2 days in Savannah

thank you.

my wife and I from the UK, in our seventies are spending 2 days (3 nights) in Savannah from 23 September. We'd love to get your views on the best things to see and do, inside or outside, including dinner options (and should we make reservations) ?

Thanks so much in advance,

John

It’s wonderful that you and your wife will be visiting Savannah for two days! Savannah is a charming city filled with history, beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and fantastic dining options. Below is a suggested itinerary for your visit, including some of the best things to see and do, as well as dining recommendations for your stay.

Day 1: Exploring Savannah’s Historic District

Morning: Start your day with a stroll through Savannah’s famous historic district. Begin at Forsyth Park, a large, beautiful park with picturesque fountains and walking paths. Take time to admire the historic monuments, and enjoy the shaded oak trees covered in Spanish moss. It’s a great spot for photos and a relaxing start to your day.

From there, take a walk around the Historic Squares of Savannah. Savannah is known for its 22 charming squares, many of which date back to the 18th century. Each square has its own unique character, but Chippewa Square (famous for the bench scene in the movie *Forrest Gump*) and Reynolds Square are particularly beautiful and close to key landmarks.

Lunch: For a light and local meal, stop by Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room for classic Southern comfort food. Known for its fried chicken, cornbread, and collard greens, it’s a great introduction to traditional Savannah cuisine. You’ll want to arrive early, as it’s popular and often requires waiting, but it’s worth it! If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, try The Grey, a restored 1938 art deco Greyhound bus station offering a modern take on Southern classics.

Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters. This beautifully preserved historic house offers fascinating insight into Savannah's past, with tours that delve into the history of the house, the people who lived there, and the enslaved individuals who worked on the property. The tour is educational and well-regarded for its thoroughness.

If you’re interested in more history, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is also worth a visit. It’s the birthplace of the founder of the Girl Scouts, and the house is a beautiful example of early American architecture. Tours are very informative, focusing on the life of Juliette Gordon Low and her impact on American history.

Evening: For dinner, consider dining at Elizabeth on 37th, one of Savannah’s top fine dining establishments. Located in a beautiful mansion, it serves Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Reservations are recommended as it can get busy, especially on weekends. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, try The Collins Quarter, an Australian-inspired café with a charming ambiance and excellent seafood options.

Day 2: River Street and Historic Landmarks

Morning: Start your second day by exploring River Street, the bustling waterfront street lined with cobblestones and historic buildings. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, with many shops, cafés, and art galleries to explore. You can also catch a Savannah Riverboat Cruise for a scenic tour of the river and the surrounding areas. It’s a relaxing way to take in some history and see the city from the water.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at The Crab Shack on Tybee Island (about a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah). This iconic spot offers great seafood with views of the salt marsh. It’s a bit of a drive, but the laid-back atmosphere and delicious seafood make it a memorable stop.

If you prefer to stay in Savannah, Treylor Park on Abercorn Street is a fantastic casual spot for Southern-inspired dishes with a twist, and it’s a great place for a relaxed, fun lunch.

Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Savannah History Museum in the heart of the historic district. It’s a smaller museum, but it offers a great overview of the city’s history from its founding in 1733 to the present day. It’s a wonderful way to learn more about Savannah in a short amount of time.

For something more scenic, consider a tour of Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its haunting beauty and massive, moss-draped oaks. It’s one of the most iconic cemeteries in the country, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a wonderful place for reflection and a gentle walk.

Evening: For your final dinner in Savannah, try The Grey (again, if you didn’t visit earlier) or Husk Savannah, located in a beautiful historic building and serving elevated Southern fare. Both places focus on local ingredients and Southern flavors, and reservations are highly recommended. If you're in the mood for something more casual, check out Leopold’s Ice Cream

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