Along the Georgia coast, Savannah is a city where cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and antebellum architecture converge to create an enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking a romantic getaway, Savannah offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
A Glimpse into Savannah’s Storied Past
Founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, Savannah is America’s first planned city. Oglethorpe’s design featured a grid of streets interspersed with public squares, many of which remain today. The city flourished as a mercantile hub, thanks to its strategic port location. Over time, Savannah became a melting pot of cultures, shaped by Native American tribes, European settlers, and African heritage. The preservation of its historic district, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966, allows visitors to step back in time and explore centuries of Southern history.
Where to Stay: Accommodations for Every Traveler
The Drayton Hotel
Located in the heart of the Historic District, The Drayton Hotel offers refined Southern luxury. Guests can enjoy elegantly appointed rooms, rooftop cocktails with panoramic views, and easy access to River Street and Broughton Street’s shops and galleries. Room rates start at approximately $325 per night, depending on the season and availability.
The Alida Hotel
This riverside boutique hotel blends industrial style with warm Southern hospitality. The Alida features sleek, modern rooms, a rooftop bar called The Lost Square, and a chic lobby lounge. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy contemporary comfort in a historic setting. Room rates typically range from $250 to $350 per night.
Perry Lane Hotel
A sophisticated blend of art, culture, and luxury, Perry Lane Hotel is known for its curated interiors, rooftop pool, and fine dining at The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market. Located downtown, it’s a favorite among guests seeking a high-end stay with a cultural twist. Room rates start at approximately $325 per night, with variations based on room type and season.
17 Hundred 90 Inn & Restaurant
Located at 307 East President Street, 17 Hundred 90 Inn & Restaurant is Savannah’s oldest inn, dating back to 1790. Situated just west of Columbia Square in the Historic District, this inn occupies what was originally three separate residences. The property offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with 17 uniquely decorated rooms featuring antique furnishings and period details. Guests can enjoy a gourmet Southern breakfast each morning and dine at the on-site restaurant, which serves classic Southern cuisine. The inn is also known for its haunted history, adding an intriguing element to your stay. Room rates at 17 Hundred 90 Inn & Restaurant typically range from $127 to $234 per night, depending on the room type and season. For instance, queen rooms are available from approximately $146 per night, while king rooms can range up to $234 per night .
The Thunderbird Inn
Savannah’s quirkiest hotel, The Thunderbird Inn is a budget-friendly, retro motel with charm. Enjoy free MoonPies and RC Cola in your room, complimentary breakfast snacks, and a great location near Forsyth Park and the SCAD Museum of Art. Room rates start at approximately $100 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers.
Dining in Savannah: A Culinary Journey
Savannah’s culinary scene is a rich mosaic of flavors shaped by its Southern heritage, coastal location, and vibrant cultural influences. Whether you’re walking through the Historic District or dining by the waterfront, the variety of cuisines you’ll encounter reflects the city’s deep-rooted traditions and its evolving food identity. Savannah’s culinary scene offers a delicious blend of the past and present. From traditional Lowcountry feasts to modern farm-to-table innovation, the city continues to evolve while honoring the flavors that define it.
From Low Country seafood boils and oysters to Gullah-Geechee Influences (descendants of enslaved West Africans who settled along the Southeastern coast — have deeply influenced Savannah’s culinary roots). Savannah doesn’t shy away from hearty, soulful cooking. Think fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and collard greens — all staples of Southern comfort food. Meals are often served family-style, especially in traditional spots where recipes have been passed down for generations.
The Grey offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience in a beautifully restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal. Led by James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey, the restaurant serves refined Southern dishes like foie gras and shrimp and grits, crafted with seasonality and sophistication. Guests can expect to pay between $40 and $70 per person for a multi-course meal, depending on selections and wine pairings.
The Public Kitchen & Bar brings a modern approach to Southern comfort food. Set in a sleek, urban setting, highlights include the shrimp and grits with sherry cream sauce, and their locally sourced burgers and craft cocktails. Prime cuts of beef such as the 8oz Prime Filet ($38) and 10oz Prime New York ($39).
Chive Sea Bar & Lounge is a downtown gem perfect for seafood lovers. The intimate, art-deco-inspired space pairs well with dishes such as Chilean sea bass in red curry sauce and lump crab risotto. Prices for Chive are mid-range.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is a Savannah institution, serving up heaping portions of traditional Southern fare. At communal tables, you’ll enjoy fried chicken, collard greens, sweet potatoes, and cornbread, just like a classic Southern Sunday supper. Adults are $35.
The Pirates’ House combines history and hearty Low Country cuisine. Operating since 1753, this former seafarers’ tavern offers dishes like Low Country boil, pecan chicken, and honey-bourbon glazed salmon—all in a building steeped in nautical legend.
Activities to Experience in Savannah
One of the best ways to experience the city is on a walking tour of the Savannah Historic District, where you can explore the city’s iconic squares, historic homes, and hauntingly beautiful cemeteries. Whether self-guided or led by a historian, these tours reveal the city’s rich and often mysterious past.
Visit Wormsloe Historic Site, where a breathtaking mile-long avenue of live oaks leads to the tabby ruins of a colonial estate. The site includes trails, a museum, and demonstrations of colonial life.
Railroad enthusiasts and families will enjoy the Georgia State Railroad Museum, located in the historic Central of Georgia Railway complex. Tour historic railcars, explore model trains, and ride on a real diesel locomotive.
Catch a live show at the Savannah Theatre, which has entertained locals and visitors since 1818. Its year-round productions include musical revues, comedy, and seasonal favorites.
If you’re seeking sun and surf, head to Tybee Island, just 30 minutes from downtown. With sandy beaches, the historic Tybee Lighthouse, and laid-back seafood shacks, it’s the perfect coastal escape.
Savannah’s unique blend of old-world elegance, vibrant culture, and culinary excellence makes it a destination worth visiting any time of year. From its historic charm and scenic landscapes to its modern comforts and rich flavors, the Hostess City of the South welcomes you with open arms and endless experiences.
