Marshall House
This is one of the city’s oldest hotels, known for its 19th-century character. It also has a reputation as a haunted building, having been a hospital during the Civil War. It is a key stop on many Savannah ghost tours. Today, it operates as a nice boutique hotel, mixing history with modern comfort.
- Special Feature: Savannah’s oldest hotel, operated as a Civil War hospital.
- Where to Stay: The Marshall House, 123 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Hotel operates 24/7.
- Hidden Gem: A small museum with Civil War artifacts is on the third floor.
10. Wormsloe State Historic Site
Just a short drive from downtown, Wormsloe State Historic Site offers an iconic photo opportunity. An avenue of over 400 live oaks leads to the tabby ruins of Georgia’s oldest standing structure. This site gives a look into the area’s colonial past and the lives of its earliest settlers, surrounded by a coastal forest.
- Special Feature: A 1.5-mile avenue of live oaks.
- Where to Stay: Best Western Central Inn, 4520 Ogeechee Rd, Savannah, GA 31405
- Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM.
- Hidden Gem: The tabby ruins are the oldest standing structure in Savannah.
11. City Market
This four-block, open-air marketplace has been a social hub since the 18th century. Today, it’s a destination with shops, art galleries, and live music. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants in Savannah, offering everything from casual bites to upscale dining. At night, the area comes alive with energy.
- Special Feature: The “Art and Soul of Savannah” with many working artist studios.
- Where to Stay: Andaz Savannah, 14 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM–8 PM, Sun 1 PM–5 PM; bars open late.
- Hidden Gem: Home to the American Prohibition Museum and a speakeasy.
12. The Olde Pink House
This 18th-century mansion is home to one of Savannah’s most well-known fine-dining spots. Known for its pink exterior and Southern food, it is a top choice for a special meal. It’s considered one of the best restaurants in Savannah, so I recommend making reservations well in advance to get a table.
- Special Feature: Southern dining inside an authentic 18th-century mansion.
- Where to Stay: Planters Inn on Reynolds Square, 29 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Dinner daily from 5:00 PM; Lunch Tue-Sat.
- Hidden Gem: Head downstairs to the cozier, historic Planters Tavern for a drink.
13. Telfair Square & Museum
One of Savannah’s original squares, Telfair Square, is a cultural centerpiece. It is home to the Telfair Academy, the first public art museum in the Southeast. This green space connects the city’s past and present, making it a key stop among the Savannah historic squares. It is perfect for art lovers and history buffs.
- Special Feature: Home to the Southeast’s oldest public art museum.
- Where to Stay: The DeSoto Savannah, 15 E Liberty, Savannah, GA 31401
- Hours: Verify on the official site.
- Hidden Gem: Check out the modern Jepson Center for the Arts across the square.
Travel Basics & Tips
- Book hotels early, especially for a spring trip.
- Wear comfy shoes for the cobblestone streets.
- The free DOT shuttle is a great way to get around.
- Parking is sometimes difficult; use a city garage for the day.
- Many things to do in Savannah are free, like walking the squares.
Conclusion
Savannah really makes an impression on everyone who visits. From its mossy oaks to its old waterfront, there’s a story everywhere. This city has so much history it feels like another time. I hope this guide on things to do in Savannah helps you see it for yourself. It’s a place you’ll remember long after you’ve left. I’m already thinking about my next trip back to find more great spots.
