Oh Savannah – Top 7 Must-Do’s in Savannah and Where to Stay
Savannah is one of my favorite destinations. I go once a year with my sister and mom. With so many things to do in Savannah, we offer up our top picks. For starters, we love River Street. Look at that lovely full moon, looking towards the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa.
- River Street’s views are what we love best. The striking Talmadge Memorial Bridge, the Savannah River, the paddle wheel boats, and the huge container ships that glide by. The places to really take in the scenery are rooftop bars along River Street, and the best time is at sunset into early evening. Here are our favorites:
Located at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside in the new Riverside District, this is truly one of the best views in town overlooking the Savannah River. Also at the JW Marriott is the Electric Moon rooftop bar. Catch either of these for photo-worthy sunset views.
Rocks on the River, located in the historic district atop the roof of The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, is another favorite of ours.
- Visit Savannah Plant Riverside. If you can, book an experience at the brand new JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside. If you can’t stay, at least visit. Marriott has “recycled” what was once a power plant and turned it into a beautiful hotel. It’s a destination itself with rooftop bars, several restaurants, live music, art galleries, shops, and more.
- Explore the Historic Squares
Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia, and it is so easy to walk and see the 22 beautiful squares in the historic district. Originally designed for practice and drills for the early militia, today the squares are gathering places of beauty and much history. I haven’t seen all 22, but my sister has. Each square has its own delights waiting to be discovered, but her favorite is Lafayette Square. Located near the birthplace of Juliet Gordon Lowe (the Andrew Lowe House) and the stunning Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, the square features a quirky fountain with birds and frogs in its design. Any square, however, is a great place to rest your feet and watch the world go by.
- Explore City Market: City Market is four blocks filled with restaurants, retail shopping, art galleries, and more. With so many restaurants here, you’ll be sure to find something that fits just right. Among our faves are Garibaldi – be sure to save room for dessert – Vinnie Van Go-Go’s Pizza, and Sorry Charlie’s Oyster Bar. We always enjoy the free samples at Byrd’s Famous Cookies. My mom and sister also found the American Prohibition Museum next door fascinating.
- The Olde Pink House: Be sure to treat yourself to lunch or dinner at The Olde Pink House. It’s a Savannah staple, and be sure to save room for dessert! Yes it really is a pink house! Call ahead to make reservations.
- Wormsloe Plantation:
Lined with hundred-year-old live oaks dripping with moss, the entrance to Wormsloe Plantation never disappoints.
Just 15 minutes from the Historic District, Wormsloe was established by Noble Jones, a carpenter who arrived in Georgia in 1722 with the first group of settlers from England. He went from carpenter to doctor, constable, Indian agent, land surveyor, and more, playing a significant role in Savannah’s earliest development. Today you can visit the museum, tour the trails, and experience events hosted here throughout the year. The name “Wormsloe,” by the way, came from Noble Jones’ hometown in England.
- Bonaventure Cemetery:
Beautiful, eerie, and full of stories, Bonaventure Cemetery is the final resting place for generations of Savannah residents. Maps are available at the cemetery office for leisurely drives, but the best introduction is a guided tour. It was featured in the movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Where to Stay:
JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside is brand new, trendy, and beautiful, and expensive.
The Doubletree Savannah Historic District on Bay street is diagonal to City Market and one block from River Street. It’s a great base for walking and sightseeing in Savannah. Don’t forget to collect the free warm chocolate chip cookie at check in. I have stayed here for many years because I love its great location and reasonable price.
The Hilton Garden Inn Savannah Historic District is directly across the street from the Doubletree Historic District. It is my second choice to stay. Love the location right at City Market and one block from River Street, and reasonable price.
The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, an Autograph Hotel by Marriott, features fantastic views from its rooftop bar and restaurant, Rocks on the River.
Springhill Suites Savannah Downtown/Historic District is my latest find. Located at 150 Montgomery Street, it is a quick walk to City market, restaurants and hot spots. Free Breakfast is included. All the rooms are suites which have a microwave and refrigerator.
Travel Tip: Hotels in downtown historic Savannah are getting expensive. When planning your trip, make sure there is not a big event in town, festival, or St. Patrick’s Day. Rates are much higher then.
