Savannah Trip (February 20, 2024 - February 23rd, 2024

Question

Hello Savannah experts,

We are coming to Savannah tomorrow and have two full days and one evening to explore the city. Could you please critique my our itinerary and post your recommendations? There are two of us, my husband and I, not young but very active and trained, so walking long distances is not a problem at all. We will have a car.

Our itinerary is coming in my next post.

Thank you in advance!

Nora

Answer

It sounds like you're going to have a great time exploring Savannah! Since you'll be there for two full days and one evening, and you're active and prepared for walking, you'll have plenty of time to experience the city's history, charm, and unique attractions. Here's a critique of your itinerary based on your time frame and the must-see spots in Savannah. I’ll also provide some suggestions to make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Historic Savannah Exploration

Start your first day with an exploration of Savannah's historic district. Savannah is known for its beautiful squares, historic homes, and moss-draped oaks, so walking around this area is a great way to dive into the city’s charm.

Morning: Begin with breakfast at a local café, such as Clary’s Café or The Collins Quarter, both of which offer great Southern breakfasts. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park, a large park with beautiful fountains, gardens, and walking paths.
Mid-Morning: Head to the Savannah History Museum, which is located in the heart of the historic district. It provides a great overview of the city's history. You can also consider taking a historic walking tour (either self-guided or with a guide), which will give you deep insights into the city's history, architecture, and culture.
Lunch: After the tour, grab lunch at Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, a beloved local spot known for classic Southern comfort food, or head to The Grey for something a bit more upscale.

Afternoon:

Explore River Street: After lunch, head to River Street, a cobblestone street along the Savannah River lined with shops, galleries, and historic buildings. It's a great place to grab a sweet treat from River Street Sweets and enjoy the view of the river.
Visit the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace: For history lovers, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is an interesting site. It’s the home of the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA and offers a fascinating glimpse into her life and legacy.

Evening: Ghost Tour or Dinner and Stroll

Since you're in Savannah for a short time, take advantage of the city's spooky reputation and embark on a ghost tour in the evening. Savannah is said to be one of the most haunted cities in America, and a ghost tour is a fun way to learn about the city's haunted history while exploring its eerie streets after dark.

Alternatives for dinner: If you prefer a more relaxed evening, consider dining at The Olde Pink House, a historic restaurant that serves Southern cuisine in a beautiful 18th-century house. Or, head to Alligator Soul for a more contemporary Southern dining experience.

Day 2: Day Trip or Local Highlights

For your second day, consider a day trip to one of the nearby islands, or dive deeper into Savannah's local attractions:

Morning: If you’re up for a short trip outside of the city, take a morning drive to Tybee Island (about 20-30 minutes from Savannah). Spend a few hours exploring the island’s beaches and lighthouse. It’s a peaceful and relaxing spot, perfect for a morning stroll or enjoying the ocean views.
Alternative: Bonaventure Cemetery: If you’d prefer to stay in Savannah, consider visiting Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its stunning statuary and moss-covered trees. It’s a peaceful and historic spot that is often featured in Savannah’s ghost tours.

After your morning activity, head back into the city for lunch and more exploring.

Afternoon:

Wright Square and Surroundings: After lunch, check out Wright Square and the surrounding area. It’s less crowded than some of the other squares, but offers lovely views and a quiet space to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Shopping & Galleries: Savannah is known for its art scene, so take time to browse through the local galleries and shops. For some unique finds, check out Shop SCAD, the retail store for the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Evening: Riverfront Relaxation

End your second day with a relaxing dinner on the riverfront. Some great options include Vic’s on the River, offering seafood and Southern dishes with a view, or The Shrimp Factory for a more casual atmosphere with delicious seafood. After dinner, you can take a peaceful walk along the river or enjoy a nightcap at one of the local bars along River Street.

Day 3: Wrap Up and Final Exploration

If you have time before you leave on your third day, consider visiting the Telfair Museums, which includes a few art museums and the Telfair Academy, or explore one of Savannah’s many historic houses, such as the Green-Meldrim House or the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters.

Overall, your itinerary seems great for a quick yet thorough exploration of Savannah! I’d recommend adding a mix of outdoor exploration (parks, squares) and indoor cultural experiences (museums, galleries) to get a good sense of the city. For the most part, your itinerary covers the key sites, but you may also want to leave a little room for some spontaneous exploration in between scheduled activities, as Savannah has a way of offering hidden gems at every corner!

Have a wonderful time in Savannah!