Savannah in a Snap: A 3-Night Family Micro-cation

Gate Arrival

After such a smooth landing, the last thing you want is a hectic airport experience. Luckily, our award-winning Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is the epitome of ease. From gate to baggage claim to ground transportation, everything is quick, clear and convenient. In just 20–25 minutes, you'll be checking into your hotel and getting your micro-cation underway.

Check-in

There's no shortage of family-friendly places to stay in Savannah - especially if the Historic Landmark District is your home base. Drop your bags at The Bluff Hotel, Hotel Indigo, The Alida, Kimpton Brice, Cambria Hotel, DeSoto Savannah or Embassy Suites. Each property offers walkable access to attractions, spacious suite options and delicious breakfast to fuel your day. Bonus: Several have outdoor pools for a splash-worthy break between adventures.

Interested in more pool options around the city? Take a peek at Savannah’s hotel pools.

Afternoon

Make your way to Forsyth Park, the crown jewel of Savannah's green spaces. Let the kids loose on the shaded playground while you swing by The Collins Quarter’s walk-up window for a refreshing iced coffee or smoothie, coincidentally located right next door. When it's time to cool the little ones off, stroll over to the splash pad in front of the concert lawn behind Collins Quarter for a little extra fun. Then hop aboard one of the free DOT shuttles (look for convenient stops at E. Gwinnett or E. Huntingdon Street) and cruise back to your hotel to rest and recharge before dinner. 

Evening 

Now it's time to head for the river! Scenic River Street is a treasure trove of shops, sights and dining, but tonight, the main event awaits. Climb aboard your reserved Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise, where the entire crew (your crew, that is) is in for a treat. This beautiful vessel offers it all: live music, a crowd-pleasing buffet, breathtaking skyline views, a welcoming and skilled crew, and a ride so smooth it feels like you're dancing on water.

Morning

Prepare to master the railway for a morning of exploration at the Georgia State Railroad Museum, one of Savannah's most interactive and family-friendly attractions. This fully walkable (and stroller-friendly) site invites visitors to step into 100 years of railway history. Take a guided train ride, test out a working handcar, peek inside historic railcars and learn about the workers who kept the steam-powered world on track. It's hands-on, educational and full of photo-worthy moments for train lovers of all ages.

Lunch

Whew! Working the railroad is hard work, and by now, the little ones are probably ready to refuel. Stroll over to City Market, an open-air hub where retail, dining, art and local charm come together beautifully.

Grab a table at Wexford Irish Pub and dig into savory favorites like the Irish Whiskey Skillet Salmon. (That Jameson and honey sauce? Worth every bite!) Afterward, swing by Byrd Cookie Company to sample a few sweet treats—psst, the key lime is a must—and grab a bag or two to snack on later in the room.

Feel like browsing? Pop into Spartina 449 for Lowcountry-inspired accessories, then try Charleston Shoe Company, where modern comfort meets classic Southern style.

Want to know more about City Market? We’ve spilled it all here.

Afternoon

Let creativity come to life at the Telfair Children’s Art Museum (CAM), where painting, storytime and hands-on learning are highly encouraged. Next, get wild at Oatland Island Wildlife Center, home to native animals and whimsical, shaded trails that are easy on little legs.

If you’re up for one more outdoor adventure, head to the Savannah Botanical Gardens. This serene escape features rose gardens, camellias, nature trails and a charming historic farmhouse—perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a moment of quiet reflection. It’s a hidden gem that blooms with beauty year-round.

Evening

Now, an evening by the water sounds promising. It's time for that River Street stroll. This serene waterfront is where the action is, and for good reason. Along the cobblestone walkway, you’ll discover the dynamic Plant Riverside District, home to dining, shopping, live music and events - especially festive during Savannah Holly Days. 

Find out how our city sparkles during the holiday season. 

Snap a family photo with The Waving Girl statue before crossing to the sleek and scenic Eastern Wharf, a contemporary spin on riverfront living that blends restaurants, green spaces and yacht-worthy delight.

In between, you'll find plenty of classic River Street charm. Shop souvenirs at Bob’s Your Uncle – Fannie’s Your Aunt, then grab dinner at family-friendly favorites like The Shrimp Factory or Vic’s on the River.

Of course, you can't leave the river without a sugar rush. End the night at River Street Sweets or Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, where pralines, fudge, ice cream and various homemade treats will keep the smiles going all the way back to your hotel.

Brunch

You’ve packed in the fun, now it’s time to fuel up for the trip home. Head to Goose Feathers Café & Bakery for Belgian waffles, breakfast paninis, bagels and more—all served in a cozy, European-style café. Or, give the kids one last memory to flip over at The Funky Brunch Café, where they can cook their own pancakes right at the table and customize with their favorite mix-ins.

Quick Stop

If you didn't get to it on Day 2, swing by the Savannah Children’s Museum for one last burst of hands-on fun. With its open-air setting and colorful activity zones, it's the perfect pre-checkout adventure.

Souvenir Grab

Before you hit the road, pick up a few local goodies to take a little Savannah home with you. The Salt Table is full of kid-approved flavors (hello, cinnamon and dark cocoa sugar 😋), while Locally Made Savannah, Savannah Bee Company, Capital Bee Company and Savannah Taste Experience Marketplace offer sweet treats, clever gifts and all sorts of Georgia-grown charm.