Established in 1733 after General Oglethorpe and the passengers of the ship Anne landed on Yamacraw Bluff, Savannah, Georgia is well-known as America’s first planned city. With a rich background that’s as tangible as the city’s thick humidity — impossible not to feel — Savannah is brimming with stories of the past.

To more deeply understand the powerful history first-hand, stroll among the quaint and quiet streets, find solace beneath the shade of majestic oak trees, and immerse yourself in incredible architecture that takes you back centuries.

In this free, up-to-date, in-depth destination guide, we’re covering:

Are you planning a trip to The Hostess City? Leave your questions about where to sleep, eat, drink, and play in the comments below — we’ll do our best to help you out!

Where to stay in Savannah, GA

PERRY LANE HOTEL

A Marriott Luxury Collection hotel, Perry Lane boasts 167 elegant guest rooms starting at 440 square feet, each beautifully capturing the rare duality of Savannah’s old soul and creative energy. Though each retreat features a contemporary design, unique artwork and individual details make each visit distinctive and personal. Just steps from Broughton Street, the Savannah Riverwalk, and Forsyth Park, it’s easy to explore the local area. Perry Lane also offers a complimentary in-house car service for destinations within a two mile radius of the hotel. Be aware that during peak times, there might be a wait. Three on-site restaurants are sure to delight your culinary senses. Head to The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market for locally-sourced, house-made and artisanal offerings. With renegade art, music, and decor, The Wayward fits the bill for offbeat ambience, and guests of Perry Lane are prepared an exclusive hand-crafted complimentary drink called Papa’s Gift at 5pm each evening during the cocktail demonstration. End your evenings at the playful and intriguing rooftop bar, Peregrin, for hand-crafted premium cocktails, a lush backdrop of tropical plants, year-round pool, and an exquisite view.

THE ALIDA

Conveniently located downtown, The Alida — A Tribute Portfolio Hotel and part of the Marriott Bonvoy program — is within walking distance of the Entertainment District and some of Georgia’s most exciting restaurants, bars, and shops.

There is not on-site self-parking, however valet is readily available. Unique and full of personality, immediately upon entering the lobby, you’re welcomed by bold colors, curated design, and mid-century furnishings. Converted from a warehouse, a nod to the commercial roots of the building can be found in exposed brick throughout the hotel. Directly across from the welcome desk is Keep Shop, where you’ll find a nod to Georgia in an assortment of curated products by local artisans.

With 173 individually-designed rooms, no two are alike, and each is decorated with custom elements from Savannah College of Art & Design. Exposed brick and brass accents are a nod to the area’s industrial roots. Chic and modern guest rooms ranging from 270 to 370 square feet are filled with natural light coming in from the large windows, and hardwood floors feel luxurious. There are no balconies (unless you splurge on the penthouse), but enjoy city or pool views from the cushioned window seats, underneath of which there’s built-in storage and a fridge. Suites were very clean and felt well-maintained.

The Trade Room is Alida’s lobby bar. Blue and green velvet sofas add a bold pop of color while a black and white tile floor dazzles. The on-site restaurant, Rhett, serves up Southern fare and familiar favorites made with regional ingredients. For late-night drinks, head up to The Lost Square, the roof-top bar that’s become one of Savannah’s favorite hangouts. Live music, cozy couches, and panoramic city views make this the perfect spot to spend your evening! Watch the sun set while sipping on craft cocktails inspired by Savannah’s rum-running history, or munching small plates reflective of the coastal Southeast, like shrimp hushpuppies or sweet tea brined wings.

While older and in need of some TLC, the pool, surrounded on three sides by the hotel, is a quiet escape from the busyness of the city. Shallow end-to-end — it’s only three feet at it’s deepest — sit and relax with refreshing drinks or light bites ordered from the poolside bar. Cabanas and loungers are available, though the cushions were showing signs of a busy season and could have used a cleaning, so we recommend opting for a wooden table and chairs instead.

The Alida Hotel Review

MANSION ON FORSYTH PARK

Mansion on Forsyth Park is where old-world and modern eras collide. Distinctive in appearance, the Southern Goth architecture and red brick of this 19th building comes with a slightly morbid history — prior to opening as a hotel in 2005, it served as a funeral home. Standard rooms are are a spacious 425 square feet of historic mansion space. Decorated primarily in hues of deep brown and beige, small pops of color can be found in velvet throughout. Plush beds are styled with luxury linens, and marble bathrooms are appointed with either a spa-like soaking tub or Swiss shower. Stroll beyond the lobby and Marble Garden courtyard to start your morning with a relaxing swim in the marble-framed pool, or let your mind drift as you browse original and one-of-a-kind pieces in the Art Gallery. For a memorable experience on-location, explore cultures and learn how to master unique dishes in 700 Kitchen Cooking School’s culinary classes. Just steps away, make a walk in Forsyth Park part of your daily routine.

Savannah's best coffee shops and bakeries

BIG BON BAGELS

The Big Bon Family actually started in 2016 with Neapolitan-style pizza on wheels, and has only continued to grow. Since 2019, Big Bon Bodega, a nod to traditional mom-and-pop corner stores, has been serving the best bagels and breakfast sandwiches in Savannah. Stop into their Bull Street location, where bagels are hand rolled, boiled in honey water, and wood fired. You won’t be sorry!

TROUPIAL

What began with bicycle deliveries evolved to Saturdays at Forsyth Farmers Market. Now, Troupial is in the process of renovating a bright yellow 1915 property in the Starland District. Offering street food that can’t be missed, owner Majo Laprea Rodriguez filled a gap by bringing homemade Venezuelan cuisine to Savannah. Start your morning off with a speciality coffee, which can be traced from start to finish, and pair it with a Golfeado (a Venezuelan sticky bun made with cinnamon, clove, and anise, and topped with Queso de Mano). Stopping in for lunch? Troupial is home to the areas first arepa bar, which is a cornmeal pocket stuffed with an assortment of fillings (we recommend the black bean or TBA) perfect for on-the-go! Taking after our own hearts, you’ll see zero-waste initiatives. Customers are encouraged to bring in their own reusable cups, and plastic-free packaging is the norm.

THE PARIS MARKET CAFÉ

This is our favorite coffee shop in Savannah, hands down! Named “The Most Beautiful Coffee Shop in Georgia” by Architectural Digest, we’re inclined to agree. Chic and charming, The Paris Market Café serves up coffee, espresso, tea, fresh-baked pastries, and house-made sandwiches. Sit at the tall wooden bar overlooking bustling Broughton Street, or slowly sip on your morning coffee as you people watch from the cafe seating just outside their doors. After you’ve enjoyed coffee and treats, walk around the main level and basement shop, where you’ll find countless curated and unique goods for your home.

LEOPOLD’S ICE CREAM

A local institution, Leopold’s Ice Cream has been a Savannah tradition since 1919. Using family recipes handed down from the Leopold brothers, and unchanged for more than a century, their housemade super-premium ice cream has visitors waiting in a line that wraps around the block. Named one of the “Top 10 Ice Cream Parlors in the World”, this retro establishment is complete with an old-fashioned soda fountain and an original collection of film posters and props from Stratton Leopold’s 45 years in the movie industry.

Where to eat in Savannah, GA

MRS. WILKES DINING ROOM

Family-owned sine 1943, you can’t come to Savannah without visiting Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. Open only for lunch, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room opens it’s doors at 11am, but those in-the-know begin gathering well before that. Trust us when we say the long lines are well worth the wait! Once welcomed inside, you’ll be seated at a large table that seats ten, sharing your meals with locals and travelers alike. What better way to listen the stories of strangers or make new friends, than around a tabletop crowded with fried chicken, cornbread dressing, sweet potato souffle, black-eyed peas, okra gumbo, corn muffins and biscuits, and pitchers of sweet tea that are regularly topped off?!

THE OLD PINK HOUSE

Located on Reynolds Square in Savannah’s Historic District, construction of the Habersham House began in 1771, eventually becoming the location of covert meetings that contributed to the sovereignty of the 13 colonies. When the infamous Savannah fires of 1796 destroyed over 200 buildings, Habersham House luckily survived. In 1811, it became known as Planters Bank — Georgia’s first bank.

Though this establishment has changed hands numerous times and was once neglected, it’s since been restored to its original beauty. Why pink? It certainly wasn’t intentional. The structure was built with red bricks and covered in white plaster. Due to poor quality, the red continuously bled through, changing the exterior from white to Jamaican pink. While frustrated owners continued to cover up the pink with white paint, the color has been embraced since a change of ownership in the 1920’s, thus The Olde Pink House is known for its signature hue.

Currently a restaurant (and one of our favorites in Savannah!), have drinks at the basement tavern, or head up to the main floor for an elegant dinner. The cast-iron bank vaults have been transformed into a wine cellar and private dining area for two. To this day, it’s said that the friendly ghost of James Habersham Jr. frequently haunts The Olde Pink House — and he’s not alone. While there are various spirits known to make appearances, staff will tell you one of the most commonly experienced are apparitions of enslaved children who passed from yellow fever, amusing themselves by playing tricks like locking occupants in restrooms, and knocking over wine bottles.

HUSK SAVANNAH

If you’ve read any of our other destination guides, this might sound familiar. Husk Savannah’s ingredient-driven, ever-changing menu differs from Husk Charleston, but is no less impressive. Centrally located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic Landmark District, you’ll be dining in a historic, 19th century home. Responsibly crafted according to ingredients that are both seasonally-available and indigenous to Coastal Georgia and the surrounding region, there’s one steadfast rule that applies to Husk: if it doesn’t come from the South, it’s doesn’t come through the door. The results are reinterpreted, playful cuisine and dishes like Sassafras Glazed Pork Ribs with Pickled Peaches or Rabbit-Pimento Loaf with Husk Mustard, Pickles and Rice Bread. Known for their in-house pickling and canning, rows upon rows of preserved produce can be found on eye-catching display.

THE GREY

Offering a culinary experience that is both familiar yet elevated, The Grey is situated inside an 1938 Art Deco Greyhound Bus terminal that has since been painstakingly restored to its original character. Awarded the James Beard Best Chef Southeast award in 2019, Chef Mashama Bailey brings soulful, layered, and dynamic flavors to the menu through local ingredients and dishes such as Middlin (Carolina Gold rice, ruby red shrimp, tarragon), Dutch Fork Pumpkin (Swiss chard, berbere spice, coconut), and Quail (country ham gravy, kale, mashed potato).

COMMON THREAD

Built in 1897, the Krouskoff House has been home to Common Thread since 2018. Encompassing a culture of community, hospitality, and service, several dining rooms are spaced around the first and second floors (only the first is wheelchair-accessible). Upstairs is also the bar and lounge, where the same offerings as in the main dining area may be ordered. Sourced from small local farmers, fishermen and artisan producers, curated and ingredient-focused cuisine draws influence from Chef Brandon Carter’s Southern roots, and Chef John Benhase’s penchant for seafood, African, and Israeli flavors. Menus change seasonally, and according to what’s available. Unlike most restaurants, it’s not broken down into appetizers, salads, entrees, etc. Instead, they’ve created a structure similar to that of a tasting menu which progresses from light fares (i.e.: oysters or smoked mackerel) to those that are complex and savory (i.e.: shawarma chicken or dry-aged steak). Among guests favorite and most-recommended dishes are gnudi and marinated leeks. No matter what you order, it’s sure to hold its own as a standalone meal.

What to do in Savannah, GA

SAVANNAH HISTORIC DISTRICT

The largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States, Savannah’s Historic District is distinguished by a grid pattern known as the Oglethorpe plan. Consistently lauded as America’s most walkable city, this is an ideal location to start your itinerary. As you explore the 22 remaining oak-lined squares, or “wards”, you’ll come across historic points of interest and lush green landscaping at nearly every turn!

FORSYTH PARK

Inspired by picturesque Parisian parks, in 1858 a spectacular fountain surrounded by a wrought-iron gate was added to the north end of Forsyth Park. It remains one of the most-recognized sights in Savannah, despite decades of updates having altered its original appearance.

Lining the perimeter of the 30 acre park are mature oak trees shading walking paths and benches. Find a seat to people-watch, or listen to the soothing sound of the water as it sprays over the statues. For another sensory experience, meander to the west side of the park where you’ll be enveloped by the aromas of the fragrance garden, designed for the visually impaired.

Fun fact: the fountain was actually ordered from a catalog, and there are three similar fountains throughout the world.

JW Marriott

If you find yourself in the Plant Riverside District — and we strongly suggest you do — a visit to the JW Marriott is a must. A previously-abandoned power plant, inside Marriott’s highest-tier hotel, you’ll find what’s more a museum than a lobby. Take a break from the sweltering heat, and explore the impressive installation, which highlights geodes, fossils, and life-sized dinosaur skeletons.

Underground Tours of Savannah

When tourists think of Savannah, the first thing that usually comes to mind is it’s beauty, while the truths of the city and the realities of it’s role in slavery are, unfortunately, rarely spoken of. Skip the superficial tours. Patt Gunn, or Sistah Patt, is a Gullah-Geechee activist and storyteller. A direct descendent of Africans enslaved in Georgia, it’s an absolute privilege to listen first-hand to the history she masterfully tells.

FIRST AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH

Older than the United States, First African Baptist Church was organized in 1773 by Reverend George Leile and recognized as an official place of worship in 1777. Recorded with the National Registry of Historic Landmarks and Places, it’s the oldest Black church in the nation. With over 200 years of history preserved, artifacts still on the premises include an archive room going as far back as the 1800’s, original pews handmade by the enslaved, the oldest pipe organ in Georgia, and a congregation-erected edifice which has been standing since 1859.

Playing an important role in the Underground Railroad, take a guided tour to learn how Deacon Haynes actively helped enslaved people escape on their journey towards freedom. Especially moving are the ventilation holes made in the shape of a BaKongo Cosmogram — an African prayer symbol signifying birth, life, death, and rebirth — found in the original floorboards under which escapees took refuge.

OWENS-THOMAS HOUSE AND SLAVE QUARTERS

Built in 1819, visitors can take a self-led audio tour of the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, a National Historic Landmark. The same ticket will provide access to two other Telfair Museums, only a five to ten minute walk away.

Recognizing all persons that occupied this property, the tour at Owens-Thomas House not only addresses the disparity between the enslavers and enslaved, but depicts daily life of enslaved people in depth. You’ll be able to view intact living quarters for enslaved people, browse the parterre garden, and walk through the mansion and carriage house owned for 121 years by the Owens family.

Tip: These are guided tours that fill up quick! We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before opening to ensure a ticket.

TELFAIR ACADEMY AND JEPSON CENTER

Unlike the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, the Telfair Museum and Jepson Center are non-guided and meant to be toured independently.

The oldest public art museum in the South and the first in the US founded by a woman, Telfair Academy was completed in 1819 as the residence of Alexander Telfair. Bequeathed by Mary Telfair to the Georgia Historical Society in 1875, it opened to the public in 1886. This Neoclassical Regency-style museum showcases an indoor sculpture gallery, elegant rotunda, period rooms, and 19th and 20th century American and European art.

The Jepson Center, which overlooks Telfair Square, is more modern, having only opened in 2006. With over 7,500 square feet of gallery space, it boasts a 220 seat auditorium, educational programs, and an ever-expanding collection of contemporary art that inspires creativity and curiosity.

BONAVENTURE CEMETERY

If you only have time to visit one cemetery while in Savannah, make it Bonaventure Cemetery, translated from Italian to mean “good fortune”. Eerily beautiful, live oaks are abundant through the cemetery’s 160 acres, accented by colorful azaleas in the Springtime.

Made famous by the iconic Bird Girl statue seen on the cover of John Berendt’s novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (since moved to Telfair Museum), take an enchanting walk through the sculptures, monuments, and tombstones.

While the land was privately purchased 1846, in 1907 it opened to the public and now serves as the final resting place of several noteworthy figures. Academy Award-winning songwriter Johnny Mercer, Little Gracie Watson, and Georgia’s first governor Edward Telfair, are just a few of the most-visited gravesites. Explore at your own pace, or take one of the numerous guided tours offered for a more in-depth adventure.

WORMSLOE STATE HISTORIC SITE

One of the most-photographed locations in Savannah, over 400 live oaks draped with Spanish moss line both sides of the mile-long avenue leading to Wormsloe State Historic Site — the estate belonging to Noble Jones, who was one of the original colonists that came to Savannah with General Oglethorpe in 1733. Visit the on-site museum and gift shop to watch a short film, or follow a walking trail to see the 18th-century tabby ruins and original burial ground of the Jones family.

700 Kitchen Cooking Class

We’re foodies through-and-through. Pair that with the value we place on experiences over things, and the intimate cooking classes led by culinary chef, Jason Winn are right up our alley. Offered by 700 Kitchen Cooking School, and located inside Mansion on Forsyth Park, they’re ideal for individuals or small groups alike. The artful variety of over two dozen cooking classes will help you uncover new culinary skills, expand your palette, and explore the world via carefully-sourced ingredients. At the end of the class, enjoy a full meal and wine.

PIN POINT HERITAGE MUSUEM

Pin Point, a self-sustaining African-American community known as the birthplace of US Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, sits on Savannah’s Moon River. A former oyster and crab factory, Pin Point Heritage Museum was founded in the 1890’s by first generation freedmen. An educational center showcasing artifacts and artwork, exhibits and demonstrations (like net making), it provides a glimpse into authentic Gullah/Geechee culture — from lifestyle and religion, to language and food.

The Book Lady Bookstore

Rows and rows of stories will forever be one of our favorite things, and whenever we happen across a quaint, old bookstore, we have to go in! Offering new, gently-used, rare, and out-of-print books, with an emphasis on the local literary scene, The Book Lady Bookstore is no exception. Reminiscent of what you might expect in the movies but rarely see, books are found in every nook-and-cranny and you’re bound to be enchanted by the cozy and charming atmosphere

CITY MARKET

City Market originated in the 18th century as the place for residents to shop and trade. It had survived two fires, the Civil War, and a hurricane, only to be demolished in 1954 so that a parking garage could be built in its place. After public outcry, the new City Market district was built using preserved remnants of the original. In 2006 the parking garage, too, was demolished and moved underground, and Ellis Square restored to a one-stop-shop for visitors to to dine, drink, and entertain.

TAKE A LEISURELY STROLL

Spend a few hours strolling along Bull Street, the main North-South street downtown and host to a plethora of boutiques and restaurants. For a breezy walk along the waters edge, head to River Street — supposedly one of the most haunted areas in Savannah — where you can pop into art galleries and be serenaded by live music. Here, you’ll also find the Olympic Yachting Cauldron that was lit during the 1996 Opening Ceremonies using the same flame that burned in Olympia, Greece.

What to skip in Savannah, GA

CHIPPEWA SQUARE

Tourists flock to Chippewa Square to recreate the image of Forrest Gump’s bench from Tom Hanks’ famous “Life was like a box of chocolates” scene. What they don’t realize is that the bench is not actually there, but in the Savannah History Museum.

THE LADY & SONS

Though there are occasional tourist-traps worth waiting in long lines for, this is not one of them. Even locals will be the first to tell you to skip this restaurant unless you want your meal served with, and we quote, “too much butter and a side of racism”.

Tips for exploring Savannah, GA

HOW TO GET AROUND

Dubbed as Americas most walkable city, in Savannah, you’re never far the most exciting attractions. We recommend staying at a hotel downtown, so that you can easily access everything the city has to offer.

Savannah is recognized as a Bronze Level Bicycle-Friendly Community, an award given by the League of American Bicyclists. Frequently, boutique hotels will also provide complimentary bicycles to guest, so be sure to ask concierge if that’s an available perk.

ADA-accessible, the DOT Express Shuttle is a free service that helps residents and visitors easily get around downtown Savannah. Running every ten minutes, you can get on or off at any of the 18 stops within the Historic District, including parking facilities, visitor centers, and the Savannah Belles Ferry.

KEEP IT COOL

Remember that the heat in Savannah can be intense during the Summer months. Make sure to stay hydrated and nourished, and take frequent breaks by exploring the historic homes or popping into air conditioned shops.

MAKE RESERVATIONS

If you’re traveling during peak season, we recommend making restaurant reservations well ahead of time.

Some excerpts of this article were first published by Matador Network under the title Important Historic Sites in Savannah, GA, written and photographed by Voyage Collective.

The ultimate travel guide to Savannah, GA