Things to Do in Savannah, GA for Families

Located on the southeastern coast of Georgia, Savannah is a charming city filled with history and culture. Known for its iconic squares, cobblestone streets, and antebellum homes, the city is known for its rich history and its vibrant modern culture. The city offers a range of activities and attractions suitable for families of all ages, from walking tours to boat trips to unique eateries and beyond. Read on to discover the best things to do in Savannah, GA for families.

History of Savannah

Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, the first governor of Georgia. The city is well-known for being America’s first planned city, with a well-defined grid system. At the time of its founding, Savannah was a major port city and served as the agricultural center of the southern colonies. This made it a hub of economic activity and prosperity during its early years.

Savannah is known for its many historic sites, which commemorate its important role in American history. These include the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of America, and the first African-American owned business in the United States. The city has also seen its share of tragedy, including a devastating fire that destroyed much of downtown in 1796 and the Civil War Battle of Savannah in 1864.

Today, Savannah is a thriving city with a population of around 145,000 people. It’s known for its unique architecture, including the iconic Forsyth Park with its Spanish moss-draped trees, and its picturesque cobblestone streets. Savannah is also home to a thriving arts scene and numerous festivals throughout the year that make it an exciting destination for families.

Family-Friendly Activities in Savannah

Savannah offers countless activities and attractions that are sure to appeal to all members of the family. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Explore Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is one of the most iconic spots in Savannah. This 30-acre public park is located in the historic district and features lush greenery, old oaks dripping with Spanish moss, and a beautiful fountain at its center. Take a stroll through the park, wander through the fragrant gardens, or just sit on a bench and enjoy the scenery. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals, so be sure to check out what’s going on when you visit.

Take a Riverboat Cruise

Take a cruise down the Savannah River on one of the city’s riverboat cruises. You can learn about the city’s history as you sail past iconic landmarks such as Fort Jackson and River Street. The riverboat cruises offer something for everyone, from live music performances to complimentary snacks and drinks. The cruises are especially popular with families, so be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Visit Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery is one of Savannah’s most popular attractions. This sprawling Victorian cemetery is located on the Wilmington River and is home to some of the city’s most famous residents. It’s particularly beautiful during the spring when its azaleas are in bloom, and it offers plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to visit the resting place of Johnny Mercer, one of Savannah’s most famous sons who wrote songs such as “Moon River” and “The Days of Wine and Roses”.

See a Movie at the Cassina Garden Theatre

The Cassina Garden Theatre is one of Savannah’s oldest cinemas. Located in the vibrant City Market district, this independent movie theatre shows first-run films as well as classic movies from around the world. It’s an excellent spot for families looking for a unique movie experience. The theatre also offers concessions at reasonable prices so you can enjoy snacks while you take in a show!

Visit the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is located in downtown Savannah and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of Savannah’s maritime history. The museum contains artifacts from some of Savannah’s earliest ships, including an authentic model ship from 1772 as well as an extensive collection of maritime paintings and documents. Kids will love exploring this interactive museum and learning about life on board a sailing ship!

Take a Walking Tour

Take a walking tour through Savannah’s historic district and learn more about the city’s past. There are several companies that offer guided walking tours through the city, highlighting some of its most popular attractions such as Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market. Tours usually last around two hours and are perfect for families looking to explore the city on foot.

Popular Tours in Savannah

In addition to exploring Savannah on your own, there are also several tours available to make your visit even more enjoyable. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Savannah:

Old Town Trolley Tour

Take a tour aboard an authentic trolley car and learn more about Savannah’s history and culture. This hop-on hop-off tour allows you to explore some of Savannah’s most popular attractions at your own pace. The tour includes stops at City Market, Bonaventure Cemetery, River Street, and more. You can also get off at any stop along the route and explore further by foot or take another tour bus back to your start point. Book an Old Town Trolley Tour for a fun way to explore Savannah!

Historic Ghost Tour

Experience Savannah’s spooky side on this evening ghost tour! You’ll learn about some of Savannah’s most legendary hauntings while walking through some of its oldest neighborhoods. The tour includes visits to historic squares such as Chippewa Square (where Forrest Gump was filmed), and stops at some of its most haunted houses. Tours typically last around two hours and are perfect for families looking for something a little different! Book a Historic Ghost Tour for an unforgettable night in Savannah!

Conclusion

Savannah is an incredibly charming city with something for everyone – from its picturesque squares and cobblestone streets to its iconic maritime history and vibrant modern culture. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or unique tours, there are plenty of things to do in Savannah that are sure to appeal to all members of the family. So be sure to add it to your list of must-visit destinations!