Savannah is buzzing with springtime energy this week, y'all! The azaleas are in full bloom, the weather is perfect for strolling, and there's a palpable excitement in the air with a ton of great events happening. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Savannahian, get ready to discover some hidden gems and make some memories.
No trip to Savannah is complete without a visit to Forsyth Park. Take a leisurely walk under the Spanish moss-draped oaks, admire the iconic fountain, and spread out a blanket for a relaxing picnic. This week, catch the special flower displays that local garden clubs put on to celebrate the start of spring!
Tip: Grab some takeout from Zunzi's before heading to the park for a truly memorable picnic experience.
Escape the city bustle and explore the scenic Skidaway River by kayak. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, allowing you to paddle through serene marshes and observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for dolphins and various bird species!
Tip: Go at high tide for the easiest paddling and the best chance of seeing wildlife.
Just a short drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island offers a beautiful stretch of beach for sunbathing, swimming, and shell collecting. This week, the water is starting to warm up, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. Be sure to check out the Tybee Island Light Station while you're there!
Tip: Head to the north end of the island for a quieter beach experience.
Wander through the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery, a Victorian-era garden cemetery famous for its stunning sculptures and moss-draped trees. Take a guided tour or explore on your own, discovering the stories behind the elaborate monuments.
Tip: Visit at dawn or dusk for the most atmospheric experience.
Indulge in classic Southern cuisine at The Olde Pink House, a Savannah institution housed in an 18th-century mansion. Savor their signature crispy scored flounder or she-crab soup in an elegant and historic setting. Reservations are highly recommended!
Tip: Ask for a table in the Planters Tavern for a more casual and lively atmosphere.
Experience modern Southern cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients at Husk Savannah. Their ever-changing menu showcases the best of the region's bounty, prepared with innovative techniques. Be sure to try their creative cocktails!
Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to sample their house-made charcuterie.
For an authentic taste of Southern comfort food, head to Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room. This family-style restaurant serves up a heaping spread of fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and other classic dishes. Be prepared to wait in line, but it's well worth it!
Tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and secure a spot at the communal table.
Cool off with a scoop of Leopold's Ice Cream, a Savannah landmark since 1919. Choose from a variety of delicious flavors, including their signature Tutti Frutti. Be prepared for a line, but the creamy goodness is worth the wait.
Tip: Try their Honey Almond & Cream flavor - it's a local favorite!
Enjoy live jazz music and delicious tapas at Jazz'd Tapas Bar. This cozy and intimate venue features local and regional musicians, creating a vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere. Sip on creative cocktails and savor the flavorful small plates.
Tip: Go on a weeknight for a more relaxed vibe.
Catch a live rock, punk, or metal show at The Wormhole Bar & Music Venue. This dive bar is a favorite among locals for its cheap drinks, lively atmosphere, and eclectic lineup of bands. Be prepared for a rowdy good time!
Tip: Check their website for the weekly schedule – they always have something cool going on.
Take in the stunning Savannah skyline while sipping on cocktails at one of the city's many rooftop bars. Rocks on the Roof at the Bohemian Hotel and Peregrin at the Perry Lane Hotel offer stylish settings and panoramic views. Make it a progressive evening and hop between a few!
Tip: Go early to snag a good spot and watch the sunset.
Explore Savannah's spooky side with a guided ghost tour. Several companies offer walking tours that delve into the city's haunted history and paranormal legends. Be prepared for chilling tales and maybe even a ghostly encounter!
Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially on weekends.
Immerse yourself in art and history at the Telfair Museums, comprising three distinct sites: the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center for the Arts. Explore a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and contemporary works.
Tip: Purchase a combo ticket to save money and visit all three museums.
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art at the SCAD Museum of Art, showcasing works by emerging and established artists from around the world. The museum also features a stunning collection of fashion and costume design. Check out the exhibits from SCAD students this week!
Tip: Take a guided tour to learn more about the exhibits and the museum's history.
Step back in time and learn about the history of Prohibition in the United States at the American Prohibition Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits on bootlegging, speakeasies, and the impact of the 18th Amendment.
Tip: Sample some period-inspired cocktails at the museum's speakeasy bar.
Wander through City Market, a historic marketplace filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Browse the diverse selection of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and crafts, and chat with the local artists. This week, there's a special outdoor art fair in the evenings!
Tip: Look for the hidden courtyards and alleyways for even more art discoveries.
Stroll along River Street, a historic waterfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Watch the ships pass by, browse the souvenir shops, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to snap a photo with the Waving Girl statue!
Tip: Go during the day for a less crowded experience.
Discover the beauty and charm of Savannah's historic squares. Each square is unique, with its own monuments, fountains, and landscaping. Take a self-guided walking tour and learn about the history and significance of these green spaces.
Tip: Download a map of the squares to help you navigate.
Browse the eclectic shops and boutiques on Broughton Street, Savannah's main shopping thoroughfare. Even if you're not buying, the window displays are worth a look. This week, many stores are having special sales!
Tip: Keep an eye out for the street performers and artists.
Visit the stunning Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a Roman Catholic cathedral known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture. Admire the grandeur of the interior and take a moment for quiet reflection.
Tip: Check the cathedral's website for service times and special events.
Explore the history of railroads in Georgia at the Georgia State Railroad Museum. Climb aboard historic locomotives, tour the repair shops, and take a ride on a vintage train. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits and activities.
Tip: Check the museum's schedule for special events and demonstrations.
Let your kids' imaginations run wild at the Savannah Children's Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. There's also a large outdoor play area with a maze and a pirate ship.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes for the kids, as they're likely to get wet and messy.
Take a boat tour with Dolphin Magic and spot wild dolphins playing in their natural habitat! Their boat rides are family-friendly and have a marine biologist on board to teach you and your children more about the dolphins. This week has been especially good for sightings!
Tip: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the memories.
Have a meal at The Pirate's House, a restaurant with a rich history dating back to 1753. Legend says it was once a meeting place for pirates and sailors. The kids will love exploring the maze of rooms and hearing the tales of swashbuckling adventure.
Tip: Ask for a table in the garden for a more relaxed and kid-friendly atmosphere.
Browse the eclectic shops and boutiques on Broughton Street, Savannah's main shopping thoroughfare. Even if you're not buying, the window displays are worth a look. This week, many stores are having special sales!
Tip: Keep an eye out for the street performers and artists.
Get lost in the stacks at The Book Lady Bookstore, a cozy independent bookstore with a wide selection of new and used books. Browse the shelves for your next great read or chat with the knowledgeable staff for recommendations.
Tip: Check their website for author events and book signings.
Sample a variety of honeys and honey-based products at the Savannah Bee Company. Learn about the importance of bees and their role in the ecosystem, and purchase some delicious honey to take home.
Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try their mead tasting.