Although I read about the fascinating things to do in Savannah, I didn’t fully grasp the allure until I visited.
Savannah, Georgia, is an experience like no other. It’s romantic, authentic, and captivating in a way I’ve rarely encountered. The city defies the mundane, with its remarkable architecture, intriguing history, and eclectic residents. There’s something irresistibly charming about Savannah. Perhaps it’s the Spanish moss gracefully hanging from the trees or the humid air that seems to slow time. One thing is clear. Every moment is meant to be savored, whether you’re enchanted by a street performer or enjoying a rich dessert.
It’s a city you need to experience personally; guidebooks alone won’t suffice. That said, I’ve assembled a thoughtfully curated list of top activities in Savannah to simplify your planning. This detailed three-day itinerary is designed to offer as much (or as little) as you want. While it’s set up for a “ready-to-go” 72-hour journey, it can also be extended to a four-day exploration. Alternatively, you might prefer to condense it into a two-day adventure, though I wouldn’t recommend rushing. Ultimately, you can follow my suggestions exactly or pick and choose elements that inspire you. Just make sure to savor every romantic moment and relish every experience while you’re here. Trust me, you’ll appreciate every minute.
A 3-Day Itinerary of the Best Things to Do in Savannah
Day 1
Start with Brunch from Collins Quarter at Forsyth
Starting your Savannah adventure with a delightful brunch sets a welcoming tone for your visit.
Collins Quarter at Forsyth offers a charming atmosphere reminiscent of Melbourne’s Collins Street, featuring inventive cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Enjoy brunch on their inviting outdoor patio, where you can people-watch and catch a glimpse of the renowned Forsyth Park.
You can explore their weekend brunch menu here and their Monday–Friday offerings here.
Note: Lunch is not included in today’s plan, as I anticipated a later start after your journey, so indulge in a hearty brunch!
How to Get Here:
Collins Quarter at Forsyth is situated at 621 Drayton Street. Additional Information: There is another Collins Quarter location in downtown Savannah at 151 Bull Street.
Explore Forsyth Park
After brunch, take a leisurely walk through Forsyth Park, an essential stop on any Savannah itinerary.
This expansive park covers over 30 acres in Savannah’s historic district. As the city’s oldest park, it features a range of amenities including playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, and a space for concerts and events.
You might find yourself spending the rest of the morning here, watching people and dogs, basking in the sun, and soaking up the natural surroundings.
(We ended up visiting the park several times during our stay because we enjoyed it so much!)
Forsyth Park is also home to the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain, a centerpiece of the park that has stood since 1858. This landmark is a popular spot for everything from engagement photos to wedding portraits. It’s one of the city’s most photographed locations, so it’s uncommon to find it without a crowd.
Embark on a City Tour
Exploring Savannah through a city tour provides an excellent way to get a broader view of the city on your first day.
Thankfully, you have plenty of choices available.
Whether you prefer to walk, bike, or ride in a trolley, there’s a tour to match every preference.
Explore Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens
The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, managed by the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences & UGA Extension, offers an enriching experience. As an educational resource, it provides public outreach in horticulture and environmental sciences. You can learn more about their mission and history here.
This extensive 51-acre site features 13 distinct gardens, including a Mediterranean garden and a bamboo collection. For details on each garden, click here.
Visitor Information:
The gardens are open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children aged 6-16. Children five and under can enter for free.
If your visit doesn’t align with these hours, consider the Savannah Botanical Gardens instead. This alternative is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
How to Get Here:
The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is situated at 2 Canebrake Rd. The Savannah Botanical Gardens can be found at 1388 Eisenhower Dr.
Take a Neighborhood Stroll
Savannah offers an array of picturesque streets that seem to beg for photographs. Without exaggeration, our camera felt like a constant companion during this trip.
Beyond its visual appeal, Savannah is remarkably walkable. I suggest exploring on foot to fully appreciate the city’s charming streets.
Savannah’s Most Scenic Streets
Savannah boasts countless beautiful streets. While you could easily spend an entire day discovering them, here are three standout options to get you started.
First up is E. Jones Street, known for its stunning row of homes that photos can’t quite capture. Next, visit the corner of Bull Street and E. Macon Street to see a charming pink house. Lastly, don’t miss Rainbow Row at 508 E Bryan Street in the Historic District.
This colorful stretch features pastel-colored row houses in a Carpenter Italianate style. Though smaller than Charleston’s famous Rainbow Row, it’s a delightful stop, especially for those who appreciate pastel hues!
Savor a Sunset Along River Street
River Street is conveniently situated just a block away from Rainbow Row.
This area offers one of the finest vantage points for watching the sunset and dining by the water.
As dusk falls, River Street transforms with vibrant street performers and the enticing aroma of various cuisines.
While you explore, don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the iconic Georgia Queen. You can also book a river cruise, available throughout the day, at dinner, or in the evening.
Dine Along the River
While in Savannah, make sure to indulge in some waterfront dining.
We chose Huey’s, a café inspired by New Orleans, known for its freshly made beignets (similar to funnel cakes). Unfortunately, we arrived just an hour before closing and missed out on the sweet treats.
Our server mentioned that beignets are typically available throughout the day.
Despite missing the beignets, we enjoyed a satisfying meal of pasta pesto with shrimp and a chef salad. For a more upscale dining experience, Vic’s on the River comes highly recommended.
Parking around River Street can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons or city events.
However, there are several parking options available. You can learn more about parking and public lot availability here.
Alternatively, consider taking the free shuttle service to avoid parking hassles. The Downtown route stops at Congress Street, just a few blocks from River Street.
Day 2
Grab Your Coffee at Coffee Fox
Today, you’ll be visiting one of Savannah’s most historic sites.
To kick off your day, consider picking up a coffee and a light snack to-go. This will help you get an early start.
While Savannah may not excel in dark roasts (which I personally favor), Coffee Fox offers a satisfying medium roast. Later, I’ve suggested a more substantial breakfast spot for a sit-down meal. The goal is to have you arriving at your first destination right when it opens.
Location: Coffee Fox is situated at 102 W Broughton Street.
Explore Wormsloe Historic Site
I had mixed feelings about visiting Wormsloe Historic Site due to its somber history.
As Georgia’s oldest plantation and the former residence of Noble Jones, Wormsloe offers a poignant glimpse into 18th-century life in Georgia.
Despite its dark past, it remains a significant part of any Savannah itinerary.
One of the site’s highlights is the dramatic, oak-tree-lined entrance that frequently appears in photographs.
The 1.5-mile path leading to the plantation is visually striking and almost cinematic, especially when the Spanish moss sways in the breeze and the wind picks up.
Visitor Information:
A car is necessary to reach Wormsloe and drive down the lengthy driveway, so plan accordingly. Given its popularity, arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially if you want to photograph the entrance. The site is open daily except Monday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Enjoy a Hearty Breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company
As someone who takes their biscuits very seriously, my praise for Maple Street Biscuit Company carries considerable weight.
Beyond its downtown Savannah location, this comfort food chain boasts multiple outlets across the South, including Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.
In Georgia alone, you can find additional locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Parson’s Alley Duluth, and Woodstock.
Although this was my initial visit to Maple Street, it’s clear it won’t be my last!
I appreciated the lively atmosphere and open kitchen concept at the Savannah location. We secured a great spot with a view of the bustling kitchen, which added to the experience. I have a soft spot for eateries that showcase their kitchens.
For breakfast, I chose “The Five,” a delectable creation featuring fried chicken, pecanwood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, and your choice of gravy— I opted for shiitake mushroom. I was thrilled to capture a moment of this delicious feast before it was quickly enjoyed. (And yes, I’m salivating as I write this.)
Location:
Maple Street Biscuit Company is situated at 220 W Broughton Street.
Tour a Historic Home
After indulging in a hearty breakfast, you might find yourself in need of a short rest. But if you’re ready for more exploration, consider visiting one of Savannah’s historic homes!
Owens-Thomas House
We planned to visit the Owens-Thomas House, but sadly, it was closed on the Tuesday of our visit.
This 1819 Regency-style mansion features a carriage house, former slave quarters, and a charming backyard garden. A guided tour will take you through the home and provide insights into the lives of both freed and enslaved individuals who once worked here.
Visitor Information:
The Owens-Thomas House is open Thursday through Monday from 10 AM to 5 PM and is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Admission is $20 for adults. For details on other ticket prices, check their website.
Location:
The Owens-Thomas House is located at 124 Abercorn Street in Savannah.
Mercer-Williams House
Another intriguing option is the Mercer-Williams House. Designed by New York architect John S. Norris for General Hugh W. Mercer, the great-grandfather of American lyricist Johnny Mercer, this home began construction in 1860 and was completed in 1868.
Visitor Information:
The Mercer-Williams House is closed on Wednesdays and may not open on Tuesdays, so contacting them in advance is wise if you plan to visit on that day. The house is open Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and on Sunday from 11:30 AM to 4:45 PM.
Admission is $12.50 for adults and $8 for students and active military with valid IDs.
Location:
The Mercer-Williams House is situated at 429 Bull Street, with the entrance located at 430 Whitaker Street, behind the main house.
Browse Alex Raskin Antiques
After your visit to the Mercer-Williams House, consider a stop at Alex Raskin Antiques, which is conveniently located nearby. Just a short stroll across Monterey Square will bring you to this eclectic shop at 441 Bull Street.
This store specializes in interior design with a focus on antique furnishings, providing a distinctive touch for home décor.
Although we missed out on exploring the shop ourselves due to its closure, the exterior alone hints at the intriguing collection inside.
Alex Raskin Antiques operates Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and on Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM.
Visit The Paris Market & Enjoy Some Light Fare
Finish your day with a visit to The Paris Market and Brocante. Modeled after a Parisian flea market, this two-level space offers a variety of home décor items and a French-inspired café. Browse their eclectic collection and enjoy a light meal at the café, choosing from French pastries and other delicacies. If the weather is pleasant, consider dining outside.
Full Disclosure:
I wasn’t fond of their coffee, but my husband enjoyed a latte, which was much better.
Explore Savannah’s Squares
Savannah is home to 22 distinct squares, originally designed with 24 but two were lost during development. These squares are spread throughout the one-square-mile downtown area.
One of my top picks is Lafayette Square, situated on Abercorn Street between Charlton and Harris Streets. (You’ll find additional details about this area in Day 3.)
Dine at The Pirate’s House
The Pirate’s House offers a memorable dining experience in Savannah. Established in 1753, it originally served as an inn for sailors and is situated on one of Georgia’s oldest sites, where the first public agricultural garden was planted. You can learn more about its storied past here.
The menu features a variety of delicious options, starting with an assortment of fresh bread. From there, you can choose between seafood, soul food, and other choices. The “Pirate’s House Award Winning Honey Pecan Fried Chicken” is a delightful take on a Southern classic. You can explore their full dinner menu here.
Beyond the flavorful food, the restaurant’s dark, inviting atmosphere offers a step back in time. Be sure to ask your server about the property’s history and the intriguing ghost stories that surround it.
If you’re interested in ghosts, don’t miss the “Herb Room” near the main dining area, reputed to be haunted by the spirit of a young boy.
Embark on a Ghost Tour
Savannah, renowned as one of America’s most haunted cities, is a haven for ghost enthusiasts. A ghost tour is an essential part of any visit to this eerie locale.
While many tours are conducted outdoors at night to amplify the chills, we faced heavy rain when we planned our excursion. This unexpected weather twist turned out to be fortuitous, as it led us to an indoor tour at the haunted Sorrel Weed Mansion. This mansion stands on the grounds of a major Revolutionary War battle site.
Initially, I thought a ghost tour might be a bit gimmicky, but I was pleasantly surprised. The experience became a standout highlight of our three-day journey.
Highlights of The Sorrel Weed Ghost Tour
Our guide was exceptional, presenting a balanced approach. Instead of immediately attributing odd occurrences to the supernatural, he first examined other potential explanations, only suggesting paranormal involvement after dismissing rational possibilities.
Guests are encouraged to take photos during the tour, with the property even hosting a community Facebook page for sharing any peculiar findings. Visitors can submit any strange photos or videos for further examination.
Some guests have reported unsettling images in their photos, leading to dramatic reactions. For instance, one family left the tour abruptly after capturing an inexplicable figure in a photo of their daughters, taken while they were alone in the room.
I wholeheartedly recommend this tour for those seeking a spine-tingling adventure!
What to Know Before You Go: Space on the tours is limited, so it’s wise to book in advance. Secure your reservation here.
How to Get Here
The Sorrel Weed Mansion is located at 6 W. Harris Street, adjacent to Madison Square. Enter via the Bull Street entrance to reach the courtyard where the tour starts.
If you’re interested in exploring other spooky experiences, consider a walking or trolley tour, or even a haunted pub crawl.
Day 3
Start Your Day with a Breakfast Waffle at Mirabelle Savannah
For your final day, head to Mirabelle Savannah, my top pick for breakfast in the city.
This spot combines a cozy café on the ground floor with inviting suites available for overnight stays above. They excel in making liège waffles, a beloved Belgian street treat.
Having tasted genuine Belgian waffles in Brussels and Bruges, I can confidently say that these are exceptional.
I ordered the “Lemon Zinger,” which featured lemon-lavender curd crème, homemade raspberry and cardamom jam, and a dollop of whipped cream. It was delightful!
The café’s interior is equally charming and perfect for Instagram photos.
How to Get Here: Mirabelle Savannah is situated at 313 Abercorn Street.
Visit Lafayette Square
Lafayette Square is conveniently located nearby and stands out as my top pick among Savannah’s 22 squares. This square offers a charming ambiance with its central fountain and a view of the cathedral.
If you missed it yesterday, make sure to allocate some time to explore this delightful spot.
How to Get Here:
Lafayette Square can be found at 201 E. Charlton Street, on the corner of Charlton and Abercorn Streets.
Take a Day Trip to Tybee Island
While Savannah has a wealth of activities, a visit to Tybee Island offers a refreshing change of scenery. Situated just 20 minutes from downtown, this barrier island has been a beloved retreat since the late 1800s.
Tybee Island is an ideal spot to escape urban life, featuring pristine beaches and eclectic seaside dining options. One notable attraction is the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia and one of the most well-preserved in the United States.
What to Know Before You Go:
The lighthouse is open daily except Tuesday, from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. We happened to visit on a Tuesday, so I’m highlighting this to save you from a similar mix-up.
Your ticket grants access to the Light Station, Tybee Raised Cottage, and the Tybee Museum. For further details on admission and policies, visit their website.
Besides the lighthouse, Tybee Island boasts family-friendly beaches and charming eateries. Consider enjoying a meal here before returning to Savannah for the final events of your trip.
Catch a Savannah Sunset at Peregrin Rooftop Lounge
Before your journey ends, don’t miss the chance to take in a sweeping view of Savannah’s skyline. Peregrin Rooftop Lounge offers the perfect setting for this experience, complete with a cocktail in hand.
Perched atop the elegant Perry Lane Hotel, this open-air venue is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet bar snacks. Whether it was the breathtaking view, the exceptional drink, or the overall excitement of the trip, the ambiance here was unforgettable.
What to Know Before You Go:
Reservations are recommended, but if you miss sunset, don’t worry. The evening atmosphere remains enchanting even after dark.
How to Get Here:
Peregrin is situated at 256 E Perry Street. Enter through the hotel lobby and take the elevator to the rooftop.
Enjoy Your Final Dinner at The Olde Pink House
For your last night, don’t miss the chance to dine at The Olde Pink House. This spot is a must-visit in Savannah, not just for its cuisine but for the entire experience.
Set in a colonial mansion with a reputedly spooky past, The Olde Pink House offers Southern fare with a twist. The ambiance is far from ordinary; you’ll feel more like an esteemed guest in a historic home rather than a typical diner.
Instead of the usual restaurant setup, you’ll be seated in one of several semi-private rooms that echo colonial charm. The exclusive atmosphere adds to the appeal, and the food is top-notch.
Kick off your evening with their renowned cocktail, “The Olde Pink House ‘Pink Lady,’” and try an appetizer like the “Goat Cheese Stuffed Artichoke Fritters”—they’re superb. For the main course, I recommend the pork chop paired with Southern-style macaroni and cheese. I’ve also heard great things about the scallops from a friend.
Though we were too full to consider dessert, I trust you’ll find a treat to end your meal on a sweet note.
What to Know Before You Go:
Reservations are essential for The Olde Pink House. As one of Savannah’s top dining spots, tables fill up quickly. We managed to secure a slot only a few days in advance, so plan ahead.
Be sure to ask your server about the mansion’s haunted history—it adds an intriguing layer to your dining experience. Also, take a moment to explore the house after your meal; it’s a fitting way to end the evening. You might even encounter a ghostly encounter!
How to Get Here:
The Olde Pink House is located at 23 Abercorn Street.
Wrapping Up Your Savannah Adventure
As you reach the end of this guide, I trust it has offered valuable insights into Savannah’s top attractions.
Feel free to adapt this itinerary as you like. My goal is to make your travel planning smoother and more enjoyable.
Savannah stands out as a remarkable destination, and I believe it deserves a prime spot on every traveler’s itinerary.
