Exploring Savannah for the First Time - Here’s Everything You Need to Know

1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Savannah?

Timing matters, especially in a city that’s as weather-sensitive and event-driven as Savannah.

? Best Seasons

• Spring (March to May) is the most popular time. The azaleas bloom, the weather is perfect, and festivals like the Savannah Music Festival light up the city.

• Fall (September to November) is cooler and less crowded, offering beautiful foliage and lower accommodation prices.

• Summer (June to August) is hot and humid — expect highs in the 90s°F — but it's also when hotel deals are easiest to find.

• Winter (December to February) is mild and quiet, ideal for budget travelers.

Pro tip: Avoid peak weekends like St. Patrick’s Day unless you’re coming for the party — it’s the second-largest celebration in the U.S., and the crowds are intense.

2. Where to Stay: Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

Savannah is compact and walkable, but location is key to convenience and experience.

? Historic District

Why stay here? It’s Savannah’s crown jewel — cobblestone streets, manicured squares, and proximity to most major attractions.

Popular stays:

• The Marshall House: A historic hotel with Southern charm and ghostly legends.

• Perry Lane Hotel: A luxury option with a rooftop bar and curated local style.

? Midtown or Victorian District

A quieter option with beautiful old homes and local coffee shops, perfect if you want charm without the buzz.

? Tybee Island (30 mins away)

Ideal for a mix of city and beach. You can stay oceanfront and drive in for day trips.

3. Getting Around Savannah: Transportation Tips

Savannah is one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., but here are a few ways to navigate like a pro.

? Walking

The Historic District is compact and designed for pedestrians. Most attractions are within a 1.5-mile radius.

? Free DOT Shuttle

Savannah offers a free Downtown Transportation (DOT) shuttle, which loops around popular areas and makes 20+ stops.

? Bike Rentals

With flat terrain and scenic streets, biking is easy. Check out Savannah On Wheels or CAT Bike rentals.

? Taxis and Rideshares

Uber and Lyft operate here and are reliable for trips outside the downtown core.

4. Must-See Attractions for First-Time Visitors

? Forsyth Park

A 30-acre green space anchored by the iconic Forsyth Fountain. Perfect for a morning stroll or afternoon picnic.

Don’t miss: The Saturday farmer’s market and the shaded walking paths.

? River Street

Lined with 200-year-old cotton warehouses turned into shops, bars, and restaurants. Walk the cobblestones and enjoy riverside views of container ships.

Hot spot: Grab a drink from The Shrimp Factory and walk with it (Savannah allows open containers downtown).

? Savannah City Market

A lively four-block area with art galleries, cafes, and live music. It’s great for people-watching and souvenir shopping.

? Bonaventure Cemetery

One of the most beautiful cemeteries in the U.S., immortalized in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Take a guided tour for the rich stories.

? Wormsloe Historic Site

Drive under a mile-long avenue of live oaks to this old tabby ruins site. It’s a dream for photographers and history buffs.

? Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

Known as the “Sistine Chapel of the South,” this Gothic cathedral stuns with its stained-glass windows and grand architecture.

5. Local Eats and Southern Treats You Can’t Miss

? Must-Try Dishes

• Shrimp and Grits: Try it at The Grey or Vic’s on the River.

• Fried Green Tomatoes: Served best at The Olde Pink House.

• Savannah Red Rice and She-crab soup: Both deeply rooted in Gullah-Geechee traditions.

? Sweet Stops

• Leopold’s Ice Cream: This 100-year-old soda fountain-style shop is worth the wait.

• Byrd’s Famous Cookies: Free samples and endless flavors.

6. Unique Experiences Only in Savannah

? Ghost Tours

Savannah is considered one of America’s most haunted cities. Take a walking ghost tour, a haunted pub crawl, or the eerie Hearse Ghost Tour.

? Historic House Tours

Step inside mansions like:

• Mercer-Williams House

• Owens-Thomas House

• Davenport House

Each tells a different story from antebellum elegance to post-Civil War life.

? Savannah Riverboat Cruise

Enjoy a scenic dinner or sunset cruise on a classic paddleboat. Ideal for couples and families alike.

? Trolley Tours

Hop-on-hop-off trolleys like Old Town Trolley Tours are perfect for orientation on Day 1.

7. Safety and Travel Etiquette

? Is Savannah Safe?

Yes — especially in the Historic District. However, avoid isolated areas at night and lock your car doors.

? Dress Code Tips

• Summers are humid. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are key.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes — cobblestone streets aren’t stiletto-friendly.

? Southern Hospitality

People here are friendly. A smile and a “hello” go a long way.

8. What to Pack for Savannah

• Bug spray (especially in summer)

• Refillable water bottle

• Sunscreen

• Umbrella or rain jacket (showers are common)

• Camera or smartphone for stunning photo ops

9. Hidden Gems You’ll Be Glad You Discovered

? Jones Street

Dubbed one of the “prettiest streets in America.” Perfect for photos and a peaceful stroll.

? Back in the Day Bakery

Locals swear by this off-the-beaten-path gem for biscuits and pie.

? Savannah Bee Company

Sample artisanal honey and mead tastings — ideal for a sweet afternoon break.

? Telfair Museums

Three connected museums featuring art, history, and sculpture gardens.

10. Suggested Itinerary for First-Timers (3 Days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Forsyth Park stroll

• Afternoon: Historic house tour + City Market lunch

• Evening: Ghost tour + dinner on River Street

Day 2:

• Morning: Bonaventure Cemetery tour

• Afternoon: Cathedral + Jones Street walk

• Evening: Savannah Riverboat sunset cruise

Day 3:

• Day trip to Wormsloe and Tybee Island

• Return for a farewell dinner at The Grey or The Olde Pink House

Conclusion: Your First Trip to Savannah Will Definitely Not Be Your Last

First-time visitors to Savannah often leave feeling like they’ve only scratched the surface — and that’s the beauty of this magical city. It’s a place where every corner tells a story, every square invites you to sit and stay awhile, and every local has a tale or a tip to share.

So whether you're coming for the food, the history, the ghosts, or the gardens — one thing's for sure: Savannah leaves a lasting impression.

Take your time, soak in the charm, and don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your return before your first trip ends.