Savannah, Georgia: Where Southern Charm, History, and Tasty Bites Collide

Savannah, Georgia: Where History Gets Served on a Plate

Nestled along the enchanting coastline of Georgia, Savannah beckons with its unique blend of Southern charm, historic allure, and delectable cuisine. A world of history and beauty unfolds as you step onto its cobblestone streets.

The city’s rich past is etched into its 22 historic squares, each telling its own story. Moss-draped oak trees line the avenues, casting a dreamy canopy over the city’s historic districts.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Savannah boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering a tempting array of Southern flavors, from crispy fried chicken to the sweet allure of pecan pie.

Whether you’re exploring its historic treasures, meandering through its picturesque parks, or savoring its delectable cuisine, Savannah promises an unforgettable Southern adventure at every turn. It’s also a perfect place for a fall destination.

Here’s a list of things to do, see, and eat while visiting Savannah:

Things to Do:

1. Take a Historic District Walking Tour: Savannah’s historic district is known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and squares. Join a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
2. Visit Forsyth Park: This 30-acre park is great for a leisurely stroll, picnicking, and people-watching. Take advantage of the iconic Forsyth Fountain.
3. Explore River Street: This historic street along the Savannah River has shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s a great place to soak in the riverfront atmosphere.
4. Savannah Riverboat Cruise: Take a riverboat cruise to enjoy scenic views of the Savannah River and learn about the city’s maritime history.
5. Tour the Bonaventure Cemetery: Made famous by the book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” this cemetery is known for its hauntingly beautiful statuary and historic graves.
6. Telfair Museums: Visit the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House, and the Jepson Center for the Arts to explore Savannah’s artistic and cultural heritage.
7. Wormsloe Historic Site: Walk down the picturesque oak-lined avenue and explore the ruins of Wormsloe, one of the oldest plantations in Georgia.
8. Savannah Bee Company: Learn about bees and honey production at this local store and sample different honey varieties.

Things to See:

1. Historic Squares: Savannah is known for its 22 historic squares, each with its own unique character and history. Some must-visit squares include Chippewa Square and Lafayette Square.
2. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: Admire this historic cathedral’s stunning architecture and interior, which is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival design.
3. Talmadge Memorial Bridge: This cable-stayed bridge offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunset when beautifully lit.
4. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: Visit Mercer-Williams House, where the events of the famous book took place. The house is now a museum.
5. Isle of Hope: A picturesque waterfront community with historic homes, it’s a lovely place for a scenic drive or bike ride.

Places to Eat:

1. The Grey: Housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, this restaurant offers Southern-inspired cuisine in a stylish setting.
2. Leopold’s Ice Cream: A classic ice cream parlor with a retro vibe, serving up delicious sundaes, malts, and more.
3. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: Experience traditional Southern cooking with family-style dining in a historic boardinghouse.
4. Back in the Day Bakery: A cozy spot for breakfast, brunch, and pastries focusing on local, seasonal ingredients.
5. Savannah Seafood Shack: If you’re a seafood lover, this is where fresh, local catches are prepared in various Southern styles.
6. The Olde Pink House: Dine in a historic 18th-century mansion and enjoy Southern classics like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup.

Did you know?

Here’s an interesting fact that you might need to learn about Savannah, Georgia: The city is renowned for its unique and intricate ironwork, which can be seen throughout its historic district.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, prominent local blacksmiths and ironworkers, such as the Waring brothers, created stunning wrought-iron fences, gates, and balconies that adorn many of the historic homes and buildings in the city.

One particularly fascinating detail is the presence of “Horseshoe Arches.” These decorative arches can be found above many of the city’s doorways and are said to bring good luck. The tradition of placing a horseshoe above an entrance is an old superstition believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the home’s occupants.

Watch for these charming and historic details as you explore Savannah’s streets; they add to the city’s distinctive character and charm.

A little history:

Savannah, Georgia, founded in 1733 by British General James Oglethorpe, boasts a storied history that spans nearly three centuries. As one of the United States’ earliest planned cities, it was originally established as a buffer colony against Spanish Florida and a haven for debtors and the persecuted.

Savannah was pivotal in the American Revolutionary War, serving as a crucial port for supplies and troops. The city’s meticulously designed grid layout, adorned with squares and shaded by majestic oak trees, is a testament to its careful planning.During the Civil War, it was famously spared from destruction by Union General William T. Sherman, who presented the city to President Abraham Lincoln as a Christmas gift in 1864. Savannah’s rich history is also intertwined with literary works, most notably John Berendt’s “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” which brought international attention to the city’s enigmatic charm and eccentric characters.

These days, this historical gem continues to enchant visitors with its preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and timeless Southern hospitality.