Savannah
FiveSlow Days in Savannah’s Squares, Streets & Salt Marsh
Mossy squares, marsh sunsets, and Lowcountry flavors on foot
Planning a trip to Savannah?
A five-day, walkable Savannah plan that blends moss-draped squares, local Lowcountry food, live music, and creative neighborhoods. You’ll balance historic tours with river views, nature escapes, art museums, and easy free time for wandering and photography.
Highlights
Wander Savannah’s iconic grid of leafy squares and stately homes for classic photos and gentle exploration.
Taste local staples like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Savannah red rice at relaxed, mid-range spots.
Explore art museums and SCAD-linked galleries that give the Historic District its young creative edge.
Join a candlelit ghost walk through cemeteries and haunted streets, then enjoy cocktails to-go under the oaks.
Stroll the Savannah Riverfront and ride the free ferry for skyline views and easy photography.
Unwind with blues, jazz, or acoustic sets in intimate venues after mellow days of sightseeing.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Savannah-Historic District
Mid-range chain hotel with breakfast included, a rooftop pool, and an easy walk to the riverfront and main squares.
$180-260/nightGood to Know
Safety by Neighborhood
Stick mostly to the Historic District, Forsyth Park area, Thomas Square, and Starland, especially at night; avoid wandering deep into West Savannah, Cuyler-Brownsville, or less-trafficked Eastside blocks after dark.
Watch Your Car & Bags
Property crime, especially car break-ins, is more common than violent crime; never leave bags or valuables visible in your vehicle, and store anything important in the trunk before you park.
Evening Walking Patterns
After dark, use main streets like Bull, Broughton, and Bay where there are people and lights, and avoid cutting through empty squares or Forsyth Park alone late at night.
Getting Around Without Stress
Plan your days by neighborhood, use the free DOT shuttle when your feet get tired, and consider Uber/Lyft for hops to Starland, Bonaventure, or Isle of Hope instead of navigating buses.
Savannah’s Social Pace
Expect servers, bartenders, and shop staff to chat; say hello back, don’t rush them, and factor a bit of extra time into meals and transactions.
Tipping & To-Go Drinks
Plan on tipping 18–20% at restaurants and bars and a few dollars per person on tours; if you want to walk with a drink, ask for a to-go cup and stay within the downtown area.
Heat, Hydration, and Shade
Humidity and sun can be intense, so carry water, wear light clothing, and use the many tree-shaded squares as built-in rest stops between activities.
Respecting Gullah Geechee Culture
When you encounter Gullah Geechee art, food, or tours, treat them as living culture rather than a spectacle, ask before photographing people, and support Black- and Gullah-owned businesses when you can.
Your Weekend Itinerary
Collins Quarter (Bull Street)
Australian-influenced café on Chippewa Square; order the Savannah eggs benedict or avocado smash and a specialty coffee.
1h 15m · $18-30 per person
Self-Guided Historic Squares Walk
From Chippewa Square, stroll Bull Street north and south through several of Savannah’s famous squares, stopping for photos of live oaks, historic facades, and monuments.
1h 30m · Free
Treylor Park
Playful comfort food near Bay Street; try the PB&J wings or fried chicken tacos and a local beer.
1h · $18-30 per person
Savannah Riverfront & River Street Stroll
Walk the cobblestoned River Street, browse small shops and galleries, watch cargo ships, and take riverfront photos.
2h · Free (shopping extra)
Savannah Belles Ferry Ride
Hop on the free passenger ferry across the river for skyline and bridge views, then return to River Street.
30m · Free
The Olde Pink House
Iconic colonial-era mansion restaurant; order shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, or crispy scored flounder.
1h 30m · $35-55 per personSavannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour
After dark, join a costumed guide for a lantern-lit walk past squares and Colonial Park Cemetery, hearing ghost stories and history.[4]
1h 30m · $25-35
Clary’s Café
Classic diner-style spot seen in “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”; order a big Southern breakfast plate.
1h · $12-20 per person
Forsyth Park
Stroll the tree-lined paths, photograph the famous white fountain, and relax on benches under massive oaks.
1h 30m · FreeSavannah Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil Narrated Walking Tour
A themed walking tour that visits squares and homes featured in the book and film, ending at Forsyth Park.[2][10]
2h · $25-35The Collins Quarter at Forsyth
Cafe inside Forsyth Park with sandwiches, salads, and brunch dishes; sit on the patio if weather allows.
1h · $18-28 per person
Free Explore: Bull Street & Nearby Squares
Use a few hours to wander nearby squares like Monterey, Madison, and Lafayette, popping into boutiques and small galleries.
2h 30m · Free (shopping extra)
Crystal Beer Parlor
Historic pub-style restaurant with burgers, sandwiches, and local beers in a relaxed setting.
1h 15m · $18-30 per person
Live Music at Barrelhouse South
Casual bar and music venue on Congress Street with rotating bands and a lively but approachable atmosphere.
2h · $10-25 (cover + drink)31 activities across 5 days
Map
