Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is well-known for its coastal landscapes, cobblestoned River Street, Riverside District, and the Historic District.
While driving north from Florida to South Carolina, we stopped in Georgia, for a quick lunch and an afternoon of sightseeing Savannah’s must-see attractions!
Growing up, my aunt shared stories of the study abroad program that took her from Buenos Aires to Savannah, so I looked forward to exploring this charming southern city and the opportunity came up the day before we arrived in Charleston!
Savannah and Charleston are located two hours apart by car, via I-95 S, so staying in Charleston and planning a day trip to Savannah is an option that I recommend. If you plan to visit Charleston, see my detailed 1-Day Itinerary that will help you organize your time there!
Here are eight things to see and do during your visit.
Savannah – Things To Do
Best Things To See in Savannah
1. Explore Forsyth Park
If you are visiting Savannah for the first time, Forsyth Park is a 30-acre area in the historic district, with a majestic fountain as the park’s focal point. The fountain was installed in 1858, similar to those at the Place de la Concorde in Paris.
This park has enormous green spaces, children’s playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, and beautiful gardens. Be sure to bring a coffee, or a book, and enjoy some fresh air in a quiet spot!
2. Go on a Savannah history tour
Hopping on a sightseeing trolley tour is the best way to experience a new city when you are short of time. Only 8 cities in the United States have trolleys, and Savannah is one of them! See the trolley tour that I did in St. Augustine here.
Here is the trolley tour that makes exploring Savannah easy, and enjoyable!
If you are into ghost tours, book this highly-rated Savannah History and Candlelight Ghost Walking Tour that combines sightseeing with entertaining history lessons!
3. Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist:
This is the 7th stop of the Trolley Tour. Upon entering this Roman Catholic cathedral I noticed that Mass was taking place, so we sat in the back for 15 minutes and left without capturing photos of its stunning interior!
Cathedral Basilica – Interesting Facts:
- The original cathedral was established in 1799 by the first French colonists to arrive in the area.
- On February 6, 1898, a fire nearly destroyed the cathedral, leaving only the walls and spires.
- It features 81 stained glass windows and 16 gargoyles.
- The cathedral is 214 feet tall with a roof height of 96 feet.
- Pope Francis elevated the status of this church to a minor basilica in 2000.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is at 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401.
4. Stroll along River Street
River Street is lined with century-old buildings, antique shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and hotels along the broad Savannah River.
If you are looking for a place to stay in Savannah, these are in a great location and highly recommended!
Olde Harbour Inn, Historic Inns of Savannah
5. Lunch at The Collins Quarter
After exploring, walk over to The Collins Quarter, a bar, cafe, and restaurant at the corner of W York Ln and Bull St, 151 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401.
We sat on the patio, enjoyed a drink, and headed indoors for our burgers!
6. The Mercer-Williams House
The Mercer-Williams House was featured in the story told in the 1994 John Berendt book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” a true-crime book that has become a modern classic.
Shop: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
It’s a gorgeous house, designed by New York architect John S. Norris for General Hugh W. Mercer, the great-grandfather of American songwriter Johnny Mercer.
The 35-minute guided tours are on a first come, first served basis.
The Mercer-Williams House is located at 429 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401.
7. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Another option is to explore the birthplace of Girl Scouts Founder Juliette Gordon Low during your visit!
Owned and operated by Girl Scouts of the USA, this popular spot is open 7 days a week, and it takes 45 minutes to do the guided tour and walk the garden.
The museum’s address is 10 E Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah, GA 31401.
8. Bonaventure Cemetery
The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Johnny Mercer’s grave is one of the most visited graves at this cemetery.
There are several tours available, some include transportation, see the options below!
Bonaventure Cemetery is located at 330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA 31404.
More Things To Do in Savannah
Take a look at these fun tours for your visit:
- “Savannah For Morons” Comedy Trolley Tour
- Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour
- Historic Savannah Guided Walking Tour
INTERACTIVE MAP OF THINGS TO SEE IN SAVANNAH GA
Tours mentioned in this article:
More destinations you will love!
- FLORIDA: St. Augustine 2-Day Itinerary
- SOUTH CAROLINA: Charleston 1-Day Itinerary
- VERMONT: Our Stay at the Woodstock Inn & Resort
