Curator’s statement
We love to plan trips around food and culture and Savannah has it all. Nicknamed “Hostess City of the South” because this walkable city is full of sweet southern hospitality, cultural experiences and a next level food and beverage scene (“cups to go” are a thing here!) . The only month we might recommend staying away would be August when it is insanely hot. Favorite months to visit are March/April and September/October. We like experiencing Savannah without a car- the city is best experienced on your feet and there is always Uber/Lyft if your legs give out or for any further away destinations you may want to visit. Here are a few our our favorite ways to savor Savannah.
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Where to stay in Savannah, Georgia
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Things to do in Savannah, Georgia
Our favorite way to experience Savannah is by walking. Grab an iconic slushy drink from Wet Willies (two locations, City Market and River Street) in a cup-to-go to stay hydrated and happy while you walk the streets of the historic district! There are so many flavors which you can mix and match and the employees love giving you free samples of them all. Walk with your cocktail to take in all the gorgeous trees, historic sights and homes. The open container law is definitely something special! We also love to do a guided bike tour to start out our Savannah adventure. Many of the “must see” historical buildings, squares and parks can be covered in a 2 hour tour. Perfect to work up an appetite too!
Savannah Bee Garden Tour - If you are interested in going beyond honey tastings and learning more about the amazing world of honey bees this is your experience! The staff does a fascinating presentation about bees as you view them from a glass hive they have in the shop and then you get to visit the garden where you can experience active bee hives and even hold a piece of honeycomb. If you have a car this is a quick, under 20 minute drive from downtown. We used Uber to get there which was no problem but plan ahead for giving a little extra time to get an Uber ride back to town!
Shop local - If you’re there on a Saturday morning stroll through the Forsyth Farmers’ Market. Local pecans, honey, fresh watermelon juice, peaches and baked goodies are just a sample of what you might find. You can even find edible souvenirs sized for airplane carry on!
Savannah’s Broughton Street is a fun afternoon shopping destination with a selection of original boutiques and retailers you will recognize from home. Note that some of the local shops close between 5-7 so hit those up first! We also love to shop on Whittaker Street in the design district. Some of our favorites are One Fish Two Fish, Asher + Rye and Hannah E.
Places to eat & drink in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s food scene is NEXT LEVEL! Visit any bar, diner, coffee shop or restaurant in Savannah and chances are you will strike up a conversation and make a local friend. Savannah’s friendly, approachable locals are full of tips and suggestions, even if you’re not the chatty type we think you will agree! We are all about the best food and culture destinations, here are just a few of our favorite hidden gems:
Breakfast/Brunch
Our all time favorite for brunch/breakfast is The Collins Quarter (at Forsyth). An iconic Australian inspired cafe that is always at the top of both locals and visitors brunch list. With two locations (the downtown location has a slightly different menu but less seats). The Park location is perfect to combine with a Saturday morning farmers market stroll. We love their creative coffee’s (try the Espresso Tonic!) and the Spiced Lavender Mocha is also a favorite. Their Avocado Toast and Zucchini and Corn Fritters are the BOMB!
Lunch
Treylor Park - This place is so much fun! Multiple locations all with a slightly different menu. Our favorite is the Bay Street “Treylor Park-Savannah” location purely because it’s the location with Popcorn Shrimp on the menu (their version gives a whole new meaning to “popcorn + shrimp!). Don’t miss the Avocado Fries, Shrimp and Grits Tacos and all the signature cocktails (the margaritas are awesome and tons of local craft beers). Open till 1 am - a perfect late night option!
Back in the Day Bakery - Adored nationally and locally in Savannah this is THE bakery to visit when in town. Located close to a fun food truck park called Starland Yard (we think this is a great pairing!). A beautiful space with an awesome selection of pantry provisions in addition to all the yummy baked goods.
Drinks/Rooftop Bar
Hop Atomica - A bit more on the east side but not too far from Starland Yard. A fun neighborhood gastropub with great beer.
Moon River Brewing Company - A daily happy hour from 4-7 and also know as one of the most haunted places in America and THE most haunted place in Savannah?! We didn’t see any ghosts but did have a great flight of beers!
Peregrin - This is our favorite rooftop bar in Savannah! Southern elegance located at the top of the Perry Lane Hotel. Awesome skyline views, fire pits for chilly evenings and they even serve mini cups of our favorite Savannah ice cream, see below, for late night dessert!
Taste Journey Tip
Don't miss Leopold’s Ice Cream - A Savannah tradition that we strongly encourage you not to skip! Despite the long lines to get a scoop, Leopold’s is worth the wait. Never, have I ever gone back three nights in a row for ice-cream at the same place! If you absolutely can’t handle the line while downtown we have a tip to share: grab a scoop at the airport on your way out!
Travel Advisor
Julie Middlebrook-Levin
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Martha Pearlstone's guide, Off-the-Beaten Path Savannah Guide.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Savannah.