Things To Do In City Market, Savannah
City Market
In the spirit of old Savannah, the historic City Market is alive and bustling, welcoming guests of all ages to enjoy its charming ambiance. In 1755, City Market was where fishermen and farmers brought their wares and where horse-drawn carriages brought people to meet, shop and socialize. Back then, it was Savannah’s social and commercial gathering spot. Though the original structures did not survive various fires, demolition and the eventuality of progress, a group of history enthusiasts worked to revive the City Market and due to their efforts, it is once again a center of activity.
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Today, visitors and residents come for the restaurants, pubs, unique shops, museums and galleries. There’s also a vibrant night-life including live music and entertainment in the courtyards. And to many visitors, a horse-drawn carriage ride brings back the nostalgic beauty of the Original City Market.
Telfair Museum of Art
What began in 1886 as a small museum housed in the Telfair family home, today encompasses several locations providing visitors with wondrous examples of the world’s great art movements and styles. From the works of prolific painter and father of Impressionism Claude Monet to the most contemporary conceptual art, the breadth of the work on display at the Telfair is breathtaking. There are 3 buildings that comprise the oldest public museum in the south: the Telfair Academy of Arts & Sciences, the Owens-Thomas House, and the dramatic Jepson Center for the Arts. The Telfair Academy, a historic mansion from 1820 listed in the National Register of Historic Places and located in Savannah’s historic district, is where you’ll find romantic interior spaces and many works from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Owens-Thomas House will transport you back to 19th century Savannah and immerse you in the distinct style of the period and the Jepson Center for the Arts, a modern architectural work of art itself, links Savannah’s past to its present and offers world-class touring exhibitions along with hands-on, interactive exhibits for kids.
Eat at Award-Winning Restaurants
The ‘Hostess City of the South’ boasts a burgeoning culinary scene with a plethora of options to choose from. Whether its traditional Low Country fare, modern twists on old favorites, delightful gastro pubs or out-of-this-world chef-driven fine dining, you’ll find endless ways to fill your tummy with deliciousness.
On the southwest corner of City Market, Savannah, housed in a restored red-brick building that once sold groceries at the turn of the 20th-century, you’ll find Belford’s. Consistently ranked as one of Savannah’s culinary must-eats, especially for their steaks and seafood selections, this is where you’ll get to enjoy flawlessly prepared, local southern fare in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
‘Chef’s Table,’ Netflix’s celebrated and elegantly produced food docu-series, dedicated an episode to the talented chefs and exquisite eats in Georgia’s First City. Among those profiled, Chef Mashama Bailey’s restaurant, the Grey, has been called “audacious and accessible” with her earthy, thought-provoking dishes. This is just a taste of what you can expect with the many amazing places to visit and eat in this charming city.
Trolley Stop Gifts
Trolley Stop GiftsThere’s no better time to pick up some memorable gifts for family and friends or even a special something for you. Stop in at Trolley Stop Gifts for a variety of gifts, souvenirs, stationery and more.
The Inn at Ellis Square
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Savannah at the Inn at Ellis Square, a grand historic hotel steps away from City Market, Savannah. Located in the Guckenheimer Building, built in 1851, The Inn at Ellis Square exudes southern tradition and charm. It has been restored to its original magnificence and offers guests a meaningful and memorable stay in the heart of Savannah. Original hard-wood floors and warm red brick walls blend beautifully with gracious modern amenities. Its idyllic setting is just a short walk to galleries and horse drawn carriage tours, fine dining and outdoor cafes and a wonderful variety of live music.
Explore Street-Level Galleries
Art-lovers have a friend in Savannah. Fueled by the presence of the Savannah School of Art & Design (SCAD) that has made its home here since 1979, the scene in this small coastal city offers big-city options to satiate your every artistic desire. Head over to historic downtown every second Saturday of the month and take an inspired stroll to the many small and vibrant galleries during the Savannah Art Walk. If you like funky, whimsical pop-art, visit A.T. Hun to view one of the most eclectic collections in City Market. For colorful, homegrown artwork depicting Savannah itself, you’ll want to check out Gouse. Gallery gawking is practiced and encouraged by locals and visitors alike so get out there and discover the next big thing in the art world!
American Prohibition Museum & Speakeasy
American Prohibition Museum & SpeakeasyLocated in Savannah’s popular City Market, the American Prohibition Museum is the first and only museum in the United States dedicated to the history of Prohibition. Highlighting an era of gangsters, rum runners, and flappers, the museum brings the Roaring Twenties to life with over 20 intoxicating exhibits and an authentic speakeasy. Featuring 21st century technology and immersive displays, the museum takes guests on a journey through the past to the early 1900s when anti-alcohol rallies swept the nation and America’s struggle with alcohol was brought to light.
- Not Your Average “Dry” Museum – step back in time to a wild era of flappers, bootlegging, and gangsters.
- Learn the history behind the iconic V8 and how it led to the birth of NASCAR.
- Explore the stories of Al Capone, Scarface, and the other historical gangsters of Prohibition.
- View confiscated items from mobsters and 200+ Prohibition-Era artifacts.
- Discover why Savannah was referred to as the “Bootleg Spigot of the South.”
- Slip into our Speakeasy to enjoy authentic craft cocktails.
- Zagat rated Congress Street Up Speakeasy “One Of The Hottest Bars In Savannah.”
Nightlife
City Market, with its reputation of being the ‘Art and Soul of Savannah,’ is swamped with things to do at night. For a relatively small city, the nightlife here really packs a wallop with an impressive array of bars, pubs, and live music venues, not to mention the city’s ‘to-go cup’ culture that makes it legal to take your adult beverage wherever you go. Get things started at Pour Larry’s. This, allegedly haunted, fun dive-bar is the original birthplace of one of America’s favorite past times. Not, baseball. Beer Pong. Decidedly unpretentious and such a fun hang that they named it twice, The Bar Bar is a great place to grab very reasonably priced cocktails, shoot some stick, and get your foosball on. There’s always something fun waiting for you in City Market after dark!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the history of the City Market in Savannah GA?
The City Market in Savannah, established in 1733, has been a central hub of commerce and social activity throughout the city’s history. Despite facing challenges like fires, war, and a hurricane, the market was always rebuilt. However, it fell into disrepair in the mid-20th century and was controversially demolished. This sparked the Savannah preservation movement, leading to its rebirth in the 1980s as a pedestrian-friendly area with restored historic buildings now housing restaurants, shops, and galleries. Today, City Market continues to thrive as a cultural and entertainment center, embodying Savannah’s enduring spirit and dedication to its heritage.
What is City Market in Savannah known for?
City Market in Savannah is esteemed for its dynamic atmosphere, diverse array of dining options, local artistry, and distinctive shopping experiences. This historic locale embodies the essence of Savannah’s character through its mix of art galleries, boutiques, eateries, and entertainment venues. Visitors frequent City Market to engage with the city’s charm, savor culinary delights, explore regional craftsmanship, and partake in a cultural experience reflecting Savannah’s unique allure.
Is City Market in Savannah a good place for shopping and dining?
Yes! Visitors can indulge in a shopping spree at City Market’s eclectic boutiques and art galleries, then savor delicious meals at its diverse restaurants, cafes, and eateries, providing a delightful blend of shopping and dining experiences.
