How to Experience Savannah
Savannah is one of the most walkable historic cities in America. You can see the main attractions in 2–4 hours, depending on how much time you spend in squares, museums, and local cafés.
This guide gives you a clear walking route, explains what you'll see, and helps you pace your visit so you actually enjoy the atmosphere instead of rushing through.
Audio Tour: Hear the Stories from a Local
A self-guided audio tour adds depth to your visit. A local guide shares the history of Savannah's founding, the meaning behind each square, architecture details, and stories you'd otherwise miss.
How Long Should You Spend in Savannah?
- Quick visit (1–2 hours): Walk a few squares, visit Forsyth Park, grab coffee
- Standard visit (2–3 hours): Walk the full route, visit 1–2 landmarks, eat lunch
- Full experience (3–4 hours): Audio tour, multiple squares, museums, River Street, local dining
- Extended (4+ hours): Everything above plus Bonaventure Cemetery or additional museums
Best Time to Visit
- Season: Year-round. Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) have the best weather.
- Avoid: Summer midday heat (can exceed 90°F and humid), winter rain
- Time of day: Morning (8–10 am) is coolest and least crowded. Late afternoon (4–6 pm) has beautiful light.
- Parking: Street parking available (paid meters) or parking garages throughout downtown.
The Main Walking Route Through Historic Squares
This route covers the main squares and attractions and takes about 2–2.5 hours of walking (not including time spent in museums or cafés).
Start: Forsyth Park
Begin at Forsyth Park, the most iconic spot in Savannah. The famous fountain is a perfect starting point and photo opportunity. The park is peaceful and gives you a sense of Savannah's scale and beauty.
Stop 1: Chippewa Square (10 minutes)
Walk to Chippewa Square, famous for the movie "Forrest Gump." The square features a statue of General James Oglethorpe, Savannah's founder. The surrounding historic homes and moss-draped oaks are quintessential Savannah.
Stop 2: Madison Square (15 minutes)
Continue to Madison Square, one of Savannah's most beautiful squares. It features the Green-Meldrim House (a historic mansion) and is surrounded by oak trees and historic buildings.
Stop 3: Monterey Square (15 minutes)
Walk to Monterey Square, home to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. This is one of Savannah's most impressive architectural sites. The cathedral is stunning and worth exploring if it's open.
Stop 4: Forsyth Park (Return) (20 minutes)
Return to Forsyth Park for a longer rest. Sit under the oaks, enjoy the atmosphere, and take more photos. This is where many visitors spend the most time.
Stop 5: River Street (30–60 minutes)
Walk to River Street, the cobblestone waterfront with old warehouses, shops, restaurants, and bars. This is where you experience Savannah's commercial history and enjoy local dining.
Stop 6: Historic District Squares (20–30 minutes)
Explore additional squares like Pulaski Square, Wright Square, or Johnson Square. Each has its own character and history.
Key Attractions Explained
Forsyth Park & Fountain
What it is: A 30-acre park with the iconic Victorian fountain (1858) at its center.
Why visit: Iconic photo spot, peaceful atmosphere, represents Savannah's character.
Time: 20–45 minutes
Cost: Free
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
What it is: A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral (1876) on Monterey Square.
Why visit: Architectural masterpiece, beautiful interior, important to Savannah's history.
Time: 15–30 minutes
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
Historic Squares (22 total)
What they are: A unique grid of public squares designed by James Oglethorpe in 1733.
Why visit: Each square has its own character, history, and stories. They're the heart of Savannah.
Time: 10–15 minutes per square
Cost: Free
River Street
What it is: A cobblestone waterfront with historic warehouses, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Why visit: Experience Savannah's commercial history, enjoy local dining, see the Savannah River.
Time: 30–60 minutes (or longer for dining)
Cost: Free to explore; dining/shopping costs vary
Historic House Museums
What they are: Preserved historic homes open to the public (e.g., Mercer Williams House, Green-Meldrim House).
Why visit: See authentic period interiors, learn about Savannah's wealthy families, understand daily life in the 18th–19th centuries.
Time: 30–45 minutes per house
Cost: $8–15 per house
Where to Eat in Savannah
Local Cafés & Bakeries
Casual spots for coffee, breakfast, or pastries. These are where locals eat and offer authentic small-town experience.
Cost: $8–15 per person
Casual Restaurants
For a more substantial meal, there are casual restaurants serving Southern food, seafood, and international cuisine.
Cost: $15–30 per person
River Street Dining
Restaurants and bars along the waterfront offer views and a lively atmosphere. Good for lunch or dinner.
Cost: $15–35 per person
Historic Taverns
Visit historic bars and taverns for a drink and local atmosphere. Some date back to the 1700s.
Cost: $5–15 per drink
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Getting There
- By air: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (30 minutes from downtown)
- By car: I-95 runs north-south; downtown is easily accessible
- Parking: Street parking (paid meters) or parking garages. Budget $15–25/day.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (the city is very walkable but has some uneven sidewalks)
- Sunscreen and hat (Southern sun is strong)
- Water bottle (refill at cafés or restaurants)
- Camera or phone (lots of photo opportunities)
- Light, breathable clothing (especially in summer)
Accessibility
- Most of the historic district is walkable and relatively flat
- Main attractions are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers
- Some historic buildings have limited accessibility
- Moss-draped oaks provide natural shade
Phone & Navigation
- Cell service is available throughout the city
- WiFi is available at most cafés and restaurants
- Google Maps works well for navigation
Photography Tips
- Best light: Morning (8–10 am) or late afternoon (4–6 pm)
- Best photo spots: Forsyth Park fountain, historic squares, River Street, moss-draped oaks
- Avoid: Midday harsh sun (11 am–3 pm)
Weather Considerations
- Spring/Fall: Ideal weather, mild temperatures, occasional rain
- Summer: Hot and humid (80–95°F), best in early morning or evening
- Winter: Cool and sometimes rainy, fewer crowds
What NOT to Do (Pressure-Free Approach)
- Don't rush. Savannah is meant to be enjoyed slowly. Take your time.
- Don't try to see all 22 squares. Pick 4–6 and enjoy them fully.
- Don't skip Forsyth Park. It's the heart of Savannah.
- Don't visit in peak summer midday heat. Go early morning or late afternoon.
- Don't expect major theme park attractions. Savannah is historic and atmospheric.
- Don't feel obligated to buy souvenirs. Just enjoy the experience.
Why an Audio Tour Enhances Your Visit
A self-guided audio tour adds context and depth to what you're seeing. Instead of just looking at squares, you'll understand:
- Why James Oglethorpe designed the city with squares
- The history of each square and its significance
- Architectural styles and details you might otherwise miss
- Stories of notable residents and events
- Ghost legends and local folklore (if included in your tour)
The audio tour works on your smartphone, requires no internet after download, and you control the pace.
Extend Your Visit: Nearby Options
- Bonaventure Cemetery: Historic cemetery with beautiful oak trees and Spanish moss (15 minutes away)
- Tybee Island: Beach and lighthouse (30 minutes away)
- Wormsloe Historic Site: Historic estate with oak-lined avenue (20 minutes away)
- Charleston, SC: Historic city with similar charm (2 hours away)