Local’s Guide to Visiting Savannah

Explore Attractions in Savannah, GA

The Bonaventure Cemetery

One of the more peaceful yet eerie attractions in Savannah, GA, Bonaventure Cemetery sits on the breathtaking bluff of Wilmington River. The burial ground has served as a charming tourist site for over 150 years and, for many, is considered one of the most amazing attractions in Savannah, GA — just ask a local.

River Street

No local’s guide to visiting Savannah is complete without Savannah’s waterfront: River Street. The scenic street offers shopping, tours, bistros, bars, and even places to stay. Whether you call it home during your trip or stop by for drinks before heading on a tour, River Street has earned its place on nearly every local’s guide to visiting Savannah.

Dine at Any of Savannah’s Best Restaurants

For every exciting experience that visitors must do in Savannah, GA, there’s an equally exciting must-eat. Favorites include mussels and signature drinks at Local 11ten, Southern classics with a twist at the Olde Pink House, the Fox & Fig Cafe that’ll leave vegan travelers’ taste buds smiling, the Collins Quarter, Husk Savannah and more.

Walking Around All the Public Squares

We could fill a local’s guide to visiting Savannah with just the community’s squares. Old Town Trolley – Savannah frequents the city’s squares throughout the day, each with their own histories and designs. For memorable strolls that put you and your travel crew in the center of some of Savannah’s most enchanting natural environments, hop off and enjoy.

Enjoy Old-Fashioned Ice Cream at Leopold’s

Sweeten your local’s guide to visiting Savannah with a visit to Leopold’s Ice Cream. Their super-premium ice creams have remained unchanged since 1919. You’ll find Leopold’s is a delicious addition to almost every local’s guide to visiting Savannah, as locals and tourists love to stop by for scoops, soups, splits and sundaes.

Explore SCAD Museum Of Art

Discover the gripping exhibits within the halls of SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) Museum of Art. The contemporary art and design museum is unique for attractions in Savannah, GA. It inspires visitors of all ages with artwork, film screenings, lectures, gallery talks and guided tours. From scavenger hunts to sensory boards and hands-on crafts, little creatives will have plenty to engage their imaginations.

Buy Cool Art Gifts at shopSCAD Savannah

shopSCAD is a retail gallery featuring a unique collection of fine art, home goods, handbags, jewelry and other accessories created by the talented artists of Savannah College of Art and Design. Get a special piece for yourself to remember your trip with Old Town Trolley – Savannah, or find the perfect souvenir gift for the folks back home.

Visit Wormsloe Historic Site

The Wormsloe Historic Site, also known as the Wormsloe Plantation, keeps people coming back for its rich history and lush greenery. Start your day with an absolutely gorgeous drive through the site as you’re welcomed by its beautiful oak-lined avenue. You’re sure to leave with old stories and new memories.

Make the Forrest Gump Pilgrimage to Chippewa Square

Savannah is proud to be the home of one of the most popular movies of all time, Forrest Gump. The 1994 film features Savannah’s own Chippewa Square, where Hanks starred in one of the movie’s most famous scenes. The journey to Chippewa Square puts travelers in the heart of one of the top attractions in Savannah, GA.

Brunch at the Collins Quarter

A necessary addition to any local’s guide to visiting Savannah, the Collins Quarter brings classics from Australia’s café capital to the streets of Savannah. Sit down for brunch at either of the unique café’s two locations to sip on specialty coffee and cocktails, or try innovative dishes (a local favorite of the attractions in Savannah, GA).

Capture Savannah’s Beauty

Savannah is home to some of Georgia’s most Instagram-worthy areas. You’ll want to keep your camera close as you tour the city with Old Town Trolley – Savannah to capture scenes and memories to last a lifetime. With so many picturesque attractions in Savannah, GA, you can be confident that you’ll get the perfect shot.

Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is a sprawling 30-acre city park in Savannah’s Historic District. It features one of the city’s most photographed fountains, Spanish moss gracefully draped among the trees, and even a locally sourced farmers’ market on Saturdays. The park has long been considered an absolute must-do on any local’s guide to visiting Savannah.

Jones Street

Jones Street has been described as the prettiest street in all of Savannah, GA, and even one of the most charming streets in America. Adorned with Greek architecture, live oaks and historic homes, Jones Street is the site of some of the most celebrated historic areas and loved attractions in Savannah, GA.

The Gingerbread House

In 1899, the iconic Gingerbread House was born on Bull Street in Savannah, GA. The Gingerbread House has been the venue of choice for many “I do’s” and special events. The extraordinary design and architecture serve as a picture-perfect backdrop for everything from planned photoshoots to snapshots for passersby.

Savannah Belles Ferry

The Savannah Belles Ferry is a free trip on the water, key to any local’s guide to visiting Savannah. It takes those on board across the Savannah River between Downtown’s riverwalk and Hutchinson Island. You may even see a few locals on board with their pets, as dogs of all sizes are welcome to join the fun offshore.

Peregrin Rooftop Lounge

What’s a vacation without enjoying an evening at an open-air rooftop lounge? Elevate your Savannah experience at the Peregrin rooftop lounge, offering premier views of the city in the Historic District. The Peregrin’s bird-inspired drinks soar with both Savannah natives and visitors, from the Pink Flamingo to the Toucan Tango.

Davenport Museum

We end our local’s guide to visiting Savannah with the Davenport House Museum. Built in 1820, this historic dwelling turned museum is open daily, offering visitors a look back at home life in 19th-century Georgia. It’s been preserved to ensure its stories are never forgotten and was honored with the Preserve America Presidential Award in 2005.

FAQs

What is the best area to stay in Savannah?

With so many top-rated hotels throughout Savannah, it’s easy to stay close to the bustling areas and activities of the city. For unique stays, boutique-style hotels, traditional hotels and more, find your home away from home within Savannah’s Historic District, on Jones Street, River Street or near City Market.

Where can I park in downtown Savannah?

When you explore the city with Old Town Trolley – Savannah, you’ll never have to worry about parking, as you can hop on and off all day at multiple areas and attractions in Savannah, GA.

On days you’re not touring with us, luckily for tourists and locals alike, there are several parking garages, on-street spaces and some parking lots located throughout downtown Savannah. Most parking areas charge hourly, but there are even options for free parking available (mostly on weekdays). As an alternative, Savannah offers public transport throughout the city as well.

What places are popular to go to in Savannah, GA?

The most frequented attractions in Savannah, GA include historic homes and museums, such as the Wormsloe Historic Site, the Gingerbread House, the Davenport House Museum and more. To appreciate the city’s artistic side, visitors often visit SCAD Museum of Art or shopSCAD for handmade souvenirs. And for traveling foodies, Fox & Fig Cafe, Husk Savannah and more are popular places for a bite.

What are the best restaurants in Savannah, Georgia?

While Savannah is known for its array of delectable selections, its best eateries depend on your taste. Looking for a modern café with Australian roots? Try the Collins Quarter. For Southern staples, visit the Olde Pink House. If you’re keen for a drink, toast to all Savannah has to offer at the Peregrin rooftop lounge.

What is the best way to see Savannah’s Historic District?

To make the most of Savannah’s Historic District, plan accordingly. The area features many landmarks and key attractions in Savannah, GA, including famed museums, monuments, churches and war-era forts. Pack your best walking shoes and pick which attractions your group plans to enjoy before heading out to explore.