Savannah is one of my favorite cities in the south and is an easy weekend trip from Atlanta. The city is the oldest in Georgia, founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe. It was one of the only towns left standing during Sherman’s March to the Sea during the Civil War. 

I have been there numerous times and these are my favorite things to do and places to eat and drink!

Activities

Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is a large park in the historic district in downtown Savannah. The park is filled with gorgeous live oak trees with Spanish moss. There is also a beautiful fountain which makes a lovely backdrop for a photo. The fountain was actually modeled after a fountain in Paris. This is a must-see stop in Savannah!

Wormsloe Historic Site

Wormsloe is another gorgeous spot with tons of oak trees. The main entrance is nicknamed “Oak Alley” and is an impressive oak tree-lined road worth seeing even if you don’t visit the rest of the site! Wormsloe is a former plantation, which is the oldest standing structure in Savannah. Today, there is a museum, nature trails, and historical interpreters. Entrance to the historic site is $12 per adult. 

Take a Ghost Tour or Haunted Bar Crawl

Savannah is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in America. This is for a few main reasons: the city is built on top of a Native American burial ground, it was once the largest slave port in the south, and there were three large Yellow Fever epidemics in the 19th century. One way to learn about the city’s history and paranormal legends is to take a ghost tour or haunted bar crawl. The ghost tours will take you to historic homes and cemeteries, while the haunted bar crawl will visit a few pubs that have haunted reputations. You’ll hear ghost stories at each stop. We did the pub crawl on a bachelorette weekend, and it was fun!

I recommend booking a tour with this company or this company and using my promo code YOUNGW10 to get 10% off tours!

Visit Bonaventure Cemetery

This cemetery was established in the 1800s on a former plantation and is the resting place of Savannah’s most prominent citizens. it was featured in the novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”, which made it internationally famous. It was designed as a garden cemetery, meant for strolling and reflection. It is especially pretty in the spring when the azaleas are blooming. The Bonaventure Historical Society offers free guided tours on the second weekend of each month. You could also get a copy of the cemetery’s guide from the visitor center, located near the entrance to the cemetery.

Hang Out In a Square

Savannah was built on a grid system that consists of 24 squares, with each square serving as a public park. Many of the parks have monuments or fountains and benches to relax on. Chippewa Square was the filming location for the famous Forrest Gump bench scene where he says “life is like a box of chocolates”.

Head to the Beach at Tybee Island

Tybee is a barrier island near Savannah. It’s the closest beach to Savannah, and one of the only in Georgia. It’s also the closest beach to Atlanta, so I’ve been there many times. 

Walk along River Street 

The beautiful cobblestone street follows the Savannah River. The street (and city in general) has a dark past. The buildings that are now shops and restaurants were once warehouses filled with cotton and slaves. It’s thought to be one of the most haunted parts of the city.

River Cruise on the Savannah River

Experience the charm of Savannah from the water on a river cruise. You’ll learn about Savannah’s history, and you may also have the option to add on a dinner buffet. I have never been on a river cruise in Savannah, but I have always thought they looked fun.

River Street Sweets

River Street Sweets is a staple in Savannah and is the city’s original candy store. They’re known for their handmade pralines, which they give out samples for at the entrance. I always make a point to come here to get a sample, even if I’m not getting any other candy 🙂

Skidaway Island State Park

Another island near Savannah is Skidaway, known for its beautiful marshes and wildlife. A large portion of the island is a private gated community, but there is also a state park that has several trails and boardwalks open to the public.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Savannah has one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country. Visitors come from all over the world to see the local parade and participate in events. It is Savannah’s largest event. The parade usually starts around 10am but be sure to get there early to find a spot and parking. If you are visiting from out of town, book your lodging far in advance!

Savannah Bananas Game

I’ve heard the Savannah Bananas baseball games are really fun to attend. Unlike traditional baseball, these games have more of a showtime atmosphere, with dances and stunts. 

Eating & Drinking

Savannah has a great restaurant scene. You can also take cocktails to go thanks to the open container laws.

Brunch

The Grove

The Grove is a great casual restaurant and rooftop bar. Their brunch is delicious! The last time I was there, I got the eggs, bacon, biscuit, and grits.

Ordinary Pub

Another yummy spot is the Ordinary Pub. The pork belly donut sliders and shrimp and grits are both amazing dishes.

Collins Quarter

This spot is in the iconic Forsyth Park. It’s another popular brunch restaurant. I recommend arriving by 10am, as it tends to get busy after that. The last time I was there, I had avocado toast and Vietnamese coffee.

B Matthews

Another great brunch spot (can you tell I love brunch?)! I have been here once, and I got the classic breakfast.

Dinner

Jazz’d Tapas Bar

This tapas restaurant and bar has a great atmosphere, located underground. I’ve been there several times, and the food is always top notch. They often have live jazz performances which really add to the atmosphere.

Savannah Taphouse

A fun spot for dinner with sports bar vibes. I’ve had the mac and cheese egg rolls, and they were to die for.

The Crab Shack in Tybee

Some of the best seafood is a fun spot at Tybee Island. I recommend stopping here after spending time at the beach, as it’s a little far to go just for dinner. The seafood platters are awesome, and they have alligators in their lagoon out front. I come here every time I visit Tybee! I recommend getting here early, as it gets busy at dinnertime.

Sorry Charlie’s Oyster Bar

Another fun spot downtown. I’ve been here a couple times, but the last time I had the fish tacos, and they were very good.

The Pirates’ House

If you want to eat inside a piece of colonial American history, visit the Pirates’ House. This tavern dates back to the 1700s and is believed to be the oldest standing building in Savannah. It was a favorite haunt of sailors, merchants and pirates. Formerly known as The Herb House, it evolved into what is now known as The Pirates’ House. Try the honey pecan fried chicken or the shrimp and grits!

Dessert & Drinks

Leopold’s Ice Cream

This ice cream shop is a Savannah institution. It’s over a century old, founded in 1919. It has a 1930s vibe, with a soda fountain and marble counters. There always seems to be a line, so be prepared to wait.

Lulu’s Chocolate Bar

One of my favorite spots that I’ve visited many times is Lulu’s Chocolate Bar. They have lots of dessert options, as well as drinks that include chocolate martinis. A must-visit for any chocolate lover!

The Bohemian Hotel Bar (Rocks on the Roof)

Located on the top floor of the Bohemian Hotel, Rocks on the Roof has outstanding views of the Savannah River and River Street. Their drinks are great, and they also have some light bites. I’ve been here many times and will keep coming back!

Congress Street Social Club

This has always been one of my favorite casual places to get drinks. There’s a fun outside area and a nice bar inside.

You may also be interested in:

The Best Restaurants in Atlanta
The Best Hikes Near Atlanta