Top 10 Most Memorable Things to Do in Savannah
Savannah is the crown jewel of Georgia, and it’s easy to see why. We loved visiting this historic city. It is full of things to do and see. We stayed for an extended weekend, and I loved it so much I returned to Savannah a year later.
Don’t worry. You won’t have to spend all your time in museums or walking around the squares. There are plenty of cool things to do in Savannah that are just as fun as their historical counterparts.
The fun doesn’t stop here. You can also spend time exploring some great nature preserves nearby, like Skidaway Island State Park or plan a day trip to Tybee Island State Park if you want to get away from it all!
Here are some of our favorite fun things to do in Savannah, Georgia!
Top Things to Do in Savannah
Forsyth Park
📍2 W Gaston St., Savannah
When you visit, one of the first things to do in Savannah is see Forsyth Park.
It is a beautiful and wide-open space located in the center of the city. The trees are really beautiful, and the Spanish-like, moss-covered boulevards add to their charm. I later learned it is not Spanish moss, but I can’t recall the name of it the plant.
There is a beautiful fountain in the center, and it is a favorite place for tourists to take pictures. Movie buffs will see this fountain appear in several movies. The green space is wide open. We saw people playing sports, having a picnic, and reading while relaxing in the sun.
There were also local events held in the park. There is plenty of street parking and there is no charge to visit the park.
Mercer-Williams House
📍429 Bull St., Savannah
The movie “A Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” was based on the non-fiction novel of the same name that was written by John Berendt. The file is based on Jim Williams and his case of a murder mystery. The movie was filmed here. So, if you are a fan of murder mysteries, visiting the Mercer-Williams house should be on your list of things to do in Savannah.
The tour begins from the carriage house. You’ll visit the garden and the first floor of the house, passing through the dining room, the study where the shooting happened, a gorgeous-looking bathroom, a living room, and a parlor.
Unfortunately, no photos are allowed.
East River Street
On East River Street, we found a variety of chain store names, boutique shops, and plenty of bars and open-air places. It’s a nice area to take a stroll or take in the views of the Mississippi River.
River Street is a great mix of old and new. The rich history is evident as you walk the cobblestone roads and walkways with old buildings mixed with newly built and restored buildings.
Be sure to wear comfortable flat shoes. The uneven cobblestoned paths can be dangerous, and the stairs to get from the road to the riverfront are uneven and steep.
The Olde Pink House
📍 23 Abercorn St., Savannah
This restaurant is so popular that you may need to book one month in advance. While this restaurant ranks high on the list of things to do in Savannah, I don’t really agree.
At the Olde Pink House, it feels like you are stepping back in time with this experience. The restaurant was originally a house built in the 18th century and you’ll see that much of the original construction is still there.
The food is good, and the restaurant is famous, beautiful, and historic but I think it’s just a tourist trap. However, it does offer a unique experience and is a place to go when visiting the beautiful city of Savannah!
Telfair Museum
📍 207 W York St., Savannah
If you are visiting Savannah for the first time, the Telfair Museum is a great value. We purchased tickets which gave us access to three sites: The Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center.
You’ll enjoy your time at this two-story, 200-year-old mansion that sits in the historic district of Savannah. Inside the 19th century-period rooms are a wealth of American and European art. I highly recommend this for your itinerary. It makes for a well-worth visit if you’re into historical buildings and art museums.
There is an audio tour included. You press play as you go on your phone. The overviews are brief, which you may like because it gives just enough information.
If you see anything of interest, you can research it later or view it at the physical exhibit. The highlight of the house is the rotunda with the large art. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it and highly recommend this museum for things to do in Savannah, especially if you need a rainy-day activity.
Owens-Thomas House
📍 124 Abercorn St. Savannah
Like many estates in downtown Savannah, this Regency-style mansion has a rich history including the adjoining Garden Coach House and servant quarter. Its significance is great because the structure is considered one of the finest examples of this style of architecture in the United States.
From the moment the tour begins, you’ll have a complete picture of the complex relationships between the rich and the poor in Savannah in the 19th century. The tour lasts about an hour or so.
With your pass, you’ll be able to visit a total of 3 different museums within a few blocks.
Savannah Historic District
Located in the heart of Savannah, Georgia is a charming historic district with more area attractions within walking distance.
You can explore Broughton Street and City Market lined with delicious restaurants unique art galleries and a variety of shopping malls. Exploring the historic district is one of the best things to do in Savannah because you will encounter beautifully restored homes, quaint shops, art galleries, and inviting cafes.
Take a stroll down River Street or visit the Savannah Historical Museum and River Boat Queen nearby.
City Market
📍 219 W Bryan St., Savannah
City Market is the historic city’s commercial and social center and is one of the top attractions in Savannah. Located in the original marketplace where various farmers and traders sell their goods and wares, the city market offers the best of Savannah both old and new.
Today the Savannah Fairgrounds consists of 4 blocks with warehouses and shops adjacent to Ellis Square. This charming open-air market in Savannah is full of activities for entertainment shopping dining or relaxing your weary feet.
Bonaventure Cemetary
📍 330 Bonaventure Rd., Thunderbolt
It seems odd to visit a cemetery, but you must admit that it would be one of the most memorable things to do in Savannah. Not only does Bonaventure Cemetery have famous graves, and a filming site for dozens of movies, but it is one of the most beautiful cemeteries to be seen.
It’s a bit far off from the downtown area, but if you have a car, it’s a 15-20 minute drive from downtown. You can either walk through the cemetery or you can drive through. If you stop at the main office, you can pick up a guide for the location of famous graves.
The area is so peaceful a backdrop of flowers and moss-covered trees, and stunning sculptures.
Wormsloe Plantation
📍 7601 Skidaway Rd., Savannah
Wormsloe Plantation is about a 15-minute drive from the historic Savannah district and is well worth the drive. The arched entryway and the iconic view down the long road lined with oak trees are beautiful.
Past the arched entrance to the right is an old structure where you can purchase tickets.
Leashed dogs are welcome to walk the grounds, but only service animals are allowed inside buildings. The nature trails are scenic and provide a nice stroll.
Early tours include staff dressed in the period dress at designated times. Plan to spend one or 2 hours on your visit.
Final Thoughts About Things to Do in Savannah
This comprehensive guide has the most remarkable attractions and experiences that await in Savannah. From the enchanting historic district with its captivating architecture and rich heritage to the breathtaking natural beauty of Forsyth Park.
I especially enjoyed the southern food, the museums, and meeting other travelers. The tourism routes are rather small so if you see someone at dinner, you are bound to run into them again at another place. If you do, just wave and say “Hey, cousin”! Because when you visit the south, everyone feels like family.
