Top Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is one of those rare cities that rewards every kind of traveler. History lovers, foodies, architecture enthusiasts, ghost hunters, and beach seekers all find exactly what they're looking for here. The city moves at its own unhurried pace — and once you arrive, you'll understand why.

Here are the top things to do in Savannah, Georgia, whether you're visiting for a weekend or a full week.

Savannah was laid out in 1733 according to a unique grid plan featuring 24 public squares — and 22 of them survive today. Each square is a small park surrounded by historic homes, churches, and monuments, shaded by ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss.

Don't miss:

• Chippewa Square — featured in the famous Forrest Gump bench scene
• Madison Square — surrounded by stunning antebellum architecture
• Monterey Square — home to the Mercer Williams House
• Columbia Square — one of the quieter, more residential squares

The squares are free to visit and perfect for a self-guided walking tour. Pick up a map at the Savannah Visitor Center or download one before you go.

Forsyth Park is Savannah's crown jewel — a 30-acre park at the southern end of the Historic District anchored by a stunning cast-iron fountain that dates to 1858. On any given day you'll find locals jogging, families picnicking, and visitors posing for photos in front of the fountain.

The park hosts a popular farmers market on Saturday mornings and occasional outdoor concerts. It's the perfect place to slow down and soak in the Savannah atmosphere.

Read our full guide to Forsyth Park →

River Street runs along the Savannah River on a stretch of old cotton warehouses converted into shops, restaurants, and bars. It's touristy — but genuinely fun. Grab a praline from River Street Sweets, watch the cargo ships pass, and settle in for a long lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.

The cobblestones can be tricky in heels, so wear comfortable shoes.

Savannah is consistently ranked one of the most haunted cities in America, and the ghost tour industry here is thriving for good reason. The city's long history — including yellow fever epidemics, Civil War battles, and centuries of dramatic human stories — has left plenty of material for storytellers.

Tours range from walking tours through the Historic District to lantern-lit cemetery visits. Most run in the evening and last 1-2 hours.

Read our guide to Savannah ghost tours →

Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric cemeteries in the United States. Established in 1846, it sits on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, shaded by enormous live oaks. The elaborate Victorian monuments and sculptures make it as much an outdoor art museum as a burial ground.

It was made famous by John Berendt's Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — the "Bird Girl" statue that appeared on the book's cover was originally here (it's now at the Telfair Museums).

Practical info: The cemetery is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.

The Mercer Williams House on Monterey Square is one of Savannah's most storied properties — and another Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil landmark. Built in 1860, the Italianate mansion is now a museum open for tours.

The house is beautifully preserved and the guided tour is genuinely fascinating, covering both the architecture and the colorful history of the property.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist on Lafayette Square is one of the most stunning buildings in Savannah. The Gothic Revival cathedral, completed in 1876, features soaring twin spires and breathtaking stained glass windows. It's free to visit and open to the public during daylight hours.

Tybee Island is just 18 miles east of Savannah — about 30 minutes by car — and offers a classic Georgia beach experience. The island has a laid-back, slightly quirky character that sets it apart from more polished beach destinations.

Climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse for panoramic views, swim at the public beach, and grab fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Read our full guide to Tybee Island →

The best base for exploring all of these attractions is the Historic District. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the squares, Forsyth Park, River Street, and most of Savannah's top restaurants and museums.

Browse Savannah hotels →

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Ready to dig deeper? Here are the guides that pair best with this one:

• Savannah Attractions — the full landmark guide →
• Savannah Neighborhoods — where to stay and explore →
• Hidden Gems only locals know →
• Forsyth Park: complete visitor guide →
• Savannah Ghost Tours: the complete guide →
• Tybee Island day trip guide →
• Best restaurants in Savannah →

Savannah rewards slow travel. Give yourself at least two full days — three is better — and resist the urge to rush. The city's magic reveals itself at a leisurely pace.