Things To Do Downtown Savannah

Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is known for its deep cultural roots and historical charm. Located in the southeastern corner of Georgia, Savannah’s downtown area is full of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. The city has a rich history with plenty of things to do, from outdoor activities to fascinating museums. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer visit, there is something for everyone in downtown Savannah.

History of Savannah

Savannah was founded by General James Oglethorpe in 1733 and has since grown into a bustling hub of activity. The city’s original settlement, located on the Savannah River, was the first colonial settlement in Georgia. Over the centuries, Savannah has evolved into a vibrant city with a unique blend of cultures. The city is known for its cobblestone streets, numerous parks, and eclectic mix of architecture.

The city was initially named for King George II of England, whose nickname was “Savannah,” which means “shady place.” Savannah was one of the most important ports in the South from the colonial era up until the Civil War, and it played a prominent role in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. The city’s rich history is still evident today with many of its original buildings still standing.

Things To Do Downtown

When it comes to things to do downtown, Savannah offers something for everyone. Visitors to the city can explore its historical sites and vibrant culture, stroll through its picturesque parks, or take part in a variety of outdoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in downtown Savannah:

Explore Savannah’s Historic Sites

Savannah is full of historic sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. The Old Town Trolley Tours are one of the best ways to explore these sites, as they offer an in-depth tour of the city’s most important landmarks. You can hop on and off at any of their stops throughout the city, allowing you to customize your tour according to your interests. Other notable historic sites include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Savannah’s oldest Catholic church, and Factors Walk, which was once a bustling trade center for Savannah’s cotton merchants.

Take a Stroll Through Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is one of the most popular parks in downtown Savannah and is a great place to relax and take in some fresh air. The park is situated on 30 acres of land and is home to a variety of beautiful gardens, sculptures, and monuments. The park also has a large fountain at its center which is lit up at night for a stunning view. Visitors can also enjoy walking or bike trails throughout the park, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds for kids.

Visit the City Market

The City Market is another popular attraction in downtown Savannah. This four-block area contains nearly two dozen shops that offer everything from clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs to art galleries, restaurants, and live music venues. The City Market is also home to several outdoor festivals throughout the year, such as the Jazz Festival and St Patrick’s Day Parade.

Take a Riverboat Cruise

For a unique experience in downtown Savannah, visitors can take a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River. This one-hour cruise will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Savannah as you cruise past historical landmarks and picturesque views of the city. The cruise also provides an interesting insight into Savannah’s history with its on-board historian who provides commentary about some of the most prominent places along your cruise route.

Go Shopping on Broughton Street

Broughton Street is one of the most popular shopping destinations in downtown Savannah and offers something for everyone. The street is lined with boutique stores and art galleries, as well as popular chain stores like Gap and Victoria’s Secret. Visitors can also find a variety of restaurants and cafes on Broughton Street, offering everything from casual cafes to fine-dining establishments.

Popular Tours Around Downtown

In addition to all these activities around downtown Savannah, there are also several popular tours that visitors can take part in. Here are two of the most popular tours around downtown Savannah:

Historic Tour of Downtown Savannah

Take an informative journey through some of downtown Savannah’s most iconic sights on this Historic Tour. This two-hour tour will take you through some of Savannah’s most famous attractions including Forsyth Park, City Market, and River Street. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide commentary about each sight along your route as you learn about some of Savannah’s most important landmarks and events from its past. You’ll also get to see some of Savannah’s unique architecture that dates back centuries. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about Savannah’s history or just enjoy a leisurely stroll through some of its most beautiful sights. Book a Historic Tour of Downtown Savannah here.

Ghost Tour of Downtown Savannah

Explore some of downtown Savannah’s spookier side on this Ghost Tour. This two-hour tour will take you through some of downtown Savannah’s most haunted sights including cemeteries, old mansions, and ghostly alleyways. Along your route, you’ll hear stories about some of Savannah’s eeriest events from its past as your guide provides commentary about each sight. You’ll also get to see some of Savannah’s oldest buildings that date back centuries and have been rumored to be haunted. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to explore another side of downtown Savannah or just enjoy an interesting walk through its streets at night. Book a Ghost Tour of Downtown Savannah here.

Conclusion

With so much to do downtown, it’s easy to see why Savannah is such a popular destination for tourists visiting the area. Whether you’re looking for historical sites or outdoor activities or just want to explore a unique city with plenty of culture, downtown Savannah has something for everyone! Don’t forget to explore some popular tours around downtown like a Historic Tour or Ghost Tour for an even more interesting experience! Book a Historic Tour here or a Ghost Tour here. No matter what you decide to do during your stay, you’ll be sure to leave with plenty of lasting memories from your time in downtown Savannah!