When you picture the south, no doubt images of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and the scent of magnolia blossoms fill your mind. These elements teasingly beckon you toward a place where time seems to stand still. Literally, still. Savannah locals do an ardently beautiful job of preserving the historic homes and squares that decorate this quaint town. Because of these sustaining efforts, you can truly be hauntingly transported to a bygone era, simultaneously finding appreciation for progress and the past. This is certainly the place to take an aimless stroll and see what secrets are revealed to you. While the heat of summer may be enough to melt you into a puddle, a nice cool drink on the waterfront will cure that.
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I dare you to visit any time of year, you will not regret it. There are so many magical activities to explore throughout the seasons, although I'm pretty sure Savannah only has two, not four seasons (hot & mild). Apparently, it's one of the top cities to celebrate the New Year, St. Patty's Day is a really big deal with a massive parade, and Christmas decorations rival the North Pole even though temps could be in the mid 60's in December. Point is, there is always something for every member of the fam to enjoy. Spring and fall are probably best weather wise, but expect peak prices.
Here's more reasons to fall in love and spend some time in Savannah...
1. As "Hostess City of the South" and the oldest city in the state of Georgia, you will find an abundance of delicious food options, historic learning opportunities, interesting characters and beautifully preserved architecture. Simply walking the cobblestone streets takes you back in time.
2. Savannah is laid out in a series of grids, marked by 22 beautiful and well maintained squares. Green space is always a welcomed refuge in the middle of city life but there's something magical in the air here, almost transendent. Take a stroll along Jones Street, widely considered one of the prettiest streets in the US, to admire the meticulously cared for homes.
3. There is an abundance of guided tour options throughtout the city, from air conditioned trolleys to nightly Ghost Walks, or in our case, we opted for a bicycle tour. Savannah on Wheels offers a great way to learn the lay of the land and take in some history from an experienced guide.
4. Forsyth Park is an experience unto itself. I once stumbled upon a movie being filmed here, right beside one of the most recognizable images of Savannah, the Forsyth Park Fountain! You've undoubtedly seen it on postcards and any advertisements for the city. Covering 30 acres, this park is huge and full of activities from concerts to ball games. Collins Quarter at Forsyth Park is a delightful restaurant and welcome retreat in the middle of the park with yummy shrimp&grits, breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
5. Common was our favorite restaurant in the heart of downtown. Locally owned with a very knowledgable staff, neat atmosphere, great happy hour, and a vast menu of fresh ingredients. We all got something different and each were delicious, I had the Pineapple Situation and would absolutely get it again.
6. Get reservations (far in advance) at The Olde Pink House. You can't miss this elegant colonial mansion and won't regret it. I failed to get reservations my first couple times visiting and couldn’t even stick my head into the cellar tavern below it was so crowded, this was on a weeknight too.
7. River Street, while touristy, is full of good restaurants, shops, candy and cobblestones. Originally the stones were carried as ballast in ships and unloaded upon arriving at the Savannah port. They were then used for building material and to pave the streets.
Do yourself a favor and wear comfy shoes. Looking cute in heels is not worth twisting an ankle on uneven roads/sidewalks.
8. Still an important Atlantic seaport, the Savannah River provides vital access to industry. Find a spot at one of the many roof top bars/restaurants to watch the sunset and container ships slowly moving up and down river.
9. Tybee Island Beach Day! Only 18 miles from the Savannah Historic District, you can easily drive over for the day to get your beach fix. There are also many rentals to choose from and plenty of restaurants if you wanted to enjoy a few nights there too.
10. On the way back from Tybee, we had to stop at The Original Crab Shack and I’m so glad we did! Nestled among the trees, this hideaway offers the quintessential low country experience. Fun for any age, indoor/outdoor seating, a great tiki bar, a gator lagoon, and gift shop.
11. You shouldn't have a problem finding lodging in Savannah. There is an abundance of hotels and Airbnb's to suit your needs. I've experienced a mix of both and always enjoyed my time. You can find historic rooms, new commercial hotels, traditional Bed and Breakfasts, or Airbnb's/VRBOs, depending on your group and where you want to be. The last home I stayed in with friends was called Walk to Forsyth and we loved having plenty of space with a kitchen during our week long stay.
12. If you aren't within driving distance, the Savannah/Hilton Head Airport is very nice and easy to maneuver. Only about a 20 minute drive to town. Ubers abound so you can easily get around.
13. Watch Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and Something to Talk About. Filmed on location, these films capture the essence of what Savannah has to offer, almost as if the city is staring character.
Truly, nothing compares to experiencing this magnificent area for yourself. Let me know if you’d like more information about any of my recommendations and please tell me anything you think I should try to see next time I head that way!
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