Savannah

Savannah, a coastal Georgia city, invites you to wander its oak-lined streets and 22 historic squares. Step back in time as you walk on cobblestone lanes past grand antebellum mansions. You can tour the Owens-Thomas House, take a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River, or join a ghost tour after dark. Savor Southern cuisine at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room or try innovative dishes at The Grey. For a beach day, head to nearby Tybee Island, just 18 miles away.

Exploring Savannah's Historic District

Savannah's Historic District forms the heart of the city. As you walk through the area, you'll encounter 22 park-like squares, each surrounded by historic homes and buildings. Forsyth Park, the largest of these green spaces, contains a distinctive fountain that has become a symbol of the city. The park's wide paths are shaded by massive oak trees draped in Spanish moss.

River Street and the Waterfront

River Street runs along the Savannah River, lined with 19th-century warehouses converted into shops, restaurants, and bars. You can watch huge cargo ships pass by or take a riverboat cruise. The Plant Riverside District, a recent addition to the waterfront, houses modern hotels, rooftop bars, and live entertainment venues in a former power plant.

Savannah's Architectural Gems

Savannah's architecture reflects its long history. The Owens-Thomas House, built in the early 19th century, exemplifies English Regency style with its symmetrical design and elegant interiors. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist features Gothic Revival architecture with twin spires and colorful stained glass windows. For an example of antebellum grandeur, visit the Mercer-Williams House, known for its role in the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Museums and Culture

The Telfair Museums comprise three distinct sites. The Telfair Academy, housed in a Regency-style mansion, displays 19th and 20th-century American and European art. The contemporary Jepson Center focuses on modern and contemporary works. The Owens-Thomas House offers insight into urban life in the early 19th century, including the experiences of enslaved people who lived and worked there.

Savannah's Culinary Scene

Savannah's food scene includes both traditional Southern cooking and innovative new restaurants. Try classic dishes like shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, where meals are served family-style at communal tables. For a more upscale experience, The Grey, located in a former Greyhound bus terminal, serves creative takes on Southern cuisine. Before you leave, taste the ice cream at Leopold's, a Savannah institution since 1919.

Ghost Tours and Local Legends

Savannah's long history has given rise to many ghost stories. Several companies offer ghost tours, taking you through dimly lit squares and past houses with reported paranormal activity. The Sorrel Weed House, known for its ghostly tales, offers nighttime tours. These tours provide a unique way to learn about Savannah's history and local legends.

Day Trip to Tybee Island

Just 18 miles east of Savannah, Tybee Island offers sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. You can climb the Tybee Island Light Station, one of the oldest lighthouses in North America, for views of the Atlantic. The island also has several seafood restaurants where you can enjoy fresh local catches.