30 Incredibly Fun Things to Do in Savannah, GA

Want to plan the perfect getaway to Savannah, Georgia? Check out these top things to do in Savannah.

Savannah is known for its moss-draped historic squares, haunted cemeteries, and delicious Southern cuisine. There’s so much to do in this historic city, from touring historic homes to checking out local art to drinking your way around town.

I’ve visited Savannah many times with friends, and once for our honeymoon, so I’ve seen a lot of the city! Here are my favorite things to do in Savannah, GA.

Best Things To Do in Savannah

1. Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most iconic spots, known for its stunning fountain, which was originally purchased from a catalog and modeled after the grand fountains of Place de la Concorde in Paris.

The 30-acre park features basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and wide-open green spaces perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Every Saturday, the park holds the Forsyth Farmers’ Market where you can browse fresh produce, meats, local honey, coffee, pralines, and other delicious food items. Throughout the year, the park also plays host to some of Savannah’s biggest festivals and events.

Whether you’re grabbing a to-go drink and people-watching by the fountain or simply soaking in the park’s Southern charm, Forsyth Park is a must-visit. Best of all, it’s open year-round and completely free to explore!

2. The Olde Pink House

The Olde Pink House is one of Savannah’s most iconic and historic restaurants. This 18th-century Georgian home on Abercorn Street is easily identified by its pink exterior.

This house dates back to 1771 and was once the residence of James Habersham Jr., a prominent colonial merchant. Today, it serves as a restaurant specializing in Southern cuisine, with different dining rooms and a cozy downstairs tavern.

On the menu, you’ll find traditional Southern dishes with modern twists, like crispy fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and classic pecan pie.

3. The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is one of Savannah’s most breathtaking landmarks, renowned for its striking French Gothic architecture. With its towering 214-foot twin spires, intricate gold detailing, and pristine white façade, it’s a true marvel in the heart of the city. Inside, you’ll find 81 stunning stained glass windows and an awe-inspiring vaulted ceiling.

Originally dedicated in 1876, the cathedral has endured its share of history. A devastating fire in 1898 destroyed much of the structure, but it was swiftly rebuilt and reopened by 1900. It was also the first building in Georgia constructed entirely of brick.

Today, the Cathedral remains an active place of worship and welcomes visitors for self-guided tours when services are not in session. This is a peaceful place to stop in Savannah.

4. Savannah City Market

Savannah’s City Market is a lively, four-block open-air market that has been a hub of commerce and culture since the 1700s. Once the city’s central marketplace for trading goods, it has evolved into a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The market is home to unique boutiques, local artisan shops, and eclectic art galleries. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars. In the shaded courtyard between Ellis Square and Franklin Square, you can often hear live music from talented street performers.

5. Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is one of Savannah’s most historically significant landmarks, offering an in-depth look at the stark contrasts of life in the 19th century.

Located on Oglethorpe Square, this beautifully preserved Regency-style mansion was completed in 1819 and later became the home of George Owens, a wealthy cotton broker and politician. While the house itself showcases period furnishings, stunning architectural details, and a formal parlor that reflects the opulence of Savannah’s elite, the site also tells a much deeper story of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked here.

A tour of the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters provides a powerful, immersive experience into the realities of Savannah’s past. The original slave quarters, one of the best-preserved in the South, features exhibits that shed light on the daily lives and struggles of the people who were forced to serve the household.

If you’re interested in exploring both architectural beauty and the layered history of the city, this museum is a must-visit.

6. Mercer Williams House Museum

If you haven’t yet read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — or at least watched the movie adaptation — make sure you do before visiting the Mercer Williams House! The book brings Savannah’s eccentric charm to life, and experiencing the story first will make your visit even more intriguing. I highly recommend reading it first, then watching the movie to get the full picture.

Built for the great-grandfather of famed Savannah songwriter Johnny Mercer, the Mercer Williams House has an elegant yet mysterious history. The home’s fame comes from Jim Williams, an antiques dealer and historic preservationist, who was tried for the 1981 murder of his lover, Danny Hansford. Williams’ multiple trials became the centerpiece of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

However, a tour of the Mercer Williams House Museum doesn’t focus on the scandal. Instead, it showcases Williams’ impressive restoration work and his personal collection of antique furniture and artwork. The tour only includes the first floor, but if you’re curious to see more, you can catch glimpses of the interior in the movie, which was filmed on-site.

Related tour: Savannah Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil Narrated Walking Tour

7. Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery has been a beautiful and treasured resting place for Savannah’s dead for more than 150 years. But it gained worldwide fame thanks to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, which featured the haunting Bird Girl statue on its cover. Though Bird Girl has since been relocated to the Telfair Museums, the cemetery remains one of Savannah’s most beautiful and storied sites, filled with striking monuments, intricate sculptures, and the graves of many notable figures.

Spanning nearly 160 acres, Bonaventure is the final resting place of several key figures in Savannah’s history, including songwriter Johnny Mercer and former governor Edward Telfair. One of its most famous gravesites belongs to Little Gracie, a young girl who passed away in 1889. Her lifelike marble statue, carved in her image, has become one of the cemetery’s most visited landmarks.

While Bonaventure Cemetery is free to explore on your own, I recommend taking a guided tour to add context to the stories behind the tombs. Walking tours offer an immersive experience, but if you’re visiting in the heat of summer, I recommend a golf cart tour with Savannah Cruzers as a great way to explore more comfortably.

Book your Bonaventure Cemetery tour here.

8. Wormsloe State Historic Site

Wormsloe State Historic Site is one of Savannah’s most photographed locations, thanks to its breathtaking 1.5-mile avenue of live oaks draped in Spanish moss. This stunning entrance is what makes it one of the most popular things to do in Savannah.

The site was once the estate of Noble Jones, one of Georgia’s original settlers, and features the ruins of his fortified tabby house — one of the oldest standing structures in Savannah. A small museum showcases artifacts from Wormsloe and details Jones’ role in Georgia’s early history.

Beyond the ruins, Wormsloe also has seven miles of scenic nature trails winding through the forests, marshlands, and the Colonial Life Area, where costumed interpreters bring Georgia’s colonial past to life. .

Find a tour of Wormsloe Historic Site here.

9. Historic Savannah Theatre

The Historic Savannah Theatre, located on Chippewa Square, is one of the oldest continually operating theaters in the United States.

Since its opening in 1818, the theater has undergone multiple renovations due to fires and modernization efforts. Over the years, it has hosted legendary performers, and transitioned from a grand playhouse to a movie theater and now back to a live performance venue.

Today, the Savannah Theatre features a lineup of musicals, comedy shows, and tribute performances.

Related tour: Haunted Theatre Ghost Hunt

10. The Pirate’s House

The Pirates’ House isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a piece of Savannah’s swashbuckling past. Located just seven blocks from where General Oglethorpe landed in 1733, this historic site began as an inn in 1753 and quickly became a popular gathering place for sailors and pirates. With its dimly lit tavern-like atmosphere and fascinating history, it’s one of Savannah’s most legendary restaurants.

One of the restaurant’s most intriguing features is the Herb House, believed to be the oldest standing structure in Georgia. The restaurant also still has the entrance to an old tunnel, rumored to have been used for “shanghaiing” unsuspecting men — essentially kidnapping them and forcing them into service aboard pirate ships. Adding to its eerie charm, several rooms, including the Herb House, banquet rooms, and even the gift shop, are said to be haunted.

Beyond the ghostly legends, The Pirates’ House serves up hearty Southern cuisine with plenty of seafood dishes fit for a pirate. So whether you come for the history, the hauntings, or the food, The Pirates’ House delivers.

11. Jepson Center for the Arts

The Jepson Center for the Arts, part of the Telfair Museums, is a contemporary art museum that showcases modern and technology-based art.

The museum has a collection of works from both renowned and emerging artists, as well as rotating exhibits that bring fresh perspectives to the Southern art scene.

The Jepson Center also houses an interactive children’s museum space where kids can explore hands-on exhibits designed to inspire creativity.

12. Telfair Academy

Telfair Academy, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion that once belonged to Savannah’s prominent Telfair family, was the first public art museum in the South and the first museum in the U.S. founded by a woman.

The museum’s neoclassical architecture, with its grand staircase and period rooms, offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of Savannah’s wealthy elite during the 1800s. Inside, you’ll find a curated collection of 19th- and 20th-century American and European art, including works by renowned artists like John Singer Sargent and Winslow Homer.

This is also where you’ll find the iconic Bird Girl statue, made famous by the cover of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

13. Jones Street

Jones Street, often considered as the prettiest street in Savannah, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

This picturesque street is lined with red bricks and shaded by towering trees draped in Spanish moss. Stately mid-19th-century Greek Revival homes, each with its own unique architectural details, flank the street and make this a quintessential Savannah photography spot.

As you explore, please remember that Jones Street is a residential neighborhood, so be sure to respect the privacy of its residents.

14. The Georgia Tasting Room Wine Tasting

The Georgia Tasting Room at City Market is a cozy wine shop that specializes in a variety of traditional, seasonal, and locally-produced wines, giving you a true taste of Georgia’s vineyards.

In addition to wine, they offer a selection of beer, moonshine, and mead, as well as some fun slushy options like wine slushies and moonshine slushies — perfect for a refreshing treat on a warm Savannah day.

One of the best ways to experience all that The Georgia Tasting Room has to offer is by participating in their wine tasting. You can sample six different wines from their extensive list of wines from across the Southeast.

15. Colonial Park Cemetery

Colonial Park Cemetery, established in 1750, is one of Savannah’s oldest and most historic sites. It has served as the city’s primary burial ground for over a century.

The cemetery was the final resting place for some of the city’s earliest settlers. You’ll find the graves of notable historical figures, including Button Gwinnett, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and members of the influential Habersham family, such as James Habersham, the acting royal governor, and Joseph Habersham, the U.S. Postmaster General under three different presidents.

16. River Street

Savannah’s River Street blends historic charm with modern energy. Once home to bustling cotton warehouses, this brick-lined waterfront is now filled with lively restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and boutiques.

The street is dotted with monuments and statues that pay tribute to Savannah’s rich past, from maritime history to key figures who shaped the city. The Savannah River itself is a serene attraction, with towering cargo ships and classic riverboats gliding by throughout the day.

Related tour: Savannah Georgia Port Tour

17. Savannah Bee Company Mead Tasting

Savannah Bee Company is a must-visit boutique for honey lovers, offering local and international specialty honey, beauty products, and gifts.

I recommend visiting their River Street location that has a mead bar where you can taste honey-based wines. Their staff will guide you through a tasting of different styles, from dry and crisp to rich and sweet, all crafted from high-quality honey.

This was one of the most fun, and appropriate, things we did on our Savannah honeymoon, because the term “honeymoon” actually originates from the tradition of the bride’s father gifting the couple a month’s supply of mead after the wedding — a nod to both the “honey” (mead) and the “moon” (one full lunar cycle).

18. Old Fort Jackson Historic Site

Old Fort Jackson, situated along the Savannah River, is just a short drive from Downtown Savannah. As one of the oldest brick forts on the East Coast, this well-preserved National Historic Landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into Savannah’s military past.

Originally built in 1808 to defend against naval attacks, the fort played a key role in both the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Today, it’s a museum where you can explore the sturdy walls, climb up to scenic riverfront viewpoints, and learn the stories of the soldiers who once served there.

One of the biggest highlights of visiting Old Fort Jackson is the daily interactive demonstrations. You can watch costumed interpreters perform military drills and learn about the weaponry and tactics used throughout the fort’s history. They even fire off a historic cannon over the bow of passing riverboats!

19. The Book Lady Bookstore

Tucked away in the lower level of a charming home on East Liberty Street, The Book Lady Bookstore is a hidden gem in Savannah’s literary scene. This independently owned bookstore opened in 1978 and has a cozy, old-world atmosphere where every inch of space is filled with books.

Towering wooden shelves are packed with a mix of new, used, and rare books. The store also has a selection of books on Savannah’s history and culture, any of which would make the perfect literary souvenir.

20. Pedal Pub Crawl

A pedal pub crawl is one of the most fun and unique ways to experience Savannah’s nightlife. Climb aboard a 15-person, pedal-powered party bike and make your way around to Savannah’s best bars, pubs, and clubs. With Savannah’s open-container laws, you can sip your drink as you pedal between stops.

There are several companies offering pedal pub tours, but I recommend Savannah Slow Ride. Their two-hour-long tours let you choose from a classic pub crawl, a historic sightseeing ride, or even a “Boos Cruise” ghost tour that mixes haunted tales with bar stops.

21. Ghost Tour

You can’t visit Savannah without experiencing one of its famous ghost tours! As one of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah has no shortage of haunted tales, from restless spirits in historic mansions to haunted cemeteries and mysterious underground tunnels.

One of Savannah’s most unique options, and my personal favorite, is the Hearse Ghost Tour, where you’ll ride through Savannah in a real retired hearse with an open top and swivel seats. It’s perfect for those who want to cover more ground without walking — and how many people can say they’ve taken a ghost tour in the back of a hearse?

If you prefer a different kind of paranormal experience, there are plenty of other options. I’ve done a haunted pedal pub, which is a great choice for a fun girls night. And I’ve done a psychic-led walking tour, which is always a classic.

Book your Savannah ghost tour here.

22. Explore the Squares

Savannah’s Historic District is famous for its 22 charming squares. Designed as part of General James Oglethorpe’s original city plan, each squares is surrounded by stunning historic homes, shaded by moss-draped oaks, and often feature statues, fountains, and hidden history.

Some squares stand out for their history and pop culture connections. Chippewa Square is one of the most famous, thanks to Forrest Gump — this is where he sat on a bench telling his life story. Monterey Square is considered one of the most picturesque, home to the Mercer-Williams House from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Wright Square holds a tribute to Yamacraw Chief Tomochichi, who helped Oglethorpe establish Savannah. Johnson Square, the city’s first and largest square, is surrounded by important landmarks like City Hall and Christ Episcopal Church.

23. Chocolat by Adam Turoni

Chocolat by Adam Turoni is an adorable chocolate shop that’s designed to look like a small, intimate library. Their beautifully crafted confections are displayed in glass cases and on bookshelves.

The selection of chocolates changes regularly, but every piece is a work of art. From hand-painted truffles to intricately designed chocolate bars, each treat is made with high-quality ingredients and a touch of creativity.

My recommendation is the chocolate truffle dusted with 24-karat gold!

24. Shopping Along Broughton Street

Broughton Street is a bustling thoroughfare that’s lined with a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques and antique stores to quirky thrift shops and well-known retail chains.

Whether you’re searching for stylish clothing, vintage treasures, or one-of-a-kind gifts, Broughton Street has it all. Along the way, you can pop into cozy coffee shops or stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream, an iconic Savannah institution serving up homemade ice cream since 1919.

25. Forsyth Farmers Market

The Forsyth Farmers Market is a weekly event that showcases Savannah’s local farmers and food producers. Held every Saturday at the south end of Forsyth Park, this food-only, producer-only market ensures that at least 75% of every vendor’s offerings are made or grown by them.

The market is an great place to pick up seasonal produce, pasture-raised meats, farm-fresh eggs, and an assortment of artisanal goods like locally harvested honey, handmade jams, and specialty coffee.

26. Tanger Outlets

If you’re in the mood for some shopping outside of Savannah’s historic district, head over to the Tanger Outlets for great deals on everything from designer clothing to home goods.

Located just a short drive from downtown, this outlet mall is home to popular brands like Nike, Coach, and Michael Kors.

27. The Globe

The Globe is one of Savannah’s quirkiest landmarks. Built in the 1950s as a natural gas storage tank, The Globe was repainted to resemble a massive replica of a traditional desktop globe. The Globe even has a it’s own Earth-and-moon-themed mailbox stationed right out front.

In 1999, muralist Eric Henn painted the Globe to look like Earth as seen from space and even includes Hurricane Floyd heading for Savannah (though turns out he painted the hurricane backwards!). In 2023, Eric Henn returned to give the Globe a much-needed refresh, and this time he made sure the hurricane was rotating the correct direction.

28. Beach Day at Tybee Island

Tybee Island is the perfect spot for a beach day. This laid-back barrier island is just 30 minutes from downtown Savannah.

With five miles of sandy shoreline, Tybee offers plenty of space to relax, whether you want to sunbathe, take a romantic walk along the water, or dip your toes in the Atlantic. South Beach is the island’s most popular public beach, with its iconic pier and lively atmosphere, while North Beach is quieter and ideal for a more peaceful retreat.

Beyond the beach you can learn some history at Fort Pulaski National Monument or climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse for breathtaking views. You can even kayak through the salt marshes, book a dolphin tour, or rent bikes to explore the island on your own.

29. Book a Savannah Photoshoot with Flytographer

Explore Savannah with a fun and talented photographer, learn local tips, and capture priceless memories with photogenic backdrops. It’s a win all around!

With Flytographer, you can hire an amazing local photographer for a fun vacation photoshoot. Get wall-worthy photos that allow you to relive your trip as the perfect souvenir.

You can use my link here for $25 off your first Flytographer photoshoot.

Book your Savannah Flytographer photoshoot here, and get $25 off your first photoshoot.

30. Use the Tinggly Bucketlist box to find top experiences in Savannah

Treat yourself to an unforgettable adventure in Savannah with the Tinggly Bucketlist box.

Tinggly boxes are essentially gift vouchers for experiences all around the world. But you can give yourself the gift of adventure, too. Especially because Tinggly has some Savannah experiences you can’t find anywhere else!

With the Bucketlist box, you can treat yourself to unique Savannah experiences like a Southern Traditions Dinner Tour or a Gullah Geechee Tour.

Get yourself the Bucketlist box here, or check out other Savannah experiences from Tinggly here.

• Easy 1 Day Savannah, Georgia Itinerary
• Romantic Honeymoon in Savannah, GA Itinerary
• Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Girls’ Trip in Savannah, GA
• 13 Most Haunted Places in Savannah, GA
• 13 Best Savannah Ghost Tours For a Scary-Good Time

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Ready to visit Savannah, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
• Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in Savannah using Booking.com.
• Get packing: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources.
• Save on Attractions: Save big on admission to Savannah’s top attractions using the Savannah TourPass.

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Cheers!

Paige

What are your favorite fun things to do in Savannah, Georgia? Tell me all about it in the comments!