A quick 20 miles from The Ford Field & River Club, you’ll find quintessential Southern charm in the form of Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah. Rich history, intricate architecture, decadent food, friendly people, picturesque scenery—it’s no wonder Savannah has been ranked among Travel + Leisure’s “11 Perfect Weekend Getaways in the U.S. and Around the World.”
Located just across the river from the South Carolina border, this historic coastal city boasts 22 park squares shaded by towering Southern live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Picturesque and quaint while still being bustling and vibrant, Savannah is the perfect daytime excursion or weekend “staycation.”
For those new to Savannah or those wanting a fresh perspective on the Hostess City of the South, here’s a guide to help you plan your next adventure.
Food & Drink
Leopold’s Ice Cream
For over a century, this old-school ice cream parlor has been satiating the sweet tooths of locals and tourists with their world-famous ice cream and sherbet. Leopold’s menu contains unchanged recipes from 1919, evergreen flavors, and a monthly rotation of seasonal flavors—including vegan offerings.
The Olde Pink House
Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler, Southern Living, Food Network and more, this charming pink house-turned-restaurant is a must visit. Served by candlelight, the dinner menu includes Southern favorites with flair. Rumor has it, the building is haunted by (friendly) ghosts—which is not uncommon for the historic city.
Crystal Beer Parlor
Holding the title of Savannah’s oldest restaurant, Crystal Beer Parlor opened up in 1933 during the Great Depression and has remained a favorite for nearly a century. Grab a burger and choose from an impressive list of beers on tap and savor a little taste of history.
Two Tides Brewing Company
Dabbling in varieties from sours to stouts, Two Tides is always brewing up something to suit your palate. Stop in to purchase a pack of cans or get a growler filled—or bring your friends, your dog, or your friends’ dogs and sip on a beer flight in their tasting room.
Art & History
Kobo Gallery
Partially a result of the local Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Savannah has a thriving art community—showcased in museums, galleries, and pop-ups around town. The co-op Kobo Gallery is a wonderful place to discover local artists, from painters and jewelers to photographers and ceramicists.
Jepson Center
Spotlighting a rotating feature of exhibits as well as more permanent collections, the Jepson Center can be enjoyed at your own pace or on a guided tour. In addition to art, the Jepson Center houses an interactive children’s space called ArtZeum as well as an interactive gallery for technology-based art called TechSpace.
Fort Pulaski National Monument
Surprisingly well intact for a 19th-century fort, fallen during the Civil War, Fort Pulaski is a sight to see for anyone with a passion for history. The water-adjacent fort features moats, drawbridges and mysterious tunnels. The site also happens to be a great place to spot protected animal species, including bald eagles and manatees. (Technically, the fort is located on Tybee Island—more on that below.)
Activities & Adventure
Savannah Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District is the perfect place to choose your own adventure. Start with a stroll along the Savannah River, then venture into shops, join a moonlit walking ghost tour or take a ferry ride along the water.
Forsyth Park
Occupying more than 30 acres, the 1840s-era park is the oldest and largest public park in Savannah. Visit the iconic fountain (installed in 1858) for a photo opp, set up a picnic under a towering oak tree or grab a cup of coffee from a local shop and walk along the shaded paths.
Tybee Island
Just minutes from Savannah lies 5 miles of stunning beachside bliss. Relax in the sand, kayak on the sea, explore Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse (built in 1736), grab a seat at an oceanfront restaurant—the day will be what you make of it. Be sure to keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, often spotted frolicking just offshore.