4 days in Savannah - suggestions?

Question

Visiting Savannah has been on my wish list for many years, but not for anything in particular. We are traveling from the West coast for an anniversary weekend and will have 4 days in the city. As of right now, I wasn't planning on renting a car, but am considering it for 2 days so we can visit Tybee island and the national park (we visit many). We will be there Friday-Tuesday.

I'd love to hear everyone's suggestions on what to see. I've been reading guide books and trip reports but it can be quite overwhelming. We don't mind walking. Love historic places and landmarks. Probably will want one "nice/fancy" dinner for our anniversary but other wise are ok with local good eats.

Tours - I had read people have trouble getting back on the hop on/off busses

-- we're looking for: a walking ghost tour, maybe a free tour (donation tours), maybe a river cruise/tour, and anything else?

I had booked a room at the Homewood Suites riverfront, but am thinking of moving it, as I'm a little concerned about it being on the outskirts of the historic district.

Answer

It sounds like you’re in for an amazing anniversary getaway to Savannah! There’s so much to see and do, so let me help break it down for you with some suggestions to make the most of your four days.

Firstly, your hotel choice at the Homewood Suites Riverfront is a good one, though it is on the edge of the Historic District. If you're concerned about the location, you might want to consider staying a bit more centrally, closer to Broughton Street or within walking distance of the squares. That would give you easier access to restaurants, bars, and shops. But with a car rental for a couple of days, it should be fine as the city is very walkable, and parking can be found.

Historic District Walking Tour: A must-do in Savannah is exploring its many beautiful squares, historic homes, and landmarks. Since you love history, I highly recommend a guided walking tour to dive deeper into Savannah’s past. There are many free donation-based tours available. If you like, check out the Free Savannah Walking Tour which is highly rated, or you can go for a more specialized tour like the History and Architecture Walking Tour.
Riverboat Cruise: A river cruise is a great way to see Savannah from the water. The Savannah Riverboat Cruise offers narrated tours that give you a unique perspective of the waterfront and the city’s history. It's relaxing and a nice way to enjoy the scenery, especially if you’re celebrating an anniversary.
Ghost Tours: Savannah is famously haunted, and a ghost tour is a fun and spooky way to learn about the city's eerie history. Many companies offer walking ghost tours that explore haunted locations, including the Haunted Savannah Walking Tour or the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour. Be sure to book in advance for these, as they can get popular. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, there are also options for carriage tours.
Tybee Island & Fort Pulaski: A rental car for two days is a great idea for visiting Tybee Island. It’s only about a 20-minute drive from Savannah, and you can enjoy the beach, visit the lighthouse, or head to Fort Pulaski National Monument. The fort has great walking tours and history, and it's a peaceful place to explore with plenty of photo opportunities.
River Street & City Market: For shopping, souvenirs, and local eats, spend time on River Street, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops. Be sure to check out City Market as well, which is a vibrant area with shops, cafes, and restaurants. If you’re in the mood for local treats, try the Pralines or grab a bite at The Cotton Exchange or The Shrimp Factory for classic southern seafood.

For a fancy anniversary dinner, here are a few suggestions that are romantic yet not too overpriced:

The Grey: A beautifully restored 1938 Art Deco bus station that serves delicious, upscale Southern cuisine. It’s a local favorite and an excellent spot for an intimate anniversary dinner.
Husk Savannah: Another great option for upscale Southern food, Husk has a modern twist on Southern classics. It’s a bit more expensive, but definitely worth the splurge for an anniversary celebration.
Alligator Soul: This upscale restaurant offers delicious local seafood and Southern fare in a cozy, romantic atmosphere. It’s a bit more intimate than some of the larger spots, making it perfect for a special evening out.

Other Activities:

Forsyth Park: Don’t miss Forsyth Park, the largest park in Savannah, which is just a short walk from the Historic District. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, and the famous fountain at the north end of the park makes for an iconic photo op.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: If you enjoy visiting historic churches, this cathedral is stunning. It’s one of Savannah’s architectural gems with beautiful stained glass windows and an impressive interior.

With all that in mind, I think you’re going to have an amazing time exploring the charm of Savannah. If you decide to rent a car for your visit to Tybee Island, you’ll be able to enjoy both the historic heart of Savannah and the beauty of the coast. Enjoy your anniversary and have a wonderful trip!

4 days in Savannah - suggestions?

More Savannah Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions