Things to do in Savannah

The Historic District

Savannah is known for its architectural beauty, and the Historic District is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States. Within its 22 squares, locals shop and dine off Broughton Street, hit a happy hour on the rooftop of the Perry Lane Hotel, and grab brunch in Collins Quarter.

Starland District

The Starland District is a favorite for Savannah College of Art and Design (or SCAD) students who can be found in the area’s quirky shops, art galleries, breweries, and coffee shops. While the vibe here is younger and creative, the architecture offers nostalgia with colorful Victorian homes.

Downtown Design District

For those who take the phrase “shop local” seriously, this cluster of independent shops and galleries is where you can do just that. Whitaker Street, roughly between West Charlton Lane and West Taylor Street, is known for its boutiques.

In the Hostess City, there are plenty of ways to experience Savannah’s unique Southern hospitality firsthand.

Enjoy memorable dining experiences

Iconic restaurants can be found in a pink mansion, a haunted house, and a crab shack equipped with an alligator-viewing platform, among other memorable spots. Shrimp and grits are a staple here, but don’t miss the sweeter side of the city with its fresh cheesecake, brownies and ice cream, and other sugary delights that you can taste on a dessert tour.

Uncover its ghosts (and their favorite haunts)

Find the best haunts (which are sometimes haunted) with in-the-know locals who take you on ghost tours and pub crawls to enjoy classic eats, drinks, and entertaining stories.

An afternoon exploring Forsyth Park

Locals come here to enjoy fresh air and plenty of things to do around the 30-acre public park including concerts, festivals, and a weekly farmers’ market. Take a bike ride along its trails, enjoy the park’s iconic fountain, or visit a quaint cafe, among other activities.

Beach time at Tybee Island

Just 20 minutes outside of downtown Savannah, Tybee Island has offered a beach escape from the city since the 1800s. Here, locals and visitors can be found paddleboarding on Back River, picnicking along calm beaches, surfing at Tybee Beach, and relaxing along North Beach over drinks.

Dolphin cruises and family fun at Hilton Head

A short ferry ride from Savannah to Hilton Head affords all-ages fun along the beaches, at the boardwalk, and on bay cruises. Most of the year, you can spy dolphins swimming along the warm waters on boat cruises, where you might get treated with snacks (think morning donuts) and refreshments.