10 Fun Things to Do in the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia
There are few places in the United States as historic and charming as the city of Savannah, Georgia. With its beautiful antebellum architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and reputation as one of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit for any traveler. While there are many great things to see and do in Savannah, here are just a few of the highlights of things to do in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia that you won’t want to miss.
1. Ghost Tour with Blue Orb
This is a must-do for any traveler looking to experience the historic and haunted side of Savannah. The Blue Orb Savannah Ghost Tours are some of the most popular in the city. These walking tours take you to some of the most haunted locations in Savannah, including cemeteries, mansions, and squares. If you’re looking for a scare, this tour is for you!
Our tour guide’s name was Adam. He was witty, thoughtful, and knowledgeable about the stories surrounding the hauntings. If you book with Blue Orb, ask for Adam! You can read about my chilling Savannah ghost tour if you dare.
2. Pirate House
The Pirate House is a historic restaurant located in the heart of the historic district of Savannah, Georgia. While incredibly charming, ghosts of pirates who once frequented the building evidently haunt this establishment. The Pirate House is a popular tourist attraction and is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the haunted side of Savannah. Be sure to try their famous grog while you’re there!
I had my first encounter with orange marmalade on a buttermilk biscuit on a lunch outing at the Pirate House. I have to admit that I am now obsessed with orange marmalade. How have I been alive all these years and never tried this combo? It is pure bliss!
3. River Street
River Street is a historic cobblestone street in Savannah, Georgia, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. The street offers views of the Savannah River and is a popular tourist attraction. Some of the most popular restaurants and bars on River Street include The Olde Pink House, The Crab Shack, and Wet Willy’s. Be sure to stop by one of these establishments for a bite while you’re in Savannah!
One of the places I always like to visit is the Savannah Bee Company. They make the best lip balms on the planet!
4. City Market
The City Market in Savannah, Georgia, is a historic market that was established in 1791. The market is located in the heart of the historic district and is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. Also, the City Market is also home to a variety of shops, including souvenir shops, art galleries, and candy stores.
We stopped in Byrd’s Famous Cookies to grab some Almond Shortbread Cookies. I proceeded to eat the entire bag that evening.
5. Forsyth Park
This 30-acre park is the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing, stroll, or relax in the shade. Located in the heart of the historic district of Savannah, Georgia. The park was established in 1851 and is home to various historical monuments and buildings, including the Forsyth Park Fountain, the Confederate Monument, and the Jewish Monument. The park is located at 2806 East President Street and is 30 acres in size.
The historic Forsyth Park Fountain was erected in 1858 and is made out of granite, marble and bronze. The fountain is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Savannah and has been featured in several films, including Forrest Gump.
6. Bonaventure Cemetery
Not really in the historic district of Savannah, we can’t leave out Bonaventure Cemetery. Bonaventure is one of the most historic cemeteries in America, with its ornate gates, winding paths, and stunning gravestones.
The cemetery was established in 1846 and is home to over 4,000 graves, including the graves of several well-known Savannahians, such as Juliette Gordon Low (founder of the Girl Scouts of America) and singer Ray Charles. Some say the ghosts of former slaves haunt the cemetery.
We did a tour during the day, which was eerily beautiful. But there are night tours which I am sure would be a downright spooky experience!
7. Mercer-Williams House
The Mercer-Williams House is a historic house in Savannah, Georgia, built in 1848. The house is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the Mercer family, who once lived there. The Mercer-Williams House is open for tours seven days a week and is a must-see for any traveler visiting Savannah.
This famous house inspired the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, based on real-life events. Which later turned into a movie by the same name starring John Cusack and Kevin Spacey.
8. The Squares
There are nine squares in historic Savannah, Georgia, each one with its unique history and charm. The squares are a great place to take a break from sightseeing, relax in the shade, or have a picnic.
Some of the most popular squares in Savannah include:
- Forsyth Park
- Reynolds Square
- Johnson Square
- Telfair Square
- Madison Square
- Washington Square
- Chippewa Square
- Ellis Square
- Wright Square
9. Hop on a Trolley Tour
One of the best ways to see historic Savannah is by taking a trolley tour. Trolley tours are a great way to learn about the city’s history and see some of the most popular tourist attractions. While several trolley tour companies operate in Savannah, we chose the Old Savannah Trolley Tours. We hopped on and off to different areas of the city, which was super handy.
They also had re-enactors appear at different locations, from Forrest Gump to Juliette Gordon Lowe. It was an unexpected treat and brought Savannah’s history to life!
10. Leopold’s Ice Cream
Leopold’s Ice Cream is a historic ice cream shop in Savannah, Georgia. Founded in 1919, this national treasure scoops out old-fashioned and incredibly tasty ice cream. Leopold’s is located at 212 East Broughton Street and is open seven days a week. Be forewarned. We waited in line out the door and down the street for 45 minutes. But it was worth every second!
There you have ten things to do in historic Savannah, Georgia. Whether you’re interested in history, ghosts, or food, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Have you been to Savannah? What are your favorite things to do in the historic district?
