Savannah, Georgia: the most charming city in the South and how to do it right

Spanish moss, cobblestone streets, a riverfront full of cold drinks, and a vibe that feels effortlessly laid-back from the moment you arrive. Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in America, and people who visit tend to become completely obsessed. Here’s how to do it right.

Things to do

• Walk the squares: Savannah was designed around 22 public squares shaded by massive live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Just wander. No map needed. Forsyth Park has the iconic fountain. Chippewa Square is the Forrest Gump bench spot.

• River Street: The cobblestone riverfront is lined with bars, restaurants, and live music. Walk it at night. Also worth knowing: Savannah has open container laws. You can carry your drink right out the door and keep walking. The whole city is basically one big open-air bar.

• Bonaventure Cemetery: One of the most beautiful places in the South. A sprawling Victorian cemetery draped in Spanish moss with stunning sculpture. If you've read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil you already know it. Go anyway.

• Ghost tours and comedy tours: Savannah is consistently ranked one of the most haunted cities in America. Walking tours, pub crawls, and hearse tours cover the spooky side of the city's history really well. If you prefer your history with more laughs than scares, there are comedy trolley tours that do the same thing with a lot more irreverence. Both are worth looking into and both book up fast.

Where to eat

The Olde Pink House

Savannah's most iconic restaurant, in a gorgeous pink 1771 mansion on Reynolds Square. Named the South's Most Legendary Restaurant by Southern Living. Get the she-crab soup, the flounder, the biscuits. After dinner, head downstairs to the Planters Tavern, a candlelit piano bar in the basement.

Here's what most people don't know: you can go straight to the Tavern without a dinner reservation, grab a spot at the bar, and enjoy cocktails and live piano all night. One of the best-kept secrets in the building.

Reservations are essential for dinner. Walk-ins regularly get turned away. Book well in advance.

The Pirates' House

Open since 1753 as an inn for pirates and seafarers. Fifteen separate dining rooms, original wooden beams, and actual tunnels beneath the building. Go for the experience as much as the food. Solid Southern classics, great for families.

More worth knowing

• Vic's on the River: A classic Savannah spot set in a historic riverfront warehouse, known for elevated Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and scenic views over the Savannah River.

• Huey's on the River: Casual New Orleans-inspired Southern food with a river view. Go for breakfast or brunch.

• Zunzi's: South African-inspired sandwiches with a cult following. Get the Conquistador

Things you have to eat

• Pralines: Soft, buttery, pecan-packed Southern candy. River Street Sweets and Savannah's Candy Kitchen on River Street. Buy more than you think you need.

• Sweet tea: Everywhere, exceptional. Don't ask for unsweetened. Just lean in.

• Shrimp and grits: Every restaurant has their own version. Try at least two.

Bars and nightlife

• Savannah Smiles Dueling Pianos (Williamson St): All-request piano show Thursday through Saturday. Audience picks every song. High energy, great for groups. Get there early, small cover charge at the door.

• McDonough's: Savannah's favorite neighborhood bar. Best karaoke in the city, late-night food, happy hour starts at 2pm. Karaoke night here is a commitment.

• The Six Pence Pub (Bull St): Savannah's most authentic British pub. Full menu until midnight, sidewalk seating, craft beers on tap. Great people-watching spot.

• River Street and Plant Riverside District: Savannah’s cobblestone riverfront is packed with bars, rooftop spots, and live music. Walk it, pop into whatever catches your eye, and take your drink to go. While you’re there, step into Plant Riverside District for one of the best atmospheres in the city. Head up to Electric Moon Skytop Lounge for rooftop views and cocktails, or keep it casual at Riverside Biergarten right on the water. The whole area is open to the public and worth the stop.

Golf and spa

Savannah is a better golf destination than most people expect. The Club at Savannah Harbor at the Westin Savannah Harbor Resort is the standout, designed by Sam Snead and Bob Cupp with stunning views of the Savannah River and the historic district. The Westin also has a full-service spa right on site, making it a perfect split day for groups where some want to play and others want to relax. Crosswinds Golf Club near the airport is a solid public option if you want a more casual round.

Worth knowing

Hilton Head is 45 minutes away

If you want to extend the trip, Hilton Head Island is a quick 45-minute drive north. Beautiful beaches, world-class golf including Harbour Town Golf Links, and great seafood. A lot of our clients do a Savannah plus Hilton Head combo and it works really well. Ask us about it.

Good to know

• Open container is legal in the historic district as long as it's in a to-go cup, not a glass.

• Book The Olde Pink House well in advance. Walk-ins regularly get turned away.

• Spring (March and April) and fall (October and November) are the best months. Summers are brutally hot and humid.

• St. Patrick's Day is massive here. Second biggest parade in the country. Book months out if you want it, avoid it entirely if you don't.

• You don't need a car in the historic district. Walk, rideshare or use the free ferry.

Ready to book your Savannah trip?

Savannah is one of those cities people visit once and talk about for years. We love booking it. Get in touch and let's put your trip together.

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