Fun Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia – The South’s Most Captivating City
April 13, 2026 | Jaily Melendez
There’s a reason why people fall in love with Savannah, Georgia after visiting, and rarely stop talking about it afterward. The scenery is like no other with Spanish moss-drapes across every tree like a curtain. Cobblestone streets winding past mansions. The smell of delicious food drifting through the air as you walk down the street. Savannah is a city that moves at its own pace, and once you match that pace, you’ll never want to leave.
Founded in 1733, Savannah holds the title of the oldest city in Georgia and one of the most beautifully preserved colonial cities in the entire United States. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost hunter, or just a traveler in search of another destination, Savannah delivers every time. Here’s your guide to make the most of your visit.
Fun Fact: Did you Know Savannah’s famous grid of 22 historic squares was designed by founder James Oglethorpe in 1733? An early example of urban planning that still guides city life almost 300 years later.
Wander the Historic Areas
Savannah’s 22 park-like squares are the beating heart of the city. Each one is unique, some anchored by grand monuments, others are shaded by towering oak trees draped with moss, and all of them invite you to sit and take in the beauty around you.
Chippewa Square is famously where the scenes in the hit movie Forrest Gump were filmed (even though the actual bench now resides in the Savannah History Museum). Forsyth Park, while technically a park rather than a square, is arguably the most iconic spots in town, with its white fountain one of the most photographed landmarks in Georgia.
The best way to experience the squares is to simply walk them. There are downloadable self-guided tour maps and physical maps from local shops that allow you to explore Savannah’s waterfront all the way to the southern end of the National Historic Landmark District. There is always something to discover around the next corner, which is why it’s best to allow at least half a day to explore.
Embrace the Haunted Side
For those who are interested in the history and legends of Savannah, it is ranked one of the most haunted cities in America, and locals take that reputation seriously. With centuries of history, including battles, epidemics, and duels, the city has plenty of ghost stories to tell. The Sorrel-Weed House is considered one of the most haunted homes in the country. The Colonial Park Cemetery, established in 1750, is a hauntingly beautiful place to visit by day and an entirely different experience after dark.
“In Savannah, the past is never really past – it just pulls up a chair and orders a sweet tea.”
The haunted ghost tours are a staple of Savannah nightlife, and there are many great operations to choose from:
- Ghost tours on foot
- Ghost tours by horse
- Pub crawl offers
Visitors of the haunted sites always come away with a story they can’t quite explain.
Eat Your Way Through the City
Southern cuisine reaches its peak in Savannah. With the city’s food scene, it captures the essence of country cooking, classic Southern comfort food, and a mix of modern food innovation to bring a special experience to locals and visitors alike. Here are some great options for your visit:
- The Grey: Set inside a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey is considered one of the best restaurants in the Southern United States. Where Southern meets European cuisine to bring together an extraordinary range of flavors.
- Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: Family-style Southern cooking served at communal tables, expect southern classics and pure joy.
- Collins Quarter: An inspired cafe just off Forsyth Park known for its unique lattes, brunch menu, and calming experience.
- The Olde Pink House: A beloved restaurant, housed in an 18th century mansion, that serves class country cuisine along with a candlelit experience.
- Leopold’s Ice Cream: This legendary ice cream parlor is one of Savannah’s most popular dessert spots, bringing some of the most original and delicious flavors in the South.
Explore River Street and the Waterfront
One of the most popular things-to-do in Savannah include walking down River Street. It runs along the Savannah River and is one of the liveliest streets in the city. The strip is packed with shops, live music venues, amazing restaurants, galleries, and bars overlooking the river. A genuinely fun experience for anyone passing through or planning to stay.
Along with the riverfront, Savannah hosts one of the most active ports in the U.S. Be ready to watch massive container ships sail by from one of the riverfront bars. Just off River Street, the Savannah History Museum and the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum are both worth visiting with friends or family for an hour or two.
Arts, Architecture, and Day Trips
Savannah is home to one of the most respected art schools in the world, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). It operates some free and low-cost museums and galleries around town, filling the city with creative energy and offering rotating exhibitions in renovated historic buildings like the SCAD Museum of Art.
For architecture lovers, the city’s Historic Landmark District is packed with Regency, Victorian, Greek Revival, and Federal buildings in great states of preservation. There are many architecture tour books from local shops that will guide you and tell the buildings stories along your trip.
If you are ready to venture beyond the city, Tybee Island is a nearby town (18 miles east) that offers a coastal vibe and beaches for a fun day trip. The Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous by the book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, is another great destination just outside the city center to add to the agenda.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, Savannah is a city where you can feel history come alive and it will leave its mark on your memory. A place full of soul and character that will have you enamored with its Southern food, beautiful landmarks, and lively setting. Some places are simply made for the soul, and Savannah is one of them.