Savannah is a city that lives with its past. It’s a place where grand antebellum architecture stands alongside thriving art scenes, and where ghost stories are as common as Spanish moss hanging from ancient oaks. In recent years, the influx of students and artists has transformed Savannah into a vibrant cultural hub, but the weight of history remains palpable. This guide offers a curated experience of the city, blending the eerie with the elegant, the old with the new.
Historic Charm and Modern Vibrancy
Savannah’s Historic Landmark District is best explored on foot. Wander through the squares, peek into shop windows, and soak in the atmosphere that makes this city unique. The blend of preservation and progress is striking: centuries-old buildings now house trendy boutiques and upscale restaurants. The city isn’t stuck in time; it’s evolving, but always acknowledges its roots.
Museums and Cultural Immersion
Savannah’s museum scene is surprisingly diverse. The Telfair Museums —comprising three interconnected sites—showcase everything from classical art to cutting-edge contemporary work. The newest addition, the Telfair Children’s Art Museum, opened in 2023, making the city even more family-friendly. For those interested in darker curiosities, the Savannah Paranormal Museum dives deep into the city’s haunted reputation, complete with eerie artifacts and unexplained phenomena.
To understand the deeper history of the area, visit the Pin Point Heritage Museum, which explores the culture of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who thrived on Georgia’s coast. Their traditions, language, and cuisine are a unique part of Savannah’s cultural fabric.
Ghost Stories and True History
Savannah is known for its ghost tours, but Savannah True History Tours separates fact from fiction. Guides debunk common myths while still revealing the city’s darker side: serial killers, unsolved mysteries, and the unsettling truth behind some of its most famous landmarks.
Architectural Wonders and Natural Beauty
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, a French Gothic Revival masterpiece, dominates the skyline with its twin spires. For a more natural experience, visit Wormsloe State Historic Site, where a breathtaking avenue of moss-draped oaks leads to the ruins of a colonial-era plantation. Forsyth Park, recently restored, offers a vibrant green space in the heart of the city.
Arts and Dining
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has had a huge impact on the city’s artistic scene. SCADstory is a playful, immersive exhibit showcasing student work in animation, fashion, and industrial design.
For dining, Noble Fare provides an intimate but elevated experience with dishes like Duck-Duck-No-Goose. The Laundry Diner offers a modern twist on Southern comfort food, while The Grey —housed in a revitalized bus depot—serves innovative Southern cuisine in a retro setting. Late-night cocktails can be found at the hidden Peacock Lounge, or the Pacific-inspired Water Witch Tiki Bar.
Where to Stay
Savannah offers a range of accommodations. Andaz Savannah provides upscale comfort with easy access to key attractions, while The Foley House Inn exudes old-world charm. For luxury, The Alida boasts a rooftop bar with stunning views.
Getting Around
Savannah is best explored on foot. The Downtown Dot, a free shuttle service, connects major areas. Ride-hailing services and rental cars are useful for areas outside the Historic District.
A Weekend Itinerary
Friday
- 2 PM: Explore the Pin Point Heritage Museum to learn about Gullah Geechee culture.
- 5 PM: Confront the city’s ghosts at the Savannah Paranormal Museum.
- 7:30 PM: Indulge in a refined dinner at Noble Fare.
- 9:30 PM: Sip cocktails in the atmospheric Peacock Lounge.
Saturday
- 8 AM: Wander through the squares and visit Forsyth Farmers’ Market.
- 11 AM: Enjoy Southern comfort food with a twist at The Laundry Diner.
- 12:30 PM: Explore the Telfair Museums, including the Jepson Center and the Owens-Thomas House.
- 5 PM: Explore the edgy Starland District : grab food at Starland Yard, drinks at Water Witch, and browse Graveface Records.
- 7:30 PM: Take a no-nonsense ghost tour with Savannah True History Tours.
- 10 PM: Enjoy late-night eats and drinks at Untitled.
Sunday
- 9 AM: Walk the iconic avenue of oaks at Wormsloe State Historic Site.
- 11:30 AM: Savor a Southern brunch at The Grey.
Savannah is more than just a pretty city; it’s a living, breathing testament to the past that refuses to be forgotten. The city’s ability to embrace both its history and its future makes it a destination unlike any other.
