Running in the Historic District

Question

I am a runner and I would love to run in the Historic District in the mornings while my husband and I are there in June. I've looked in old tripadvisor posts for info on the safety of doing that, but nothing recent shows up. Is it still safe to run by myself? We will be staying near the northeast corner of Columbia square. Any route suggestions will be greatly appreciated. I did sign up for a Turtle Trot 5k on Hilton Head Island while we are there.

Thank you!!

Answer

Running in Savannah's Historic District is generally safe, especially in the early mornings when the streets are quieter. As with any city, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit or less populated areas. However, the Historic District is well-frequented by both locals and tourists, so you're unlikely to feel unsafe during your run, especially around the popular squares and tourist spots. In fact, Savannah's picturesque streets, historic homes, and lush squares make it an enjoyable place to run!

Here are some tips and route suggestions for your morning runs in the Historic District:

Start at Columbia Square: Since you'll be staying near Columbia Square, it's a perfect place to begin your run. The square is centrally located, and you can easily access other scenic areas from here.
Run Through the Squares: Savannah is known for its 22 beautiful squares, each with its own charm. You can map a route that takes you through several of these squares, including Johnson Square, Chippewa Square, and Madison Square. The wide, tree-lined streets offer a peaceful and scenic experience.
Along the Riverfront: If you want to enjoy some waterfront views, consider running along River Street, which runs parallel to the Savannah River. You’ll get a great view of the river while enjoying the early morning breeze. The area near the Savannah Riverfront Plaza and Wright Square is especially nice for runners.
Run to Forsyth Park: Forsyth Park is a must-see in Savannah, and it’s a great destination for runners. The park features a beautiful fountain, wide paths, and lots of greenery. From Columbia Square, you can take Abercorn Street to reach Forsyth Park in about 1.5 miles. This route gives you a chance to run along some of Savannah's most iconic streets.
Be Mindful of Traffic: The streets of the Historic District can get busy, especially later in the morning. Try to go out early, when traffic is light, and avoid the more crowded areas around major intersections.

Regarding safety, Savannah is generally a safe city, but like in any urban area, it’s good to be mindful of your surroundings, especially early in the morning when the streets are quieter. Stick to well-populated areas, stay alert, and carry a phone with you if possible. You can also consider running with a buddy if you're ever feeling unsure about your surroundings.

In addition to your running, enjoy the Turtle Trot 5K on Hilton Head! It’s a beautiful run and a great way to experience the Lowcountry while you’re in the area.

Happy running, and enjoy your time in Savannah!