Weekend Getaway: Top 12 Places to Visit in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia is such an amazing city with so much history. Sherman spared the city when he was battling the South and presented it to Lincoln as a Christmas gift. Over 150 years later, the city remains a gift to the people who visit this amazing destination.
I find Savannah to be a fascinating place to visit. We recently returned from Savannah to celebrate our twelve year anniversary. Not only does this city offer so much history but it has so much charm. If you’re planning a trip to the area, here are the top 12 places I would recommend when visiting Savannah, Georgia.
You may also like these other Savannah related articles:
- The Ultimate Romantic and Adventurous Getaway in Historic Savannah
- B Historic Savannah – Boutique Hotel Located in Historic District
6th Sense World Ghost & Cemetery Tours
There’s no hiding the fact that Savannah has its fair share of ghosts so taking a ghost tour is a must. The 6th Sense World Ghost & Cemetery Tours company has been giving tours for over 20 years. Tours start at 7PM and 9:30PM. The 9:30PM slot is open to adults only. Throughout the tour, you’ll experience haunting tales that will keep you spooked all night. You can also enjoy cemetery tours at 10AM and 2PM.
Old Town Trolley Tours
This is such a great tour company for a variety of reasons. First of all, you can step-off the trolley and explore the area and get back on at your leisure. The company has been serving Savannah for over 30 years and offers a variety of tours. The trolleys make 15 stops and offer over 100 points of interest.
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is a wonderful area to relax and explore. There are different events that take place in the park and on Saturdays there is a huge farmer’s market. The park is 30 acres large and is a must see for anyone that loves natural beauty.
Tybee Island
If you’re a beach person, no visit to Savannah is complete without spending some time on Tybee Island. It’s a beautiful location and an inexpensive way to spend your day. Get some snacks and drinks and relax by the shoreline.
Photo Credit: Carolyn Sugg, Flickr
City Market
Love to shop? You’ll love City Market. The market features a four block, open-air shopping experience. The market has been serving Savannah since the 1700s. You’ll find everything from great shopping to artwork to dining.
Davenport House Museum
If you love history and experiencing how things were in the past, a visit to the Davenport House Museum is a must. The home was completed in 1820 by Isaiah Davenport and has a collection of over 500 historic items. Admission is very affordable and children under the age of six get in free.
Photo Credit: davenporthousemuseum.org
Oatland Island Wildlife Center
If your family loves wildlife, this is a great attraction to visit. This zoo-like preserve allows you to see dozens of animals in their natural habitats. The center also offers educational programs. This is a must for anyone that loves animals.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
What would a trip to Savannah be without a delicious Southern meal? Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room has been serving Southern cuisine since 1943. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in the area and features great Southern dishes served family-style.
Photo Credit: mrswilkes.com
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Don’t let the line out the door scare you from stopping here! The wait is worth it. Leopold’s Ice Cream parlor is the oldest in Savannah, dating back from 1919. They are located on East Broughton near Abercorn Street and opened year round. They even serve sandwiches! I promise you will be greeted with friendly “Southern Charm” and you will not find delicious tasting ice cream anywhere else. I had the “Chocolate Chewies & Cream” YUM!
The Pirates’ House
Another amazing place to dine is The Pirates’ House. This is a unique dining experience because of the location’s history. The restaurant has been in business since 1753 and used to serve honest-to-goodness pirates. Patrons in the early days were even said to be kidnapped and forced to work on ships. All you’ll be forced to do is enjoy a delicious meal.
Cathedral of John the Baptist
I especially loved visiting the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. But wait till you get in side. You will be in awe of the of the stain glassed windows, beautiful alters, and hand crafted wooden pews. Located in Lafeyette Square, this church is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in Georgia. It is open to the public unless during service or special events.
Last, but not least, the Owens-Thomas House is another amazing historic home to visit while in Savannah. The home is said to be one of the finest examples of English Regency Architecture in the country. Both the home and grounds are wonderful to experience.
There are so many wonderful things to do in Savannah. Whether you’re visiting the city for its historic value or the ghosts, you’ll find several attraction options that you’ll love….and maybe, just maybe you will run into Forrest Gump!
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*I was provided complimentary visits to some of the destinations listed above, however, all opinions are 100% my own.
Tiffany says
We love Savannah! My husband proposed to me there in Madison Square. Leopold’s is definitely worth standing in line outside in the middle of August! We have also spent the weekend at the Foley House Inn, cannot wait to go back.
Winona (Southern Family Fun) says
That is so sweet Tiffany! We love Savannah too! I have not stayed at Foley House Inn. Sounds delightful!
Pamela Robbins says
I love Savannah but haven’t been there in years! Planning to visit soon and this blog post is just what I need! BTW….first time visitor to your blog and I love it! Pam
Marilyn says
Thanks for the tips concerning Savannah Georgia. It is a beautiful place.
Marilyn
Carolyn Massey says
I have always wanted to visit Savannah. Didn’t realize they had so much to do.
lisa says
The cemetery tour sounds like something I’d get into. It’s a bit odd, but different.
Julie Ikeda says
I would love to try Leopold’s Ice Cream parlor if I get the chance!
Velva says
I would love to visit!
Edye says
The trolley tours look like fun! Thank for sharing.
April Gupton says
Beautiful city!
Anne Marie Carter says
Georgia looks like a lot of fun! There are many different types of attractions between trolley cars and cemeteries.
lisa says
If I went on vacation I would go to Hawaii. Georgia doesn’t sound like a place I’d choose to go.
lisa says
It sounds nice and looks pretty but, where I am it gets hot and humid. You’re further south. I can’t take that kind of weather.
lisa says
I used to think Virgina beach would be a great place. Until I moved to Va. Now I see it as an overcrowded area and haven’t been to the beach in years.
lisa says
Every blog I see is promoting the state they live. I guess alot of people are planning a summer vacation. My husband generally has vacation over the winter months.
lisa says
I’ve read about the haunted cemetery tours. I don’t believe in such things, but it sounds fun. When I was a kid, a relative was a cemetery caretaker and lived in site. I would spend time there and roam the grounds at night.
lisa says
I have no plans to visit, but the photographs are pretty and you offer good suggestions of places to go for those that have never visited.
Cari Shepard says
Love the suggested places to visit, I’ll try to remember if we ever get down to Savannah
Tammy Cordery says
I have never been to Savannah. I would really love to go. Great pictures.
Lisa Coomer Queen says
I haven’t been to Savannah in years! It is truly a beautiful place and your article just makes me want to go back soon!
Carla says
Savannah looks like a great place to visit!
Rebecca Besherse says
My mother was born and raised in Savannah and I have some fond memories of that old house on Edgewood Lane.
Jessica Mohnkern says
Looks like a lovely place to visit!
Katrina Morgan says
I have been to the Pirates House..:)
I love Savannah, but its been too long.
Patti P. says
Thanks for sharing about Savannah. It is a beautiful place.
lisa says
This place almost reminds me of the area that I live. You’re a bit further south.
Theresa Little says
Wow! I’ve never been to Savannah, but it looks great! Tybee Island and the Cathedral of John the Baptist both sound like they would be great!
lisa says
The department of tourism. I never read these when I see a common theme .
tina gonzalez says
would love to explore someday
April Gupton says
Georgia is beautiful! Thanks for the information!
lisa says
It looks like a quaint little town. Very clean and an area that I wouldn’t mind living.
lisa says
lisa says, love my good & plentys. Sorry, old t.v. ad came to mind. Anyways, Georgia does sound like a nice place.
Cindy S. says
I have never been to Georgia but it is definitely on my bucket list. I love the history, old architecture, beautiful green trees. So much to appreciate.
lisa says
When I think of Georgia, I think of white peaches, (my favorite), sweet tea and magnolias. I just don’t like the humidity.
April Gupton says
Lovely city
polly says
I have not been there but it is on my bucket list. So many wonderful places in this beautiful city!
lisa says
I hope there is a good crop of white peaches this year. I love them.
lisa says
There are so many places across the united states to visit. Thanks for the places of interest to visit.
lisa says
I’m not sure that I believe in ghosts, but the tour would be something different to do.
Ann Sheehan says
I love Savavvahs charm and character it’s so beautiful there. Thanks for the tips on where to visit. I’ll be sure to stop and see more of Savannahs treasure spots on my next visit.
Angela Hendricks says
This is an awesome post and I loved reading it! I’ve been to Savannah several times and vacationed on Tybee Island and I would def. recommend this post to anyone thinking of visiting Savannah or nearby.
Adriane says
I visited over 20 years ago – would love to go again!
Wendy R. says
Nice! Hope to visit one day, thanks.
tiffany dayton says
Nice place to visit. The churches are beautiful.
Allyson becker says
Savannah looks absolutely beautiful. I have had a friend visit lately. I would love to go. Nothing like sites in the South.
Allyson becker says
Hopefully, in the future, I will go to Savannah. The ghost tour sounds amazing.
Peyton Hinckle says
I recently went to Savannah and loved it! I wish we had done the haunted cemetery though – that looks really interesting!
Gabrielly says
I have always wanted to visit Savannah. Looks absolutely beautiful.
Katt Lewis says
I’ve been to Savannah and love it! Stayed on the river in town and once out on Tybee Island. Ate at the Pirate restaurant and once where the Elite eat in their barefeet! I toured the house from Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil (?)….before the movie! Saw the wonderful square parks, every city should be built like Savannah. Wow, if I could live anywhere in Georgia, it would be Savannah or Jekyll Island.