Things to do in  Savannah

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mature oak trees and a central fountain are charming features of Columbia Square, one of Savannah’s more peaceful historic squares. Beautiful preserved buildings and luxurious bed-and-breakfasts lure visitors to this neck of the woods, and the square offers plenty of park benches for people-watching or picnics. Shaded paths offer a place to relax during a wider exploration of the Savannah Historic District.

A premier destination for arts enthusiasts, the Jepson Center (one of Savannah's Telfair Museums) is a cultural hub devoted to showcasing contemporary art. See diverse exhibitions that span genres, and visit TechSpace, a gallery devoted to digital art. Family days, talks, and guided tours are offered regularly.

Set within the elaborate Greek-revival style William Scarbrough House, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a tribute to Savannah’s role in maritime history. Visitors can browse exhibits on 1800s shipping, model ships, the Civil War, and William Scarbrough—once president of the Savannah Steamship Company. Surrounding the museum, expansive gardens offer a nice place for a stroll or private event.