
Savannah! Even the name rolls off your tongue with a southern drawl. The quintessential city of the south, Savannah is a true gem.
Given all of the great things to do in Savannah, GA it is no wonder that Savannah consistently makes the list of best cities in the United States. Savannah is honestly one of the prettiest, most elegant towns we have visited in this great county of ours.
Combine this beauty with the historical significance, great food, and southern hospitality of Savannah, and you have the makings for a fabulous vacation.
Growing up in what we like to call the “true south” (Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, etc), we know a thing or two about southern food and southern hospitality. One of the facts about Texas that I love to share with people is that Texans are genuinely nice and know how to treat people.
I must admit though that I was excited to experience the region that most people consider ‘the south’; you know, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Alabama. Believe me when I tell you that Savannah did not disappoint.
What we found here were thick southern accents (very different from our Texas accents), great southern comfort food (similar to ours in Texas), an intriguing history, and genuine southern hospitality (just like home).
Although we flew to Savannah, I could definitely see including this great city on a Southern USA road trip as well! No matter how you get here, I think Savannah will win your heart!
*This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Marty and I were guests of Savannah Taste Experience, Old Town Trolley Tours, and the Prohibition Museum. But now matter what, you know that we give honest reviews and all opinions are our own!
When to Visit Savannah
In researching when to visit Savannah, Marty and I found that everyone’s absolute favorite time seemed to be in the spring from March-June.
During the spring, Savannah has warm temperatures and the city seems to be filled with blooming flowers, especially azaleas. It is also during the spring that the city comes alive with festivals. This causes spring to be Savannah’s high season meaning higher hotel prices and more crowds.
The second favorite time to visit Savannah seemed to be the fall, mid-September to mid-November. The temperatures are nice and mild (low to mid 70s) and the city isn’t overly crowded during the fall. This is actually the time that Marty and I chose to visit and we can attest that this is true!
Personally, I would avoid the summer months July-September just because of the heat. This Texas Couple is certainly used to heat, but I can imagine that Savannah is much more humid than we are in Dallas-Ft. Worth.
If the summer is the only time that you have available to go, then take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the heat and plan to spend some of your time indoors or in the water.
Where to Stay in Savannah
When deciding where to stay in Savannah, we vote unanimously for the historic district. Sure, it is a little more expensive, but you will save time and money on transportation costs since most of the things to do in Savannah, GA are in the historic district.
There are so many choices in the historic district, you are sure to find the perfect place to suite your needs and taste. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a chain hotel, the perfect bed and breakfast, or a whole apartment, the historic district has you covered.
During our visit, we chose to stay in an Airbnb. We found the perfect one-bedroom apartment on Jones Street for our stay. Our apartment had so much character and charm, with its exposed brick walls, and wrought iron entry gate, it was such a lovely representation of Savannah’s charms.
If this sounds like your kind of place, then be sure to read our guide to booking with Airbnb. Also, be sure and use our link to save $55 off your first booking with Airbnb. That is quite a savings!
Of course, there are several top rated hotels in Savannah’s historic distric for you to consider as well.
The Marshall House was built in 1851 and is now a beautiful hotel.
Another great option is Hamilton Turner Inn which is located in the heart of the historic district on Lafayette Square.
The Eliza Thompson House is an adults-only romantic bed and breakfast that might just be perfect for your trip.
If you are looking for a more traditional hotel experience, then consider the Homewood Suites in the Historic District or Marriott Savannah Riverfront.
Getting Around Savannah

If you have taken our advice and are staying in or near Savannah’s historic district, then you will find that Savannah is easily walkable.
The majority of the items that we have included on our list of things to do in Savannah, GA can be easily accessed by wandering around the city (which we highly recommend doing).
You will find that parking in the historic district can be challenging, so we recommend leaving your car (if you have one) at the hotel for the majority of your stay.
If you flew into Savannah, then you don’t really need a rental car. The exceptions to this are if you plan to visit Tybee Island or the other couple of attractions that are further out of town. If this is the case, then you could rent a car for those days, or book a guided tour to take you to these attractions.
If you do find yourself needing a different mode of transportation than your two feet, then we recommend using Savannah’s free DOT Shuttle.
Marty and I found the shuttle to be very useful during our time in Savannah and used it several days to escape the rain. The shuttle has several stops throughout the historic district and is free to use!
Visit their website to find stops and route information.
Things to do in Savannah, GA
Tour Pass Savannah
If you are really wanting to explore Savannah, then you might want to consider buying the Tour Pass Savannah.
This pass includes admission to over 30 of Savannah’s most popular attractions, historic sites, and top tours allowing you to save some money during your vacation.
The pass includes skip the line privileges and can be presented on your mobile phone making it easy and convenient!
Discover the Squares

The city of Savannah was laid out around four open square surrounded by four residential blocks and four civic blocks when the city was first designed in 1733. As Savannah grew, the concept of developing the city around these squares continued and resulted in Savannah having 24 historic squares.
While two of those squares were lost to city development, Savannah retains 22 of these original squares, and they are well worth a visit.
We found the squares of Savannah to be like little mini parks in the city.
Every square we visited contained towering oak trees covered in Spanish moss, making them a great place to take a break from the Georgia heat. Each seemed to have their own “personality” as well, making them unique in their own right.
The history associated with the squares and their surrounding neighborhoods is fascinating and can learned about on a Savannah walking tour.
Eat Your Heart Out on a Food Tour

They say that food is the way to a man’s heart. While I don’t know for sure about that, I do know that it is a surefire way to learn so much about the region that you are visiting.
Some of our fondest travel memories revolve around the food that we experienced in that region. Marty and I still talk about the gelato we ate in Italy, the fresh croissants were bought each morning in France, and just thinking of beignets takes me right back to New Orleans.
Food is such a wonderful part of our lives and our travel experiences, and a food tour is a great way introduction to the food and culture of a region.
We had the opportunity to be guests of Savannah Taste Experience during our time in Savannah, so we can tell you from personal experience-book this tour!
Savannah Taste Experience introduced us to many of Savannah’s best restaurants and cafes.
I’m talking amazing shrimp and grits from 22 Squares, savory pies from Pie Society, a pork belly donut slider from The Ordinary Pub, and authentic Irish food from Molly McPherson’s Irish Pub.
That wasn’t all though, we also sampled a piece of the ‘best sandwich in Savannah’ with ‘shit yeah’ sauce from Zunzie’s before ending on a sweet note at Savannah Bee Company.
Trust me when I tell you that this tour has you eating so much food! So, wear your stretchy pants and be ready to indulge in great Savannah cuisine.
Click here to read more about this great food tour in our post dedicated just to it.
Get to Know the Town on a Trolley Tour

You just can’t beat a good history tour when you’re exploring a new city.
If you’ve been reading our blog for a while, then you know that Marty loves a good hop-on, hop-off tour to get acclimated with a city. I mean we have taken them in London, Paris, and Dublin just to name a few places, so of course, we might as well add Savannah to that list.
Marty and I jumped on a tour with Old Town Trolley Tours one rainy day in Savannah and loved it.
Not only do they take you around to all of the major sites in the city, but you get to learn some great facts about Savannah’s history along the way. Of course, we also enjoyed the fact that we could hop-off at any attraction we wanted.
We would recommend booking with Old Town Trolley Tours when you are visiting Savannah.
Get Scared on a Ghost Tour

Savannah definitely isn’t short on ghosts, which means it also has numerous ghost tours to choose from as well.
I mean, we saw ghost tours in hearses, walking ghost tours, pub crawl ghost tours, and even a horse and carriage ghost tour. If there is a ghost tour you want, chances are Savannah probably has it.
Marty and I opted for a trolley ghost tour through Old Town Trolley Tours and had a great time. After boarding our “ghost trolley” for the evening, we were whisked away into the night. We drove through Savannah’s streets, hearing all about the ghostly hauntings that surrounded us before making our way to the Andrew Lowe House for our ghostly tour.
Once inside, our guide led us through the house telling us all about the history and hauntings that take place there. It was truly a fun adventure.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a true believer or a true skeptic (like me), ghost tours are a fun way to experience a different side of the history of the city and a fun way to make new friends. I highly recommend you take one!
Explore River Street
Once home to cotton warehouses, cargo boats, and almost eliminated due to yellow fever, River Street holds many secrets to Savannah’s past. Walking down Savannah’s 200 year old cobblestone streets in a treat in itself today.
Stroll along admiring the river views while popping into the many storefronts that line River Street. Take note of the historic architecture of the buildings and notice the historical monuments that line the riverside paying tribute to Savannah’s past.
River Street is also a great place to grab a bite to eat while visiting Savannah. We enjoyed visiting Huey’s on the River and sinking our teeth into a delicious muffuletta sandwich. Honestly, Huey’s made us feel like we were back in New Orleans. Don’t leave without trying their praline topped beignets!
River Street Sweets

No visit to Savannah is complete without heading to River Street Sweets.
Be sure and enter through the right-hand door so that you can get a sample of their world-famous pralines. These pralines are the best that we have ever put in our mouths! They are so sweet and buttery with an amazingly creamy texture and loaded with fresh pecans.
Delicious! Marty and I loved them so much, we purchased pralines three different times during our stay in Savannah.
If pralines don’t appeal to you, then don’t fret. River Street Sweets has plenty of other delicious sweets to choose from.
City Market

A visit to City Market is necessary on your visit to Savannah.
What is City Market? Well, City Market is an area brimming with restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops just waiting for you to come and explore.
We found the City Market area to be a great place to just hang out and relax.
Forsyth Park

A trip to Savannah would not be complete without a visit to Forsyth Park. Forsyth Park contains the stunning fountain pictured above that is probably one of the most recognizable feature in Savannah.
In addition to this beautiful fountain, the park provides beautiful green space perfect for an afternoon picnic or game of frisbee. Combine that with all of the gorgeous oak trees dripping with Spanish moss and you too will probably fall in love with Forsyth Park.
Leopold’s Ice Cream

As we were researching Savannah, I was surprised to see an ice cream shop appear repeatedly on everyone’s list. Being a lover of ice cream, I certainly was not mad about this. Actually, the opposite, I was intrigued.
What is so special about this ice cream?
Research revealed that Leopold’s has been a Savannah staple for over 100 years. Not only that, but it is said that Leopold’s invented the flavor Tutti Frutti.
Well, hearing all of this meant that I absolutely had to taste Leopold’s for myself. I can tell you that after taking my first bite of their delicious buttered pecan ice cream, I instantly understood why Leopold’s is on everyone’s list of things to do in Savanah, GA.
Learn About Cluskey Vaults

We stumbled upon Cluskey Vaults as we made our way down to the riverfront one day. As I glanced down the cobblestone alley, I noticed some arched openings in the wall. Pulling Marty along, we quickly learned that we were at the sight of Cluskey Vaults.
Architect, Charles Cluskey, completed the “vaults” in 1842. They carried with them a lot of intrigue and mystery until recent archaeological digs revealed that they were used for as storage units and possibly stores, not as holding area for slaves as was once assumed.
Viewing the vaults will only take a few moments of your time but should definitely be on your list of things to do in Savannah, GA.
Check Out Factors Walk
While visiting the Cluskey Vaults, take a loop up and check out Factors Walk. The footbridges that you see connecting the buildings to the bluff are called Factors Walk. You see, these building used to house men that would bale, factor, and sell cotton.
Those men, called factors, would use these walkways to make their way from the waterfront warehouses to places in the city to buy and sell cotton.
Today, the walkways allow locals and tourists to visit the shops and restaurants that are housed on the “back side” of these historic buildings.
Taste Some Honey

Honestly, I had no idea what to expect when we walked into Savannah Bee Company.
I knew they would have honey but I did not realize that there were so many variations to honey.
I mean, they have whipped honey, raw honey, Tupelo honey, and so much more! After doing a fun tasting of their delicious honey, be sure and check out their other great products or continue your tasting in the back of the store with a mead tasting!
Take a Stroll Down the Prettiest Street in America

According to Southern Living Magazine, the prettiest street in America is right here in Savannah, Georgia. I have to admit, I just might agree with them.
Marty and I had the luxury of renting an Airbnb on Jones Street so we strolled down it every day during our stay. The beautiful historic homes on Jones Street peek out between the gorgeous oak trees dripping in Spanish moss that canopy over Jones Street.
One look and it is easy to see why this street earned its title.
Visit the Telfair Art Museum
Located in the historic area of Savannah, the Telfair Art Museum is a great addition to you list of things to do in Savannah, GA. Founded through the estate of Mary Telfair, the Telfair Museum was the first public art museum in the southern United States.
Located in the Telfair Mansion, the museum houses a collection of over 4,500 art pieces.
Wander Through a Cemetery
Believe it or not, Savannah’s cemeteries are some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Of course, part of this popularity can be contributed to the movie, the Garden of Good and Evil.
The other part of their popularity is the many ghost tours that flock to the cemeteries to share stories of the deceased with interested participants.
Marty and I enjoy visiting cemeteries not only the historical aspect of them, but also the peace and solitude that you can sometimes find in the midst of a busy city. Adding a cemetery tour to your list of things to do in Savannah, GA is a great way to learn more about Savannah’s history.
We recommend taking the Bonaventure After Hours tour if you are interested in the spooky side of the cemetery. For those more interested in visiting the cemetery during the day, consider this private tour instead.
Explore History at Fort Pulaski
Located on Cockspur Island between Savannah and Tybee Island, Fort Pulaski is a must-see for those of you that love American history.
The port, constructed in the early 1800s, was originally designed to protect the port of Savannah. Since then it has played a major role in many historical events throughout America’s history, including the Civil War and serving as the final stop on the Underground Railroad.
Today visitors can visit the fort to learn all about its historical significance.
Indulge in a Wine Tasting

Of course, a wine tasting will be on my list of things to do in Savannah, GA. While I know that you can taste wine at different places throughout the city, I wanted to give a special shout out to The Georgia Tasting Room located in City Market.
Their cute little chalkboard sign out front announcing “6 tastings for $3” grabbed my attention right away. I could not believe that they were offering a tasting for such a reasonable price.
So, why not?
I absolutely loved this little shop. Not only did I get to taste great wines from Georgia, but I also purchased a delicious wine slushie that I was able to walk around town with.
Yes, you read that correctly, you can get your drink to go in Savannah.
It is completely legal to stroll around the historic drink with a beverage of your choice in your hand. My beverage of choice was a peach moonshine and sangria slushy and man was it good!
Shop on Broughton Street
For those of you that love to shop ‘til you drop, then be sure that you head to Broughton Street during your visit to Savannah.
Set amidst and inside the historic building on Broughton Street you will find everything your heart could desire in a shopping experience including everything from antique stores to boutique clothing shops.
Learn all about Prohibition

Did you know that America’s only Prohibition Museum is located right here in Savannah, GA? It’s true!
Right in the heart of City Market, you will find this little gem of a museum. From the moment you enter, you know that you are in for a treat when you are greeted by costumed interpreters ready to introduce you to the era of prohibition in America!
Since reading The Great Gatsby in high school, I have been obsessed with this era in history.
I mean, I could just image being a flapper girl and sneaking into all of the speakeasy joints partying the night away!
Sorry, I digress!
Back to the Prohibition Museum. Visitors are treated to a great display of artifacts including photos, newspaper articles, and various vessels for hiding your liquor as they make their way through the galleries of the museum.
The museum boasts the largest display of moonshine in the United States as well.
The best part of the museum is the speakeasy bar that you wind up in toward the end of your tour. Take time to enjoy a cocktail, they are fabulous!
Visit Wormsloe Historic Site
If you are looking for that perfect tree covered road for you Instagram photo, then you will probably want to add Wormsloe Historic Site to your list of things to do in Savannah, GA. Wormsloe was the estate of Noble Jones who arrived in Georgia in 1733 with the first group of settlers from England
After Jones’ death, his descendants sustained Wormsloe until recent years when it was purchased by the state of Georgia.
A visit to Wormsloe today allows visitors to see the picturesque oak-lined road leading up the old home site. In addition to this, there are often costumed interpreters on hand to explain the history of the site.
You can also visit the museum that contains artifacts found at the Wormsloe site. We recommend this tour if you are interested in visiting Wormsloe.
Tour a Historic Home

Savannah is home to some beautiful historic homes, and there is no better way to get in touch with Savannah’s heritage than to tour these historic treasures.
The Mercer-Williams House, circa 1860, had its construction interrupted by the Civil War. After completion in 1868, the home stood in its original state until 1969 when it underwent a 2-year restoration. Today, visitors can enjoy viewing Williams’ private collection of furniture and art displayed throughout the home.
The Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters are another historic Savannah home. Built in 1819, this home allows visitors to get a glimpse inside the lives of the homeowners and the enslaved who lived and worked on the site over 200 years ago.
The Sorrel Weed House is notorious for being the most haunted place in Savannah. This home, which is 16,000 square feet, is also one of the largest houses in Savannah. You have an option if you want to tour this home.
You can visit during the day and participate in a historic tour or you can come at night and be a part of the Haunted Savannah Ghost tour that takes place here every evening.
A fun fact about this house is that the opening scene from Forrest Gump (where the feather floats through the sky) was filmed from the rooftop.
Tour a Historic Church

Savannah is home to many churches and houses of worship, some of which carry a lot of historical importance. Here are a couple to add to your list of things to do in Savannah, GA.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is the oldest Catholic church in Georgia. This beautiful church is not only gorgeous on the outside, but the inside will take your breath away.
The interior of the cathedral mimics so many of the churches that we saw in Europe. Lined with ornate murals, beautiful architecture, and impeccable stain glass, this church is definitely worth a visit while you are in Savannah.
For a true taste of history, visit The First African Baptist Church. This church is thought to be the oldest African-American congregation in the United States.
Its historical significance as being a stop on the Underground Railroad brings tourist from far and wide to tour and learn all about this fabulous church.
Take a Riverboat Cruise

A Riverboat Cruise is a great way to see Savannah through a different lens.
Visitors can choose from many cruise options ranging from a historic tour to a complete evening with dinner and dancing. Whichever you choose, a riverboat cruise is a great addition to your list of things to do in Savannah, GA.
Take a Day Trip
If you have several days in Savannah and want to explore the surrounding area further then consider taking a day trip.
Tybee Island is a favorite for locals as it is close to Savannah and allows you to enjoy a day at the beach without having to wander too far from town.
If you’re so inclined, you can venture a little farther away and head to Hilton Head Island I South Carolina. Hilton Head has great beaches, golf courses, and some fun museums and restaurants for you to explore.
Final Thoughts on Things to do in Savannah, GA
Savannah is truly such a gorgeous town. Whether you are a lover of history, art, food, or culture, you are sure to find several things to do in Savannah, GA that appeal to you. We certainly did!
Comment below and tell us what we missed or what you enjoyed doing most during your time in Savannah.
Happy Travels my friends!! May love and travel always go hand and hand for you!
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About the Author
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. While she is a professional educator by day, her passion for travel has her jet-setting all over the world during her free time.
Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.
char
Tuesday 23rd of February 2021
Wow Savannah looks stunning! I didn't realise there was so many things to do there but this has definitely been added to my travel bucketlist! Great post and beautiful photos!
thattexascouple
Tuesday 23rd of February 2021
Oh yay! I am so glad that we have inspired you to add a new place to your list.
gloria
Monday 22nd of February 2021
I've never been to Savannah but looks like there is loads of interesting things to do there. thanks for sharing
thattexascouple
Tuesday 23rd of February 2021
Thank you for reading. Savannah is such a great place!
Hannah Marie
Sunday 21st of February 2021
Hi, Texas Friends! So I've never visited Georgia, but now I think I'll need to pay Savannah GA a visit. I think the honey + the wine would be a favorite of mine... Thank y'all for sharing! Xx
thattexascouple
Monday 22nd of February 2021
Those are definitely great choices. Savannah is such a beautiful city!
Kara
Sunday 21st of February 2021
I really want to visit. Esp Forsyth Park! Great list of things to do!
thattexascouple
Monday 22nd of February 2021
You should. It is such a great city!
Arrivals Hall
Sunday 21st of February 2021
My sister had a summer job on Hilton Head Island when she was a student and said the South Carolina/Georgia area was a lovely part of the world. It's on my to-do list. Thanks for sharing your tips.
thattexascouple
Monday 22nd of February 2021
We didn't make it to Hilton Head. I think we need to go back just to do that!