Post Summary: Best things to Do in Savannah GA: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors
Savannah is such a beautiful place to explore in Georgia and there are plenty of reasons why. It’s easy to explore, the historic district is compact and walkable, oak trees shade the sidewalks, and almost every block has something interesting to see. It’s filled with historic homes, quiet squares, and being by the river is always a plus
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Savannah GA, you are in for a treat. You’ll find a mix of history, waterfront views, Southern food, and day trips nearby. You can spend the morning exploring historic squares, grab lunch along River Street, and finish the day watching the sunset over the Savannah River.
This guide covers the most popular Savannah GA attractions, along with outdoor activities, tours, and a few travel tips to help you plan your visit.
Historic & Cultural Things to Do in Savannah
Savannah’s Historic District is the heart of the city and where most visitors spend their time. The area was designed in 1733 with a grid layout centered around public squares, which makes it easy to explore on foot.
1.) Explore Forsyth Park & the Fountain
Forsyth Park is one of the most recognizable places in Savannah. The 30-acre park sits at the southern end of the Historic District and is centered around the famous cast-iron fountain that dates back to 1858.
Locals and visitors both spend time here walking under the oak trees, relaxing on the lawn, or grabbing coffee nearby before a morning stroll. For anyone visiting the area, it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Savannah, GA.
On Saturdays, the Forsyth Farmers Market sets up along the park’s edge with local produce, baked goods, and handmade products. And if you want photos of the fountain without crowds, visit early in the morning. Saturdays get busy because of the farmers market.
2.) Wander Savannah’s Historic Squares
One of the most unique parts of Savannah’s layout is its collection of public squares. There were originally 24, and 22 of them still exist today, each surrounded by historic homes, churches, and shaded benches.
A few notable ones to look for:
Chippewa Square
Known for the Forrest Gump filming location (the bench scene was filmed here, although the bench itself was a prop).
Monterey Square
Often considered one of the most beautiful squares in the city, surrounded by historic architecture.
Madison Square
A quieter stop with monuments and a peaceful atmosphere.
Walking between the squares is one of the easiest ways to experience Savannah. Each one feels slightly different but they all share the same relaxed pace.
Quick tip:
Start near Chippewa Square and walk south toward Forsyth Park. This route lets you see several squares in one continuous walk.
3.) Visit Bonaventure Cemetery
Located along the Wilmington River, Bonaventure Cemetery is known for its large oak trees, Spanish moss, and historic monuments.
The cemetery gained national attention after being featured in the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Today it’s considered one of the most scenic cemeteries in the United States.
Many visitors come to walk the quiet paths and admire the historic sculptures and gravestones. It’s recommended to bring water and download a map before visiting. The cemetery is large and most areas don’t have much shade.
4.) Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
If you’re really trying to hit all of the best things to do in Savannah, GA, this absolutely needs to be on your list. This cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings in Savannah. Completed in the late 1800s, the church features French Gothic architecture, tall vaulted ceilings, and colorful stained glass windows.
Even if you’re not visiting for a service, it’s worth stepping inside to see the interior. Mid-morning usually offers the best lighting through the stained glass.
Looking for more coastal adventures? Check out the Best things to do in Charleston, SC
5.) Tour Historic Homes in Savannah
Savannah has several preserved mansions that are open for tours. These homes offer a peak into life during the 18th and 19th centuries and the complex history of the city.
A few well-known options include:
- Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
- Sorrel-Weed House
- Andrew Low House
Each tour focuses on architecture, daily life during the time period, and the role slavery played in Savannah’s development. If you’re choosing just one tour, the Owens-Thomas House provides one of the most detailed historical interpretations.
6.) Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Now this might not be something that you’ll necessarily be planning a trip to Savannah for, but it’s a great addition if you have time. Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, was born in Savannah in 1860. Her childhood home is now a museum and National Historic Landmark.
Visitors can tour the house to learn about the early history of the Girl Scouts and Low’s impact on youth leadership programs.
7.) Explore Telfair Museums & the SCAD Museum of Art
Savannah has a strong arts community, and two of the most popular museums highlight both historic and modern works. The Telfair Museums is the oldest public art museum in the South and includes three different sites across Savannah.
You can explore the historic Telfair Academy, the modern Jepson Center, and the beautifully preserved Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters. Founded in 1883, the museum holds more than 7,000 works of art ranging from American Impressionist paintings to the well-known Bird Girl statue that many visitors recognize from the cover of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
The SCAD Museum of Art focuses on contemporary exhibitions and rotating installations from artists around the world. I would definitely check exhibit schedules before visiting since many displays change throughout the year.
8.) Visit First African Baptist Church
The First African Baptist Church was established in 1773 and is one of the oldest continuously operating Black churches in North America. If you are looking to learn more about Black History, this is one of the best things to do in Savannah, GA for that.
The church holds an important place in Savannah’s history and has connections to the Underground Railroad. Today, visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the congregation’s story, the role the church played in the city’s past, and the legacy it continues to carry today.
Best Tours & Unique Experiences in Savannah
9.) Take a Savannah Ghost Tour
Savannah is often described as one of the most haunted cities in the United States, so it’s no surprise that ghost tours are one of the most popular things to do after dark. Many tours walk through the historic district while guides share stories about the city’s past, local legends, and some of Savannah’s most famous hauntings.
Even if you’re not usually drawn to ghost tours, it’s still a fun way to experience the city at night and learn a bit more about Savannah’s history along the way. The weekend tours sell out quickly, so it’s best to book ahead.
10.) Ride a Trolley Tour
This was one of the first things we did when we visited Savannah, GA, and I highly recommend doing it for your trip too. Trolley tours are a helpful way to get an overview of the city when you first arrive.
These guided tours pass major landmarks and historic sites while explaining Savannah’s history and layout. Many companies offer hop-on hop-off options so you can explore different areas along the route.
11.) Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Carriage tours are a slower way to explore the historic district. Guides explain the history of the buildings and squares as the carriage moves through the city streets.
It’s a relaxing experience and a nice option for visitors who don’t want to walk long distances. It is known that spring and fall are the busier travel seasons, so reservations can help secure a spot.
12.) Savannah Riverboat Cruises
Taking a boat cruise is one of the best ways to see Savannah from a different perspective. From the water, you’ll get views of the historic riverfront, passing cargo ships, and the city skyline along the Savannah River. We even saw dolphins when we took our cruise, so this is an added bonus if deciding on these tours.
Some cruises focus on sightseeing during the day, while others offer dinner or sunset experiences in the evening. And for sunset views? Definitely one of the best things to do in Savannah, GA!
One of the most well-known options is Savannah Riverboat Cruises, which operates the Savannah Riverboat Queen and the Georgia Queen. These large riverboats offer brunch, dinner, and sunset cruises, some even with live entertainment.
If you prefer a smaller or more specialized tour, there are a few other great options around the area. Savannah Harbor Cruises offers narrated sightseeing tours and Port of Savannah tours that also sometimes include dolphin sightings. Bull River Cruises focuses more on nature-based experiences like bird watching and exploring parts of the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. For something more private and upscale, Savannah Luxury Cruises and Spartina Charters offer smaller, more personalized boat tours.
13.) Ride the Savannah Belles Ferry
The Savannah Belles Ferry is a free water taxi that travels between River Street and Hutchinson Island.
While it’s technically public transportation, many visitors hop on simply for the views of the river and the waterfront skyline.
Check out the Ferry Schedule Here
14.) Take a Savannah Food Tour
Food tours are one of the best things to do in Savannah, GA, or any new city you are visiting. It’s a great way to try multiple Southern dishes in one afternoon. Plus it’s led by someone local to the area and that can point you to the best cuisines.
These guided walking tours usually include stops for shrimp and grits, desserts, and other local specialties. I like doing these early on during my trips so that I can have some good recommendations for breakfast, lunch and dinner spots throughout the trip.
15.) Brewery & Distillery Tours
Savannah has a growing craft beverage scene with several breweries and distilleries around the city.
Because Savannah allows open containers in the Historic District, you’ll often see visitors walking with drinks along River Street or through City Market.
Outdoor & Waterfront Activities in Savannah
16.) Walk Along River Street & Plant Riverside District
River Street runs along the Savannah River and is one of the busiest areas of the city.
The cobblestone street is lined with restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars overlooking the water. Nearby, the Plant Riverside District has live music venues and additional dining options. If you find yourself with a day or some time that you haven’t planned much, this is a perfect way to kill some time.
Evenings are a great time to visit when the temperature cools down and the riverfront lights start reflecting on the water.
17.) Take a Day Trip to Tybee Island
Tybee Island is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah and makes an easy beach day trip. I highly recommend doing this, because Tybee Island is one of the most well-known beach areas of Georgia.
You can go swimming, take dolphin tours, or soak in the views from the Tybee Island Light Station. During summer weekends, the parking does fill up pretty quickly. If you can plan ahead, arriving in the morning makes things easier.
18.) Visit Skidaway Island State Park
Skidaway Island State Park is a great place to spend some time in nature just outside of Savannah. The park is only about 20–25 minutes from downtown, with trails through the maritime forest, towering live oaks, and views over the tidal marsh.
Several trails include long wooden boardwalk sections that take you out over the marsh, which is one of the most unique parts of the park. It’s a great place for birdwatching, spotting crabs in the marsh, or just enjoying a peaceful walk surrounded by coastal scenery.
The park also has a small nature center, scenic picnic areas, and a campground if you want to stay overnight.
Quick tip:
Bug spray is very helpful in warmer months.
19.) Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Guided kayaking and paddleboarding tours are a fun way to experience the coastal side of Savannah. Instead of walking through the historic district, you’ll be out on the water paddling through quiet tidal creeks and wide marsh landscapes that surround the city.
It’s usually a slow, peaceful paddle, and along the way guides will point out things you might miss on your own. It’s always cool seeing things like birds flying over the marsh, fiddler crabs along the shoreline, and sometimes even dolphins swimming nearby.
If you enjoy being on the water or just want to see a different side of Savannah, this is a really memorable experience.
20.) Visit Wormsloe Historic Site
Wormsloe Historic Site is best known for its famous oak-lined driveway, where a long road is framed by towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss. It’s one of the most photographed spots near Savannah and feels even more beautiful in person. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Savannah, GA for outdoor lovers.
Beyond the entrance, the property also has several walking trails that take you past the ruins of colonial-era structures from one of Georgia’s earliest settlements. If you enjoy a mix of history and a peaceful nature walk, this is a really nice place to spend a couple of hours exploring.
21.) Bike Through the Historic District
Biking is also a great way to explore Savannah’s neighborhoods and squares at your own pace. Several rental shops offer bikes by the hour or full day.
Food, Drink & Nightlife in Savannah
Savannah has a really great food scene that blends classic Southern cooking, fresh seafood, and historic restaurants that feel full of character. A lot of places are set inside beautiful old buildings, which makes going out to eat feel like part of the experience of exploring the city.
22.) Eat at Historic Restaurants
Two of the most famous restaurants in Savannah are:
- The Olde Pink House
- The Pirates’ House
Both restaurants serve traditional Southern dishes inside historic buildings.
Quick tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons.
23.) Try Local Seafood
Savannah’s coastal location means fresh seafood is easy to find. Many menus feature shrimp, oysters, and Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits. Riverfront restaurants are a popular for sunset dining.
24.) Visit Rooftop Bars
Grabbing a drink at one of Savannah’s rooftop bars is easily one of the best things to do in Savannah GA, especially in the evening. Several rooftops overlook the Savannah River, offering views of the water and the historic buildings along River Street.
It’s a fun way to end the day after exploring the Historic District, and sunset is usually the most popular time since the light over the river is especially beautiful.
25.) Enjoy Live Music
Live music is common around City Market, where bars and outdoor venues host performances throughout the week.
Weekend nights usually have the most activity.
26.) Explore City Market
City Market is one of the liveliest areas in Savannah’s Historic District. The open-air courtyard is surrounded by restaurants, bars, art galleries, and small shops, and there’s usually live music playing in the evenings.
It’s a great place to stop if you want to grab a drink, listen to music, or just walk around for a bit. During the day it’s more relaxed, while nights tend to be much more energetic.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah
Savannah also has a few places that work especially well for families, with hands-on museums, wildlife experiences, and easy outdoor activities.
27.) Savannah Children’s Museum
The Savannah Children’s Museum is an outdoor museum designed for younger kids with interactive exhibits focused on play and exploration. It’s located inside a restored historic railroad site and includes hands-on activities like climbing structures, sensory gardens, and building stations.
Most of the exhibits are designed for younger children, so it’s especially enjoyable for kids between about 2 and 10 years old.
28.) Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Located near the beach, this small science center focuses on coastal wildlife and education.
It pairs well with a Tybee Island beach day.
29.) Oatland Island Wildlife Center
This wildlife preserve features walking trails and animal exhibits in a natural setting.
Plan about 1–2 hours for a visit.
Other Notable Things To Do in Savannah, GA
30.) Walk Along Jones Street
Jones Street is often described as one of the most beautiful streets in Savannah. The quiet residential block is lined with historic brick homes, iron staircases, and oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
It’s not a major attraction with tours or ticketed entry, but it’s one of the nicest places in the Historic District for a slow walk.
31.) Visit the Davenport House Museum
The Davenport House is one of Savannah’s earliest preservation success stories. Built in 1820, the home was nearly demolished before local residents stepped in to protect it.
Today the museum offers guided tours that explain daily life in early Savannah and the efforts that helped preserve much of the city’s historic architecture.
32.) Visit the Mercer-Williams House
The Mercer-Williams House sits on Monterey Square and became widely known after the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil brought attention to its history.
Visitors can take guided tours of the home to learn more about the architecture, the Mercer family, and the events that made the house one of the most talked-about properties in Savannah.
33.) Explore Broughton Street
Broughton Street is Savannah’s main shopping corridor and a lively place to walk between attractions. Historic storefronts house a mix of local boutiques, coffee shops, bookstores, and well-known retail brands.
34.) Visit the Savannah Botanical Gardens
Located about 15 minutes outside the Historic District, the Savannah Botanical Gardens offer walking trails, seasonal flowers, and a peaceful environment if you want a break from the busier parts of the city.
The gardens are free to visit and provide a quiet space to enjoy nature.
35.) Watch the Sunset on River Street
River Street becomes especially beautiful in the evening when the sun begins to set over the Savannah River.
It’s a relaxing way to end the day after exploring the Historic District.
36.) Visit the Savannah Theatre
Located near Chippewa Square, the Savannah Theatre is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States.
The venue hosts live performances throughout the year, including musicals, concerts, and seasonal shows.