Savannah, Georgia is the definition of a classic southern town. It has all the best things: historical sites, quirky shops and galleries, great food, precious houses, and oak tree lined streets.
It is like walking through a Nicholas Sparks novel, especially if you’re with your boo. Therefore, when deciding on a good place to spend Independence Day, Savannah was an obvious choice for Reid and I.
One of the best parts about Savannah is there is a ton to do, so you could spend several days in the city or you could hit the highlights in a weekend and not feel like you’ve missed out.
Reid and I have both been to Savannah multiple times and this trip was definitely our favorite, due to a few key features I will tell you about later. So, let’s talk about Savannah, GA hotels, things to do, restaurants, and various travel tips!
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Table of Contents
Where to Stay in Savannah, GA
There are endless options when it comes to hotels in Savannah. Looking on Air BnB, there are so many cute studios right in the middle of the historic area. If you don’t feel comfortable in someone’s house, find a hotel or inn that fits your needs all around the city.
Normally, Reid and I opt for cheaper options, but we decided to splurge a little on this trip and I cannot tell you how much this made a difference.
Hampton Inn and Suites
We stayed at the Hampton Inn and Suites on Bay Street and it was divine. I 100% recommend staying at this hotel. It had a prime location to everything you would want to see and we walked everywhere.
Because it is in the center of everything, instead of searching forever for public bathrooms, just hop into the lobby for a potty break, some cucumber water, and cookies.
This was our favorite part of the trip. We normally plan out a whole trip and stay busy going the entire time, but this was supposed to be a relaxing trip and being able to stop by the hotel throughout the day and not worry with our car was a life saver.
They have valet parking for $30 per night, which yes is expensive, but it is so hard to find public parking, you have to walk everywhere, and safety concerns made the 24/7 valet parking #worthit.
The rooms were nice and clean and our window overlooked Bay Street. We were there for the fireworks celebration on the Fourth of July and we could see them from our window over the river.
The hotel also has a rooftop pool and guests could go watch the fireworks on the roof and enjoy complimentary popsicles and glow sticks.
The only complaint I had about the hotel was that the elevators took a while with how full the hotel was, but I learned some patience. My biggest advice for staying in Savannah is to splurge on a hotel on Bay Street or, if you’re feeling really luxurious, River Street.
Other hotels we looked into staying at with great location included: Hotel Indigo, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn and Suites
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8 Things to Do in Savannah, GA
Like I said above, there are so many things to do in Savannah, GA but some are bucket list items that you cannot leave Savannah without checking off your list. Most of the star attractions are close together and walking distance.
The great thing about Savannah is it’s very walkable and pedestrian friendly, especially in the historic area. So, lace up your shoes and get ready to explore these must-see places!
#1 : Waving Girl Monument
The Waving Girl Monument is at the end of River Street and with many signs it is easy to find. The statue has been in Savannah for years and depicts a girl waving a cloth with her dog. It is said she waves to those who enter the harbor and says goodbye to those who leave.
Beside this is also the Olympic torch that was lit when part of the Olympic Games were held in Savannah. Check out both while strolling through town.
#2 : 24 Park Squares
Savannah is modeled in a traditional city layout with squares and easy to navigate streets. There are a total of 24 Park Squares in Savannah, each with its unique name and monument.
With many historical markers in each square, you can learn all about the history as you stroll down a street and pass through multiple parks.
Although it is not necessary to see each one, it is a must to stroll through a few squares, read the history of the city, and admire the beautiful landscape. In town for longer? Try to visit all of the parks, because they are all unique. They are also all in walking distance of each other.
#3 : Forsyth Park
You know all those amazing pictures in front of a beautiful park fountain you see of Savannah? That is Forsyth Park and it is gorgeous. If you go to no other park on your trip, you have to go here. It is bustling with activity and in the middle of town.
About one mile from Bay Street, Forsyth Park boasts picturesque backgrounds, charming park benches, and a Kroger just down the street to cool off in with a free bathroom.
#4 : River Street
River Street is a typical tourist trap, but also a must see. Cobblestone streets lined with storefronts on one side and the river on the other, not only is it enchanting, but full of quirky shops and restaurants.
You can easily spend several hours strolling up and down the street and through the stores. Make sure to check out the Savannah Bee Company, they have the best honey in the world!
#5 : Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Whether you are religious or not, the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is a beautiful structure that all can stop and admire. Unfortunately, it was closed for the holidays when we went and we were not able to go inside, but it contains stained glass windows and paintings throughout its walls. Even from the outside, the cathedral is a sight to be seen.
#6 : Trolley Tour
Trolley tours are the most fun and an effective way to see a city. You can find the Old Trolley Tours offices in many places around Savannah to purchase your tickets and obtain a map. Hop in a trolley and it will take you on a ride around the city, stopping at various popular sites.
Your tickets are good for the day and you are free to hop on and off as you please all day. This saves a lot of time and steps if you are trying to see all the popular and historic areas.
The first time I came to Savannah with my family, we did the trolley tour and it was great. Reid and I decided to take the city by foot on this trip, because we did not have as much time and were trying to save money.
We did not get to see as much as if we would have done the tour, but we did not feel like we missed out. This is something completely up to you and how you would prefer to spend your time, there are pros and cons to both.
#7 : Ghost Tours
Haunting many places in Savannah are famed ghosts and if you take a ghost tour you can learn all about them. Just beware of hitch-hiking ghosts. (Anyone get that reference?!) I am not into this type of attraction, so we skipped out on it, but I have been told by many people that it is a great experience.
#8 : Tybee Island
Although Tybee Island is not technically in Savannah, planning a trip to Savannah would not be complete without mentioning it. A short drive away, Tybee Island will let you dip your feet in the ocean and fulfill your lighthouse dreams.
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Where to Eat in Savannah, GA
And now, my favorite thing to plan on a trip. Where to eat. I’m pretty sure when Reid and I decide we are going to take a trip somewhere, we automatically start looking up where we are going to eat.
I personally love to try those famous, popular eateries in new places, but I also love local, lesser known restaurants that end up being jewels. My one rule is that I don’t want to go there if I can get it back home (unless it’s unavoidable obviously).
Savannah holds many foodie havens. Check out these six popular favorites:
#1: Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor
An ice cream shop that has been open for 100 years, people will line up out the door and down the street to get a taste of Leopold’s ice cream. Although I am sure all the flavors are good, I personally got the Chocolate Chewies and Cream ice cream kids scoop (you know, save those calories) and it was amazing.
Reid got the chocolate sundae and loved it – that’s his signature. The owner is a movie producer, so there are movie posters hanging around the shop of the films he has worked on. It is the perfect place for a sweet treat with your honey.
#2: Treylor Park
When Reid first asked me if I wanted to go to Treylor Park for lunch, I gave him a look like he was crazy, but once he clarified I was all in to try it. It is a small local restaurant that serves classic foods with a twist.
A must-try is the Treylor Park Nachos Grande. For $14, you get a heaping plate of waffle fries topped with cheese, fried chicken, pickles, ranch, bacon, and a balsamic sauce. It is definitely more than one person can eat.
We also shared the Shrimp and Grits Tacos, I love shrimp and grits, and they were wonderful. I doubt there is anything bad and we have already researched the closest location to us in Jacksonville.
#3: B&D Burgers
Looking for a solid and reliable burger? This is your place. They have a wide variety of burgers and a build your own. Their prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is relaxed.
#4: Lady and Sons – Paula Deen’s Restaurant
Lady and Sons is the famous restaurant in Savannah by the one and only Paula Dean. If you have not tried her restaurant in Savannah it should be on your list and you can stuff yourself full of the butter and comfort food.
The restaurant is a buffet, so make sure you go hungry and fill up on all the good eats. Make sure you call ahead of time to make your reservations, because it can get booked up quickly and the wait will get long.
Other Popular Restaurants: The Pink House, Pirates House, The Coffee Fox, Zunzi’s
4 Tips from a Traveler
Lastly, some extra tips for your trip to the charming Savannah. Quaint houses, precious parks, historic sights, and good eats make for an exciting trip that will keep you busy throughout your stay. There are a few last things though that you do not want to skip past.
#1: Wear walking shoes
Savannah is a pedestrian friendly city and SO walkable, I love it! If you are staying in the historic district, I guarantee you will walk everywhere. When we got there, we parked our car and did not move it until we were leaving.
Even if you opt for a trolley tour, you will still end up walking a lot and you do not want your feet to be crying at the end of the day. Therefore, wear shoes that can take the heat and keep your feet supported.
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#2: Bring a camera
Savannah contains so many picturesque places and it would be a shame to miss it all. Whether you are photographing for the memories or for Instagram, a camera is a necessity. We found that everyone is very friendly and willing to take pictures for you.
Pro tip: look for someone who looks serious about their pictures or has a nicer camera and ask them to take it.
#3: Start your day early
It can get SO hot in Savannah and humid being on the river, but the mornings are delightful. Start the day early, then get out of the sun in the afternoon to cool off from the heat.
Although shops will not be open, it would be the perfect time to check out the park squares around town while the weather and lighting is nice.
#4: Be prepared to pay for parking
There are several parking options in Savannah. There are public parking decks, parallel paid parking along the streets, valet parking at hotels, and parking at the trolley tours central office.
Because our hotel was in the historic area, we did valet parking the whole time and it was so worth not having to worry over it. Street parking is hard to find during the day, but if you go early shouldn’t be a problem. It is worth paying to park somewhere and having access to your car.
Savannah is a great town that has something to offer for everyone with varying interests and in various stages of life. It is easy to make up a plan as you go, but it is always good to have an idea of what you want to do in a new place.
I hope this guide is able to help you as you plan your next trip!
Have you been to Savannah and have suggestions on good places to sightsee, eat, or stay? Let me know in the comments so I can add it to the guide!
Lots of Love, Laurel McDaniel
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Thanks for this awesome travel guide. I am planning to go there and currently looking for hotels in Savannah GA. I heard that it’s better to choose the hotels which is located in the Southern part of the city because it’s less crowded there. Anyways, for those who are planning to visit the place, there are a lot of info at https://www.visitsavannah.com/ that’s where I got all the info I needed when I first learned about Savannah.
Author
Thanks for the tip, that is very helpful! You will definitely LOVE Savannah. Visit Savannah also has an Instagram that I used to discover some fun places, you should check it out as well. Thank you for the comment, enjoy your trip!
Thanks for the tips! Especially the ones that you don’t’ really think about like starting your day early.
Author
I am glad you found it useful 🙂
We could not agree with you more, Savannah is great! I am happy to say we made it to the majority of the places on your list. Great post!
I love that you admit River Street is a typical tourist trap but also worth the visit.Things become touristy because they’re worth the visit, but it is nice to know what you’re getting into before visiting. Also good to know about paying for parking as I never remember cash or coins haha!
Author
Yes, I love to have a mix of touristy things and local things when I travel places. I am glad you found it useful 🙂
Oh, Savannah looks like a lovely getaway!! I think I drove through the city when I was a kid, so I definitely want to go back and take my little family. Love your perspective of “tourist trap” but still worth the visit. Isn’t that how most places are? There is a reason why people love the tourist trap areas! Thanks for all the information and tips!
Author
Yes, most places are! I try to find a good balance of tourist classics and unique local places when I visit somewhere. I am glad you found it useful!
We love Savannah and we have done many of the things you write about. One thing we loved was just to walk through the historic downtown area and enjoy the beauty. Unfortunately, parking has become real difficult in the last few years.
Tybee Island, as you mentioned, is a must-do trip outside the city. It has a beautiful; beach and quite a few other activities.
Author
Yes, thankfully with staying on Bay Street we were able to park at the hotel and walk around without this worry, but it can be difficult when most of the parking is just along the street. Tybee Island is great, we enjoyed making it part of our Savannah trip. Are there other activities on Tybee Island you recommend?
I visited Savannah on a family holiday with my parents when I was a kid but I’d really like to go back. Thanks for your suggestion of the Hampton Inn and Suites on Bay Street, your comment about its central location is key, as being right by all the sights is very much what I look for when visiting a city. Thanks for the food recommendations as well, especially Paula Deen’s restaurant!
Author
Staying on Bay Street was 100% the best decision we made for our whole trip. I am glad you found it useful. Yes, definitely eat at Paula Deen’s restaurant, the best comfort food!