Planning sightseeing in Savannah can feel difficult when you have only a few days. The city has historic squares, old homes, riverfront views, museums, parks, restaurants, and coastal spots to choose from.
This guide lists 25 places to see in Savannah, with locations, costs, ways to get there, and useful timing tips. It also covers food stops, day trips, and simple ways to plan your time.
Savannah at a Glance Before You Start Sightseeing
Savannah sits on the Georgia coast, about four hours from Atlanta, according to Explore Georgia, the state’s official tourism site. Founded in 1733, it is one of the oldest planned cities in the country.
Savannah’s historic downtown holds an important distinction. It is the largest protected historic area of its kind within a US city, and it is arranged around 22 public squares.
Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards ranked Savannah the #6 Best Small City in America.
- Spring and fall bring mild weather and smaller crowds.
- March also brings one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country, behind only New York and Chicago, so expect bigger crowds if you visit then.
- Summer runs hot and humid, so plan indoor stops during peak afternoon heat.
Historic Squares and Landmarks in Savannah
Savannah’s historic center gives you several places to see within a short walking distance. Start with the squares and major landmarks, then add a house museum or church based on your interests.
1. Savannah Historic District
Location: Central SavannahCost: Free to exploreGetting there: Walk from many downtown hotels or use local public transportationBest time: Early morning or late afternoon
The Historic District is the main base for Savannah sightseeing. You can walk between several squares, churches, homes, shops, and restaurants without needing a car.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore this area. Comfortable shoes help because some streets have uneven surfaces and historic paving.
2. Forsyth Park
Address: Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: FreeGetting there: About a 10-minute walk from City MarketBest time: Morning or late afternoon
Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most familiar public spaces. Its large fountain, oak trees, walking paths, and open lawns make it a good break between Historic District stops.
The park also hosts community events and a farmers market on Saturdays. Check the current market schedule before visiting because event times can change.
3. Chippewa Square
Location: Bull Street between Hull and Perry StreetsCost: FreeGetting there: Walk from several downtown attractionsBest time: Early morning.
Chippewa Square is known for its role in the film Forrest Gump. The square itself is worth seeing even if you are not visiting for the movie connection.
Walk through the square, look at the surrounding historic buildings, and continue toward nearby landmarks.
The famous movie bench was a film prop and is not located in the square today.
4. Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Address: 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Check the cathedral’s current visitor informationGetting there: A short walk from Forsyth ParkBest time: Weekday mornings
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is known for its stained glass, murals, and detailed interior. It is also an active place of worship, so visitors need to respect services and scheduled events.
Check visiting hours before going because access can change around Mass and church activities. Keep your visit quiet and follow posted photography rules.
5. Mercer-Williams House
Address: 429 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Paid guided toursGetting there: Walk from Forsyth Park toward Monterey SquareBest time: Morning or late morning
The Mercer-Williams House sits on Monterey Square and is closely linked with Savannah’s literary and cultural history. The house also became widely known through Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Tours provide more context about the property and its former residents. Check the official tour schedule before visiting because entry is based on scheduled tours.
Cemeteries and Ghost Tours in Savannah
Savannah’s history also appears in its cemeteries and stories about the city’s past. These stops work well for visitors who want something different after spending time around the main squares.
6. Bonaventure Cemetery
Address: 330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA 31404Cost: Free for self-guided visitsGetting there: Drive or use a rideshare from downtownBest time: Morning or late afternoon
Bonaventure Cemetery is known for its large oak trees, historic graves, sculptures, and Spanish moss. It sits outside the main walking area, so plan transportation before leaving downtown.
The cemetery was also featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The Bird Girl statue associated with the book and film is now held at the Telfair Academy rather than the cemetery.
7. Savannah Ghost Tour
Plant Riverside District
Cost: Varies by operator and tour typeGetting there: Most tours meet at downtown locationsBest time: After sunset
Ghost tours offer a different way to hear stories connected with Savannah’s old buildings, streets, and cemeteries. Walking tours are usually easy to fit into an evening after dinner.
Tour length, prices, and meeting points vary by company. Check the operator’s current schedule and policies before booking, especially during busy travel periods.
Waterfront Places Along the Savannah River
The Savannah River adds another side to the city. River Street, Plant Riverside District, and river cruises can fit easily into a day that also includes the Historic District.
8. River Street
Address: River Street, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Free to walkGetting there: Walk from the Historic District or use local transportationBest time: Late afternoon or evening
River Street follows the Savannah River and has shops, restaurants, bars, and places to sit near the water. The historic buildings and river views make it a useful stop after exploring the squares.
The street can become crowded during festivals and major events. Check the city’s event calendar if you want a quieter visit.
9. Plant Riverside District
Savannah Riverboat Cruise
Address: 400 W River St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Free to browseGetting there: Walk west along River StreetBest time: Evening
Plant Riverside District occupies a former power plant complex near the river. The area now has restaurants, shops, hotels, public spaces, and entertainment venues.
It works well as an evening stop because many businesses remain open later than daytime attractions. You can also combine it with a walk along River Street.
10. Savannah Riverboat Cruise
Cost: Check the current cruise schedule and priceGetting there: Boats depart from riverfront docksBest time: Late afternoon or sunset
A riverboat cruise gives you views of Savannah from the water while sharing information about the river and the city. Cruise types and schedules vary by season.
For a free alternative, the Savannah Belles Ferry connects riverfront locations and provides a short ride across the river. Check the city’s current ferry schedule before planning your day around it.
Nature and Wildlife Near Savannah
You can add outdoor sites to a Savannah sightseeing plan without spending your entire trip away from the city. Wormsloe and Fort Pulaski are close enough for half-day visits, while Harris Neck works better as a longer outing.
11. Wormsloe State Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406Cost: Paid admissionGetting there: Drive or use a rideshareBest time: Morning
Wormsloe State Historic Site is known for its long oak-lined entrance and coastal setting. The site also includes historic remains, walking paths, and information about Georgia’s colonial period.
Check the current trail details and admission information before visiting because access and schedules can change. Morning visits are more comfortable during hot months.
12. Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 5000 Wildlife Drive, Townsend, GA 31331Cost: Check current refuge informationGetting there: A car is the easiest optionBest time: Early morning or late afternoon
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a good choice for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset and includes a wildlife drive along with areas for hiking and photography.
Current refuge rules require vehicles to stay on the wildlife drive, while hikers and cyclists should use marked trails. Some areas can close to protect wildlife, so follow posted signs during your visit.
13. Fort Pulaski National Monument
Address: 101 Fort Pulaski Road, Savannah, GA 31410Cost: Standard admission is currently $10 per person for visitors over age 15Getting there: Drive from downtown SavannahBest time: Morning or late afternoon
Fort Pulaski preserves a large masonry fort with Civil War history, exhibits, walking areas, and trails.
The National Park Service currently lists regular park hours as 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the historic fort open until 4:30 p.m.
The site is open year round except for listed holiday closures. The park does not accept cash for entrance payments.
Savannah Museums and House Tours
Savannah has several museums and historic homes that explain the city’s history, architecture, art, and important residents. They are also useful choices during hot or rainy parts of the day.
14. Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
Address: 124 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Paid admissionGetting there: Walk from nearby Historic District attractionsBest time: Morning
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is part of Telfair Museums. The site presents the history of the house, its architecture, the people who lived there, and the people who were enslaved there.
Guided tours are available, and the current museum schedule lists tours during daytime hours. Check the official Telfair Museums website before visiting for current ticket details and tour times.
15. Davenport House Museum
Address: 324 E State St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Paid admissionGetting there: Walk from the central Historic DistrictBest time: Morning or early afternoon
Davenport House Museum focuses on early 19th-century Savannah and the preservation of historic homes. The house also helps explain how architecture and daily life changed during the city’s early years.
Its location near several squares makes it easy to combine with a walking day. Check current tour hours before visiting because schedules can vary.
16. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Address: 10 E Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Paid admissionGetting there: Walk from many downtown attractionsBest time: Morning
The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace was the childhood home of the founder of Girl Scouts. The property gives visitors a closer look at her early life and the family history connected with the house.
It is close to several other Historic District attractions. Check the current visitor schedule and admission details before planning your stop.
17. Jepson Center
Address: 207 W York St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Paid admissionGetting there: Walk from City Market and nearby squaresBest time: Midday or during bad weather.
The Jepson Center is part of Telfair Museums and focuses on modern and contemporary art. It is a practical indoor stop when outdoor sightseeing becomes uncomfortable.
Current exhibitions and opening hours can change, so check the museum’s official site before your visit.
18. SCADstory
Address: 340 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Check current admission informationGetting there: Walk from nearby Historic District attractionsBest time: Midday
SCADstory explains the history and work of the Savannah College of Art and Design. The short visit works well when you want an indoor stop between longer walks.
Its central location also makes it easy to combine with nearby squares and museums. Check current opening information before going.
Where to Eat During Savannah Sightseeing
Food can fit naturally into a sightseeing plan because many well-known restaurants sit close to historic streets and major attractions. Instead of setting aside an entire day for restaurants, plan meals around the areas you already want to visit.
19. The Grey
Location: Martin Luther King Jr. BoulevardCost: Varies by menuGetting there: Walk or use a rideshare from central downtownBest time: Dinner with advance planning
The Grey operates inside a restored Greyhound bus terminal and serves Southern food with a modern approach. Its location makes it convenient for visitors staying in central Savannah.
Dinner demand can be high, so check the restaurant’s current reservation schedule before visiting. Menu prices and dining options can change.
20. The Olde Pink House
Address: 23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Varies by menuGetting there: Walk from several Historic District squaresBest time: Early dinner
The Olde Pink House is housed in an 18th-century mansion and serves Southern dishes in a historic setting. Its central location makes it easy to pair with a day around the squares and River Street.
Reservations can help reduce waiting time during busy periods. Check the current dining schedule before you go.
21. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
Address: 107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Fixed-price family-style mealGetting there: Walk from the Historic DistrictBest time: Lunch
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is known for family-style Southern meals served at shared tables. It is a popular lunch stop, so expect the possibility of a line.
Check current opening days, service times, and payment information before visiting. The schedule can change during holidays and special periods.
22. Leopold’s Ice Cream
Address: 212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Varies by orderGetting there: Walk from the Historic DistrictBest time: Afternoon
Leopold’s Ice Cream is a long-running Savannah ice cream shop on Broughton Street. It makes an easy afternoon stop after visiting nearby squares, shops, and museums.
Try a classic flavor or a seasonal choice based on the current menu. Expect longer lines during busy afternoons and warm-weather weekends.
23. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen
Address: 225 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401Cost: Varies by itemGetting there: Walk from River Street and nearby downtown areasBest time: Morning or afternoon
Savannah’s Candy Kitchen is known for pralines, candies, and other Southern-style sweets. Its River Street location makes it convenient after a walk beside the Savannah River.
You can buy individual treats or packaged sweets to take home. Check the current store hours before visiting because operating times can change.
Savannah Tours and Day Trips
Guided tours can help you cover more ground when you have limited time. A coastal day trip also gives you a break from the Historic District.
24. Trolley, Golf Cart, or Segway Tour
Cost: Varies by company and tourGetting there: Most tours begin at downtown meeting pointsBest time: Morning
Trolley, golf cart, and Segway tours offer different ways to see Savannah’s main areas. A trolley can work well for visitors who want fewer walking hours, while smaller vehicles can reach streets that larger tour vehicles cannot.
Compare the route, tour length, stops, and cancellation policy before booking. Choose a tour that matches the amount of walking you want to do.
25. Tybee Island Day Trip
Distance: Roughly 18 miles from downtown SavannahCost: Beach access is generally free, while attractions and tours charge separatelyGetting there: Drive, use a rideshare, or book a guided tripBest time: Late spring through early fall for beach activities
Tybee Island gives you beaches, the Tybee Island Light Station, and coastal activities close to Savannah. Travel time can vary with traffic, so allow extra time when planning a same-day return.
The island works well as a full or half-day addition to a Savannah trip. Check current beach, lighthouse, parking, and Marine Science Center information before leaving.
How to Plan Your Savannah Sightseeing Days
Here is a simple way to plan your days, from the main sights to a few practical reminders before you go:
- Start with the Historic District and nearby squares.
- Add Forsyth Park and a house museum on the same day.
- Visit River Street and Plant Riverside District in the late afternoon.
- Use indoor museums during the hottest or wettest part of the day.
- Plan Bonaventure Cemetery as an outside-the-center stop.
- Add Fort Pulaski or Tybee Island if you have another half or full day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and carry water during warm months.
- Check event schedules before traveling during major festivals.
- Confirm current attraction prices and opening hours before your visit.
Getting Around Savannah Without a Car
You can see much of central Savannah without renting a car.
The Historic District is compact enough for walking, while local buses, shuttles, rideshares, taxis, and tour vehicles can help with longer trips.
A car becomes more useful when visiting places outside downtown. Fort Pulaski, Wormsloe State Historic Site, Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge, and Tybee Island are easier to reach by car or planned transportation.
If your trip focuses mainly on the squares, museums, restaurants, and River Street, consider staying in or near the Historic District. This can reduce the number of daily rides and make it easier to return to your hotel between stops.
Best Free Things to See in Savannah
Savannah has several sightseeing options that do not require an admission ticket.
The Historic District, Forsyth Park, many public squares, River Street, and parts of the riverfront can be enjoyed without paying an attraction fee.
Free stops can help balance a trip that includes paid museums and tours. Build your day around the squares first, then add one or two ticketed attractions based on your interests and budget.
How Many Days Do You Need in Savannah?
Two days can cover many of the main sights in central Savannah.
Spend the first day around the squares, Forsyth Park, and historic homes, then use the second day for River Street, museums, Bonaventure Cemetery, and an evening activity.
Three days give you more flexibility. You can use the extra day for Tybee Island, Fort Pulaski, or a longer museum visit without rushing between stops.
Conclusion
You do not need to visit all 25 places to have a good Savannah trip. Start with the Historic District, add Forsyth Park and River Street, then choose a museum, cemetery, food stop, or day trip based on your available time.
For a two-day visit, focus on central Savannah. Within three or four days, add Tybee Island, Fort Pulaski, or another outdoor site. Check current hours, prices, and event schedules before you leave.
Have you visited Savannah before? Share your favorite place in the comments and send this guide to someone planning a Savannah trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Savannah safe for tourists?
Savannah is safe for most visitors, especially in the Historic District and River Street. Use normal city sense at night, and stick to well lit, busy streets after dark.
Where should I stay for easy sightseeing in Savannah?
The Historic District is the best base, since most squares, museums, and restaurants sit within walking distance. Hotels like the Marshall House or Hamilton-Turner Inn keep you close to the action and cut down on parking costs.
What is the best month to visit Savannah for good weather?
April and October offer some of the mildest temperatures and least rain, based on seasonal weather data from Tripadvisor. October is the better pick if you also want smaller crowds, since April sits closer to peak tourist season.
Is Savannah a walkable city for older travelers or those with limited mobility?
Yes, the Historic District has flat, paved paths in most squares, though some streets keep original cobblestones. A golf cart tour or trolley tour can help cover more ground with less walking.
How far is Savannah from Charleston, South Carolina?
Savannah sits about two hours from Charleston by car, making it an easy add on for a longer Southern coastal trip.
