New To This Forum, November Activities Outdoors?

Question

Hello and thank you in advance for anything you can share.

We're a couple "retirement shopping" not strictly vacationers, and are trying out various locales. We just spent a couple of weeks enjoying he last of warm fall weather in New England, and are pointing the car South. Maybe.

Can you tell us if Savannah will be full of outdoor activities around Thanksgiving time? We are hoping we can sit outdoors at casual restaurants, that there might be an outdoor holiday market, and that we could generally enjoy ourselves taking walks and sightseeing without having to plan too much in advance or get tickets to museums etc.

Maybe we're off base and it's a city that gets cold in November. But if it's not, thanks for any tips on how we might pass a week or so in the area. We'd like stay in an Air B and B, if one area is better for that than another (ie: walkable!) Thanks for letting us know!

Answer

Welcome to the forum! It's great that you're exploring potential retirement destinations, and Savannah is a wonderful choice for both relaxation and exploration. Savannah is a city with a rich history, beautiful parks, and mild weather, especially in November, which is perfect for outdoor activities. Here's what you can expect during your visit around Thanksgiving time:

Weather in November:

November in Savannah tends to have mild temperatures, with highs averaging around 65°F (18°C) and lows around 45°F (7°C). It can get cooler in the evenings, but overall, it’s a comfortable time to be outdoors. You shouldn’t expect harsh cold weather, and Savannah is often quite pleasant for outdoor activities. You’ll be able to enjoy the city's charm without needing to bundle up too much.

Outdoor Activities in November:

During November, Savannah offers plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including walking tours, casual dining outdoors, and sightseeing. Here are a few suggestions:

Walking Tours & Sightseeing: Savannah is known for its beautiful squares, parks, and tree-lined streets. You can walk around the Historic District, visit Forsyth Park, or stroll along the Savannah Riverfront. A walk through Wright Square or Chippewa Square is also a lovely way to spend the afternoon. You’ll enjoy the historic buildings, beautiful parks, and the city's charming atmosphere. There are also ghost tours and architecture walking tours, but these are usually more structured if you're interested.
Outdoor Dining: Savannah has several great outdoor dining options, and the weather in November is typically perfect for it. Restaurants along the river, such as Treylor Park, The Collins Quarter, and The Grey, have outdoor seating where you can enjoy delicious food with a view. In the Historic District, you’ll find many cafes and restaurants with patios or sidewalk seating. You can also check out places like Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room for a Southern experience or J. Christopher's for a casual, outdoor breakfast.
Holiday Markets & Events: While the biggest holiday markets typically open closer to December, you may find smaller holiday-themed events or outdoor markets during the Thanksgiving period. Keep an eye on events like the Savannah Riverfront Holiday Market or any local festivals or street fairs. Thanksgiving weekend often marks the start of the city's holiday season, so there may be outdoor events or activities, including the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Historic District.

Walkable Areas for Staying in Savannah:

If you’re looking for a walkable area to stay, here are a few neighborhoods that are great for exploring by foot:

Historic District: This area is ideal for a short stay, as it’s the heart of Savannah’s charm. It’s full of cobblestone streets, beautiful squares, and historic homes. You’ll be able to walk everywhere—restaurants, shops, and attractions are within easy reach. If you're staying in an Airbnb, there are plenty of options in this area, ranging from charming studios to larger homes.
Forsyth Park: This is a popular neighborhood to stay in, with a large, picturesque park at its center. Forsyth Park is a great spot for a morning walk or afternoon relaxation, and there are plenty of cafés and shops nearby. The area is also within walking distance of the Historic District, making it a convenient base for your stay.
Starland District: If you’re looking for a slightly quieter area with a more local vibe, the Starland District is a cool neighborhood with trendy shops, art galleries, and some great restaurants. It’s a bit further from the riverfront, but you can still walk to the Historic District in about 20 minutes.

Additional Tips:

Transportation: Savannah’s Historic District is very walkable, but if you want to venture outside the area, you can easily get around using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Savannah also has a free bus service in the Historic District called the Downtown Transportation Service (DTS) for easy commuting.
Relaxation and Outdoor Enjoyment: The SCAD Museum of Art and the Savannah History Museum are great options if you want to add a little culture to your trip, but you don’t need to plan in advance for these if you’re just looking for casual visits. You could also consider a picnic at Emmet Park or a relaxing afternoon in Johnson Square.

It seems like Savannah in November will be a great fit for your trip! It’s a city that thrives on outdoor enjoyment, with plenty of casual activities and dining options. You’ll be able to experience the best of what the city has to offer, all while enjoying the beautiful weather.

Enjoy your stay in Savannah, and happy travels!