30 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA – Fun Activities & Attractions
Looking for the best things to do in Savannah, GA? Start with Forsyth Park, the Historic District, and River Street. These popular attractions introduce you to the city’s history, architecture, and waterfront. You can also visit museums, join ghost tours, and explore nearby beaches.
Savannah has plenty of activities for couples, families, solo travelers, and weekend visitors. Many downtown attractions are free and easy to explore on foot. This guide covers 30 places and experiences, including admission details, visiting tips, and ways to get around.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA?
The best things to do in Savannah include exploring historic squares, visiting Forsyth Park, and walking along River Street. You can also tour historic homes, see museums, and visit Bonaventure Cemetery. If you have extra time, consider a trolley tour or a trip to Tybee Island.
These ten attractions and experiences offer a good starting point for first time visitors.
Attraction | Best For |
|---|---|
Forsyth Park | Parks and photography |
Historic District | History and architecture |
River Street | Waterfront views |
Historic squares | Walking and sightseeing |
Bonaventure Cemetery | History and sculpture |
Cathedral Basilica | Architecture and art |
City Market | Shopping and galleries |
Ghost tours | Evening entertainment |
Trolley tours | Guided sightseeing |
Tybee Island | Beaches and coastal activities |
Where should you start? Spend your first morning exploring the Historic District and Forsyth Park. Visit City Market and River Street later in the day. Save guided tours, museums, and attractions outside downtown for your remaining time.
Must See Attractions in Savannah’s Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District contains many of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Its public squares connect streets filled with historic homes, churches, museums, and small parks. You can visit several attractions during one walking trip without moving your car.
1. Visit Forsyth Park and Its Famous Fountain
Forsyth Park covers 30 acres near the southern end of Savannah’s Historic District. Its famous fountain stands at the northern end, surrounded by walking paths and large oak trees. The park also has playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, and open lawns.
The fountain dates to 1858 and completed a major restoration in December 2025. Visitors often stop here for photographs before exploring the nearby streets. Plan around 45 to 60 minutes for a relaxed walk. You can spend longer if you want to picnic or visit the playgrounds.
Admission to Forsyth Park is free, making it an easy choice for budget travelers. Morning visits offer cooler temperatures during Savannah’s warmer months.
Read More : Things to Do in Forsyth Park Savannah + 12 Best Activities
2. Explore Savannah’s Historic Squares
Savannah has 22 surviving historic squares, each offering a different setting for a short stop. Many contain monuments, benches, trees, and historic buildings nearby. These public spaces reflect the city plan James Oglethorpe introduced in 1733.
Start with Johnson Square, Wright Square, Chippewa Square, Madison Square, and Monterey Square. You can reach several of them by following Bull Street through downtown. Chippewa Square also appeared in the movie Forrest Gump, although the original movie bench is no longer there.
Walking through the squares is free, and you can explore them at your own pace. Allow one to two hours if you want photographs and short breaks.
Read More: Savannah Historic Squares – Complete Guide, Map & Walking Tour
3. See the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist stands at 222 East Harris Street. Its twin towers, stained glass windows, and detailed interior make it an important architectural stop. Visitors can admire religious artwork and learn about the church’s history.
The cathedral remains an active Catholic church, so visitors should respect religious services and private events. It does not require admission tickets, although a small donation is appreciated. Photography and group touring rules also apply.
The cathedral’s official visiting guide lists touring hours and possible closures. Allow about 20 to 40 minutes for a visit. The building has an accessible entrance with an elevator on Harris Street.
Read More: the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist – Hours, Tours & Visitor Guide
4. Walk Along Historic Jones Street
Jones Street is a good place to see Savannah’s residential architecture. Brick sidewalks, historic townhouses, iron railings, and mature trees line several blocks. The street offers a quieter experience than the busy riverfront.Start near Bull Street and explore the surrounding blocks at a comfortable pace. Look at the different entrances, staircases, and architectural details along the way. Many buildings remain private homes, so respect their entrances and property boundaries.Walking along Jones Street is free and usually takes 20 to 40 minutes. You can combine it with Monterey Square, Madison Square, or Forsyth Park. Watch your footing because some sidewalks have uneven brick surfaces.
Read More: Historic Jones Street Savannah – Complete guide
5. Tour the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters stands at 124 Abercorn Street, beside Oglethorpe Square. The house dates to 1819 and shows Regency period architecture. Its museum interpretation also examines slavery and the lives of people who worked there.
A guided tour explains the household, its architecture, and the experiences of enslaved residents. The museum places these stories within Savannah’s wider history. This makes the visit useful for travelers interested in understanding the city’s past beyond its buildings.Tours usually last 45 to 60 minutes. Telfair Museums currently lists a $30 adult ticket covering three museum sites for seven days. The historic house has stairs, and some areas lack wheelchair access.
Read more: Owens-Thomas House Savannah – complete guide
6. Visit the Mercer-Williams House Museum
The Mercer-Williams House Museum overlooks Monterey Square at 429 Bull Street. The building connects Savannah’s architecture with its preservation history. It also gained attention through the book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Guided tours introduce visitors to the house’s interior, decorative objects, and former owner Jim Williams. The museum offers a different experience from walking past Savannah’s historic homes. It suits travelers interested in architecture, antiques, and local stories.
Tours last about 35 minutes and generally operate on a first come, first served basis. The visitor entrance is behind the house at 430 Whitaker Street.
7. Explore Colonial Park Cemetery
Colonial Park Cemetery sits at 200 Abercorn Street in the Historic District. Established in 1750, it served as a major burial ground for Savannah residents. Old gravestones, monuments, and walking paths provide a look into the city’s early history.
The cemetery contains thousands of graves and remains an important historic public space. You can explore the grounds independently while reading markers and observing the architecture. Respect the graves, stay on public paths, and avoid touching fragile monuments.
Admission is free, and a visit usually takes around 30 minutes. The city operates seasonal opening hours, with longer hours during daylight saving time.
Fun Things to Do in Downtown Savannah and Along River Street
Downtown Savannah offers more than historic houses and monuments. You can browse shops, see the working riverfront, take a ferry, and enjoy local food. Many activities are close together, making this area suitable for a relaxed afternoon.
8. Walk Along Historic River Street
River Street follows the Savannah River below downtown’s elevated Bay Street. Former cotton warehouses now contain restaurants, shops, galleries, and other businesses. Large cargo ships regularly pass along the waterfront, giving visitors a close view of Savannah’s active port.
Walk along the riverfront, watch the boats, and explore the nearby storefronts. The historic paving adds character, but some cobblestones and connecting stairs are difficult to navigate. Use a more accessible route if you want to avoid steep steps.
You can explore River Street without paying admission. Allow one to two hours for sightseeing, with more time for shopping or dining. The waterfront gets busy during weekends and major events. Our guide to shops on River Street offers more shopping ideas.
9. Explore Savannah City Market
City Market occupies several blocks near Ellis Square in downtown Savannah. Visitors come here for local art, shops, restaurants, and casual entertainment. The surrounding streets connect the market with Broughton Street and the waterfront.
Explore the market’s galleries and watch for artists displaying their work. You can browse local products or stop for a meal between sightseeing activities. Some businesses offer demonstrations, special events, or live entertainment, depending on the day.
Walking through City Market is free, although purchases and paid activities cost extra. Plan around 30 to 60 minutes for browsing. The nearby Whitaker Street Garage provides a parking option for visitors arriving by car.
10. Shop and Stop for Ice Cream on Broughton Street
Broughton Street is one of Savannah’s main downtown shopping streets. It has stores, restaurants, historic storefronts, and places to stop for coffee or dessert. The street offers a break between museum visits and walking tours.
Leopold’s Ice Cream is a well-known stop along East Broughton Street. You can choose from ice cream flavors and enjoy a short break before continuing your walk. Lines may develop during busy periods, especially on weekends.
Allow 30 to 60 minutes if you plan to browse several shops. You can reach Broughton Street on foot from City Market and nearby historic squares. Check individual store hours because they vary throughout the week.
11. Ride the Savannah Belles Ferry
The Savannah Belles Ferry crosses the Savannah River between downtown and Hutchinson Island. It offers views of the waterfront, passing ships, and the city skyline. Unlike paid sightseeing cruises, this public ferry provides a free passenger service.
The ferry serves City Hall Landing, Waving Girl Landing, and the Hutchinson Island waterfront. Chatham Area Transit operates the service and publishes its current routes. The vessels accommodate passengers with mobility needs, subject to operating conditions.
CAT lists regular ferry service from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., with holiday exceptions. Allow extra time for boarding and return connections. Review the Savannah Belles Ferry schedule before planning your ride.
12. Take a Savannah Riverboat Cruise
A riverboat cruise offers a different view of Savannah’s waterfront. Sightseeing trips travel along the Savannah River while passengers observe the shoreline and working port. Some operators also offer dinner cruises and special evening departures.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises operates from the riverfront near 9 East River Street. Check the specific cruise description before buying tickets because food, entertainment, and departure times vary. Arrive early enough for check-in and boarding.
A cruise works well for couples, groups, and travelers who want time off their feet. Prices depend on the experience you choose. Compare the options through our guide to Savannah dinner cruises.
13. Try Savannah’s Southern Food
Food is another reason to spend time exploring Savannah. Restaurants serve Southern favorites such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, biscuits, and seafood. Dining options range from casual counters to historic restaurants and formal dining rooms.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is known for family style Southern meals, while other restaurants offer different menus and settings. Choose a location near your sightseeing route to avoid unnecessary driving. Check reservations, service hours, and menu prices before visiting.
You can explore Savannah’s food culture without committing to a formal food tour. For restaurant choices, see our best restaurants in Savannah guide. It can help you plan lunch or dinner around nearby attractions.
Best Museums and Cultural Experiences in Savannah
Savannah’s museums explain the city’s art, architecture, and history through collections and guided visits. Several sit within the Historic District, making them easy to combine. Indoor museums also offer useful alternatives during hot afternoons or rainy weather.
14. Explore Telfair Academy and the Jepson Center
Telfair Museums operates two important art spaces in downtown Savannah. Telfair Academy occupies a historic building at 121 Barnard Street. The Jepson Center, at 207 West York Street, focuses on modern exhibitions and art education.
Telfair Academy displays American and European artworks, sculptures, and decorative objects. The Jepson Center features changing exhibitions and the Children’s Art Museum. Families may find the interactive activities especially useful during indoor sightseeing.
A Telfair Museums ticket also includes the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters. Adult admission is currently listed at $30, with access valid for seven days.
15. Visit the SCAD Museum of Art
The SCAD Museum of Art stands at 601 Turner Boulevard near downtown Savannah. It presents contemporary art, photography, and rotating exhibitions from established and emerging artists. The museum also connects visitors with the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Exhibitions change throughout the year, so each visit may offer something different. You can explore the galleries independently or look for scheduled talks and special programs. The museum suits art lovers and travelers looking for indoor activities.
General admission is currently listed at $10, with several discounted ticket categories. The museum closes on Tuesdays under its published regular schedule.
16. Discover the American Prohibition Museum
The American Prohibition Museum sits at 209 West Saint Julian Street in City Market. Its exhibits examine America’s Prohibition period, including the laws, social changes, and illegal alcohol trade. Visitors can learn about the years from 1920 to 1933.
Displays include historical objects, educational exhibits, and scenes from the period. The museum also has a speakeasy experience for eligible adult visitors. Check whether your chosen ticket includes additional activities, as packages can differ.
Allow around 45 to 90 minutes for the museum. Its central location makes it easy to combine with City Market and Ellis Square.
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17. Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace stands at 10 East Oglethorpe Avenue. It preserves the family home of the woman who founded the Girl Scouts in the United States. The museum introduces visitors to her life, achievements, and influence on American history.
Guided tours explain the historic rooms, furnishings, artwork, and the early Girl Scout movement. Visitors can also explore the garden and museum shop. This attraction suits families, history lovers, and anyone interested in women’s history.
Allow around one hour for the tour and surrounding areas. Advance tickets are recommended because tour spaces can fill.
18. Learn About Gullah Geechee Heritage at Pin Point Heritage Museum
Pin Point Heritage Museum stands at 9924 Pin Point Avenue, outside downtown Savannah. The museum occupies a former oyster and crab processing factory. It tells the story of a coastal community founded by formerly enslaved African Americans and their descendants.
Visitors learn about local work, family traditions, language, food, and community history. Guided interpretation helps explain the importance of Gullah Geechee heritage along Georgia’s coast. The museum offers historical context beyond Savannah’s downtown landmarks.
The museum currently opens Thursday through Saturday, with guided tours at scheduled times. Adult admission is listed at $15. Check the Coastal Heritage Society’s museum page before traveling. You will generally need a car or arranged transportation.
Fun Savannah Activities, Tours, and Entertainment
Guided tours help visitors understand Savannah’s history without researching every landmark independently. You can choose from trolley rides, walking tours, food experiences, and outdoor activities. Select a tour based on your interests, available time, and comfort level.
19. Take a Hop On Hop Off Savannah Trolley Tour
A trolley tour provides an introduction to Savannah’s main sightseeing areas. Guides explain local history while passengers travel between popular stops. Some ticket types allow you to leave the trolley and return later.
This option works well for visitors who prefer less walking or have limited sightseeing time. However, trolley stops may still require walking to reach individual attractions. Check the route, operating hours, and ticket conditions before buying.
A trolley tour can also help you decide which places deserve a longer visit. Our Savannah hop on hop off trolley guide explains available options and planning considerations.
20. Join a Savannah Ghost Tour at Night
Savannah has a long tradition of ghost stories connected to historic buildings and local legends. Guided ghost tours explore these stories while introducing visitors to different parts of downtown. Some focus on history, while others emphasize entertainment.
Walking tours suit visitors who enjoy exploring streets after dark. Trolley tours offer another option for people who prefer less walking. Families should check age recommendations because some tours include mature themes.
Many ghost tours require tickets and operate during scheduled evening hours. Tour lengths, routes, and meeting points vary by company. Compare the ghost tours in Savannah before choosing an experience.
21. Discover Local Flavors on a Savannah Food Tour
A Savannah food tour combines sightseeing with stops at local restaurants or specialty food businesses. Guides often explain regional dishes and neighborhood history between tastings. This gives visitors a chance to experience several places during one outing.
Food tours can suit couples, friends, and travelers who enjoy trying different dishes. Some experiences involve considerable walking, while others stay within a compact downtown area. Check dietary accommodations and tasting portions before booking.
Guided tours usually require advance tickets, especially during busy travel periods. Review our Savannah food tours guide for information about choosing a suitable experience. Allow enough time between your tour and other dining plans.
22. Visit Bonaventure Cemetery or Take a Guided Tour
Bonaventure Cemetery sits east of downtown at 330 Bonaventure Road. Its large oak trees, historic monuments, and cemetery sculptures attract visitors interested in Savannah’s past. The grounds overlook areas near the Wilmington River.
You can explore the cemetery independently or join a guided historical tour. The graves of several well-known figures, including songwriter Johnny Mercer, are here. Follow cemetery rules and remember that Bonaventure remains an active burial ground.
Public cemetery access is free, and the city lists daily hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours may charge separate fees. See the Bonaventure Cemetery tours guide for planning information and tour options.
23. Explore Savannah on a Guided Bicycle Tour
A bicycle tour lets visitors explore more streets than a typical walking tour. Some routes pass historic squares, residential neighborhoods, and quieter areas outside the busiest sightseeing streets. Guides may also stop at landmarks to explain local history.
Cycling is a good option for active travelers who feel comfortable around city traffic. Look for tours that provide helmets and clear safety instructions. Ask about group size, distance, terrain, and bicycle types before reserving.
Summer heat and afternoon storms can affect cycling comfort. Morning tours may offer better conditions during warmer months. Our Savannah bicycle tour guide covers more options for exploring the city on two wheels.
Outdoor Adventures and Things to Do Near Savannah, GA
Several popular Savannah attractions sit outside the downtown walking area. These places offer coastal scenery, historic forts, wildlife viewing, and water activities. You will usually need a car, guided transport, or a suitable local ride.
24. See the Oak Lined Avenue at Wormsloe State Historic Site
Wormsloe State Historic Site is known for its long entrance avenue lined with live oak trees. The property also contains colonial era tabby ruins, nature trails, and a museum. Its history connects to Noble Jones, an early Georgia colonist.
The site offers a chance to learn about colonial settlement and the people who shaped coastal Georgia. Exhibits and programs also address the area’s wider Native American, African, and European history. Check whether historical demonstrations or special activities are scheduled during your visit.
Wormsloe sits outside downtown along Skidaway Road. Admission charges apply, and some trails require additional walking time.
25. Spend a Day at Tybee Island Beach
Tybee Island offers Atlantic beaches within driving distance of Savannah. Visitors can walk along the shoreline, swim when conditions allow, and explore the island’s coastal attractions. The area also has restaurants, shops, and a historic lighthouse.
North Beach is convenient for visitors interested in the lighthouse and Fort Screven area. South Beach offers access to the pier and nearby businesses. Choose your beach based on the activities you want and available parking.
The beach is a good choice for families and travelers who want a break from downtown sightseeing. Public parking generally requires payment, and beach rules apply. See our guide to things to do on Tybee Island for more coastal ideas.
26. Explore Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument stands along US Highway 80 between Savannah and Tybee Island. The historic fort played an important role during the American Civil War. Visitors can explore its brick defenses, exhibits, and surrounding outdoor areas.
The site includes a visitor center, walking trails, and historic military structures. You can learn how changes in artillery affected coastal forts during the Civil War. Some areas have stairs or uneven surfaces, so check accessibility before visiting.
The National Park Service lists regular park hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Standard admission is currently $10 per adult, with qualifying passes and exemptions available.
27. Visit Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson sits along the Savannah River east of downtown. The historic brick fort once helped defend the city’s river approaches. Today, it operates as a museum with exhibits about military history and coastal defense.
Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds and learn about its role during different periods. Educational programs and demonstrations may be available on selected dates. The location also offers views of activity along the Savannah River.
The Coastal Heritage Society currently lists daily opening hours and paid admission. Adult tickets are listed at $15, with lower rates for children.
28. Watch Wildlife at Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge protects wetlands and other habitats along the Savannah River. Visitors may see birds, alligators, and other native wildlife while exploring approved areas. Wildlife sightings depend on weather, season, and animal activity.
The 4.5 mile Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive allows visitors to explore by car. Hiking and photography are also possible in designated locations. Stay away from alligators, follow posted rules, and never feed wildlife.
The refuge does not charge an entrance fee. Its visitor center is at 694 Beech Hill Lane in Hardeeville, South Carolina. Visit the our Savannah wildlife refuge guide before traveling.
29. Try Kayaking Around Savannah’s Coastal Waterways
Kayaking offers a different way to explore coastal Georgia’s rivers, creeks, and salt marshes. Guided outings may provide opportunities to see birds and other wildlife from the water. Routes vary depending on tides, weather, and the tour operator.
Beginners should choose suitable guided experiences with clear safety instructions. Check whether equipment, life jackets, and basic paddling lessons are included. Never assume every waterway is suitable for inexperienced paddlers.
Kayaking trips often operate outside downtown Savannah. You may need transportation to a launch point. Our guide to kayaking in Savannah, GA covers options and practical planning considerations.
30. Look for Dolphins on a Tybee Island Boat Tour
Dolphin watching tours operate around Tybee Island and nearby coastal waters. Passengers can enjoy boat rides while guides look for dolphins in their natural habitat. Some trips also provide information about local waterways and marine wildlife.
These outings suit families, couples, and travelers interested in coastal nature. Dolphin sightings are never guaranteed because the animals move freely. Choose operators that follow safe wildlife viewing practices and avoid disturbing marine animals.
Tour length, departure points, and prices vary between companies. Check weather conditions and cancellation policies before booking. A dolphin tour can fit into a Tybee Island day trip if your schedule allows.
Free Things to Do in Savannah, GA
You can enjoy several Savannah attractions without paying admission. Public squares, Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market offer free sightseeing opportunities. The Savannah Belles Ferry also provides free transportation across the river.
Free Attractions in Downtown Savannah
Walking through the Historic District is one of the easiest ways to explore Savannah on a budget. You can visit historic squares, photograph old buildings, and see several landmarks from public streets. Forsyth Park and Colonial Park Cemetery also offer free entry during permitted hours.
The Cathedral Basilica does not require admission tickets, although donations are appreciated. Museums and historic homes generally charge for tours. Check each attraction’s current rules before assuming every activity is free.
Free Outdoor Activities and Waterfront Views
River Street offers free access to its public waterfront walking areas. You can watch ships, see the Savannah River, and explore public spaces near the warehouses. The Savannah Belles Ferry provides another way to enjoy waterfront views without buying a cruise ticket.
Free admission does not always mean free parking. Street meters, public garages, and private lots may still charge. Plan your sightseeing route and transport costs before deciding which free activities fit your budget.
Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Savannah
Savannah has several activities beyond its famous squares and riverfront. Travelers interested in local culture can visit Pin Point Heritage Museum or explore lesser-known historic sites. Outdoor visitors can consider kayaking or wildlife viewing outside downtown.
Discover Places Beyond the Usual Tourist Route
Pin Point Heritage Museum explains the experiences of a coastal African American community. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge offers wildlife viewing in wetlands across the state line. Both places provide a different perspective from downtown sightseeing.
These attractions require more planning than a short city walk. Check opening hours, transportation, and available activities before leaving. Choose one based on your interests rather than trying to visit both during a packed day.
Which Unusual Activity Should You Choose?
Choose Pin Point Heritage Museum if you enjoy local history and cultural learning. Visit the wildlife refuge if birds, photography, and outdoor activities interest you. Try kayaking if you prefer an activity on the water.
Each option offers something different, but transportation matters. Visitors without cars may find downtown tours easier to organize. Check departure points and accessibility before booking an outdoor experience.
Best Savannah Activities for Different Travelers
The right Savannah activities depend on your interests, budget, and travel companions. Families may prefer parks and interactive museums, while couples might enjoy evening experiences. Visitors who prefer less walking can choose guided transport or shorter attraction visits.
Things to Do in Savannah With Kids and Teens
Forsyth Park is a good starting point for families because it has playgrounds and open spaces. The Children’s Art Museum at the Jepson Center offers indoor activities for younger visitors. Fort Pulaski also suits children interested in history and exploring old buildings.
Teenagers may enjoy a trolley tour, riverboat cruise, or age appropriate ghost tour. Check age limits and ticket conditions before booking. Include breaks during summer because Savannah’s heat can make long walking days tiring.
Romantic Things to Do in Savannah for Couples
Couples can walk through the historic squares, explore Jones Street, or visit Forsyth Park together. River Street offers waterfront views and nearby dining choices. A riverboat cruise provides another option for a planned evening.
Choose activities that leave time for relaxed meals and unplanned stops. A full sightseeing schedule can make a short getaway tiring. Consider one major paid experience and several free attractions during a weekend visit.
Fun Group Activities in Savannah
Food tours, ghost tours, trolley rides, and riverboat cruises work well for many groups. These experiences provide shared activities without requiring everyone to plan separate stops. Some companies may offer private bookings or group discounts.
Check group size limits before making reservations. Historic house tours often have smaller visitor capacities than outdoor attractions. If your group includes children or people with mobility needs, review the activity’s requirements first.
Things to Do Alone or for Seniors
Solo travelers can explore Savannah’s public squares, museums, and riverfront at their own pace. Guided tours also offer a way to learn about the city while joining other visitors. Choose daytime activities if you prefer exploring unfamiliar areas in daylight.
Older travelers and visitors with mobility concerns may prefer trolley sightseeing or accessible museums. Walking distances, cobblestones, and historic staircases can affect comfort. Ask individual attractions about seating, elevators, and accessible entrances before visiting.
Things to Do in Savannah When It Rains or at Night
Rain or evening hours do not have to end your sightseeing plans. Savannah offers museums, guided activities, restaurants, and entertainment beyond its outdoor landmarks. Choose activities based on actual opening hours rather than assuming everything stays open late.
Best Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
Telfair Academy, the Jepson Center, and SCAD Museum of Art provide indoor spaces for art and history. The American Prohibition Museum is another option near City Market. Historic house tours can also work during light rain, depending on operating conditions.
Keep an indoor backup activity ready during warmer months, when afternoon storms can develop. Some museums close on specific weekdays. Check official calendars before traveling across town for a visit.
Fun Things to Do in Savannah at Night
Evening ghost tours are a popular option for visitors interested in local stories. Riverfront restaurants, scheduled performances, and some riverboat cruises offer other nighttime activities. Event calendars can help you find concerts or special programs during your stay.
Choose evening activities near your accommodation when possible. Check the last ferry, shuttle, or tour departure if you depend on public transportation. Confirm meeting points and return arrangements before heading out after dark.
How to Spend One, Two, or Three Days in Savannah
Savannah’s main downtown attractions are close enough to combine during a short trip. However, museum visits, tours, and travel outside downtown require extra time. Plan a few main activities each day and leave room for meals and breaks.
Best Things to Do in Savannah in One Day
Start your morning at Forsyth Park, then walk north through the Historic District. Explore selected squares and stop at the Cathedral Basilica if touring hours allow. Continue toward City Market for lunch or a shopping break.
Spend the afternoon near Broughton Street and River Street. Take the Savannah Belles Ferry if the schedule fits your visit. You can also choose a short guided tour if you prefer a more structured experience.
Time | Suggested Activity |
|---|---|
Morning | Forsyth Park and squares |
Late morning | Cathedral or historic home |
Lunch | Downtown restaurant |
Afternoon | City Market and Broughton |
Evening | River Street or ferry |
Best Things to Do in Savannah in Two Days
Use your first day for the main Historic District attractions. Include Forsyth Park, the squares, River Street, and a museum or historic house. This approach keeps most sightseeing within the downtown area.
Spend your second day exploring additional interests. Bonaventure Cemetery offers history and sculpture outside downtown. You can also book a trolley tour, food tour, or evening ghost tour. Choose activities that fit your available transport and energy.
Best Things to Do in Savannah in Three Days
A three day trip provides more time for Savannah’s museums, guided experiences, and nearby attractions. Spend the first day exploring the Historic District and waterfront. Use the second day for cultural attractions and an activity that interests you.
Reserve the third day for Tybee Island, Fort Pulaski, or Wormsloe State Historic Site. Combining Tybee Island and Fort Pulaski may work if you have a car and sufficient time. Avoid adding every attraction because driving and admission schedules can reduce your available sightseeing hours.
Map of the Best Places to Visit in Savannah
Savannah’s main downtown attractions sit within the Historic District, while several outdoor destinations require separate transportation. A map helps you group nearby places and avoid unnecessary driving. Start by identifying your hotel, first attraction, and preferred parking location.
Walkable Attractions in the Historic District
Forsyth Park, the historic squares, Jones Street, and several house museums form a useful walking area. River Street and City Market sit farther north near the waterfront. Some sidewalks and riverfront connections have uneven surfaces or steep grades.
Choose a route that matches your walking ability and available time. You do not need to visit every square during one trip. Focus on a few landmarks and explore nearby streets as your schedule allows.
Attractions Outside Downtown Savannah
Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe, Pin Point Heritage Museum, and Old Fort Jackson sit outside the main downtown walking area. Fort Pulaski and Tybee Island lie farther east toward the coast. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge has visitor access in South Carolina.
Use exact attraction addresses when planning these trips. Check driving routes and opening hours before departure. Downtown sightseeing and coastal attractions usually work better as separate parts of your itinerary.
How Much Do Savannah Activities Cost?
You can enjoy Savannah with a small activity budget, especially if you focus on public attractions. Guided tours, museums, and cruises usually cost extra. The final amount depends on your chosen experiences, parking, and meals.
Free vs. Paid Activities in Savannah
Activity | Admission |
|---|---|
Forsyth Park | Free |
Historic squares | Free |
River Street | Free |
Colonial Park Cemetery | Free |
Savannah Belles Ferry | Free |
Historic house museums | Usually paid |
Guided trolley tours | Paid |
Ghost tours | Usually paid |
Riverboat cruises | Paid |
Fort Pulaski | Paid or eligible pass |
A budget sightseeing day could include Forsyth Park, several squares, City Market, and River Street. You would mainly need to budget for meals and transportation. Adding a museum or paid tour will increase your costs.
What Should You Budget for Paid Attractions?
Telfair Museums currently lists adult admission at $30 for its three sites. The SCAD Museum of Art lists general admission at $10. Fort Pulaski charges $10 per adult under its standard admission rules.
These examples can help you compare choices without buying every ticket. Prices, exemptions, and special event charges may change. Check the official attraction websites before finalizing your budget, especially when traveling with a family or group.
Getting Around Savannah and Where to Park
Most first time visitors can explore the main Historic District without driving between every attraction. Walking works well for nearby squares, museums, restaurants, and shops. However, beach trips and some outdoor attractions require transportation beyond downtown.
Can You Walk Between Savannah’s Main Attractions?
Yes. Many downtown attractions are within walking distance of each other. A route through Bull Street’s squares can connect the northern Historic District with Forsyth Park. Nearby streets provide access to museums, restaurants, and other landmarks.
Walking conditions vary between locations. Brick sidewalks, uneven paving, and older staircases may slow your trip. River Street sits below Bay Street, so plan an accessible route if steep stairs are difficult.
Where Should You Park for Downtown Sightseeing?
Savannah has public parking garages, metered street spaces, and private parking facilities. The best option depends on your first attraction and expected stay. Parking once and exploring nearby places on foot may save time.
The Bryan Street, Whitaker Street, State Street, Robinson, and Liberty Street garages serve different downtown areas. Compare entrances and walking routes before choosing one. Our Historic District parking guide explains the main options.
Visitors with flexible schedules can also check free parking in Savannah. Meter rules depend on the location, day, and posted restrictions. Always read parking signs before leaving your vehicle.
Can You Explore Savannah Without a Car?
Yes. Downtown visitors can use walking routes, the free DOT shuttle, and the Savannah Belles Ferry. Guided trolley tours provide another sightseeing option, although they charge for tickets. These choices help visitors reduce driving around the Historic District.
Chatham Area Transit operates the DOT shuttle and ferry services. The shuttle connects downtown attractions and parking areas, while ferries serve the waterfront. Check CAT’s current schedules because service and holiday hours can change.
Accessible Sightseeing in Savannah
Accessibility differs between Savannah attractions. Some museums have elevators and accessible entrances, while historic homes may contain stairs. River Street’s older paving can also create difficulties for wheelchairs and visitors with limited mobility.
The Cathedral Basilica provides an accessible entrance on Harris Street. Telfair Museums identifies access limitations at the Owens-Thomas House. Contact attractions before visiting if you need a step free route, accessible restroom, or specific assistance.
Essential Tips for First Time Savannah Visitors
A little planning can make sightseeing easier, especially during summer and busy weekends. Focus on attraction locations, weather, and your preferred pace. Choose a few main activities rather than filling every hour with reservations.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Savannah?
Spring and fall often provide comfortable conditions for walking and outdoor sightseeing. Summer brings higher temperatures, humidity, and the chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Winter can offer cooler walking weather, although some attractions follow holiday schedules.
The right season depends on the activities you want. Beach trips may suit warmer weather, while museums work throughout much of the year. Our best time to visit Savannah guide covers seasonal planning.
What Should You Know Before Visiting Savannah?
Wear comfortable shoes because downtown streets include bricks, cobblestones, and uneven surfaces. Carry water during warm weather and allow time for breaks. Check attraction schedules before visiting, especially on holidays and weekends.
Book important tours early if your travel dates are fixed. Keep a backup activity ready for rain or unexpected closures. Review our guide on whether Savannah is a safe city for more practical visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Savannah, GA
Final Thoughts: What Should You Do First in Savannah?
The best things to do in Savannah, GA depend on your interests and available time. First time visitors should start with the Historic District, Forsyth Park, and River Street. Add museums, guided tours, or coastal activities if your schedule allows.
Plan nearby attractions together and leave time for breaks. Check current admission prices, opening hours, and transportation details before your trip. This will help you spend more time exploring Savannah and less time changing plans.
John Robert
Travel Writer & Founder @ Thing Savannah
John Robert is a travel writer and explorer specializing in authentic regional guides, detailed itineraries, and practical travel logistics.