From cobblestone streets to 22 historic squares draped in Spanish moss, Savannah takes your breath away the moment you arrive. It’s a city for dreamers and for those who want to experience a destination’s true beauty rather than just checking boxes on a tourist list.
Known as the “Hostess of the South” for its excellence in hospitality, Savannah can feel overwhelming on your first visit. I know the first time I set foot in this city, I didn’t even know where to begin.
Even though I had a list of places I wanted to see, it felt like a lot—probably because Savannah isn’t just a destination you visit, it’s an experience you absorb.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this guide breaks down everything you need to know for your first trip to Savannah, including the best things to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your time in America’s first planned city.
Things to Keep in Mind When Planning a Trip to Savannah
• Plan 3-4 days minimum to experience Savannah's 22 historic squares, antebellum architecture, and haunted history without rushing
• Stay in the Historic District within walking distance of Forsyth Park for easy access to top attractions, ghost tours, and the best restaurants
• Best time to visit is March-May for blooming azaleas and perfect weather, but book 6+ months ahead if visiting during St. Patrick's Day week (March 13-17)
What Makes Savannah Special? A Brief History
Savannah was established in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, making it the first city in what is now the state of Georgia and America’s first planned city.
Oglethorpe originally designed 24 squares throughout the city, and 22 of those beautiful green spaces are still standing today.
Being the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah is known for its rich history, antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and those famous squares that make the city feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
But it’s also known for something else: it’s one of the most haunted cities in America, with ghost stories around practically every corner.
🏨 Where to stay:
The DeSoto Savannah — Top-rated modern hotel near the Savannah College of Art & Design.
Foley House Inn — Peaceful oasis near Savannah’s historic River Street.
Hotel Bardo Savannah — Beautiful Victorian hotel overlooking Forsyth Park.
🍴 Where to eat:
The Grey — Housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal.
Treylor Park — Creative, casual comfort food.
Foxy Loxy Café — Coffee, tacos, and a cozy vibe in the historic district.
🎟️ Best things to do:
Savannah History & Ghosts Walking Tour — A great first stop to uncover local stories and historic squares.
Savannah Harbor Cruise — Scenic views and riverfront history aboard the Georgia Queen riverboat.
Forsyth Park — Iconic fountain and great picnic spot with local flair.
Travel Tip: Savannah’s historic squares are best explored on foot — plan your route ahead to hit the highlights (and don’t skip sunrise for soft light and cooler temps).
Essential Information for Planning Your First Trip to Savannah
When is the Best Time to Visit Savannah, Georgia?
For the most pleasant visit with perfect weather and gorgeous scenery, plan your trip to Savannah between March and early June. Spring brings blooming azaleas that transform the Historic District into something out of a Southern fairy tale.
However, you need to know about St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade here is one of the largest in the United States, and there are ongoing celebration throughout the week (March 13-17, 2026), not just one day.
Forsyth Park’s fountain water even turns completely green! The atmosphere is electric and exciting, but if you want to avoid massive crowds and premium hotel pricing, skip dates close to St. Patrick’s week.
How long should you stay in Savannah?
Plan at least 3 full days if you want to truly enjoy the best things to do in Savannah without rushing. A long weekend (4 days/3 nights) is ideal for first-time visitors.
This gives you time to explore the Historic District, take a day trip to Bonaventure Cemetery or Tybee Island, and still have time to just sit in a square with a to-go cup and soak in the atmosphere.
Getting to Savannah
If you’re flying, the nearest airport is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). From there, it’s only a 20-24 minute drive to Savannah’s Historic District, which is incredibly convenient. You can easily Uber or rent a car depending on your plans.
Where to Stay in Savannah for First Time Visitors
If you want to truly immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of Savannah, stay in the Historic District.
This is the best area to stay, especially if you want to experience the architecture and historical ambiance that only Savannah can offer.
Look for accommodations within walking distance of Forsyth Park and the squares.
These locations allow you to easily explore the city’s iconic landmarks, antebellum homes, and picturesque garden settings on foot.
You’ll save money on parking (which is expensive and limited in the Historic District) and you can fully enjoy Savannah’s walkability.
What are some recommended places to stay in Savannah’s Historic District?
If you want to fully experience Savannah’s architecture and beauty, consider historic lodgings like River Street Inn, Hotel Bardo Savannah (formerly Mansion on Forsyth Park), or Hamilton-Turner Inn.
These properties offer that authentic Savannah experience with historic charm and modern amenities.
For a more intimate stay, The Captain’s Cottage offers coastal charm and coziness, while The Southern Belle Garden provides Southern elegance with lush gardens and a serene atmosphere. Park View Historic Home is another excellent choice if you want to stay in Savannah’s Victorian District.
11 Best Things to Do in Savannah for First-Time Visitors
I’ve put together this list based on my visits to Savannah and what I’ve learned are the must-visit places and experiences for first-timers.
From historic sites and parks to the most beautiful places to take pictures, you’ll find something that makes your trip unforgettable.
1. Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
One of the smartest things you can do on your first day in Savannah is take a hop-on hop-off trolley tour.
This gives you an overview of the city’s layout, helps you understand the history and beautiful architecture, and lets you identify which places you want to explore more deeply later.
The trolley tours include narration about Savannah’s history, point out major landmarks, and stop at all the popular attractions so you can hop off, explore, and hop back on when you’re ready.
It’s an efficient way to orient yourself in the city and make a plan for the rest of your stay.
If you love visiting filming locations, consider a walking tour instead.
Movies filmed in Savannah include The Menu (2022), Ford v Ferrari (2019), X-Men: First Class (2011), Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997), and Forrest Gump (1994). Yes, that famous bench scene was filmed in Chippewa Square!
Recommended: For an amazing sightseeing and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, I recommend this Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour with 16 stops!
2. Stroll Through Forsyth Park
If you don’t know much about Savannah, you’ve definitely seen pictures of Forsyth Park.
This 30-acre park is one of the most visited destinations in Savannah’s Historic District and consistently tops every list of things to do in Savannah.
The iconic fountain at the park’s north end is Savannah’s most photographed landmark.
Built in 1858, it’s stunning any time of day but especially beautiful in the morning light or at sunset.
Beyond the fountain, you’ll find monuments, massive live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, walking paths, and open green spaces perfect for picnicking.
I love watching all the bridal parties that come here for photos—you’ll likely see at least one if you visit on a weekend.
Forsyth Park is one of those places in Savannah you must visit, whether just once or multiple times throughout your trip. Each time you visit, you notice something new.
3. Explore the 22 Historic Squares
Savannah’s 22 remaining squares are what give the city its unique character. Each square has its own personality, history, and beautiful landscaping.
You could spend days just wandering from square to square, and honestly, that’s one of the best things to do in Savannah—just wander without a strict agenda.
Some squares to prioritize on your first visit:
- Chippewa Square: The Forrest Gump bench location (though the actual bench is now in a museum)
- Monterey Square: Surrounded by beautiful historic homes, including the famous Mercer-Williams House
- Wright Square: One of the oldest squares with a monument to Chief Tomochichi
- Madison Square: Home to the Green-Meldrim House and gorgeous oak trees
- Reynolds Square: Where you’ll find the statue of John Wesley
The beauty of these squares is that they’re all within walking distance of each other in the Historic District.
Take your time, bring your camera, and don’t be afraid to just sit on a bench and people-watch. That’s what these squares were designed for.
4. Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
A visit to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is one of the top things to do in Savannah, and it’s beautiful both during the day and at night.
This massive French Gothic-style cathedral sits in the heart of the Historic District and is known for its stunning architecture and breathtaking interior.
From the outside, you’ll notice the twin spires rise 200 feet into the sky, and when you step inside, you’re greeted with soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and detailed marble work.
You can explore the cathedral on your own (free admission) or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
Recommended tour: A 75-minute church walking tour takes you to several beautiful historic churches in Savannah, including a visit to one of the United States’ oldest synagogues.
5. Tour Historic Homes in the Savannah Historic District
Touring the historic homes in Savannah is one of the best ways to understand the city’s rich history and get a glimpse into life during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Historic District is a National Historic Landmark with some of the most beautiful and well-preserved antebellum architecture in the country.
Many of these grand houses are open to the public for tours, and visiting them should be on your Savannah itinerary.
Top historic homes to tour:
- Mercer-Williams House: Made famous by the book and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”
- Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: A stunning example of Neoclassical architecture from 1819 with original slave quarters you can tour
- Davenport House Museum: One of the first homes restored in Savannah, credited with sparking the historic preservation movement
These houses are beautifully appointed with period furniture and décor. Guided tours are available at all of them, with prices and times varying per location. Tours typically run every 15-30 minutes throughout the day.
At the Owens-Thomas House, you’ll see the original slave quarters on the north side of the building. Self-guided audio tours are available, but bring your own headphones as they’re not provided.
Recommended: Tour some of the most iconic historic homes in Savannah on this walking tour.
6. Check Out River Street and Plant Riverside District
River Street is one of the most popular areas in Savannah, and I especially love visiting at night when the riverfront lights reflect on the water.
This historic cobblestone street runs along the Savannah River and is lined with buildings that once served as cotton warehouses in the 1800s.
Today, River Street is packed with shops, restaurants, pubs, and galleries. You can find everything from souvenirs to clothing to local art.
It’s touristy, yes, but it’s also genuinely fun and worth experiencing.
This is where you’ll board the Savannah Riverboat Cruise, which offers stunning views of the city, especially at sunset.
The Plant Riverside District sits adjacent to River Street and deserves its own mention.
This former power plant has been transformed into Savannah’s main entertainment hub, with multiple restaurants, bars, live music venues, and a food hall.
It’s one of the best things to do in Savannah for adults looking for nightlife and dining options.
Recommended: Take a haunted pub crawl tour that includes River Street and stops at historically haunted spots like Tondee’s Tavern. You’ll hear Savannah’s darkest stories while sampling local brews.
7. Take a Riverboat Cruise on the Savannah River
One of the best and most popular experiences in Savannah is taking a cruise on the Savannah River aboard the Georgia Queen.
This authentic paddlewheel riverboat gives you a completely different perspective of the city and it’s beautiful any time of the day.
The cruise takes you along the Savannah River with narration about the city’s history, maritime heritage, and the landmarks you’re passing.
But here’s the absolute best part: when the Georgia Queen passes Old Fort Jackson, the fort fires its cannons in salute to the riverboat.
The timing is coordinated so you’re right there on the water when the cannons boom. It’s incredible and something you don’t get to experience every day.
The riverboat itself is beautiful with indoor and outdoor seating, and that classic Southern riverboat charm.
There’s a bar onboard serving cocktails and soft drinks and they also offer some food options.
Though I’ll be honest, the food isn’t the highlight here and it wasn’t my favorite.
Best time to go: The sunset cruise is absolutely stunning, especially in spring and fall when the weather is perfect. You’ll see Savannah’s skyline lit up as the sun goes down over the river.
Where to board: The Georgia Queen departs from River Street, making it easy to combine with exploring that area before or after your cruise.
Pro tip: Get there early to grab a good spot on the upper deck for the best views and photos when the fort fires the cannons.
7. See Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery is hauntingly beautiful and one of the most popular places to visit in Savannah.
Located on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River about 15-20 minutes from downtown, this Victorian-era cemetery is famous for its dramatic statuary, centuries-old live oak trees, and Spanish moss.
The cemetery gained international fame after being featured in the book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
Today, it’s both a working cemetery and a popular tourist destination. Notable graves include songwriter Johnny Mercer, poet Conrad Aiken, and many of Savannah’s founding families.
During daylight hours, you can take a self-guided walk through the cemetery (it’s free and open to the public).
For a deeper experience, book a guided cemetery tour where you’ll learn the stories behind the monuments and the people buried here.
After-hours tours are also available and include tales of the haunted and mysterious. These tours book up quickly, especially during October and around Halloween.
Recommended: Take this 1-hour golf cart guided tour in Bonaventure Cemetery, and explore one of the top sights in Savannah, while taking a break from all the walking.
8. Take a Savannah Ghost Tour
Savannah is considered one of the most haunted cities in America, and ghost tours are one of the coolest ways to experience the city’s darker history.
As a first-time visitor, you might not know about Savannah’s otherworldly reputation, but trust me—there are stories around every corner.
There are dozens of different ghost tours available in the Historic District, each with its own focus.
Some tours take you to famous haunted buildings like the Pirates’ House (one of the oldest and most haunted buildings in Savannah) or the Sorrel-Weed House, while others focus on haunted squares and general spooky history.
Most ghost tours meet at Colonial Park Cemetery, one of the city’s oldest burial grounds dating back to 1750.
The cemetery itself is worth visiting during the day—you can walk through it for free and see graves from the colonial era.
Popular haunted locations in Savannah:
- 432 Abercorn Street (famously haunted, featured on many tours)
- The Marshall House (hotel built on the site of a former hospital)
- Hampton Lillibridge House (said to have things that move on its own)
- Moon River Brewing Company (consistently ranked one of the most haunted bars in America)
Recommended: Book a history & ghost tour that takes you to Savannah’s most haunted locations. Keep in mind some tours are not for the faint of heart—they can get intense with the stories and locations visited.
9. Take a Carriage Ride Through the Historic District
If you want to experience Savannah’s Southern charm at a leisurely pace, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Historic District could be it for you.
You’ll see beautiful antebellum architecture around the squares, historic landmarks, and hear stories about the city’s history, mystery, and intrigue.
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining, sharing tales you won’t find in guidebooks.
Carriage rides typically last 50 minutes to an hour and cover significant ground in the Historic District. It’s a romantic experience for couples and a fun, relaxing way for families to see the city.
Pro tip: Book your carriage ride for early evening when the temperature cools down and the Historic District takes on a magical quality with the streetlights glowing.
10. Visit Wormsloe Historic Site
If you want a taste of colonial Savannah outside the city center, visit Wormsloe Historic Site.
Located just 15 minutes south of downtown, this is the former estate of Noble Jones, one of Savannah’s founding fathers who arrived with General Oglethorpe in 1733.
The entrance alone is worth the trip. It’s a stunning 1.5-mile oak-lined avenue leads down to the historic site and one of the most photographed spots in Georgia.
You’ll see why that is, the moment you see those ancient oaks forming a canopy over the road.
At the site itself, you can explore the ruins of Jones’ original tabby house (made from oyster shells, lime, sand, and water), visit his gravesite, tour the museum to learn about colonial Georgia, and walk the 7-mile nature trail through maritime forest and salt marshes.
Admission: $10 for adults, $4.50 for kids/teens (6-17), $2 for children under 6
📸 Photography tip: Visit early morning for the best light on the oak avenue, and you’ll likely have it mostly to yourself.
Recommended: Combine Wormsloe with Bonaventure Cemetery on a guided day trip tour that takes you to both locations in one day.
11. Explore Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson is Georgia’s oldest standing brick fort and a must-visit for history buffs.
Located about 18 minutes from Savannah’s Historic District, this coastal artillery fort has been around since the 18th century and played important roles in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
The fort is a National Historic Landmark where you can explore the many rooms, walk the ramparts, and learn about its strategic importance in protecting Savannah.
One of the highlights is the daily cannon firing demonstrations—they fire the cannons every day of the week, and it’s quite impressive to watch.
Admission: $10 per adult, $7 per child
Plan: 1-2 hours for your visit, more if you’re a serious history enthusiast
Day Trips from Savannah Worth Considering
If you have 4+ days in Savannah, consider adding one of these nearby destinations to your itinerary:
- Tybee Island (30 minutes): Beach town with a lighthouse, pier, marine science center, and laid-back coastal vibe. Perfect for adding a beach day to your Savannah trip.
- Jekyll Island (1.5 hours south): Known for pristine beaches, the historic Jekyll Island Club, and Driftwood Beach with its photogenic fallen trees.
- Fort Pulaski National Monument (25 minutes): Impressive Civil War-era fort that still shows battle damage from the 1862 siege. The brick walls tell the story of how rifled cannons changed warfare forever.
- Hilton Head Island (45 minutes): Upscale resort island with golf courses, beaches, and shopping, if you want a different coastal experience.
Savannah Experiences You don’t Want to Miss
- Walk down Jones Street: Considered the prettiest street in Savannah, with stunning historic homes and perfect live oak canopy
- Try a to-go cup: Savannah allows open containers in the Historic District—grab a drink and stroll through the squares (responsibly, of course)
- Eat at local restaurants: Try Leopold’s Ice Cream (since 1919) and The Grey (housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal)
- Visit City Market: Arts and entertainment complex with galleries, shops, restaurants, and street performers
- Shop on Broughton Street: Main shopping corridor witha mix of local boutiques and national retailers
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your First Visit to Savannah
I may be biased (but I know I’m not) when I say that Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. with a special Southern charm that’s absolutely worth experiencing.
It’s one of my all-time favorite cities, and I think you’ll understand why the moment you arrive.
Savannah’s blend of historic beauty and haunted history makes it perfect for discovering something new around every corner.
Whether you’re visiting to stroll down Jones Street (the prettiest street in Savannah), dive into cultural experiences, or simply enjoy a relaxing weekend, Savannah has something for every type of traveler.
Take your time here. Don’t try to rush through everything.
Part of Savannah’s magic is in those moments when you’re sitting in a square watching the world go by, or stumbling upon a hidden courtyard, or chatting with a local who tells you about their favorite neighborhood spot.
Plan your 3-4 days, book your accommodation in the Historic District, and prepare to fall in love with one of America’s most beautiful cities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Savannah
Hey, I’m Yanitza đź‘‹ Adventure Travel & U.S. Destination Specialist, travel writer, and hidden-gem hunter with over 8 years of experience helping travelers explore deeper and travel slower. I specialize in crafting authentic, stress-free adventures from small towns to scenic hikes and scuba dives. I’m a firm believer that the best stories happen when you venture beyond tourist hotspots. When I’m not planning getaways or writing travel guides, I’ll probably be home rewatching The Vampire Diaries like it’s my job and daydreaming about future adventures in Spain.
This is great information. I have been considering driving up to Savannah in recent days and was looking for recommendations like this. Your page is always filled with helpful guides for any day trip!
Thank you! Now you have the perfect guide to take your trip to Savannah!
This article truly describes the many things that Savannah has to offer. I lived in that area of Georgia for several years and can’t never forget the beauty and mystery of Savannah.
We’re so happy to know you loved it!