Savannah Sports Frequently Asked Questions

1

How far is the airport from downtown Savannah and the Savannah Convention Center?

The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is conveniently located within a short drive of Savannah's major destinations and event venues.

Downtown Historic District: Approximately 10–12 miles, or 15–20 minutes by car.
Savannah Convention Center: Approximately 15 miles, or 20–25 minutes by car.

Travel times may vary depending on traffic, time of day and special events. Rental cars, rideshare services, taxis and private transportation options are available to help visitors get where they need to go.

2

How big is Savannah's Airport?

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) offers convenient access to Savannah and the surrounding coastal region. It was named the No. 1 domestic airport in the United States for seven consecutive years in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, reflecting travelers’ continued appreciation for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient travel experience.

The airport is served by major airlines, including Delta, American, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Breeze, Allegiant and Avelo, with nonstop flights to 36 destinations.

Benefits for sports event planners include:

An easy-to-navigate terminal.
Convenient access to ground transportation and rental cars.
Nonstop connections to major markets across the country.
An award-winning arrival experience for athletes, coaches, families and fans traveling to Savannah for sporting events.

3

Are there shuttles from the airport to hotels?

Yes! Several transportation options are available to help visitors travel between Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, area hotels and event venues.

Options may include:

Hotel airport shuttles: Some airport-area hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. Guests should confirm availability and schedules directly with their hotel.
Rideshare services: Uber and Lyft operate in the Savannah area.
Taxis: Taxi service is available at the airport.
Private transportation: Motorcoaches, charter buses and private transportation companies can accommodate groups.

For conventions, tournaments and other large-scale events, planners may also arrange dedicated airport shuttles or motorcoach transportation to coordinate arrivals and departures. These services can be particularly helpful for groups traveling between the airport, downtown hotels and the Savannah Convention Center.

4

A ferry boat on the Savannah River. — Savannah Belles Ferry

How long does it take to get from River St. to the Savannah Convention Center by Ferry?

The Savannah Belles Ferry offers complimentary transportation across the Savannah River between downtown Savannah and Hutchinson Island, home to the Savannah Convention Center.

Crossing time: Approximately 5–10 minutes.
Cost: Free.
Frequency: Service intervals vary by schedule and operating conditions.

The ferry provides a scenic and convenient way for visitors to travel between downtown and the Convention Center without driving. It also offers riverfront views along the way.

Visitors should check the current ferry schedule and operating status when planning their trip.

5

The interior seating of a large capacity boat ferry. — Our Savannah Belles Ferry offers plenty of room.

How many people can the Savannah Belles Ferry Accommodate?

The newest Savannah Belles Ferry vessels accommodate approximately 149 passengers per vessel. The fleet includes multiple vessels serving the downtown riverfront and Hutchinson Island.

For sports event planners coordinating transportation for large groups, the ferry can provide a convenient connection between downtown hotels, restaurants and attractions and the Savannah Convention Center. Because passenger capacity and operating schedules may affect group movements, planners should confirm current service details when developing transportation plans.

1

What are parking options and pricing in Savannah?

Savannah offers several parking options throughout the Historic District, including metered on-street spaces and public parking garages. Availability and pricing vary by location, duration and special events.

On-Street Metered Parking

Metered parking is available throughout downtown, with rates that vary by parking zone. Published rates have included:

Zone 1: Up to $2.50 per hour.
Zone 2: Up to $1.50 per hour.

Visitors should check posted signs and the City of Savannah's current parking information for applicable rates, time limits and payment requirements.

Public Parking Garages

Several parking garages are located throughout the Historic District, providing convenient options near hotels, restaurants, attractions and event venues. Daily rates can range from approximately $5 to $20 or more, depending on the facility and parking duration. Special-event pricing may apply.

2

Is there a mobile app for parking?

The ParkSavannah app allows visitors to manage eligible metered parking directly from their mobile devices. Features may include:

Paying for parking by phone.
Extending parking sessions remotely, where permitted.
Receiving parking expiration notifications.
Accessing digital receipts.

The app is available for Apple and Android devices. Visitors should confirm current rates, app availability and payment options before parking.

For the latest information, visit the City of Savannah's parking meter page.

1

What venues are available throughout Savannah and Chatham County for sporting event ceremonies?

Savannah offers a diverse selection of venues for opening and closing ceremonies, receptions, award presentations, team gatherings and other special events.

From historic spaces and distinctive cultural venues to waterfront settings and modern event facilities, the area offers options for groups of varying sizes and event styles.

Our team can help you explore venues and identify options that align with your event's location, capacity and logistical needs. Contact Sarah Iocovozzi, Sales and Services Coordinator, for assistance and access to our venue resources.

2

A group of students on a bike tour. — Savannah On Wheels

Do local attractions offer discounts or special deals for groups?

Yes! Many Savannah-area attractions and experiences work with sports tourism organizations, meeting planners, and group travelers to create memorable experiences for attendees and their families.

Depending on the attraction, group size and event dates, available opportunities may include group admission rates, customized packages, convention attendee discounts and special offers designed to encourage visitors to extend their stay. Check out the Show Us Your Badge program to see a comprehensive list of tours, attractions, restaurants, and more offering discounts for groups.

Availability, pricing and group policies vary by business. Our team can help planners identify potential experiences and connect with local partners to explore options for their attendees. Whether you're planning a sporting event, tournament or group getaway, Savannah offers plenty of ways to turn an event into a memorable destination experience.

3

What are Savannah's seasons like, and when is the best time to visit?

Savannah offers something special in every season, from springtime blooms and outdoor dining to mild winter days and warm-weather adventures on Tybee Island. The best time to visit depends on your group's activities, preferred weather and event schedule.

Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of Savannah's most popular seasons, with blooming azaleas, pleasant temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring the Historic District.

Typical daytime highs range from the 70s to the 80s°F as the season progresses.
Outdoor dining, walking tours and historic squares are especially inviting.
Popular festivals and events bring added energy to the city.

Summer (June–August)
Summer brings warm temperatures, high humidity and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast.

Daytime highs frequently reach 90s°+ F.
Tybee Island offers beaches, water activities and coastal excursions.
Indoor attractions and air-conditioned venues provide comfortable alternatives during the warmest parts of the day.

Fall (September–November)
Fall is an appealing time to visit, with warm days early in the season and increasingly comfortable temperatures as autumn progresses.

Conditions are often ideal for walking tours, outdoor events and group activities.
Temperatures gradually cool throughout the season.
Event dates and local demand can influence hotel availability and rates.

Winter (December–February)
Savannah's winters are generally mild compared with many other U.S. destinations, making the city an inviting option for winter meetings and getaways.

Daytime temperatures are often in the 50s and 60s°F.
Historic sites, museums and cultural attractions remain popular activities.
Depending on event schedules and travel dates, visitors may find fewer crowds than during peak spring periods.

4

What is Tybee Island, and how far is Tybee from Savannah?

Located approximately 18 miles east of downtown Savannah, Tybee Island is a coastal barrier island known for its sandy beaches, laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities. Just a 25–35-minute drive from downtown, Tybee offers a relaxing escape along Georgia's Atlantic coast.

Visitors can enjoy beach days, explore the historic Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, take dolphin-watching tours, kayak through coastal waterways or simply unwind by the ocean. For athletes, families and fans visiting Savannah for a sporting event, Tybee Island offers an opportunity to experience the area's coastal scenery and extend their stay beyond the competition. Travel times may vary depending on traffic, particularly during summer weekends and holidays.