Imagine stepping into a living postcard—cobblestone streets shaded by moss-draped oaks, historic mansions whispering tales of old, and picture-perfect squares each with a soul of its own. Welcome to Savannah, Georgia—a city where time slows down and charm reigns supreme.
If you’ve ever wandered Savannah’s Historic District, you’ve likely found yourself drawn to the city’s squares—22 in total—each one unique, beautiful, and rich in history. But what many don’t realize is that these squares are more than just green patches; they’re vibrant microcosms of the city’s story, architecture, and personality.
In this guide, we’ll uncover Savannah’s most beautiful squares—some famous, others lesser-known—sharing their hidden tales, architectural highlights, and insider tips to help you explore them like a local.
Why Savannah’s Squares Are So Special
Savannah’s original city plan, designed in 1733 by British General James Oglethorpe, was a stroke of urban planning genius. It was based on a grid layout with open public squares at regular intervals—spaces designed for defense, community, and commerce.
Originally, there were 24 squares, though 22 remain today. Each square is flanked by historic buildings, churches, and monuments, making them not only architectural gems but also serene retreats from the city's bustle.
These squares are:
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Pedestrian-friendly
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Shaded by centuries-old oaks
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Often centered around a statue, fountain, or historic marker
Let’s take a leisurely stroll through the most iconic and underrated ones.
1. Chippewa Square: Where History Meets Pop Culture
Claim to Fame: Forest Gump’s famous bench scene
Established: 1815
Location: Bull and McDonough Streets
Why Visit:
Chippewa Square is arguably the most visited square in Savannah, thanks to its cameo in the film Forrest Gump. While the actual bench was a movie prop, the square itself is very real and utterly charming.
At its center stands a bronze statue of General Oglethorpe, the city’s founder, facing south to defend Savannah from Spanish invaders.
Hidden Gem Tip: Walk around the square and admire the Savannah Theatre—one of America’s oldest continually operating theaters.
2. Lafayette Square: A Photographer’s Paradise
Established: 1837
Location: Abercorn and Macon Streets
Why Visit:
Framed by stunning homes and gothic churches, Lafayette Square is a favorite for photographers and romantics alike. It sits directly in front of the breathtaking Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, whose twin spires and stained-glass windows dominate the skyline.
Insider’s Tip: Visit during St. Patrick’s Day, when the city dyes the fountain water green!
Notable Architecture Nearby:
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Hamilton-Turner Inn (rumored inspiration for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil)
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Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home
3. Monterey Square: The Most Beautiful Square in Savannah
Established: 1847
Location: Bull and Wayne Streets
Why Visit:
Ask any local and they’ll tell you—Monterey Square is the prettiest of them all. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and tranquility.
The Pulaski Monument stands at the heart of the square, honoring Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski. But the real showstopper is the Mercer-Williams House—made famous by John Berendt’s bestselling book and the film adaptation.
Hidden Gem Tip: Book a guided tour of the Mercer-Williams House to hear the mysterious tales behind its history.
4. Troup Square: Where Quirk Meets Classic
Established: 1851
Location: Habersham and Charlton Streets
Why Visit:
Known for its Armillary Sphere sculpture rather than a statue, Troup Square breaks the mold. It’s affectionately called “Dog Park Square” by locals, thanks to its popularity among pet owners.
Unique Fact:
This square was the filming location for scenes in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Fun Tip: Visit in the evening for a quiet, intimate ambiance—perfect for a peaceful stroll.
5. Wright Square: A Window into Native American History
Established: 1733
Location: Bull and President Streets
Why Visit:
One of the original four squares laid out by Oglethorpe, Wright Square holds deep historic significance. It’s the final resting place of Tomochichi, the Yamacraw chief who helped establish peace between Native Americans and settlers.
Insider Fact:
His grave was once marked with a granite boulder; now, a modern monument commemorates his role in Savannah’s founding.
Nearby Attractions:
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The Lutheran Church of the Ascension
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Wright Square Cafe (try their hand-crafted chocolates!)
6. Columbia Square: A Quiet Escape
Established: 1799
Location: Habersham and President Streets
Why Visit:
Tucked away in a quieter part of the Historic District, Columbia Square offers a peaceful reprieve. The focal point is a cast-iron fountain relocated from Wormsloe Plantation.
Nearby Landmark:
The Davenport House Museum, a Federal-style home built in 1820, sits right on the square and offers insight into early 19th-century life in Savannah.
Local Tip:
Grab a to-go coffee and enjoy the silence—this square is less crowded and perfect for solo travelers or readers.
7. Johnson Square: The Grandfather of All Squares
Established: 1733 (Savannah’s first and largest square)
Location: Bull and Congress Streets
Why Visit:
Johnson Square was the city’s original central square and remains a bustling spot today. It’s home to the Nathanael Greene Monument, honoring the Revolutionary War general.
Interesting Fact:
This square served as the commercial hub in colonial times and still buzzes with office workers, shops, and cafes.
Tip:
Watch the locals on lunch break and enjoy people-watching while basking in history.
8. Reynolds Square: Colonial Vibes and Southern Cuisine
Established: 1734
Location: Abercorn and St. Julian Streets
Why Visit:
Home to a statue of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, Reynolds Square offers spiritual and colonial charm in equal measure.
Best For:
Food lovers! Just steps from the square is The Olde Pink House, one of Savannah’s most famous restaurants, offering Lowcountry cuisine in a historic 18th-century mansion.
Travel Tip:
Make a reservation—it books up fast!
9. Franklin Square: The Gateway to City Market
Established: 1790
Location: Montgomery and Bryan Streets
Why Visit:
Often overlooked, Franklin Square is the unofficial entrance to City Market, a lively area filled with shops, galleries, and street performers.
Monument to Note:
The Haitian Monument here honors the Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, a battalion of Haitian soldiers who fought in the American Revolution.
Ideal For:
Visitors looking to blend history with modern-day fun.
10. Calhoun Square: The One That Still Holds Secrets
Established: 1851
Location: Abercorn and Taylor Streets
Why Visit:
Calhoun Square is the only square in Savannah that still has visible slave burial grounds beneath it. It's a sobering yet important part of the city’s complex history.
Why It Matters:
Visiting Calhoun Square is a chance to reflect, pay respect, and deepen your understanding of Savannah’s past.
Tip:
Combine your visit with a guided historic walking tour to learn more about this significant site.
Best Time to Visit
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Early morning: Peaceful, great for photos
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Golden hour (late afternoon): Ideal lighting and fewer crowds
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Evening: Romantic and quiet, especially around Troup and Columbia Squares
The Soul of Savannah Lies in Its Squares
Savannah’s squares are more than tourist attractions. They’re living, breathing time capsules—each with a heartbeat, a story, and a spirit. From forest-green canopies and historical monuments to quirky sculptures and hidden graves, the squares offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, photographer, or simply someone who enjoys slow, scenic strolls—Savannah’s squares will draw you in and never quite let you go.
