Savannah, the USA

Why Go?

A gem of the South, not only is Savannah a foodies’ paradise it also boasts an impressive history (being the oldest city in the state of Georgia), and a wonderful art scene (thanks to the Savannah College of Art and Design). It’s a great destination for a weekend getaway and will surely awaken all your senses.

When to Go?

The best time to visit Savannah is either Spring or Fall – not only is the weather at its best but the city hosts a number of activities and festivals at this time.

How?

Travelling to Savannah by air you’ll likely fly into Savannah Hilton Head (SAV). There are direct flights from New York, Chicago and other major metropolitan areas – otherwise you’ll need to catch a connecting flight in Atlanta or Charlotte. If you prefer a more laid-back approach to travelling you can also try catching the Amtrak train or hop on a Greyhound bus.

See

If there is one thing people know about Savannah it’s  that it is the setting for John Berendt’s non-fiction, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The murder around which this Southern Gothic faction is built takes place at the Mercer House. While you won’t see any evidence of the heinous crime you will have a chance to see the beautiful garden and impressive antique collection of Jim Williams, the perpetrator of the crime.

The statue of the Bird Girl by Sylvia Shaw, made famous when it appeared on the cover of the aforementioned book can now be found at the Telfair museum. However if you’re more keen on 19th and 20th century art you’ll be pleased to hear that Telfair is also home to American and European paintings, works on paper, sculpture, and decorative arts from this era.

If you prefer to continue with the literary theme make sure to visit the childhood home of one of the most famous writers of the South, Flannery O’ Connor. The interior gives a great glimpse into the unusual life of young Flannery growing up in the 1930s.

Fans of modern art should look no further than the SCAD Museum of Art is just the place for you. The museum serves the Savannah College of Art and Design students, as well as members of the community and other visitors.

Our list of places to visit wouldn’t be complete without a trip to River Street Sweets. Rows and rows of candy, pralines, glazed nuts … and there is always a freshly made praline or two to sample on your way out.

Eat and Drink

Desperately looking for a retro World War II themed all-American diner – make sure to drop by Betty Bombers for an amazing sandwich and great atmosphere (they do home delivery too).

One can’t visit Savannah without savouring one of the many amazing barbecue dishes at Angel’s BBQ. Word of wisdom though: make sure to get there early as they aren’t open for dinner and tend to sell out quickly.

If you want to splash out on your dinner then Elizabeth on 37th is your best bet. Great southern coastal menu in a beautiful 1900s southern mansion setting.

The easiest way to sample the dishes of this foodie paradise is to join one of the many foodie tours around the city – our pick is the Foody Tour Savannah.

Sleep

Savannah might not be a backpackers paradise however if you’d rather spend your hard earned cash on sightseeing than on a hotel room make sure to book through Savannah Pension.

If you’re on a budget but would still like to stay in an atmospheric southern mansion you might want to try to book your accommodation via Airbnb. The apartments and rooms vary from simple to flashy and the local hosts always have plenty of suggestions for restaurants, bars, etc.

If you’re a person who likes to travel in style than don’t miss out on booking your room at Hamilton Turner Inn. A late 19th century boutique hotel in the middle of the Historic District of Savannah.

Here are additional options for where to stay in Savannah.

  City Travel Guide, Savannah, the USA, What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay