Savannah is one of our favorite vacation spots on the East Coast. No matter if you’re looking for a cultural, beach or foodie getaway, Savannah has something to offer for everyone. Read on for our favorite haunts in the Paris of the South.
Pack
Savannah gets a little steamy in the summer to say the least. How can you stay looking cool in the heat? Girls, pair a maxi dress with strappy sandals for an easy, elegant look. Guys, get the signature Southern preppy look with the AE Denim Shorts in a khaki color paired back with the AE Striped Short Sleeve Button-Down. Shade yourself with a hat and sunglasses and keep your feet comfy with a pair of simple canvas sneakers.
What to pack for your Savannah getaway!
Shop this Look
Girls:
AEO Macrame Fringe Clutch (similar)
Guys:
AE Striped Short Sleeve Button-Down
AEO Straw Fedora (similar)
Eat
Anyone who has ever heard of Paula Dean or low country cooking knows Savannah, like the rest of the south, has a rich food culture. Our don’t-miss eating experience is Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, a converted boarding house turned family-style restaurant. Everyday features fried chicken and over fifteen sides brought to the table, as well as your choice of sweet tea or lemonade and a homemade dessert.
If you’re in City Market, stop by Firefly Cafe and grab a table outside. Try the corn chowder with crab meat or dressed up mac ‘n cheese. You can’t leave Savannah without a traditional low country boil, so head out to Bobo Seafood Market to fill up on shrimp, blue crab, sausage, potatoes, and corn boiled in a secret seasoning.
Don’t miss the pralines at River Street Sweets. Grab a warm free sample to munch on while you browse for gifts to take home to family and friends. Sweet tooth still not satisfied? Stop by Leopold’s Ice Cream for a secret-recipe scoop that has been in use since 1935.
Do
Spend some time sorting through Paris Market, a smorgasbord of antiques and relics from European flea markets and estate sales. Find items ranging from an entire museum’s bird collection to glassware to one of a kind jewelry. Afterwards, explore the 21 blocks of Savannah’s historic downtown district and check out the 250 year old trees perpetually draped with Spanish Moss.
In the mood for a little paranormal activity? Savannah offers over 30 ghost tours, including a haunted pub crawl. Plus, don’t miss stops at the Mercer Williams House, immortalized in Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil, and the Bonaventure Cemetery, the final resting place for artists, writers, and historical heroes from the past 150 years.
Craving the sun and surf? Head to Tybee Island, a quick 20 minute drive from Savannah. Whether you want to surf, kayak, or just relax on the beach, Tybee Island is the perfect getaway from the Savannah heat and crowds. Refuel at Sundae Cafe, a former ice cream shop turned restaurant along First Street, which serves up seafood in every way imaginable. Try the sushi nachos or seafood cheesecake.
If you’re itching for a little Civil War history, stop by Fort Pulaski on your drive to or from Tybee Island. Even if you aren’t a history buff, you’ll enjoy walking around the brick fortress and taking in the views of the Low Country.
Need more ideas for your Savannah getaway? Check out our Savannah Pinterest board.
