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These 7 Savannah Spots Have Presidential Ties

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum garden

The garden at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum.

Savannah is such a breathtaking getaway destination, that even George Washington himself spent some time in our little Southern oasis in 1791. So, while you and your First Family explore Savannah, be sure to experience these presidential hot spots!

01
Presidents' Quarters Inn

Take a history lesson from the halls of the Presidents' Quarters Inn where all the inn’s guest rooms are named after U.S. presidents who have visited Savannah.  Accomodations include the Abraham Lincoln, George Washington and John F. Kennedy rooms!

02
Christ Church

During his Southern tour of 1791, President George Washington attended services at the original Christ Church. Located on Savannah’s Johnson Square, Christ Church was the first house of worship in the colony of Georgia and was founded in 1733. Today, you can tour this beautiful sanctuary or attend Sunday or Wednesday church services. 

03
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

The Scarborough House is an elegant setting for the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, which features an extensive collection of ship models and maritime antiques. It was built in 1819 for one of the principal owners of the steamship, U.S.S Savannah. President James Monroe visited Savannah in May 1819 to take part in christening ceremonies for the U.S.S. Savannah. Monroe’s visit came just two weeks before the ship’s departure for Liverpool, England, making it the first steamship to cross the Atlantic. A replica of the steamship Savannah is on display at the museum.

04
UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium

The University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium is located on Savannah’s Skidaway Island. Home to Georgia’s first saltwater aquarium, it features 16 exhibit tanks that showcase a variety of Georgia’s marine life. On-hand for its dedication in 1970 was President Richard Nixon who helped open the Center’s nature trail that winds through the maritime forest and along the Skidaway River salt marshes, which visitors can still enjoy today. The Center provides the perfect afternoon activity for adventurous families. 

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05
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room draws in foodies from around the world, but there's way more to this Savannah restaurant than just the mind-blowing food. In 2010, President Barack Obama surprised the staff at Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room to enjoy a little fried chicken, iced tea, and sweet potatoes with a few local diners. Founded in 1943 by Mrs. Selma Wilkes, this family owned and operated restaurant epitomizes Southern hospitality and homestyle Southern cooking at its finest.

06
The Original Pinkie Masters

This icon of Savannah nightlife was named by Southern Living as one of the “Best Dive Bars in the South.” And legend has it that Georgia native and American President Jimmy Carter announced his candidacy for President of the United States while standing atop The Original Pinkie Masters bar in 1974. One thing we do know for sure is that Pinkie Masters is the perfect spot for a cold beer, great local characters and a swinging jukebox. 

07
Independent Presbyterian Church of Savannah

The stately Independent Presbyterian Church of Savannah, which sits at the corner of Bull Street and West Oglethorpe Avenue, has witnessed two presidents over the centuries. In 1819, the fifth president of the United States, James Monroe, was present at the dedication of the church. In 1885, Woodrow Wilson, the future 28th president, married Ellen Axson at the church by the Rev. I.S.K. Axson, minister of the church and grandfather of the bride. Visitors today may recognize the church steeple from the beginning of the film Forest Gump, where the feather floats down and lands on Forest’s feet while sitting on the bench in Chippewa Square.

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