Travel Guide to Savannah, Georgia

By Caitlin Hornik


Known for its charm, history, and hospitality, Savannah is often ranked as one of the top cities to visit in the south. Here are some key stats to know as you start to plan your trip to this southern gem!


What to Know

Savannah became the first city in Georgia after General James Oglethorpe and a ship full of 120 passengers landed on a bluff there in 1733. Oglethorpe laid out the city in a grid style, also making Savannah known as the first planned city in the United States.

It would be remiss not to mention the significance of slavery and the impact that African Americans had on Savannah’s growth and culture. Cotton and rice are the two main crops that were planted and thrived in Savannah soil. But the freed slaves didn’t leave at the end of the Civil War. They stayed and built up the city through schools, churches, and a sense of community. Cotton continued to be a major factor in the city up until the Great Depression.

Post-depression, Savannah experienced a renaissance. This started with a group of women banding together against the destruction of historic structures in the city. This was the start of the Historic Savannah Foundation, credited with preserving much of Savannah’s signature charm. In 1966, Savannah’s Historic District was designated a National Landmark. You’ll definitely want to check this out!

Today, Savannah is one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the United States. It has exploded in popularity, and it’s not surprising to learn why!


When to Go

You can’t go wrong with a trip to Savannah! For the best weather, plan to travel between March and July when temperatures are just right and festivals are booming. If you want to visit during the off-season, plan your trip for January or February. And if you’re interested in a Fall getaway during Savannah’s shoulder season, aim for mid-September through mid-November just after the busy season winds down.

How to Get Around

Savannah has a fare-free service to help visitors explore the downtown area. The DOT includes shuttle stops in the Historic District and the Savannah Belles Ferry. The city also offers walking tours, trolley tours, segway tours, and more!

If you’re exploring other parts of Savannah and Chatham County, check out Chatham Area Transit (CAT). Local one-way service is $1.50 and there are discounted weekly passes available as well.

If you’re driving to Savannah, you’re encouraged to leave your car at your hotel or at a parking garage and use the DOT to explore.

What to Eat

Embrace Savannah’s storied history and indulge in some traditional southern comfort food! You’ll be able to find delectable fried chicken, cornbread, grits, wings, and more. Plus, there’s delicious BBQ, brewing companies, and plenty of bars to try specially-crafted cocktails!


What to See

If you’re looking for a way to see all of Savannah’s top attractions and destinations, you might benefit from a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour! Doing this in the first day or so of your trip can help you determine where you’d like to spend your time.

Forsyth Park is a hotspot for an afternoon picnic. Located in the Historic District, the park spans 30 acres and dates back to the 1840s! Rent a bike and go for a ride, or take a leisurely walk and soak up the natural beauty of the city.

The Savannah River is one of the city’s main attractions. Stroll down River Street for a beautiful view! The winding cobblestone street will take you past many historic buildings and fantastic restaurants.

Speaking of water, you won’t want to leave Savannah without a visit to the beaches! Tybee Island is home to three miles of beautiful beaches and is only 20 minutes outside of the Historic District.

But if shopping is your preferred leisure activity, don’t miss the storefronts on Broughton Street and Bull Street! And be sure to plan a solid afternoon outing to the Starland District and Moon River.


Tips and Tricks

Tip: Savannah is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in the US, so if spirits are your thing, consider a ghost tour or a haunted inn. And be sure to check out Bonaventure Cemetery!

Tip: Visit Hutchinson Island and the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center via ferry! The Savannah Belles Ferry service operates seven days a week and was named after strong women who have impacted the city and its history.

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