Savannah is a friendly, inviting city known for its historic streets, coastal charm and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a blend of culture, rich history, great food and beautiful outdoor spaces, all easy to explore at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or an extended stay, Savannah offers a variety of activities to suit many interests. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Savannah.
Historic Sites and Landmarks
Savannah’s historic layout features public squares, preserved buildings and walkable streets. Bull Street runs through the heart of the city, connecting major landmarks such as Johnson Square and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Jones Street is famous for its well-preserved homes and quiet, charming atmosphere.
River Street and City Market are popular destinations for dining, shopping and scenic views of the Savannah River. Outside downtown, Wormsloe Historic Site is known for its iconic tree-lined entrance and colonial history. Fort Pulaski National Monument and Old Fort Jackson offer insight into Savannah’s military past and historical significance.
Arts, Culture and Museums
The city has a strong arts and cultural presence, supported by local institutions and creative communities. The SCAD Art Museum features rotating exhibitions that highlight contemporary art, fashion, film and design. Nearby, the Telfair Academy showcases American and European artwork in a historic setting, while the Jepson Center for the Arts focuses on modern exhibitions and interactive exhibits.
Throughout the historic district, visitors can explore art galleries that offer guided tours, gallery talks and film screenings. Many of these spaces sell handmade souvenirs and other local souvenirs, making it easy to find meaningful items to take home. Some museums also feature period actors who help bring Savannah’s history to life through engaging experiences.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Savannah’s dining scene reflects a blend of traditional Southern cooking and modern dining, offering plenty of options for every taste. Clary’s Cafe is a longtime favorite for breakfast and lunch, serving Authentic southern food in a casual setting. The Collins Quarter is well known for brunch, coffee and globally inspired menu items.
For dinner, the Olde Pink House serves classic Southern dishes in a historic home, while Husk Savannah focuses on regional ingredients and seasonal menus. Cotton & Rye offers a modern take on comfort food and Fox & Fig Cafe is popular for its plant-based options. Leopold’s Ice Cream is a local staple for dessert. Visitors can also stop by the Savannah Bee Company to sample honey and shop for locally made products. In the evening, Savannah Smiles features live music and entertainment, while Peregrin Rooftop Lounge offers city views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
From charming squares to expansive parks, Savannah’s greenery provides a beautiful escape at any time of year. Forsyth Park is one of the most popular, featuring walking paths, open lawns and the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain. Smaller parks and squares throughout the city provide shaded areas under oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The Jepson Center for the Arts is also nearby for visitors interested in combining outdoor time with a cultural stop.
The riverfront and nearby saltwater marshes offer opportunities for walking, boat tours and scenic views. Seasonal events, such as the St. Patrick’s Day Festival, draw visitors from across the region. Architecture tours are available for those who want to explore Savannah’s historic design and city planning.
Shopping and Local Markets
Shopping in Savannah features a mix of well-known brands and independent shops. Broughton Street serves as a central shopping hub, while nearby streets are filled with boutiques, jewelry stores, and home goods shops. Many retailers focus on local souvenirs and handcrafted items, including handbags and unique pieces from a glass blowing studio. Some locations operate as a retail gallery, allowing visitors to browse and purchase artwork and other items created by local artists.
Ghosts, Legends and Haunted Attractions
The city is also well known for its historic cemeteries, haunted locations and long-standing ghost stories. Sites such as Colonial Park Cemetery, Bonaventure Cemetery and other notable addresses—including 416 West Liberty St.—are often featured on a guided ghost tour. These tours explore local legends, historic events and reported hauntings connected to the city’s past.
Visitors can choose from experiences like the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Savannah, the Haunted Savannah Walking Tour or specialized options led by Ghost Hunters of Savannah®. Some tours include a ghost hunt or small-group paranormal investigation focused on Savannah’s most famous cemeteries and haunted locations. Several tours also reference places featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, adding extra context for fans of the book.
Guided Tours and Excursions
Guided tours are a convenient way to explore Savannah and learn about its history. Old Town Trolley Tours provide a general overview of the city and major landmarks throughout the Savannah Historic District. Savannah Movie Tours showcase filming locations from popular movies and television shows.
Visitors can also choose from a variety of themed experiences, including 6th Sense Tours, The Freedom Trail Tour and the Comedy Trolley Tour, which combine sightseeing with storytelling and entertainment. Food lovers may enjoy the Savannah Taste Experience, while those seeking interactive fun can visit Encryption Escape. Savannah Riverboat Cruises offer scenic views of the waterfront from the river, and the Savannah Belles Ferry provides free transportation across the river with picturesque views.
Nearby Beaches and Day Trips
Tybee Island is just a short drive from Savannah and offers a relaxed beach getaway. Visitors can walk along the Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion, climb the red-and-white striped lighthouse, one of the area’s most famous local lighthouses, or stop by the Tybee Island Visitor’s Center to learn about the island’s history and wildlife. Depending on the season, sightings may include dolphins, sea turtles, starfish and other marine life. Tybee Island makes an easy and enjoyable option for a day trip from the city.
Unique and Quirky Experiences
Savannah offers a variety of activities for visitors looking for something different. Front Porch Improv hosts live comedy shows, while the Prohibition Museum explores American history through interactive exhibits. Pounce Cat Cafe combines a cozy cafe setting with adoptable cats.
Additional attractions include the Pirates’ Tavern, the Savannah Pirates and Treasure Museum™, the Serial Killer Museum, historic hotels such as The Marshall House and speakeasy-style bars. A vintage car cruise or small-group experiences provide another way to see the city from a unique perspective.
With its mix of history, culture, dining and outdoor activities, Savannah’s walkable layout and diverse attractions make it easy to explore the city at your own pace.