More about: 59 Fun Things to Do in Savannah
The southern atmosphere permeates the streets. Bars and restaurants stay open for hours for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike. The choice of entertainment is vast, from traditional tours to the more adventurous amphibious flight activities.
Savannah is surrounded by art and architecture. Immerse yourself in the Historic District or seek the tranquillity of the suburbs. Either way, you'll be hooked and won't want to leave.
1. Get to know the city from the water aboard an impressive boat
Take a cruise to see the city of Savannah from the water. You'll cruise along the Savannah River, discovering scenery that will make for some beautiful photographs.
You can choose from a variety of cruises available, including sightseeing, dinner, sunset or party cruises. Any of these alternatives will seduce you, showing you emblematic places such as Old Fort Jackson or River Street, one of the most important streets.
2. Delve into the history of Georgia's most beautiful city
The city of Savannah, Georgia's oldest and most beautiful city, has a wealth of history that is evident in its architecture. Among its charms you will find more than twenty squares that are part of an essential tour to get to know the city in depth.
Walking through its streets and delving into its hidden corners is a great way to learn about every detail that this metropolis, which has its own personality, has to offer. Here's more information about the best tours in Savannah.
3. Savour some of the area's most popular beverages
Have you tried typical drinks such as mead, the famous Chatham Artillery Punch cocktail or the Mint Julep? Among the best plans in Savannah you can't miss a tour to taste the most representative liquids of the area, while you stroll through the most renowned pubs.
A tour through history from the most social point of view. Learn about their leisure time customs and have fun from the epicentre of the party.
4. Discover the atmosphere of the haunted city's bars
You're in one of the most haunted cities in America. There are hundreds of legends roaming everywhere. And its pubs are no exception.
A perfect plan for mystery lovers is to go on a haunted pub crawl. They'll take you to, among others, Moon River Brewing Company and Ghost Central. Whether you believe in them or not, these stories will make your hair stand on end.
Just in case... Don't forget to toast to the memory of the city's ghosts!
5. Go through the gates of the Bonaventure Cemetery to discover what it hides
In Savannah, Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most mysterious places to visit. Here you'll learn about some of the legends that surround the city, such as that of Little Gracie, a little girl who died of pneumonia and some people still claim to see her wandering around.
This is a place to visit in detail. The tombs are decorated with beautiful statues, which feed the curiosity of visitors. Moss and trees add the final touch of mystery to this unique setting. Many of the city' s ghost tours take you through this curious cemetery.
6. Taste the local food at some of the best restaurants in the area
In a city like this where the food is so plentiful, you'll want to indulge yourself as you walk around the city. And sightseeing makes you hungry, so why not combine these two pleasures of life?
Food is the perfect way to get to know the customs of a place. Taking a tour of the best local restaurants and food shops will give you a deeper insight into the culture.
You'll be taken to the city's most important market, City Market, where the southern atmosphere will give you the warmth of its character.
7. Visit the historic Webb Military Museum
A visit to the Webb Military Museum will tell the story of the war that took place here, told from a different perspective. Relive events such as the American Civil War and Desert Storm through the many artefacts on display.
Each of the exhibits will take you back to a different era, the setting in which they played a pivotal role. You will understand that it is not the objects themselves that are important, but what they have to tell you. Find out more about this and other museums in the city in our post about the best museums in Savannah.
8. Become a cocktail connoisseur
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Would you like to surprise at the next party? Learn how to make the best cocktails from expert bartenders.
Combine the liquors you like the most to create authentic cocktails in the most professional style. A practice that began in speakeasies during Prohibition and is still popular at the best parties today.
9. Admire Andrew Low House, a 19th century mansion
One of the most beautiful mansions you will see in the city is Andrew Low House. It was built in 1849 and belonged to the wealthy Low family. This Italianate style building still retains the original garden design.
The guided tour of the exterior and interior will help you understand how they lived at that time. You will also discover how the slaves who worked there lived.
10. See film sets as you ride a Segway
Enjoy a fun experience by taking a tour on a Segway around the locations where famous films such as Forrest Gump or Something to Talk About were filmed.
You will learn how to ride a Segway, which will get you around the city safely. Once you've mastered it, you'll have the chance to remember some film clips. Great movie stars were there to record scenes that have gone down in history, such as Tom Hanks sitting on the bench, sharing his box of chocolate.
11. Relive the city's most macabre murders
This tour of the most mysterious Savannah will show you the darker side of the city. Serial murders and other real-life cases in the area are an important part of Savannah's history and you'll get the chance to learn about them from a local guide.
A spooky yet fun experience where you'll pass through streets and bars that hold dark secrets.
12. Learn about the history of the Civil War
Every country has a part of history where terrible events took place. In the United States, the Civil War, or Civil War, left an indelible mark on the State of Georgia.
If you're a history buff, you can't miss a tour of the most significant sites from these wartime periods. A tour of Sherman's March to the Sea or a visit to Sherman's headquarters are just some of the activities that await you.
13. Take a trolley tour of the city's most important sites
Visit Savannah on the Old Town Trolley City Tour. Climb ab oard this attractive mode of transport to explore the city's most iconic sights.
Take advantage of the stops to hop off and experience first-hand the essence of its streets and markets. In total there are 15 stops and more than 100 points that will make sure you don't miss the most important places to see in Savannah.
14. Get up close and personal with Savannah's most luxurious homes
Savannah is home to some magnificent mansions, with elegant architecture and welcoming spaces. This is the district with the largest concentration of luxury homes in the city.
Take a tour of places that have gone down in local history, such as the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA.
15. Immerse yourself in Savannah's haunted places at night
Dare to tour Savannah at night? As the lights change, the sights of the cities change. Buildings look different. The shadows that are created help to immerse you in a setting where any story makes more sense.
The city of Savannah has great stories about ghosts and spirits, who come out at night in search of new souls.
This tour takes you to haunted hotels or the Hanging Plaza, where Alice Riley was hanged to death. An incredibly fun experience you won't forget.
16. Indulge yourself with dinner and a cruise
Dining under the moonlight while on a short cruise is a dream come true. With the lights of Savannah in the background offering a picture postcard image, you will be able to taste typical dishes of the area.
When you finish dinner you will be able to wash down your meal with the entertainment offered inside the boat and dance on the dance floor that the boat itself puts at your disposal.
A dream evening that you will not be able to forget.
17. Dare to walk among ghosts
Walk through the dark streets of the city guided by the light of a lantern while listening to the stories of the events that took place here. Stories of death, catastrophe and mysteries that are hard to explain.
If you're one of those who have a hard time believing in paranormal happenings, what you hear in Savannah is likely to change your mind.
18. Walk around Georgia's oldest city
There's a lot to see in Savannah among the many squares, monuments and museums. Taking a walking tour allows you to take your time to peruse, answer any questions and photograph every nook and cranny.
Make your way to the Historic District to see the busiest part of the city.
19. Marvel at the city's dark history
In Savannah there are dark spots marked by terrible and mysterious events. Rumour has it that the city is haunted. Would you like to know what happened?
Listen to the most terrifying stories from experts to understand the darkest part of the city. You'll have a fun time and feel the horror of what happened there - a terrifying experience!
20. Stroll through the city's majestic oak groves
Visit two of the city's most beautiful oak-dominatedlandscapes, Bonaventure Cemetery and Wormsloe.
An open-air tour where you'll learn about the lives of illustrious characters such as Johnny Mercer and Edward Telfair, and learn about slave practices on the Wormsloe Plantation.
On this tour you won't be able to resist sampling the incredible sweets of the Byrd Cookie Company, the city's most famous biscuits.
21. Remember Prohibition at the American Prohibition Museum
One era that marked the history of the United States was Prohibition. In the early 1900s the prohibition of alcohol sales caused an uproar among the population, which led to bootlegging and protests.
A visit to the American Prohibition Museum recalls a moment in the life of the country that marked a before and after. Relive it with a re-enactment of some of the most shocking scenes that come to mind. And don't forget to look out for the speakeasy where they'll still be serving drinks no matter what.
22. A tour of African-American history
At a time when slavery was widespread in the country, slaves fled at night to avoid arrest. This path they followed was called Drinking Gourd.
There is much to tell here, many traces that were left along the way so that today the history of African-Americans is remembered. Get up close and personal with a culture that is closely tied to the city of Savannah.
23. Ride a Segway through the city centre
You don't need to tire yourself out walking to get to know the city. The Segway will allow you to get to the same places that you would visit on foot but with little effort.
Go to the most representative places such as the Telfair Museum, the Cathedral or the place where the bench where the scene of Forrest Gump was filmed was located. As a curiosity I will tell you that the bench of Forrest Gump is not there as it was a prop.
24. Get around on a bike like a local would
Getting around by bike is a sustainable and healthy habit that has spread to all cities. Travelling long distances in a short time will allow you to make better use of your time.
Stop to take a photo whenever you want. On a bicycle you can afford to do this, while on a bus you will have to do it through the windows. Are you going to take care of the environment?
25. Laugh like never before at a comedy on wheels
Don't stop laughing at this comedy show. If you're looking for a good time, you've found the best option. Here there is room for parodies, surprises and the most surreal gossip you can imagine.
The Moron Twins will take you on board a tram through the most hilarious history, through three centuries of history.
Laughter increases the hormones of happiness and this show will make you see life from a different, happier perspective. And if you liked the idea of a trolley ride, check out our article on Savannah's best trolley tours and sign up for one of them.
26. Sail among the dolphins to visit Tybee Island
Hop on board this boat to watch the dolphins swim just a few metres away. You'll feel like a kid!
On board the boat you'll arrive at Tybee Island. Take a photo with the lighthouse and the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean in the background. A wonderful trip you won't forget.
27. Taste the food of Savannah's east side
Savannah's east side will reveal some of the most secret eateries even to the locals. Try the food at lesser-known eateries, uncrowded but with the southern essence of the city.
Start with a chicken en papillote sandwich, move on to waffles and finish off your day with homemade ice cream. You'll have to come hungry to finish off everything you have to try.
There's no better way to get to know the gastronomy of a place than by doing it with a local. This is what the gastronomic tours are all about, and you'll discover the delicacies of the area.
28. Show off your knowledge in trivia questions
How much do you know? Play trivia questions and answers as you take the walking tour. A fun way to learn about this spectacular city.
And to liven up the day even more, you'll sample some delicious cocktails while you take the tour. There's no more fun way to get to know a city.
29. Tour the city on a scooter
The option of renting a scooter and touring Savannah on your own allows you as much time as you need at each site.
Don't worry about the rules. The centre will tell you everything you need to know. They'll even help you get the hang of it until you feel confident.
30. Relax with yoga in Forsyth Park
Take time to relax by taking an outdoor yoga class. Whether it's your first class or you're an expert, classes are available for all levels. Classes are suitable for all levels.
ForsythPark is the ideal setting for this practice. Surrounded by trees you will feel in touch with nature whilst breathing in the fresh air. Smell the aromatic plants in the garden?
Take a deep breath and learn how to do Surya Namaskar, the famous sun salutation.
31. Visit the slave quarters at Owens-Thomas House
On your visit to the Owens-Thomas House you will have the opportunity to get an up-close look at what the original slave quarters were like. It is the only place in the city that allows you to visit where enslaved adults and children lived.
The property, now a museum, is a mansion owned by the Owens family and reflects the family's wealth.
A class contrast that makes you reflect on the times 200 years ago.
32. Enjoy art at the Telfair Academy
The Telfair Academy mansion is now a small museum. Here you can enjoy American and European works of art, paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.
Enjoy the famous Bird Girl statue, which stood for a time in Bonaventure Cemetery.
33. Relive part of wartime history in a military fort
See Fort Pulaski, used during the battle in 1862. A theatre of war that fought through 30 hours of bombardment before surrendering.
With a little imagination, you can feel as if you are part of history, amidst cannons and various artefacts. A game of Risk where you are the mover.
34. Be careful when entering Sorrel Weed
Sorrel Weed is not just another house to visit. Supernatural occurrences take place here for which investigators still have no explanation.
If you are going to enter, be prepared..., for what may happen. A torch, infrared camera, radio and spirit box are some of the tools that will accompany you during this spooky visit.
Be careful if you decide to participate in this ghost tour.
35. Johnson Square and other places to visit
If there's one thing Savannah has, it's beautiful squares to stroll through. Johnson Square is one of the most impressive, both for its beauty and its surroundings. It is located next to the City Market and very close to the Savannah River. Have you noticed the historic houses that surround it?
Continue walking around the city to discover them all. In total 22 squares. Come and see them all.
36. Climb aboard a steam locomotive
Steam engines, conductors punching tickets, the smell of coal... For some reason, old trains are engines that appeal to adults and children alike.
A visit to the Georgia State Railroad Museum is a great plan that few people can resist. Wander among historic steam locomotives, climb aboard an old passenger car and learn more about the history of the railway. You'll have a very entertaining day out.
37. Rumble to the sound of cannon fire at Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson is not just another fort to visit. Here you can feel like a member of the military as you go about your duties.
These cannons that once served as a defence are still thundering today as they did in the old days, only now they do so in a spectacle that no one wants to miss.
38. Become an expert sailor
Head to the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum to delve into Savannah's maritime history. You'll find exhibits of ships and artwork, and learn all about how ships work.
The Museum is housed in the William Scarbrough House which you can view as you stroll through the beautiful natural gardens.
39. Shop at the River Street Marketplace
Are you also one of those who can't resist visiting a Marketplace? The River Street Marketplace is more than just an open-air market. It is the most important meeting point where locals and tourists gather.
Buy food, clothes, souvenirs or handicrafts. There is a wide selection of products for you to choose from.
40. Feel like a star at the Lucas Theatre
When it comes to strange stories, the Lucas Theatre takes the cake. It's a theatre where the most inexplicable events have never ceased to occur. Not in vain, the last film to be screened was "The Exorcist".
This theatre, which is located in Reynolds Square, reopened its doors to the public in 2000, after having been on the verge of being demolished. Come and enjoy one of its shows!
41. Dive into the Marine Education Centre
Enjoy the Aquarium and Marine Education Centre learning about life under salt water.
Get up close and personal with native species such as snails and crabs. Finally, enjoy a picnic lunch at the cliff-side picnic tables.
42. Raise awareness at the wildlife centre
Get up close and personal with Savannah's wildlife at the Oatland Island Wildlife Centre.
You'll find more than 95 specimens of 39 different species, including American bison, wolves, snakes, owls and armadillos. All of them well cared for in a natural and species friendly environment.
Check out all the activities they have prepared for you!
43. Taste a delicious ice cream at Leopold
When locals choose an ice cream parlour to enjoy their moments of relaxation, it's for a reason. And if that ice cream parlour has been in business for over 100 years, there is little more to add.
Leopold Ice Cream Parlour is one of the places that are marked in red on all tourist maps. Handmade ice cream with authentic flavours that will make you remember it as one of the best you have ever tasted in your life.
44. Become a real Girl Scout
The Girl Scouts were born in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low. With a simple call made from this house, she started a revolutionary movement that enabled thousands of girls to feel confident in themselves.
The House where Juliette Gordon Low was born is now a museum in honour of her. You can learn about Juliette's life and see the inside of the house as it was at the time.
45. Dare to take a kayak tour on the Moon River
Have you ever been on a kayak? If you have, you will surely love the experience on the Moon River. And if you haven't tried it yet, this is your chance.
An opportunity to enjoy being in contact with nature. There's a good chance you'll see animals such as otters swimming alongside you.
46. Savour a delicious brunch at the old bus terminal
Head to the old bus terminal for a delicious brunch on Sundays at noon.
If you prefer to dine in, El Gris Restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday offering regional produce in amazing dishes.
47. Explore African culture at the Museum of African Art
Be seduced by African culture at the Museum of African Art. The Museum has a collection of over 1000 objects gathered by a private collector, the founder of this space.
The 3 types of tours offered will address themes such as art and culture in West, Central and East Africa.
48. Take a tour of Forct McAllister
Forct McAllister State Park is a beautiful place to get out and about, alone, with friends or family. A peaceful place to hike while enjoying the marshes, giant oak trees and surviving war artifacts.
Stop by the Civil War Museum to learn more about what happened.
49. Fly like a professional pilot in the Armed Forces
A visit to the Armed Forces Museum is an essential part of learning about the harsh history surrounding the Second World War. Several films and a wealth of information will help you to better understand how it was experienced from the inside of the Armed Forces.
The exhibition also includes several aircraft that flew over the terrible scenes of war. A spectacular museum not to be missed.
50. The essence of a city is experienced in its markets
Take to the streets to enjoy the most authentic market in all of Savannah. City Market is entertainment, art, shops and much more.
A space for the leisure and enjoyment of everyone who wants to come here. Fancy something to eat or drink? You won't find a better place.
51. Catch a live performance at the Savannah Theatre
Have a great time at a live show at the Savannah Theatre. Choose from plays, musicals, comedies or any level of performance.
A great opportunity to attend a theatre built 200 years ago. The exterior façade is reminiscent of the 40's and 50's, when it was renovated. Come and enjoy the show.
52. Show your ingenuity in an Escape Room
Get out all your tools because you're going to need them. It's time to show what you're capable of at The Escape Company. There are plenty of surprises in store for you and your group.
If you prefer, you can spend the afternoon having a drink in the bar while you play one of the board games available for anyone who wants to come along. A different way to spend the afternoon with your friends or family.
No more excuses. There is an option for all ages and levels.
53. A spectacular and very pink restaurant
Elegant, cosy and pink, very pink. That's the famous Olde Pink House. In spite of what it may seem, it is a restaurant suitable for all budgets. The prices are affordable and the quality is unbeatable.
Apart from the food menu, you have a menu with a great selection of cocktails, beers and wine. Cheers!
54. Experience a great adventure on board an amphibious plane
If adrenaline is your thing, you have the opportunity to fly in an amphibious plane. This motorised hang glider with an open cockpit will give you the sensation of sailing as if you were on a jet ski.
Dare to fly it and earn yourself a certificate to prove your flight time. It will be useful if you want to get your sports pilot's licence.
55. Art for all tastes
The SCAD Art Museum offers an alternative type of art, with a contemporary style and a fashion and film area. It has permanent and temporary exhibitions, covering all kinds of tastes.
For the little ones there are immersive activities that help them to better understand the concepts from a more playful point of view. They will have fun while they are learning at the same time.
56. Stroll along Broughton Street in the historic city centre
Right in the historic city centre is one of Savannah's most important streets, Broughton Street.
There are thousands of things to do in the area. Stop by the Gutstein Galleries where artists such as Chuck Close, Gregory Crewdson and Yoko Ono have exhibited. Enjoy a delicious homemade ice cream at Savannah's best ice cream parlour. Shop at the Paris Market and Brocante for unique accessories, jewellery and more.
57. Discover your inner chef
It's a great time to learn or improve your cooking skills. Chef Darin offers practical classes so that you can learn how to cook with ease.
The passion with which he transmits his way of cooking will make you passionate about this art. Learn to enjoy cooking and finish the class by tasting your own creations.
58. Visit Mercer-Williams House, a murder scene
There are many reasons why you should visit Mercer-Williams House. Among them is to admire the beautiful collection of Chinese porcelain and 18th and 19th century furniture.
But that's not the only reason this house is known for. It was here that Jim Williams, the owner of the house, murdered his assistant and lover, Danny Hansford.
This is not the only death that has occurred here. Earlier an 11 year old boy fell from the top when he sneaked into the abandoned house. It was never known whether he slipped or was pushed.
59. Celebrate a bike party
Hop on board with your friends for a great time as you ride around the Pedal Pub. You'll get around the city on a giant bike shaped like a bar. You'll move all together while listening to music, singing and drinking - just like in a bar!
Any excuse is a good excuse. A birthday, with your partner, with your friends or with your work colleagues. There are so many reasons to have a party, you'll see how much fun it is!
Plan your trip to Savannah well
As you can see, there is no shortage of fun activities waiting for you in this city, so I recommend that you plan your trip well before you go so that you can enjoy many of them. To help you select the best things to do in Savannah, we have created these lists of the best things to do by month:
- 10 things to see and do in Savannah in January
- 10 Things to See & Do in Savannah in February
- 10 things to see and do in Savannah in March
- 10 Things to see and do in Savannah in May
- 10 things to see and do in Savannah in September
- 10 things to see and do in Savannah in October
On the other hand, travelling with a family is not the same as travelling with friends. If you decide to go to Savannah with children you may have to be a little more selective, but you won't be short of things to do. The same is true if you're travelling to the Georgian capital at Christmas time, when the city attracts even more visitors.
Finally, you might also want to take a look at these guides in which we've condensed everything this city has to offer for the length of your trip: