Ever thought of why Savannah feels different from every other Southern city you visit?
I’ve walked these moss-lined streets, slowed down in its quiet squares, and learned that Savannah is best visited with the right mix of planning and curiosity, and that’s where you come in.
In this guide to fun things to do in Savannah, you’ll learn what makes the city special, from historic walks and cultural sites to outdoor escapes and local food stops.
I’ll help you understand whether this place is worth visiting or not and how.
Let’s begin with what makes Savannah special and how you can experience it the right way.
Things to Know About Savannah At a Glance
Savannah is a coastal city in Georgia near the South Carolina border. It was founded in 1733 and is one of the oldest cities in the United States.
The Historic District is compact and designed around public squares, which makes it easy to spend time on foot.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit due to mild temperatures. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are generally mild with fewer crowds.
Most visitors get around by walking, trolley tours, biking, or ride-share services. Driving is not necessary if you stay in or near the Historic District.
Savannah allows open containers in designated areas of the Historic District, but drinks must be in plastic cups and rules vary by location.
Savannah is known for its preserved architecture, historic homes, city squares, coastal setting, and nearby access to Tybee Island, which is about 25 minutes away by car.
Fun Things to Do in Savannah
Savannah offers a mix of history, outdoor beauty, and everyday local life that’s easy to enjoy at your own pace.
These activities help you understand the city while keeping your days relaxed, walkable, and engaging.
Historical Experiences
Savannah’s history is best experienced on foot, where preserved streets and landmarks connect naturally. These stops focus on architecture, early settlement, and lived stories across the city.
1. Wander Through Savannah’s Historic Squares
Savannah’s Historic District includes 22 walkable public squares arranged in a grid.
Moving between Chippewa, Lafayette, and Madison squares reveals monuments, fountains, and historic buildings with shaded seating and flat paths throughout.
Best for: Slow walkers and history-focused visitors.
2. Spend Time in the Savannah Historic District on Foot
The Historic District connects preserved homes, churches, and landmarks along streets like Bull and Jones.
Walking allows visitors to notice iron balconies, moss-covered oaks, and historic markers without relying on transport.
Best for: First-time visitors wanting a complete city overview.
3. Visit Bonaventure Cemetery for Southern Gothic Views
Located east of downtown near the Wilmington River, Bonaventure Cemetery features moss-draped oak trees, historic graves, and wide walking paths.
Marked routes allow quiet movement while learning about notable Savannah families.
Best for: Photography lovers and quiet outdoor walkers.
4. Tour the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
This Abercorn Street landmark offers guided tours covering architectural design and preserved urban slave quarters.
The experience presents Savannah’s past through both elite households and enslaved individuals who lived there.
Best for: Visitors seeking deeper historical understanding.
5. Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Situated on Oglethorpe Avenue, this restored home highlights the life of the Girl Scouts’ founder.
Tours cover period furnishings, Savannah society, and civic legacy within an easy downtown walking route.
Best for: American history and heritage travelers.
6. Visit Wormsloe State Historic Site’s Oak Avenue
South of downtown, Wormsloe features a long oak-lined road leading to colonial ruins and exhibits.
Walking trails and open grounds combine early Georgia history with one of Savannah’s most photographed landscapes.
Best for: History fans and scenic walkers.
Cultural & Museum Stops
Savannah’s museums blend preserved buildings with modern storytelling. These stops add cultural context without disrupting a walkable itinerary.
7. Tour the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Located on Abercorn Street, this cathedral features stained glass windows, high ceilings, and historic artwork.
Visitors may enter during open hours while respecting dress guidelines and scheduled services.
Best for: Architecture and cultural history interests.
8. Visit the American Prohibition Museum
Near City Market, this museum explains Prohibition through themed exhibits and interactive rooms.
Guests can end at a recreated speakeasy where legal-age visitors may purchase drinks.
Best for: Adults interested in U.S. social history.
9. View Contemporary Art at the SCAD Museum of Art
Located along Turner Boulevard, this museum presents rotating exhibitions curated by SCAD.
Historic architecture combined with modern galleries ensures each visit feels different and current.
Best for: Modern art and design fans.
10. Step Back in Time at the Georgia State Railroad Museum
This former railway complex displays restored railcars, workshops, and exhibits explaining Savannah’s transportation role.
Occasional train rides add engagement for both adults and children.
Best for: Families and transportation history lovers.
11. Visit Free Museums and Cultural Spaces
Several Savannah museums and galleries offer free or low-cost admission.
Many sit near major landmarks, making them convenient stops between activities when hours are checked ahead.
Best for: Budget-conscious cultural travelers.
Outdoor & Nature Activities
Savannah’s outdoor spaces balance greenery with water views.
These activities provide movement and open air without leaving the city’s core.
12. Relax and People-Watch in Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park anchors the southern Historic District with open lawns, walking paths, and a central fountain.
Visitors rest on benches, attend weekend markets, or pause between sightseeing stops.
Best for: Calm breaks and open-air relaxation.
13. Walk Along River Street’s Cobblestone Waterfront
River Street runs beside the Savannah River with cobblestone paths, warehouses, shops, and dining.
Walkers enjoy views of cargo ships and riverboats, though sturdy shoes are recommended.
Best for: Waterfront views and lively surroundings.
14. Take a Day Trip to Tybee Island
About 25 minutes east of Savannah, Tybee Island offers beaches, walking areas, and casual dining.
It provides a simple coastal contrast to the city’s historic environment.
Best for: Beach-focused day travelers.
15. Climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse
Georgia’s oldest lighthouse offers coastal views after a stair climb.
Located on Tybee’s north end, the site includes a small museum covering maritime history.
Best for: View seekers and light activity fans.
16. Kayak Savannah’s Tidal Rivers and Marshes
Guided kayak tours operate through nearby marshes and waterways.
Equipment and instruction are usually included, with wildlife sightings such as birds and dolphins common.
Best for: Outdoor and nature-focused travelers.
17. Go Dolphin Watching Near the Coast
Boat tours near Tybee Island focus on observing dolphins in natural habitats.
Trips last one to two hours and include commentary on coastal ecosystems.
Best for: Families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Food & Dining Experiences
Savannah’s food scene reflects regional traditions and shared dining culture. These stops focus on classic flavors and relaxed experiences.
18. Eat Southern Comfort Food at The Olde Pink House
Near Reynolds Square, this historic mansion serves traditional Southern dishes in formal dining rooms.
Reservations are strongly recommended during peak travel seasons.
Best for: Classic Southern dining seekers.
19. Try Family-Style Dining at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
Located on Jones Street, this lunch-only spot serves shared Southern meals.
Guests sit together, making early arrival important due to long lines and limited seating.
Best for: Traditional communal dining fans.
20. Grab Iconic Ice Cream at Leopold’s
On Broughton Street, Leopold’s has served homemade ice cream since 1919.
Lines are common, but service moves steadily even during busy evenings.
Best for: Dessert lovers and first-time visitors.
21. Join a Cooking or Southern Food Tasting Class
Select kitchens and food spaces offer guided tastings or demonstrations focused on Southern dishes.
These sessions provide insight into regional flavors in a relaxed setting.
Best for: Food-focused travelers.
Entertainment & Night Activities
Savannah evenings are active without being overwhelming. These options offer entertainment while keeping distances manageable.
22. Take a Guided Ghost Tour After Dark
Evening ghost tours walk through historic streets sharing documented stories tied to specific locations.
Most tours last about 90 minutes and emphasize history over scares.
Best for: Evening history seekers.
23. Enjoy Live Comedy at Front Porch Improv
Near City Market, Front Porch Improv hosts live shows with audience interaction.
Performances run about 90 minutes, and advance tickets are recommended.
Best for: Casual nighttime entertainment.
24. Take a Savannah Riverboat Cruise
Riverboat cruises depart from River Street and offer sightseeing, dinner, or sunset options.
These trips provide river views and narrated history without walking.
Best for: Relaxed sightseeing fans.
25. Check Out Savannah After Dark on a Walking Tour
Night walking tours showcase landmarks with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Guides share historical facts and legends while covering short, manageable routes.
Best for: Evening walkers and storytellers.
Scenic & Local Areas
These areas show everyday Savannah beyond major landmarks. They’re easy to combine with walking routes or short visits.
26. Walk Jones Street, One of America’s Prettiest Streets
Jones Street features brick roads, historic homes, and tree-lined sidewalks.
Its residential setting offers a quieter walk within the Historic District.
Best for: Scenic photography and calm walks.
27. Visit City Market for Shops and Music
City Market spans four blocks with shops, galleries, dining, and live music.
Active day and night, it works well as a flexible stop between attractions.
Best for: Casual shopping and local atmosphere.
28. Shop for Local Art in the Starland District
South of downtown, the Starland District features independent galleries, cafés, and street art.
It’s less crowded and easily covered in a short visit.
Best for: Local art and creative spaces.
29. Recreate Famous Forrest Gump Movie Spots
Several Forrest Gump scenes were filmed around Savannah, including Chippewa Square.
Photo stops fit naturally into downtown walking routes.
Best for: Movie fans and casual walkers.
30. Watch the Sunset Over the Savannah River
River Street and nearby walkways offer clear sunset views over the river.
Passing ships and changing light create an easy evening highlight.
Best for: Relaxed travelers and photographers.
Added Local Experiences
These additions offer flexible ways to see Savannah differently and work well when time is limited.
31. Take a Bike Ride Through the Historic District
Bike rentals near downtown allow easy riding through flat streets and public squares.
Cycling covers more ground while staying close to landmarks.
Best for: Active travelers with limited time.
32. Visit a Local Farmers Market or Artisan Fair
Seasonal markets near Forsyth Park feature local produce, crafts, and vendors.
Usually held on weekends, they reflect everyday Savannah life.
Best for: Local culture and casual browsing.
33. Ride a Historic Trolley Tour Through the City
Historic trolley tours cover major landmarks across the Historic District, River Street, and nearby neighborhoods.
Hop-on, hop-off options allow flexible stops while narrated commentary explains Savannah’s layout and history without requiring long walks.
Best for: First-time visitors wanting an easy city overview.
34. Spend Time at a Savannah Coffee Shop or Café
Savannah’s Historic District features local cafés perfect for short breaks between walks. M
any are located near squares or shopping streets, making them practical stops for rest, people-watching, or light meals without leaving your route.
Best for: Slow-paced travelers and remote workers.
35. Take a Self-Guided Walking or Photography Route
Self-guided routes focus on architecture, streetscapes, and public squares.
Printed maps or mobile apps help visitors follow themed paths while moving at their own pace through the Historic District.
Best for: Independent travelers and photography enthusiasts.
36. Visit a Local Bookstore or Independent Shop
Savannah has several independent bookstores and specialty shops near downtown.
These small stops offer a quiet break from sightseeing while supporting local businesses and visualising regional writing or crafts.
Best for: Readers and relaxed shoppers.
37. Sit in a Quiet Square and Do Nothing for a While
Savannah’s public squares are designed for rest as much as movement.
Sitting under oak trees with a book or coffee lets visitors absorb the city’s pace without an agenda.
Best for: Travelers who value slow, mindful moments.
Savannah offers a variety of activities that cover history, outdoor spaces, food, and local culture. Choosing a mix of these experiences helps you plan a balanced and practical visit.
Tips to Make Your Savannah Trip More Fun
Planning ahead helps you move through Savannah comfortably and avoid common travel issues. These tips focus on timing, transportation, and practical preparation.
Best time of year to visit:
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) have mild weather and are best for walking.
Summer is hot and humid, which can limit outdoor activities. Winter is less crowded but some attractions have reduced hours.
Getting around easily:
The Historic District is compact and walkable. Walking, trolley tours, biking, and ride-shares are practical options.
Parking is limited in busy areas, so staying near downtown reduces the need for a car.
What to wear & pack:
Wear comfortable walking shoes for brick streets and cobblestones. Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather and a light jacket for cooler months.
Sunscreen, water, and a small umbrella are useful year-round.
Common first-time visitor mistakes to avoid:
Overplanning daily activities and underestimating walking distances are common issues.
Skipping restaurant reservations and not checking attraction hours in advance can affect your schedule.
Using these tips makes it easier to manage your time and energy during your trip. With fewer disruptions, you can focus on visiting the city efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Savannah rewards slow travel, thoughtful planning, and curiosity, and now you know exactly how to approach it.
I’ve shared practical details and fun things to do in Savannah so you can check out with confidence, not guesswork.
You understand where to go, what fits your pace, and how to avoid common mistakes.
If you’re ready to plan smarter and enjoy Savannah your way, start building your itinerary today and make every walk count!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most fun things to do in Savannah?
Savannah offers historic square walks, River Street views, museums, Southern food, and outdoor spaces. Many activities are walkable and easy to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
Is Savannah fun if you don’t drink?
Yes, Savannah has plenty of non-drinking activities like museums, parks, walking tours, shopping areas, and beach trips. Most major attractions focus on history, culture, and outdoor experiences.
How many days do you need in Savannah?
Two to three days are enough to visit the Historic District and main attractions. An extra day is helpful for visiting Tybee Island or slowing your schedule.
Is Savannah good for nightlife?
Savannah offers a laid-back nightlife with rooftop views, live comedy, ghost tours, and evening walks. The scene is social and relaxed rather than high-energy.
What’s the most unique thing to do in Savannah?
Walking through Savannah’s historic squares is a one-of-a-kind experience. The city’s layout, architecture, and tree-lined streets set it apart from other destinations.
