Savannah, GA: A City Guide for First-Time Visitors

Savannah, Georgia is a charming southern city known for its abundance of historical sites and picturesque cobblestone streets. Founded in 1733, the city still has many buildings from the Colonial era including mansions, churches, and squares. Located on the Savannah River and known for its mild climate, Savannah is home to about 146,000 people and is the fifth largest city in the state. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or an extended stay, there are a number of sights to explore in Savannah.

History of Savannah

Savannah was founded by James Oglethorpe in 1733 and was the first capital of Georgia. The city was laid out on a grid pattern, with broad streets and squares that were connected by footpaths and alleys. This layout still exists today, with many of the original buildings still standing. The city was originally part of the British Empire, but it was ceded to the United States in 1783.

The city has a rich cultural history and was one of the main ports in the South during the Civil War. It was also an important cotton trading center. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Savannah was known as a destination for wealthy tourists who wanted to take advantage of its mild climate and southern hospitality.

Unique Attractions in Savannah

Savannah is known for its unique attractions and historic sites. The historic district has a number of architectural landmarks including the iconic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Mercer-Williams House, the Cotton Exchange Building, the Isaiah Davenport House, and the Juliette Gordon Low House.

The city also has a number of museums that showcase its rich history, including the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, the Telfair Museums of Art and History, and the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. There are also several parks located in the historic district, including Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square.

In addition to its many museums and parks, Savannah is also home to a number of unique restaurants and bars. Make sure to try some traditional southern dishes like shrimp and grits or hoppin’ john while you’re in town. The city also has a vibrant music scene with a number of live music venues and jazz bars.

Popular Activities in Savannah

Savannah is full of activities for visitors to enjoy. One popular activity is taking a tour of the city via horse-drawn carriage or trolley. These guided tours will show you all the major sights and provide interesting facts about the city’s history. You can also take a guided walking tour of the historic district.

The city is also home to a number of unique shops and boutiques. Spend an afternoon browsing through the antique stores or trendy galleries in Downtown Savannah. There are also several art galleries in the area, as well as several museums that showcase local artwork.

Foodies will love exploring Savannah’s diverse culinary scene. There are a number of local restaurants serving up traditional Southern dishes as well as more modern takes on classic dishes. Make sure to try some local favorites like shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes while you’re in town.

Popular Tours

There are a few popular tours that visitors to Savannah can take to get an inside look at the city. The first is a tour of one of Savannah’s most famous neighborhoods – Savannah’s Historic District. This guided tour will show you all the major attractions in the area including churches, mansions, squares, and more. It will also provide interesting facts about each site and its history. You can book this tour here.

The second popular tour is a walking tour of some of Savannah’s most famous squares including Chippewa Square, Wright Square, Monterey Square, and Greene Square. This tour will show you some of the city’s most iconic sights as well as provide interesting facts about each square’s history. You can book this tour here.

The third popular tour is a ghost tour through some of Savannah’s most haunted locations. This tour will take you through some of the city’s oldest buildings and cemeteries while telling stories of hauntings and other supernatural occurrences. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

Savannah is an incredible city with a unique history and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From its historic buildings to its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant Southern city. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or an extended stay, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy while you’re in town. Make sure to book one of these popular tours so you can get an inside look at all that Savannah has to offer!