Skip to main content
  • English
  • 中文
  • Deutsch
  • Español
  • Français
  • Italiano
  • 日本語
  • Português
  • Leisure
  • Meetings & Conventions
  • Group Travel
  • International
  • Weddings
  • Sports
  • Press
  • Film

Search form

  • Start Exploring
    • Things to Do
      • Arts & Culture
      • Entertainment
      • Events
      • Food & Drink
      • Outdoor Activities
      • Shopping
      • Tours & Excursions
      • Tybee Island: Savannah's Beach
    • Neighborhoods & Communities
      • Historic Landmark District
      • Victorian District
      • Starland District
      • Moon River District
      • Tybee Island: Savannah's Beach
      • Midtown
      • Southside
      • Gateway
      • Other Islands
      • Neighboring Communities
    • Visitor Centers
  • Events
  • Planning Essentials
    • Getting Here
    • Getting Around
    • Parking in Savannah
    • Itineraries
    • Insider's Guide
    • Deals & Special Offers
    • Subscribe to E-News
    • Visitor Centers
    • Accolades
  • Places to Stay
    • Hotels & Motels
    • Historic Inns
    • Bed & Breakfasts
    • Haunted Hotels
    • Extended Stay
    • Vacation Rentals
    • Camping & RV Parks

Sponsored List

5 Things Not to Miss in Savannah's City Market

Open Map
Close Map

City Market.

In This Article

Share
+
Categories: Things to Do, Historic District

In the 1700s, City Market was Savannah’s central marketplace for people to trade, shop for groceries and mingle with other community members. Throughout the years, City Market has withstood incredible tragedies, including two fires, the Civil War and Savannah’s great hurricane of 1860. But as the city’s population grew and commerce began to spread out, the once-bustling market ultimately became a ghost town.

In 1954, the city government approved the demolition of the Old City Market, and a multi-deck parking garage was built on top Ellis Square. Many locals were disappointed in the city’s decision to destroy the structure and decided to take action, kindling Savannah’s preservation movement. A new City Market district was eventually built with the decaying remains of the Old City Market, and the parking garage on Ellis Square was demolished in 2006 and moved underground so that the public space could be restored and transformed into the social hub that it is now.

Today, life, charm and quirk are restored in City Market, and the lively marketplace is now one of Savannah’s most popular spots for restaurants, art galleries, shopping and nightlife. Here are the five things that you need to do while visiting Savannah’s City Market.

01

Have a meal to remember

From fine dining to casual bites, City Market has restaurants fit for any occasion. Stroll into an award-winning steak-and-seafood house, or enjoy hot wings next to a musical stage. Whether you’re on a quest to satisfy your sweet tooth or simply grab a slice of pizza, City Market has plenty of dining options that attract both locals and visitors alike.

02

Great gift ideas

Get ready, shoppers! In the bustling market, you can pick up great gifts including fine art, accessories, hand-crafted jewelry, Savannah candy and other Georgia treats (including some for your pups!). City Market was originally built to be Savannah’s prime marketplace, so it’s no surprise that it serves as a shopping destination today.

03

Incredible artwork

Throughout City Market are six street-level galleries, as well as an upstairs Art Center where you can meet artists and watch as they create works. Click here to learn more about City Market’s art scene.

04

Sip a to-go drink

In Savannah's Historic District, you can take your cocktail to-go! From frozen daiquiri bars to dives with ice cold beer, City Market is packed with plenty of places to grab a refreshing beverage to take along on your Savannah adventure. Better yet, take your adult beverage to the City Market’s lively courtyard on weekend evenings and jam out to live music!

05

Celebrate the holidays

City Market is one of the top places to celebrate in Savannah! In City Market, you can renew your vows on Valentine’s Day, attend an outdoor party on St. Patrick’s Day and have the kids make ornaments near Christmastime. Click here for a full list of City Market’s celebrations.

Sponsored Content

Plan Your Visit

You May Also Like

tybee crab shack seafood
Itinerary

Tybee Island Itinerary

Take three days and really immerse yourself into...

Read More
To Go Cups in Savannah
Video

How to Enjoy To-Go Cups in Savannah

In Savannah's Historic District, you can take your...

Read More
plant riverside district
Article

Experience Savannah's Plant Riverside District

Once an iconic power plant in Georgia, the Plant...

Read More
Crab Cake Benedict B. Matthews Eatery
List

Grab Breakfast at These 5 Savannah Spots

We all know breakfast is the 'most important meal of...

Read More
Stained Glass at Savannah's First African Baptist Church
Video

Savannah's First African Baptist Church

First African Baptist Church is thought to be the...

Read More
Aerial sunset
List

10 Reasons to Visit Savannah in 2020

Put Savannah at the top of your 2020 bucket list!...

Read More
rooftop hunter savannah
Video

The Rooftop Hunter

We're on the hunt for Savannah's most stunning...

Read More
Forsyth Park
List

Warm Up With These Savannah Wintertime Activities

Located on the Georgia coast, Savannah is blessed...

Read More
Savannah Riverboat Cruises River Street
Video

Come Sail Away with Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Enjoy an evening of dinner, entertainment and an...

Read More
Get A Free Guide Subscribe To Enews
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Us
  • Partner Information
  • Member Directory
  • Who We Are
  • Leadership
  • Our Team
  • Careers
  • Meetings Notice

©2023 Visit Savannah