Must-Do Things in Savannah, Georgia: A Guide to the City’s Best Attractions
Savannah, Georgia, is a city steeped in history, charm, and natural beauty. With its picturesque parks, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder that Savannah is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventure-filled vacation, or a cultural immersion, Savannah has something for everyone.
History and Architecture
Savannah’s rich history dates back to the 18th century, when it was a major port city for the cotton trade. The city’s architecture reflects its colonial past, with many buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The city’s famous Tybee Island Lighthouse, built in 1847, is a must-visit attraction that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Historic District: The Historic District is a 24-block area that features many of Savannah’s most historic buildings, including the Owens-Thomas House, the Mercer House, and the Forsyth Park fountain.
- City Hall: The City Hall building, designed by architect John Staub, is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and features a grand clock tower.
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): SCAD is one of the top art and design schools in the country, and its campus is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, design, or architecture.
Outdoor Activities
Savannah is a nature lover’s paradise, with many parks, gardens, and natural areas to explore. Some of the city’s best outdoor attractions include:
- Forsyth Park: This 30-acre park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and features a beautiful fountain, walking paths, and plenty of green space.
- River Street: River Street is a scenic waterfront area that features shops, restaurants, and bars along the Savannah River.
- Tybee Island: Tybee Island is a charming beach town just outside of Savannah, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and beach activities.
Cultural Attractions
Savannah is a city with a rich cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and performance venues to explore. Some of the city’s best cultural attractions include:
- Telfair Museums: The Telfair Museums are a collection of three art museums that feature a diverse range of art and exhibitions.
- Savannah Symphony Orchestra: The Savannah Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs a variety of classical music concerts throughout the year.
- Savannah Music Festival: The Savannah Music Festival is a popular music festival that features a range of musical performances, from classical to jazz to rock.
Food and Drink
Savannah is a food lover’s paradise, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up delicious Southern cuisine. Some of the city’s best food and drink attractions include:
- The Olde Pink House: The Olde Pink House is a historic mansion that serves up Southern cuisine in a beautiful setting.
- The Grey: The Grey is a popular restaurant that serves up creative Southern cuisine in a stylish setting.
- The Varsity: The Varsity is a classic fast food joint that serves up burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
Shopping
Savannah is a shopper’s paradise, with many boutiques, galleries, and markets to explore. Some of the city’s best shopping attractions include:
- Belle Isle: Belle Isle is a scenic park that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars along the Savannah River.
- River Street: River Street is a scenic waterfront area that features shops, restaurants, and bars along the Savannah River.
- The Savannah Market: The Savannah Market is a weekly market that features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Events and Festivals
Savannah hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, from concerts and performances to food festivals and cultural celebrations. Some of the city’s best events and festivals include:
- Savannah Music Festival: The Savannah Music Festival is a popular music festival that features a range of musical performances, from classical to jazz to rock.
- Savannah Film Festival: The Savannah Film Festival is a popular film festival that features a range of movies, from independent films to Hollywood blockbusters.
- Savannah Book Festival: The Savannah Book Festival is a popular book festival that features a range of authors, from debut authors to established writers.
Tips and Tricks
- Get There Early: Getting to Savannah early can help you avoid crowds and make the most of your day.
- Take a Stroll: Taking a stroll through the Historic District is a great way to explore the city and get a feel for its history and culture.
- Try New Things: Trying new things, whether it’s a new restaurant or a new activity, can be a great way to experience the city and discover new things.
Conclusion
Savannah is a city that has something for everyone, from history and architecture to outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Savannah is a great destination to consider. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Savannah is a city that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.