Things to do in  Georgia

Forsyth Park, in the middle of historical downtown Savannah, has been a key city landmark since the mid-1800s. Named after the 33rd governor of Georgia, John Forsyth, who donated 20 acres (8 hectares) of land, the park is known for the large Parisian-style fountain located at the north end and the Spanish moss dripping from the oak trees.

The oldest Roman Catholic Church in Georgia, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is one of Savannah’s top historical, architectural, and religious attractions. The cathedral’s towering twin spires and French Gothic-style architecture set it apart against the Savannah skyline. Upclose, visitors can admire intricate details dating back to 1900.

Grand antebellum homes and historic plazas lined with live oaks are just some of the sights that define Savannah’s Historic District. Considered the heart of the city, the Historic District is not only the centerpiece of a Savannah vacation but also where to find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, and historic attractions.

When it was established in 1750, Colonial Park Cemetery was Savannah's main cemetery. It expanded three times to accommodate 9,000 graves across 6 acres (2.4 hectares). A century later, the cemetery ceased burials. Today, visitors can walk among the graves, many of which have historical markers describing local people and events.

It is virtually impossible for Savannah visitors to miss River Street. A broad waterfront promenade lined with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, River Street is one of the main arteries of this pretty and historic city. The street also features a pedestrian-only path, perfect for leisurely strolls with unbeatable Savannah River views, plus a hop-on, hop-off trolley for even easier exploration.

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park commemorates the life, work, and legacy of the Civil Rights Movement leader. Walk in the footsteps of a legend as you explore the home where King was born and the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where both his father and grandfather served as ministers. The site is also home to the crypt where Dr. King is buried alongside his wife, Coretta Scott King; their graves feature an eternal flame.

Dating back to the 18th century, Savannah City Market has long been the commercial and social center of historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. The market is known locally as the “art and soul” of Savannah, a nod to the numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that make it such an important part of Savannah's social fabric.

Madison Square is one of the 22 remaining public squares designed in Savannah's historic district in the 1830s. Named after President James Madison, it’s known by locals as Jasper Square, referring to Savannah native Sgt. William Jasper who fought in the Revolutionary War. Today, Madison Square is a popular stop for sightseeing.

Once home to Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, this historic mansion has been restored to its 19th-century glory and offers tours and hosts Girl Scout events. Visit the first National Historic Landmark in Savannah to see exhibits that follow the Low family and the genesis of the Girl Scouts.

Made famous by the novel and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery sits on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River in historic Savannah. The Southern Gothic cemetery comprises 160 acres (65 hectares) of sculptures, mausoleums, marble headstones, and live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss.

Designed by architect John Norris, the Mercer Williams House Museum was constructed in the 1860s, then restored a century later by antiques dealer Jim Williams. Considered one of the most beautiful houses in Savannah, it’s also known as a setting for the book and movieMidnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Chippewa Square in the Savannah Historic District charms with its moss-draped trees, inviting park benches, and shaded walkways. Visitors will find a statue of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia, but not the park bench from Forrest Gump; this prop from the 1994 movie has been moved to a museum. The square is much more than a film backdrop, though, and offers a place to rest and people-watch between visiting historic buildings, cafés, and boutiques in the surrounding area.

At World of Coca-Cola—one of Atlanta's must-see attractions—you can delve into the history of one of the world's most beloved beverage brands. The multi-part museum offers plenty for you to see and do, including exhibitions of Coke artifacts, a scent discovery lab, an interactive beverage lab, plus the chance to sample more than 100 different Coca-Cola beverages at the end of the tour.

Built in the mid-19th century for shipping merchant Francis Sorrel, Sorrel Weed House became a State Historic Landmark in 1954, one of the first in Georgia. It’s also believed to be one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah, and has been featured on TV shows likeGhost Hunters and Travel Channel’sMost Terrifying Places in America.

The brick, Italian-villa style Andrew Low House was built for wealthy cotton farm Andrew Low in 1847. Now a timepiece preserved in Savannah’s Historic District, the mansion provides today’s visitors with a look into the opulent lifestyle of a wealthy 19th-century Georgia household. You can visit parlors, dining rooms, and bedrooms that are decorated as if frozen in time.