20 Timeless Savannah Spots
Breathtaking River Street at sunset, Savannah, GA.
Steeped in history and exuding Southern charm, Savannah, GA, established in 1733, enchants visitors with its collection of timeless spots — hotels, restaurants and attractions that have gracefully withstood the test of time. These enduring landmarks continue to captivate the hearts of travelers generation after generation.
Stroll through picturesque Forsyth Park.
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is Savannah’s ultimate gathering place, where locals and visitors alike slow down beneath massive live oaks and wide-open skies. Spanning 30 acres in the Historic Landmark District, the park is home to scenic walking paths, open green space and the iconic Forsyth Park Fountain. Installed in 1858, the fountain has become one of the most photographed landmarks in the city and a timeless backdrop for proposals, celebrations and everyday Savannah moments.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Rising above Lafayette Square with striking twin spires, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist has been a defining feature of Savannah’s skyline since the late 1800s. Its French Gothic architecture, intricate woodwork and breathtaking stained-glass windows make it one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the city. Step inside for a quiet reflection or admire its grandeur from the serene atmosphere of Lafayette Square.
No matter the season, Savannah City Market is always full of shoppers, diners and explorers galore!
City Market
City Market is a timeless gem that has been a hub of activity since the 1700s. Once a bustling marketplace for farmers and traders, today it's a vibrant center for art, dining, and entertainment. The charming open-air market is lined with historic buildings, housing everything from local art galleries and boutiques to cozy cafes and lively restaurants. Whether you're strolling through during the day, soaking up the live music at night, or indulging in the annual St. Patrick's Day festivities, City Market offers an authentic taste of Savannah's enduring spirit and charm.
Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery
From moss-draped live oaks and shaded grassy paths to Victorian-era marble and granite headstones, Bonaventure Cemetery has become both a final resting place for many and an eerily beautiful refuge for visitors. This 60-acre cemetery is a breathtaking sight by day and hauntingly alluring by night.
A golden Savannah sunset shines over River Street and the Georgia Queen riverboat.
River Street
Cobblestones, brick warehouses and sweeping river views — constantly evolving, always classic. Once the center of Savannah’s cotton trade, the waterfront now extends west to Plant Riverside District and east to Eastern Wharf. Historic at its core and lively at its edges, River Street remains one of the city’s most enduring attractions.
Visitor Information Centers
Savannah's Visitor Information Centers are the epicenter of what's new and happening across the city. Located in the heart of downtown, the MLK Visitor Information Center is open daily to help visitors with everything from brochures, visitor guides, tours, maps, restaurant recommendations and information on the historic sites across the city. The incredible staff are experts at what they do and are always ready to assist you. We recommend stopping there first to build a customized itinerary for your visit.
Globe Shoe Co.
Globe Shoe Company, Inc.
Globe Shoe Company, Inc. has been selling high-quality footwear since 1892 - but their inventory is far from old-school. Stop by their famous downtown store on Broughton Street.
Mrs. Wilkes
Mrs. Wilkes
Family-style dining since 1943, Mrs. Wilkes is often the first, or final stop on a visitor's Savannah journey. What began as a boarding house has long since become a communal table where guests from all walks of life wait patiently in line for an authentic Southern spread. Here, strangers pass the fried chicken, swap stories and leave happily full.
Photo courtesy of Savannah’s Candy Kitchen
Savannah's Candy Kitchen
From warm pralines to candied pecans, you can get all of your favorite sweets at Savannah's Candy Kitchen! You'll feel like a kid again while you browse through mountains of salt water taffy, candied apples, fudge and jelly beans. With store locations on River Street and in City Market, visiting this sweet shop is a Savannah must!
Crystal Beer Parlor
Experience great food and inspiring history at the Crystal Beer Parlor. Originally a grocery store, the Crystal Beer Parlor has been around since 1933 and after the repeal of Prohibition, was one of the first to serve alcohol during the Great Depression. Crystal Crab Stew, Bison Burgers and Fried Pound Cake are a few of their fantastic menu options. They have truly become a prominent establishment of Savannah, serving comfort food to both locals and visitors alike.
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Leopold's Ice Cream
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Scooping sweet memories since 1919, Leopold’s Ice Cream has been a Savannah staple for more than a century. The retro soda fountain, black-and-white tiled floors and classic sundaes feel delightfully frozen in time. Whether you’re ordering Tutti Frutti, butter pecan or a simple vanilla cone, one thing remains true: a visit to Savannah isn’t complete without standing in line at Leopold's.
Tubby's Tank House.
Tubby's Tank House Thunderbolt
If you want to see how the locals do it, head over to Tubby's Tank House Thunderbolt. This seafood restaurant is known for the freshest seafood in town. Their menu is full of Southern seafood classics like Crispy Oysters, Fish & Grits and the Low Country Platter.
Olympia Cafe
Olympia Cafe
Those looking for a respite from fried chicken and southern cuisince have been frequenting Olympia Cafe since 1991. This cheery Greek eatery serves traditional fare like dolmades and spanikopita on Savannah's famous River Street.
Grab a pick-me-up 24 hours a day at Parker's Urban Gourmet, also known as "Fancy Parker's."
Parker's Market Urban Gourmet
If you need a quick-bite, snack or even gift, you need to go to Parker's Market Urban Gourmet. This gourmet market is way more than just your typical convenience store. They've got international wines, fresh salads, paninis, apparel, jewelry and so much more – no wonder the locals call it "Fancy Parker's!"
A live performance at the Savannah Theatre in Savannah, Georgia.
Savannah Theatre
Opened in 1818, the Savannah Theatre is one of the oldest continually operating theatres in the United States and a living piece of Savannah’s cultural legacy. Located on Chippewa Square, this historic venue has hosted live musicals, revues and performances for more than two centuries.
East Bay Inn
East Bay Inn
On June 17, 1852, Edward Padefford purchased the property and began construction on the building that would one day become the East Bay Inn. Today, the inn boasts 28 charming guest rooms, a lovely parlor and a popular underground restaurant.
The Gastonian
The Gastonian
The Gastonian, comprised of two striking Regency Italianate-style mansions, rests in the heart of Savannah's beautiful Historic District. Built in 1868, these majestic mansions, like many of Savannah's oldest and most endearing homes, serve as reminders of Savannah's rich history. The Gastonian is now a leading historic Savannah and was voted best bed and breakfast in Savannah in 2005 and 2013.
Photo courtesy of Olde Harbour Inn
Olde Harbour Inn
With a history dating back to 1812, the Olde Harbour Inn on Factor's Walk is one of the oldest inns in Savannah. What was first the site of wharf warehouses and storage buildings, this historic inn is located within walking distance from the most popular Historic District attractions.
Planters Inn Savannah is ready to welcome you.
Planter's Inn
Set in a stately brick building, the elegant Planters Inn is located on beautiful Reynolds Square in downtown Savannah. The two-hundred year old inn features luxurious guestrooms, four-poster beds and a prime location right next door to the famous The Olde Pink House Restaurant.
Photo courtesy of River Street Inn.
River Street Inn
Built in 1817, the River Street Inn is a two-hundred year old boutique hotel located in a converted cotton warehouse. Situated between historic Factor's Walk and River Street, the Inn overlooks the Savannah River and is an easy stroll to all Historic District tours, attractions, museums, antiques shops, souvenir shops, river cruises and restaurants.
These timeless Savannah spots continue to shape the city’s story. See them for yourself on your next visit.