Jay knows I love the cities of the South, especially New Orleans and Savannah, so when he was asked to be the keynote speaker at a Savannah medical conference (all expenses paid for 2) he invited me along to keep him company. Me? Turn down an all expense paid trip anywhere? Much less Savannah?
Surely you jest.
My bags were packed before we got off the phone with one another.
Savannah has its own vibe - a combination of innovative and traditional. Savannah is a quintessential southern city.
Although the conference would last for 3 days, Jay decided we'd spend 6 nights in Savannah, heading for home on the 7th day. The conference-planned activities over the first 3 days would occupy our time, the remaining 4 days of the itinerary was our own.
Despite the fact our trip was all expenses paid, I'm going to try to give you a budget friendly way to see Savannah. One way to save is to consider investing in a Tour Pass to save up to 40% on Savannah attractions. Available in 1 day, 2 day or 3 day passes. It works very similar to a Go City Pass. (I did check Go City as well but they don't have passes for Savannah.)
Savannah Deals, Discounts and Savings
Savannah offers a variety of discounts and special offers to enhance your visit. Here are some of the best deals available:
Visit Savannah: Get the most out of your Savannah visit by making use of offers from hotels, restaurants,
tours, and attractions. Check out their specials now and come back often to scoop up the latest deals.
TourPass: Save 40% at Savannah's top attractions with a 2-Day TourPass.
This pass allows unlimited access to over 30 top tours, attractions, and historic sites, with no planning
required.
Budget Travel Tips: The cheapest times to visit Savannah are from late April to early May and winter months (November to February). Booking early can save you 10-20% on room rates, especially in January and February.
Groupon: Find the best sightseeing or tour discounts and deals in Savannah, GA with Groupon! Browse their
list of deals and get up to 70% off today.
Travelin' Coupons: Save $4.01 per ticket at Cocktail Classes in Congress Street and $2.08 when you book for Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah with Travelin’ Coupon.
Savannah offers several free walking tours that allow you to explore the city's rich history and beautiful architecture while paying what you think the tour is worth.
Free Savannah Tours: This tour operates on a name-your-own-price basis, meaning the tour itself is free, but participants are encouraged to tip based on their experience. The tours cover various historical aspects of Savannah and are led by knowledgeable guides. You can book your spot online, and there is a small fee to cover the city tour tax.
Kayra Tours: This service provides free walking tours that highlight Savannah's iconic landmarks, lush parks, and charming neighborhoods. The tours are designed to cater to different interests, including history and ghost stories. It's recommended to arrive early, as spots can fill quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Self-Guided Walking Tours: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, there are suggested self-guided walking routes, allowing you to enjoy the city's charm without a formal guide. These routes take you through Savannah's historic squares, parks, and notable sites.
Most walking tours last about 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route and the number of stops.
Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tours: Although not free, Savannah has a few hop on hop off trolley tours that are a great way to see the city. You can see them here.
Savannah On Wheels: On your trip to Savannah, add renting a bike or taking a guided bike tour from Savannah On Wheels to your list of things to do in Savannah! (I brought my own bike along)
Photo credit: Savannah On Wheels
If you're a Yank like me and not accustomed to the South's heat and humidity, biking is an easier and less inexpensive way to see Savannah rather than exhausting yourself walking. That heat and humidity do take a toll on you.
The bike tours are 2-hours long with typically 4-6 stops along the leisurely ride. Now when you book a guided bicycle tour, you get the bike for the entire day — included. That’s right! After the tour, keep your bike for the rest of the day and explore at your own pace — no extra charge.
Schedule: Sunday – Friday at 10:30am (and 1:30pm seasonally)
Saturday at 9:30am and 12:00pm
You can rent either a traditional bike (tour included) $49 per person or you can rent an Ebike (tour included) for $79 per person.
I also love that there are so many different ways to see Savannah - free walking tours, guided tours, hop on hop off trolleys, bus, segway, bicycle, riverboat...and because it's laid out in a 24 section grid pattern it's super easy to negotiate your way around the city and very compact.
THE DOT SYSTEM
Savannah’s public transport, including several free services especially targeted toward the needs of tourists, can take you downtown and around the Historic District’s key sights.
Yes, Savannah, GA has a trolley system known as the Downtown Transportation (DOT) system.
This system includes:
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Fare-free shuttle buses that connect various points of interest in the historic district.
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The dot Express Shuttle, which runs every day and connects to public parking garages.
These services are designed to provide convenient transportation around the city without the need for a car.
THE CAT SYSTEM
Fare-free shuttle buses and a ferry provide safe and convenient transportation around the Historic District and its most popular tourist areas. Savannah’s local bus system operates services in and around the wider city and to its outlying suburbs, some of which stop near popular tourist attractions.
Savannah's other transportation system is the CAT system.
FREE TROLLEY BUS & FERRY
Savannah provides free transportation around the Historic District as an alternative to driving and parking in the city’s congested central areas.
There are three separate services, collectively known as “dot” (short for Downtown Transportation). These connect most of Savannah’s principal points of interest.
Two dot Express Shuttle services circuit downtown; the Savannah Belles Ferry connects River Street with Hutchinson Island. A map of the three routes, with popular attractions and parking garages marked, is available here.
All dot services are entirely free and ADA-accessible.
The dot Express Shuttle services run every day: Monday-Friday, 7am-7pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm. Buses run every 10 minutes, with 20 stops on two separate routes: Downtown and Forsyth Park.
The Downtown route follows a loop through the upper Historic District, connecting with City Market and several downtown squares and other attractions, and passing within a couple of blocks of several downtown parking garages.
The Forsyth Park route takes a counter-clockwise route to either side of Bull Street, traveling up Drayton Street and down Whitaker Street between Johnson Square and Forsyth Park.
RIDING THE FREE SHUTTLE
To ride, just find one of the purple and green “dot” signs (don’t confuse these with the regular CAT bus stop signs), and wait for your bus to arrive. Look out for a purple and green bus or a bus with a symbol reading “dot” on the front or side. Map showing all the stops
Ordinary paid city buses, operated by CAT, may also pass by. These will be clearly marked, with a sign on the front displaying the route number and name. Paid shuttle services may also pass; these will be painted in the livery of their respective companies.
SAVANNAH BELLES FERRY
This free passenger ferry connects River Street to the hotels and convention center on Hutchinson Island. The service operates between three landings, two on the city side of the Savannah River and one on Hutchinson Island.
From River Street, embark at either the City Hall Landing, behind City Hall at the head of Bull Street and next to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, or the Waving Girl Landing, near the Waving Girl (Florence Martus) statue in Morrell Park, close to the East Broad Street ramp.
The Savannah Belles Ferry runs every 20-30 minutes daily, 7am-10pm. Services to the Waving Girl Landing operate 8:20am-6pm. Travel time to cross the river is 10-20 minutes, depending on which landings you travel between. Pets, either on a leash or in a carrier, are welcome. See full service information and schedule.
SAVANNAH BUS ROUTES
Chatham Area Transit (CAT) provides numerous paid services around Savannah and its suburbs.
A map of all the services operated is available here (please note that the 100X service to the airport is currently suspended), and the list of CAT bus routes, with schedule information, is here. Some services have been modified on account of the pandemic and may change at short notice, so re-check schedules and routes for your trip before setting out.
The easiest way to plan your trip on Savannah’s buses is with the Google Maps site. Enter your destination into the search bar, then click Directions, then click on the bus/train icon for suggested routes by public transportation.
SAVANNAH BUS FARES, TICKETS & PASSES
Single-journey tickets:
– Tickets to ride all CAT buses can be purchased on board the vehicle.
– Try to have the correct fare, as drivers are not able to make change.
– A one-way ticket on Savannah’s ordinary public transit system costs $1.50. Transfers (valid for 90 minutes) are free, but should be requested before depositing your fare.
– Children under 41 inches tall ride for free, two per adult passenger.
– Seniors (65+), youth (6-18), veterans and passengers with a disability can pay a reduced fare of $0.75 with the relevant ID or Medicare card. ID is not required for passengers who use a wheelchair. For full details of the half-fare scheme, see here.
Day passes can also be purchased on board the bus, for $3. A day pass allows unlimited travel on the day it is activated. You need to notify the driver you want a day pass rather than a single ticket before depositing your fare.
Weekly and monthly passes are also available, but these must be bought in advance. A 7-day pass, valid for seven days from the day of activation, is $14. A monthly pass, valid for 31 days from activation, is $50. The half-fare program also applies to these passes for eligible passengers.
Passes, and also books of 10 tickets, are sold at Savannah’s transportation hub, the Joe Murray Rivers, Jr. Intermodal Transit Center, at 610 West Oglethorpe Avenue (three blocks north of the Visitor Center on Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard, then left onto West Oglethorpe. The bus station, which is also used for Greyhound coach services, will be on your right). Hours for ticket sales are Monday-Friday, 7am-8pm.
Alternatively, you can purchase passes online to use in conjunction with the Transit Mobile Ticketing App, which can be downloaded onto your smartphone via the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store (more details here).
It's been my experience that exploring Savannah is a bit different than exploring other travel destinations.
Waking up early to avoid the crowds and make the most of your day is common travel advice for a good reason–but it doesn’t work for Savannah.
Savannah keeps a slow, leisurely schedule in general. It isn't a city where you get up at the crack of dawn and jam pack your day. Good luck finding anything but breakfast restaurants and coffee shops open before 10:00 AM if you do!
Savannah is a city where you take yourself off life's fast track and you explore at a slow, relaxing leisurely pace, "in tune" with the city itself. It's a city where you can sleep in and not miss a thing because it's been laid out so beautifully and is so walkable - so there's no need to rush anywhere. Sleep in for a bit!
Pick up a paper map
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.
Most of the things you're going to want to see are concentrated around River Street, the City Market District and the Historic District, which is laid out in squares as shown above. They're similar to mini grassy parks with statuary
that separate the streets.
While Google Maps is great, you'll save yourself a lot of headaches if you pick up a paper map of Savannah and use it to navigate your way around. It's much easier than using your cell phone! There are 22 squares laid out in a grid pattern and being able to see all of them laid at once makes navigating so much easier.
You won't be able to see all of the squares in one trip...but good reason to take a future trip to Savannah, right?
You can pick up free tourist maps just about anywhere–tourist offices, hotels, restaurants, etc,
Leave time for food in your itinerary
Savannah is a foodie's dream! Many tourist attractions themselves are restaurants, candy shops, coffee houses and the like! Eating delectable Lowcountry cuisine is absolutely a highlight of sightseeing in Savannah.
The food is a huge draw for those visiting Savannah, and because of that, I recommend planning long periods for meals and planning where to eat in advance. I've done my utmost to lay out the very best restaurants in Savannah in this itinerary so you don't waste time dining at a dud.
Also consider sharing a meal if you're traveling with a companion. Food portions served in Savannah are ridiculously large most of the time. Not only will you get to sample more of Lowcountry cooking, you'll save money on your dining bills!
Decide which Savannah museums are right for you when planning your itinerary
Savannah is so steeped in history that it has over 31 different museums (many in mansions) you can tour! Each one has a vibe and focus all its own. Obviously you're not going to see all 31+ museums in one trip to Savannah!
I've tried to include a number of them with different focuses in the itinerary I laid out so you can get an idea of some of Savannah's museums. What I recommend doing when planning your own itinerary (or readjusting ours to suit your own interests) is prioritizing a handful that really interest you and that you want to see. Tackle seeing those first and if you have time to squeeze one or two more in, great!
It would require a novel to explain all of the different districts of Savannah and the accommodations within them so we'll concentrate on the ones you'd be spending the most time in if you follow our itinerary.
The Historic District is probably the most well-known district in Savannah. The Northern and Southern ends of the Historic District are completely different from one another, however.
The Historic District is where you'll find the majority of tourist attractions, restaurants, etc. you'd visit. Accommodations will therefore, cost a bit more but you can walk virtually anywhere so save on transportation costs.
If your budget allows it, I'd recommend staying within the Historic District - specifically, the Broughton Street area. It's the street my fave Savannah digs is on.
However, avoid the City Market section at night due to shootings and gang activity.
Historic District South Zone - It’s one of the best areas to stay if you want to experience what it was truly like to live in Savannah “back in the day”. Very residential, few hotels but lots of nice B&B's. Stay in this zone if you want to be in a residential zone, further removed from the crowds. It’s a safe area, where you can experience the city more like a local. It’s not a party zone.
Historic District North Zone: River Street
River Street was the original warehouse district in Savannah. It was a center for trade where ships docked and loaded up with cotton and indigo to export across the world.
The area retains much of its rustic roots — with souvenir shops, restaurants, and art galleries all still operating out of warehouses built hundreds of years ago.
There are plenty of restaurants and bars, and many stay open late into the night. It’s one of the most touristy sections of Savannah, so it stays consistently busy and tends to get loud. The restaurants are fairly high priced and aren’t always the best Savannah has to offer. Parking is scarce and valet fees can get expensive. It’s a riverfront area, so you might see rats scurrying around near the water late at night in this particular section of the Riverfront.
Members of the homeless community often choose to sleep along River Street. It’s common for them to request spare change or handouts from visitors in this area.
Riverside District - If you like Vegas, the Riverside District is about as close to that atmosphere as you’ll get in Savannah. It’s a very touristy area that stays consistently busy.
It’s expensive, and there’s not a lot of parking along the riverfront. Security guards patrol the area, so you won’t typically find members of the homeless community sleeping in this section of the riverfront.
Our itinerary covers the Riverside district as well as this is where the conference was held and our hotel was.
The convention was being held at the Savannah Convention Center.
So our accommodations were at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. 1 Resort Drive, Savannah. 0.3 miles from the Convention Center.
(But of course there was a golf course! You're talking a conference of surgeons! They operate with a putter in one hand!)
The Westin
Convention Center
Our accommodations had been made for us so we had no idea what kind of room we'd have. We certainly didn't expect anything special, just your normal room - which would've been fine with us.
Imagine our surprise when the conference organizers had installed us in Westin's Governor's Suite simply because Jay was their keynote speaker! (I actually phoned the front desk thinking their desk clerk had handed us the wrong room key card.)
Governor's Suite / Photo credit: Westin
I have to say...the Westin is a gorgeous resort and if you can afford the price tag I highly recommend it.
The last photo is of the interior of the Savannah Belles ferry that runs every 30 minutes to and from the hotel and convention center on Hutchinson Island, across the river, connecting downtown Savannah's Riverwalk. The Savannah Belle's ferry operates daily from 7 am to 10 pm.
Now that we've seen how the "other half" lives, let's get back to budget accommodations reality.
Prior to this conference trip to Savannah, my accommodation of choice was The Marshall House in the North Historic District. 123 East Broughton Street, Savannah. It's vintage charm meets modern and would be within most people's budget. The average price per room at The Marshall House in Savannah, GA, is approximately $239.62. This price can vary based on the time of year and booking strategy, with the cheapest deals often found during the low season.
The Marshall House offers three suites and 65 guest rooms, ranging from our Petite Queen Rooms to the unique and spacious Mary Marshall Suite on the balcony.
I stayed in a Superior King, which is the most requested kind of room. This is an older hotel so some of the rooms are on the smaller side and the Superior King gives you the most space. However, the rooms are very clean and comfortable no matter which room you choose.
For a $40+ tax amenity fee, you’ll enjoy special touches that make a big difference in your stay. (It's worth it!)
Includes:
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Breakfasts at 45 Bistro (7am -10 am Breakfast for 2.)
$15.95 for additional guests • Kids under 13 eat free -
Nightly Wine & Cheese Reception
5-6:30 pm in the Library -
Nightly Entertainment
5:30-6:30 pm in the Library -
Enhanced high-speed internet access in room and throughout the hotel
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15% discount at select businesses on Broughton Street
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Coffee & bottled water available at the front desk
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Full-service concierge and itinerary assistance
Nightly Wine & Cheese Reception / Photo credit: Marshall House
Be sure to check out their Offers page before making reservations.
Just a head's up for any "'fraidy cats" out there...the Marshall House IS haunted, primarily by the ghost of Mary Marshall, the hotel's founder. Hotel staff joke "She's still greeting guests!"
Mary Marshall's portrait still hangs on the hotel lobby wall
Marshall House has a long infamous history you can read here. In fact, it's reputed to be one of Savannah's most haunted hotels. In 1998 a group of investors bought the vacant building to restore it to the hotel it is today. Renovations were temporarily halted when human bones were found beneath some of the floorboards and police cordoned it off as a crime scene, halting renovations while various body parts were sent out to the crime lab.
When the lab results came back, the paperwork stated the bones were from the Civil War era.
No surprise to this psychic medium/paranormal investigator. The hotel had a brief stint as a hospital during Savannah’s disastrous 1854 and 1876 Yellow Fever outbreaks and then again when Union soldiers commandeered it towards the end of the Civil War for use as a Union Army hospital so it was concluded the remains were likely the amputated limbs of soldiers.
At any rate, nothing to be afraid of staying in the reputed most haunted hotel in Savannah. The spirits of those hanging out are entirely friendly.
If you like being in the center of all the action, City Market is the zone is for you. If you love shopping, Broughton Street makes a great home base and you're within walking distance of nearly everything. Plenty of restaurants in the area too. Just use caution at night if out and about in the City Market area.
City Market
Budget Accommodations (Up to $210 per night)
Mid Range Accommodations ($210 - $270 per night)
Luxury Accommodations ($270+ per night)
Money $aving Tip:
Browse Savannah Deals & Special Offers
I'm going to give you 2 itineraries in 1 here. The first 3 days of the itinerary I set up as its own itinerary for a 3 day trip to Savannah, if you can't afford to be away for more than 3 days but don't want to miss the best stuff Savannah has to offer.
Jay and I spent 6 nights/7 days in Savannah so the next 4 days on the itinerary are for a longer than 3 day stay in Savannah.
Savannah For Morons Tour: If you don't do a single thing else while you're in Savannah you MUST take the Savannah For Morons tour! This is a trolley tour but it's a comedy/historical tour on wheels. Travelers reviews nearly all gave it a 5 star rating and most said it was the best tour they'd ever taken. I couldn't agree more! You will laugh your butt off from start to finish at the antics of the Moron Twins, Danny and Dannie. Not only that, their improvisational skills are bar none and they remember every single little detail they learn about each of the passengers aboard the trolley!
They even sang, danced and did costume changes!
The tour lasts 90 minutes and there's one short stop for drinks and a restroom break.
No children under 13 are allowed on the tour, nor can the trolley handle wheelchairs.
Although the tour is a bit pricey at $52.25 per person, it's worth every penny. It's so funny and unique I'd gladly pay twice that amount to do it again having now experienced it. Buy tickets here
Start your tour of Savannah in Forsythe Park. Its 19th century fountain has become nearly the trademark of Savannah. Begin at the North side of the park as this is where the fountain is, there's plenty of shade and benches to sit on, and for most of the year, flower gardens.
You’ll likely get to wander through much of Savannah’s historic center on your way to the park, getting acquainted with the city. Stop and pick up a coffee or latte at one of Savannah’s best coffee shops enroute.
Within Forsyth Park, you'll find a cafe, a visitor information center, two memorials, a Fragrant Garden for the Blind and two playgrounds to accommodate children of all ages. On Saturday mornings, a lively Farmer's Market takes over the south end of the park.
Continue further south in Forsyth, and you’ll come to a beautiful, wide-open lawn, a small blooming garden, and the second location of The Collins Quarter. (There are two locations, each having slightly different menus.)
If you like you can grab a coffee or latte there. More on The Collins Quarters later.
Admission to Forsythe Park is FREE.
As you leave Forsyth and head north again, make your way to Monterey Square.
You'll pass Congregation Mickve Israel, one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the USA, founded in 1733 (the synagogue itself dates to 1820).
Congregation Mickve Israel is a beautiful synagogue and is also in possession of some incredible rare historical artifacts. You can step inside for a few minutes to look around.
Continue on until you reach the Mercer Williams House. 429 Bull St, Savannah.
This is the home of Jim Williams, a notable antique dealer in Savannah who was tried (and acquitted) four times for the 1981 murder of Danny Hansford - as immortalized in the famous novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and later, the movie by the same title, directed by Clint Eastwood and filmed in Savannah.
You can see the full movie here, free of charge.
Because Jim Williams’ sister now owns the house, its most famous story is decidedly not told on the tour, which instead focuses on Jim Williams’ impressive collection of antiques and eclectic objects from around the world.
Museum tickets and entry are located behind the main house at 430 Whitaker Street.
The 35 minute guided tours are first come, first served only and run approximately every 20-40 minutes.
For parties of 6 or more, please call 912 236 6352 or 912 238 0208 to make a reservation if you would like.
Parking is located on the street and is metered. Please check your meter as it varies depending on which portion of the district you park in.
Hours:
Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
First tour begins at 10:30 a.m. and last tour is at 4:10 pm
Sunday 11:30 am - 5:00 pm
First tour begins at 12 noon and last tour is at 4:00 pm
Tours run approximately every 20-40 minutes
Admission:
Adult ticket: $14.95
Students and Active Military, with ID: $12.00
Children 6 and under: Free
Afternoon: Take a foodie tour to explore Lowcountry cuisine. The best and most popular Savannah foodie tour is Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour.
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This small-group tour helps keep your sightseeing personal
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Discover the best of the Savannah Historic District on this two-part tour
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Visit up to six local eateries and food shops, which many visitors miss
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Tastings add up to a full meal and are all included in the price
The tour lasts 3 hours and your tastings will comprise a full meal.
The tour begins at the Savannah Taste Experience
Marketplace, located at 108 West Broughton Street and ends at Savannah Bee Compny, 104 West Broughton Street.
The tour price starts at $96.95 per person and can be booked through Viator.
You'll pass through City Market on the foodie tour. When the foodie tour is finished, backtrack to City Market and explore it.
City Market is a warehouse-district-turned-tourist-attraction, home to souvenir shops, a few boutiques, and yes, even more food.
It's also where you'll find the quirky but interesting American Prohibition Museum. 209 W. St. Julian Street, Savannah. This is the only Prohibition museum in the United States and while there, guests will travel back in time to the early 1900s, as anti-alcohol rallies swept the nation and the "booze problem" was pushed to the forefront of American politics.
It is an experience encompassed by nearly 6,000 square feet, 1,000 artifacts, 35 wax figures, 13 galleries, 4 vintage cars, a fully stocked speakeasy, a theater – and more. We thought the exhibits were extremely well done.
The fully guided tour lasts about an hour as you travel back in time with a historically-costumed guide and explore the story of America’s dry spell. It ends with a period accurate cocktail or non-alcoholic “mocktail” included with your ticket.
There are different ticket options and prices vary by option. See options here
Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Money $aving Tips: During the first Sunday of February, the Georgia Historical Society celebrates Super Museum Sunday. From 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., more than 100 sites across the state offer FREE admission, including the Prohibition Museum.
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Groupon: Get 20% off admission
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TourPass: Includes admission to the American Prohibition Museum and offers up to 40% off on other top experiences.
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Tripster: Provides up to 18% off on tickets without requiring a discount code.
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Visit Savannah: Offers a $2 discount on entry fees.
Housed in that same building is a museum the kids will love - The Pirate Museum!
For a museum, this place was a blast. And unlike most pirate exhibits these pirate artifacts have been certified as being pirate genuine.
The interactive elements were fantastic as well and really brought the museum to life.
Open Everyday: 10am to 6pm with final entry at 5:15pm.
Note for parents: There is only one exhibit not suitable for children, that covers medicinal practices and punishment on the high seas. There is a convenient bypass to ensure only those who wish to experience this exhibit enter into the gallery.
Museum & Tavern:
Open Every day: 10am to 6 pm with final entry at 5:15 pm.
Evening: Take the kids to dinner at The Pirate's House. 20 E Broad Street, Savannah.
A small plot of land, originally a botanical garden modeled after the Chelsea Botanical Garden in London, England, is now home to the Pirates' House, a Savannah restaurant and one of the oldest standing buildings in Georgia.
In 1734, a small building was built on the plot of land to house the gardener who worked there. But in 1753, as Savannah revealed itself to be a port town, it was decided the botanical garden was no longer needed and this structure was the start of the Pirate House Inn, where it's rumored seamen and pirates alike drank and shared stories of their adventures at sea.
The modern-day restaurant was established in the early 1950s and welcomes Savannahians and tourists alike to enjoy an extensive southern-inspired seafood menu, served by waitresses in full pirate garb in one of the 15 separate dining rooms. The atmosphere remains true to a pirate’s inn, with maps, helms, flags and skulls hanging on the walls, as well as some of the original dining sets protected in glass cases.
The current owners like to say that Captain Flint, a pirate mentioned in the book Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, died in the upstairs bedroom, and that his ghost still haunts the building. Haunted or not, visitors can see rare early edition pages of the novel hanging on the walls of the Captain's Room and the Treasure Room.
Well, I think the Captain Flint ghost is a tall promotional tale but The Pirate's House was fun and relaxing nonetheless.
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Morning: Have an Aussie-style brunch at The Collins Quarter, 151 Bull St, Savannah. (The downtown location)
French Toast Special- Strawberry and Grand Marnier Reduction!
Styled after Melbourne's historic Collins Street, the restaurant delivers a unique café experience by pairing specialty coffee with innovative cuisine – all served in relaxed and casual environment.
They have a nice sized and varied brunch menu.
Hours
Brunch Daily: 8 am - 3 pm
After brunch make your way down to River Street and take a stroll by the river.
River Street is a vibrant and lively area along the Savannah River. It’s the perfect place to experience shopping, dining, and entertainment. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings create a charming atmosphere.
You'll find lots of interesting boutiques and galleries here.
Dining options range from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood or classic Southern dishes. Outdoor patios allow you to dine while taking in the beautiful river views.
River Street
A must stop on River Street is River Street Sweets. 13 E River St, Savannah.
Best pralines on the planet!!!
Money $aving Tip: Sign up for their free email and get 10% off your first order.
While exploring River Street take a stroll through the Riverstreet Market Place.
Savannah’s love of history is reflected in the beautifully re-created open-air market buildings that stood on River Street in the mid 1800’s.
River Street Market Place is on the east end of River Street , on the north side just before the famous “Waving Girl” monument. Enjoy a friendly Southern atmosphere while browsing through more than 70 shops, many of which represent countries from all over the world.
10am – 8pm Fri – Sat
10am – 7pm Sun – Thu
Yes, it too is haunted. Not one, but two ghosts are dwelling at River Street Market Place. Both have remained in Building 2, the building most eastern, so far.
At this point in your trip is where you want to take a riverboat cruise. You cannot leave Savannah without taking a cruise! Savannah looks different from the water, especially at night when the city is all lit up!
A dinner cruise with live music was part of our conference weekend. I'm sure our cruise was a special contract deal between the conference organizers and the steamboat company as it was an upgraded version of any similar steamboat cruises I could find...but it was phenomenal.
Savannah Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment is similar to the riverboat dinner cruise we took.
The above cruise normally starts at 7 pm and lasts 2 hours. The price starts at $92 per person through Get Your Guide.
If that's not in your budget, here are some other riverboat cruises:
Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise - Starting at $41 per person
Sightseeing Lunch Cruise - Starting at $62 per person
Riverboat Sunset Cruise - Starting at $55 per person
If you're still up for some nightlife, River Street comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene. Bars and live music venues offer entertainment for all tastes. You can enjoy a night out with friends or simply unwind by the river. Believe it or not, what's kind of fun is to watch the freight ships traveling up and down the river. You'll also see some of the best sunsets from the riverfront.
River Street at night / Photo credit: Dreamtime
Morning: Breakfast at Clary's Cafe. 404 Abercorn St, Savannah.
Clary's has been a locals’ favorite for decades, and it gained even more popularity after “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” was filmed in the area. Many of the actors ate in the restaurant during filming, so you can see their autographed photos lining the back wall.
The historic building started out as a pharmacy in the early 1900s, then it served as a soda shop in the 1950s, and now it’s one of Savannah’s most famous Southern diners.
First of all, you can’t beat the location! It’s at the corner of Jones and Abercorn, and Jones Street is widely considered one of the prettiest streets in America due in part to its red brick streets.
Jones Street
The cozy family-style restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating.
Clary’s is a no-frills kind of place; it’s filled with good people and classic menu items. You definitely won’t leave hungry, since their portion sizes are huge!
Try the stuffed French toast, Eggs Benedict, waffles, or anything else that suits your fancy. It’s all good, and their sweet tea is some of the best in Savannah!
If you're using the 3 day itinerary, this would be your last day in Savannah so I'm going to pack a lot into the day. Adjust the itinerary as you see fit to accommodate your schedule, choose the attractions you want to see.
My top pick for the #1 museum to see in Savannah would be The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters.
Not only is it part of the darker history of Savannah that shouldn't be swept under a bushel basket but it highlights the enormous amount of labor enslaved people were forced to put into making these antebellum mansions as beautiful and regal as they were.
This was the original slave quarters designed to house the enslaved men, women and children who maintained it. The tour includes an exploration of the lives and complicated relationships of the most and least powerful people in 19th century Savannah—such as the wealthy Owens family who owned the property for 121 years and the many enslaved people who labored to support and maintain the household. It includes a formal parterre garden and an original carriage house.
The tour also provides an exploration of the home’s remarkable features, including Savannah’s earliest system of indoor plumbing, an indoor bridge and more.
Tours of the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters are given daily at fifteen-minute intervals. The last tour begins at 4:00 pm. If you’re visiting Savannah during a busy season, you might consider stopping by the day before to claim your preferred tour time, as you do need to visit the house as part of a scheduled group tour.
OPTIONAL: You're less than 400 feet south of the Juliette Gordon Lowe Museum, founder of the Girl Scouts so if that interests you, stop in and take a tour.
The museum explores the fascinating life and world-changing legacy of Juliette Gordon Low through stories, art and artifacts held in her childhood home.
Learn more about what you'll see on the tour.
I strongly recommend that you purchase tickets online in advance of your visit as this tour sells out quickly especially during June and July.
$15 for adults, $12 for seniors and others, $10 for active Girl Scouts and adult troop leaders.
Photo credit: Juliette Gordon Lowe House & Museum
They also offer self guided tours on select days after 3 pm.
Audio tours can be downloaded to your personal device, with volume control for a customizable listening experience.
Prices are the same as the guided tours. Tours last about 1 hour.
Open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm with limited tour hours on Wednesdays.
I was very active in Girl Scouts all the way up through high school, becoming a Girl Scout camp counselor so really enjoyed this tour.
Money $aving Tips:
Early Bird Discount: Secure your spot for a September, October, or November tour at least two weeks in advance and receive a 15% discount on adult tickets using the promo code EARLYBIRD.
TourPass Discount: Save up to 40% on admission with the TourPass, which includes guided tours exploring the life of Juliette Gordon Low.
Discounted Rates: Admission is included with the TourPass, and there are discounts for Girl Scouts, military, senior citizens, and families.
Another of my don't miss attractions in Savannah is the Webb Military Museum. 411 E. York Street, Savannah.
Unlike most museums, this museum is a privately owned collection. The museum is a Savannah institution that marches to its own cadence, uniquely archiving military history by showcasing the experiences of people who experienced it firsthand.
Spanning thousands of personal artifacts tightly packed into a 2,500-square-meter converted shopfront, the museum houses a diverse array of personal effects, such as diaries, letters, and uniforms. Principal artifacts include a letter written by Confederate General Robert E. Lee, Adolf Hitler’s napkins taken from his Bavarian retreat, and prisoner clothing from the Nazi concentration camp Dachau. Smaller, personal items are neatly displayed behind glass, but the museum also showcases larger items too, including a Russian-made MiG jet from East Germany and a uniform worn by Saddam Hussein.
The museum’s curator, Gary Webb, has found a life’s passion in telling the stories of these items and their owners. On most days, you’ll find him enthusiastically guiding guests around the museum while consulting a heavy catalogue of records on their authenticity.
The son of a U.S. Air Force career officer and World War II and Vietnam War veteran, Webb lived on Army bases for most of his childhood. At age 10, while his father was stationed in Germany, Webb began collecting small military relics discovered across forests and at flea markets. A few displayed artifacts also hold a personal significance for Webb—for example, his mother’s gas mask used as a child during the “The Blitz” bombing in London, and his own Vietnam War draft card (missing the age cutoff, Webb did not serve).
Webb opened the museum in 2015 after moving to Savannah, and was shocked that the city did not have a site for military history despite its Civil War past. The museum’s extensive cache spans paraphernalia from eight U.S. conflicts, including the Civil War, starting from the 1775 Revolutionary War up to Desert Storm. Many items have been acquired by auctions or purchased directly from war veterans.
The museum features artifacts of servicemen from all wars and branches. Many of the displays contain named groupings of servicemen highlighting their stories of service. A visit to Webb Military Museum will certainly bring back one's love of history and the realization of how much we owe our men and women in uniform.
Bring some cash for not-your-typical museum souvenirs. Smaller items such as pieces of cannonball shrapnel ($10 each) and patches ($1).
Admission
Adults $10
Seniors 62 and over $9
Veterans $8
Children 8-17 $6
Under 8 FREE
Active duty Military FREE!
Girl Scout and Tour Group Discounts
Hours
Mon–Sat 11am to 5pm
Sun 12pm to 4pm
Late morning: For your midday meal you want to be lined up in front of Mrs. Wilke's Dining Room, 107 West Jones St., Savannah by at least 10 a.m.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is an absolutely legendary Savannah restaurant with–because this is Savannah–some peculiar tidbits that you need to be aware of in order to eat there.
Located on Jones Street, the food at Mrs. Wilkes is all-you-can-eat southern, served family-style at tables of 10 people. No reservations allowed. The dining room is small, which is why a line forms at the door in advance of the restaurant opening. It’s best to be in line before 11:00 AM to ensure you get seated quickly, but I promise–the food and experience are worth the hassle!
Photo credit: Mrs. Wilke's Dining Room
The doors no sooner open to Mrs. Wilke's Dining Room than the line waiting to get in finds seats and one of the large tables-for-ten shared by strangers. Tabletops are crowded with platters of fried chicken and cornbread dressing, sweet potato souffle, black-eyed peas, okra gumbo, corn muffins and biscuits. The menu changes daily so regulars can have something different every day.
The guests sit at the table and pass the dishes around to one another like a family.
This is a great way to meet fellow travelers and pick up tips on what to see and do in Savannah while enjoying genuine Southern cooking at a reasonable price. We met some really nice, interesting people!
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is open Monday through Friday, from 11am–2pm.
As of 2026, meals are $40/person, cash or check only and you simply pay your fee as you walk out the door.
After your meal at Mrs. Wilke's head over to Tricentennial Park on Louisville Road.
Three museums. Three centuries of history. That’s how Savannah’s Tricentennial Park got its name.
This 25-acre museum complex in Downtown Savannah is located across the street from the Visitor’s Center on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. It encompasses the Battlefield Memorial Park and Savannah History Museum, but also the Georgia State Railroad Museum, and Savannah Children’s Museum.
Savannah History Museum
Located in the former Central of Georgia Railway Passenger Depot, this museum takes you on a journey through time from Savannah’s earliest days to the present, with unique exhibits and interactive experiences for the family. Exhibits include an early 20th-century steam locomotive, archaeological finds from Savannah’s Revolutionary War history, and most recently, The Savannah Jazz Exhibit. Guided programs, including Loyalists & Liberty Battlefield Tours, are included in museum admission.
Open seven days a week from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
Admission:
$12 per adult
$8 per child (ages 3-12)
Georgia State Railroad Museum
Photo credit: 44nng.com
Located in the former Central of Georgia Railway Repair Shops Complex and Terminal Facilities, this Georgia State Railroad Museum offers family-friendly fun with interactive experiences including a working handcar, walking through historic railcars, and taking guided tours by train. The site features the oldest railroad repair facility buildings in the United States.
Open seven days a week from 9:00am to 4:00pm. 655 Louisville Road, Savannah
Admission:
$18 per adult
$10 per child (ages 3-12)
Savannah Childrens Museum
This outdoor museum experience for families to explore and enjoy includes an exploration maze, a puppet theater, an art maker space, a sensory garden, a nature kitchen, and more! Museum Educators offer themed programming daily, including STEAM programs, storytime, and activities including the museum’s resident mascots, Tippy the Tortoise and Pogo the Turtle.
655 Louisville Road, Savannah
Admission:
$12 per person (ages 18mos. and up)
Photo credit: Coastal Heritage Society
Of the 3 museums, we found the Savannah History Museum to be the most interesting and engaging.
Guests can explore Georgia’s First City through the ages, from before 1733 to present day. Here visitors will learn about Savannah’s role in the Civil War and American Revolution. Discover all kinds of fascinating objects, including military artifacts, a cotton gin and steam locomotive from 1908. Not to mention the famous bench from Forrest Gump, Johnny Mercer’s Grammy and Oscar are on display.
(Actually the museum has one of the benches from the Forrest Gump Chippewa Square bus stop scene.
There were four fiberglass park benches used to film that scene.)
The Savannah History Museum sits on the site where the Siege of Savannah took place during the Revolutionary War. It’s there at Battlefield Memorial Park, where mounds reveal the spot where more than 8,000 troops of three armies fought on October 9, 1779.
If you don't feel like touring yet another museum, then grab a latte or smoothie and a park bench and just sit and people watch.
Evening: On your last evening in Savannah, splurge and treat yourself to dinner at another of Savannah's iconic restaurants - The Olde Pink House. 23 Abercorn Street, Savannah. $$$$
The Olde Pink House Restaurant is a popular dining destination for many travelers, celebrated for its Southern classics like fried chicken and the crab soup that earn rave reviews. The historic building's charming atmosphere, complete with cozy fireplaces, enhances the dining experience. It is Savannah's only 1800's mansion.
You’ll want to make reservations in advance, ideally at least a couple of weeks in advance. To get a pick of times, especially if you want to sit in a specific area, I’d recommend making reservations as soon as you can commit to a date.
Be sure to order their Food Network-featured BLT salad with fried green tomatoes!
Guests have called out the warm hospitality and attentive service though some have cited occasional slow service as the restaurant is becoming far more well known and it's getting tougher to get reservations.
You can't leave Savannah without having done a ghost tour. If there's one thing Savannah knows how to do, it's ghost tours!
And there are plenty of different varietites of ghost tours to choose from!
Want a light-hearted ride in a hearse? They’ve got that.
A grisly late-night tour where drinking is recommended, and kids are required to be left at home? Yep, got that too.
Paranormal activity tour? Check.
Want the scariest possible option? The Dead of Night tour is what you’re looking for!
Below, you'll find the top Savannah ghost tours, compiled using both expert input and traveler sentiment. These haunting tours cater to all crowds, from families with kids to those who need a little liquid courage before seeking out the paranormal.
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Best Overall: Genteel & Bard – Savannah Dark History & Ghost Encounter Tour
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Best High-Tech: Savannah Ghost Walker – The Savannah Ghostwalker Tour and Ghost Hunt
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Best Pub Crawl: Ghost City Tours – Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl
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Best Trolley: Ghost & Gravestones of Savannah – Ghost & Gravestones Trolley Tour
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Best Storytelling: Shannon Scott Tours & Events – Bonaventure Cemetery After Hours Tour
Parents: The best of these ghost tours for kids is the Blue Orb Tours.
Price: Adults from $25; kids from $10
Duration: 1.5 hours
Blue Orb's Savannah Shadows tour is based on the book of the same name written by the company's founder, Tobias McGriff. This tour is suitable for all ages and stops at locations known for their paranormal activity, such as the Hanging Square (generally known as Wright Square). Many reviewers comment that the tour offers the right mix of history and storytelling, along with chilling details. Others say that though the tales are spooky, they aren't too scary for kids.
Tours are typically offered Wednesday through Sunday at 8 p.m.
That ends the 3 day itinerary. If you're planning on spending more time in Savannah or even if you have a return trip to Savannah in mind, keep reading!
Today we're going to get out of the city and enjoy some sun and sand on Tybee Island.
Traveling from Savannah to Tybee Island can be done via car, taxi, rideshare services, or public transportation, with the journey typically taking about 30 to 40 minutes.
The most convenient way to reach Tybee Island is by car. The distance is approximately 18 miles, and the drive usually takes around 30 minutes in good traffic. The route primarily follows US Highway 80 out of Savannah.
For those without a car, public buses operate between Savannah and Tybee Island. The journey can take
longer, approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes, and may require transfers. This option is generally less
comfortable and convenient compared to driving or rideshare services.
Morning: Breakfast at The Breakfast Club. 1500 Butler Ave, Tybee Island, GA. $$-$$$
A local institution since 1976, The Breakfast Club is famous for its hearty breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes, homemade sausage, and a variety of egg dishes. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Breakfast will cost you between $10-$20 per person. This is a no frills diner.
Open daily 7:30 am to 12:30 pm.
Closed Wednesdays.
Photo credit: Our Escape Clause
Once you've finished your breakfast you're going to have a monumental decision to make. Which of Tybee Island's 5 beaches would you most like to spend the day at? With over three miles of sandy shores to choose from, each beach offers its own unique atmosphere. You can take a quiz here to find which beach best suits you.
There's a lot to see and do at Tybee Island: Tybee Post Theater, Tybee Island Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, Marine Science Center, kayak adventures, beach ecology trips, stand up paddleboarding, biking, surfing, fossil hunting, arts and culture, shopping, plenty of tours and excursions and several dining spots.
For a pint-sized island Tybee packs in the fun.
My recommendations on Tybee Island dining:
Crab Shack - especially if you have kids
At what other restaurant than the Crab Shack could you get great seafood and the kids be able to feed 78 baby alligators at the same time?
Feeding the Alligators: Children and adults can feed the baby alligators using
specially provided alligator chow. The
servers and hosts have bags of this
approved food on hand, making it easy for visitors to participate in the feeding
experience.
Seafood is Crab Shack's claim to fame but you will also find BBQ, chicken, and plenty of kid friendly picks on their menu.
The views over Lazaretto Creek can’t be beat and seafood lovers will swoon for their shrimp, snow crab, crawfish, and low country boil – you can even get it all in one dish by ordering the Captain Crab’s Sampler Platter.
This great place began as a fish camp in the 1930’s and is now a Tybee Island institution.
Bubba Gumbo's. 1 Old US Hwy 80, Tybee Island.
There are plenty of seafood eateries on Tybee Island but Bubba Gumbo's is hands down the best of them.
Everything is FRESH FRESH FRESH.
Right from the boat to the waterfront restaurant - literally.
Not only is the seafood fresh it's perfectly prepared.
Loved their Jumbalaya and hush puppies.
Other notable Island restaurants:
The Deck Beach Bar & Kitchen
Zunzibar
Sundae Cafe at Tybee
Sea Wolf Tybee
North Beach Bar & Grill
A-J’s Dockside Restaurant
Sting Ray’s
On the North Beach, you can explore Tybee Light Station & Museum.
Tybee Island’s Lighthouse is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia. You can climb all 178 steps and take photos overlooking the entire island.
Prices
Adults: $14
Seniors (62+): $12
Children (6-17): $12
Children (5 and under): Free
Groups (10 people or more) with a reservation: $12
Military (Must present ID): $12
Coast Guard (Must present ID): Free
Hours
Mon: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Tues: CLOSED
Wed: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Thu: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Fri: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Sat: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Sun: 9:00am - 4:30pm
Fort Pulaski is another cool place to explore. Fort Pulaski is located on Cockspur Island, which is situated between Savannah and Tybee Island, Georgia. This island is part of the Fort Pulaski National Monument, which preserves the historical significance of the fort and its surroundings.
Visitors can witness the exhilarating experience of cannon firings by Rangers who have completed rigorous National Park Service weapons training.
Although the fort has been rebuilt and restored, check out the southeast corner of the fort where you can still see the craters from Union cannon fire.
Rooms housed within the forts are preserved with period furnishings. Complete with old lanterns, chests, cast iron frying pans and quilts, the rooms look as though soldiers had left them only minutes before you arrived.
101 Fort Pulaski Road, Savannah. The admission fee is $10 per person.
Money $aving Tip: The park offers free admission days. Go on one of their free admission days to pay nothing to visit the fort.
Evening: You can choose to eat on Tybee Island or if you're a more adventurous eater, return to Savannah for a truly unique meal at Alligator Soul. 114 Barnard St, Savannah
Alligator Soul offers a truly unique dining experience: An elegant blend of wild game, the freshest seasonal ingredients, and a modern presentation that elevates each dish.
With meats like ostrich, kangaroo, antelope, and (obviously) alligator available, you are guaranteed to find unique flavors on your plate.
For those less adventurous with their meals, don’t worry–there’s a broad selection of more typical meat and seafood offerings on the menu as well.
Hours
Monday: 5:00 PM -10:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM -10:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 5:00 PM -10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 PM -10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 PM -10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Morning: Breakfast at Cafe M. 128 E Bay St, Savannah.
I liked Cafe M, it reminded me of an intimate Parisian Cafe.
Besides the ala carte menu, they have different brunch "breakfast packages" you can order - Parisian, American, Healthy, etc. that are served with a side fruit bowl and juice.
They also offer rotating quiche specials.
The French pastries are INCREDIBLE, especially the croissants.
Money $aving Tip: Pay in cash and Cafe M will give you a 3.5% discount on your meal.
We hopped the Savannah Historic District Trolley to get to Sorrel Weed House.
6 W Harris Street, Savannah.
Considered to be one of the most haunted properties in Savannah, the Sorrel-Weed House has been featured on the Travel and History channels, HGTV, Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures.
This house was built by the shipping merchant Frances Sorrel in 1837. Sorrel had acquired a fortune while living in Haiti, but fled the island nation after its successful slave rebellion. He installed himself in Savannah, a city which still believed in the honorable institution of slavery, and proceeded to extend his fortune.
Frances Sorrel & his wife, Mathilda
It seems safe to assume that Mr. Sorrel was a jerk, and this theory is supported by his amorous affair with the beautiful Molly, one of the slaves under his command. Soon after the tryst came to life, his wife Matilda fell from the house’s third-story window to her death in the courtyard. Her family claimed she fainted, while society believed she had committed suicide. But there were also whispers that she was pushed. And when Sorrel’s lover Molly was found hanged in the carriage house, the whispers grew louder. Was it another suicide, or was Mr. Sorrel cleaning up his mess? Today, the ghosts of both Matilda and Molly are said to haunt the Sorrel-Weed House.
Sorrel Weed House offers 3 different kinds of tours - a daytime architectural tour, a ghost tour and paranormal investigation opportunities. See the website for details.
We returned to Stoughton Street to do some boutique hopping. There are plenty of national and international chains on the street, but the real standouts are the independent boutiques. We were on the hunt for a gift for the next stop on our itinerary.
There are some great boutiques on Stoughton Street - Locally Made Savannah and my favorite, The Paris Market. We finally found what we were looking for at Peaches, a kids boutique.
Normally cemetery tours aren't our thing but we were intrigued by all of the local suggestions we went to tour Bonaventure Cemetery. They hooked us with the story of Savannah's most famous ghost, little Gracie Watkins.
Gracie was the daughter of a hotel manager, popular with everyone in downtown Savannah because she had run of the hotel (a Victorian version of the famous Eloise of the Plaza Hotel in New York City). She died of pneumonia two days before Easter when she was six years old, and her monument is based on a photograph given to a new sculptor in town named John Walz.
But as the popular radio newscaster of the mid-20th century was known to say: And now for the rest of the story.
Gracie became more popular in death than she was alive, as her legend grew over time.
At some point after her death, it became popular to leave presents for Gracie at her gravesite, especially around Christmas. One visitor told one of our hosts that he remembered meeting up with other 13-year-olds at one of the five-and-dime stores downtown, each spending a quarter on a gift, and then bicycling the three miles to Bonaventure to leave presents at
the gravesite.
And presents are still left for her at the gate to her site today.
Sometimes there's an up side to being a psychic medium and being able to communicate with those in spirit. Little Gracie wanted a fairy doll. She said it was the one thing no one had left for her that she really wanted.
So Jay and I found her a fairy doll and left it for her at her grave in Bonaventure Cemetery.
The monumental Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the top sights in Savannah, but its sprawling size makes it daunting to cover on foot. We found a tour that takes you through the cemetery on a golf cart. $38 per person.
With this golf cart tour, take in the most ornate graves and
learn about the fascinating history of this landmark cemetery in just an hour without breaking a sweat. Listen to stories about the cemetery's past and the people buried there as you drive through the lush grounds.
Cemetery Gates Open: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily
Afternoon: By this time we were getting rather tired of seafood so we decided to give Italian a spin at
FraLi Gourmet, have our main meal at lunch at eat light for dinner. 217 W. Liberty Street, Savannah.
Know how you feel when you get that winning lottery ticket or you win the jackpot? That's how FraLi made us feel. It wasn't at all what either of us were expecting...small and subdued storefront adjoining the Savannah Coffee House on Liberty Street that looked more like an Italian market than a restaurant. (It's actually both) Score one for FraLi.
I instantly felt like I was back in my hometown at our very popular Italian market, Tenuta's. Where I'd pitch a tent and become a squatter if I could.
Loved FraLi's mismatched dining tables and chairs...just added to the at home feeling.
My stepmother's husband and all of his relatives were off-the-boat Italy so I grew up eating authentic Italian food, the recipes of which had been passed down through generations. I can spot those recipes with a first bite vs. most Italian restaurant fare today. FraLi makes those kinds of passed down through generations Italian food recipes - homemade everything using only the best and freshest ingredients.
They'll even make Build Your Own pasta dishes in addition to their regular menu.
We started off with a Caprese salad. I had the Georgia Shrimp Ravioli with Lobster Cream Sauce, Jay had the Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli with Vodka sauce and meatballs - all fantastico!
Pineapple sorbet for dessert. Four thumbs up from us on everything! Prices? Very reasonable.
We'd crossed pretty much everything off of our Savannah attractions bucket list so for the afternoon we just picked out a few we'd check out just for the heck of it.
The Book Lady
We're both voracious readers and love old bookstores with cozy corners to lounge in and the smell of old books permeating the air so decided to browse The Book Lady. 6 E Liberty Street, Savannah.
I think we spent more time talking to the owner and loving on his very affectionate dog...but Jay did manage to find a book he'd been looking for.
If you're a bookworm, The Book Lady is definitely a shop you want to visit and have a look around.
Lucas Theater for
the Arts
Originally owned by the theater director Arthur Melville Lucas Jr., Lucas Theater screened "Hard Luck" and
Photo credit: Our Escape Clause
"Camille" for the politicians and public figures of Savannah on opening night December 26, 1921.
The theater quickly garnered recognition for being the most luxurious theater in the city, due in large part to the fact it was the first Savannah building to have air conditioning.
After more than 50 years, the theater closed its doors, and the Historic Savannah Foundation denied several demolition petitions before the local historic preservationists Emma and Lee Adler formed the nonprofit group Lucas Theatre for the Arts, committed to restoring the theater. Although the pair purchased the building in 1987, raising the necessary funds proved difficult, and construction didn’t begin until 1995.
In June of 1997, the Lucas hosted a wrap party for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the film based on the novel of the same name directed by Clint Eastwood. Ticket sales from that party, as well as funds from an auction featuring props from the film, and Lucas was able to reopen in 2000.
Now owned by the Savannah College of Art and Design, the 86,000-square-foot theater takes visitors back to the days of Buster Keaton. The space includes a 40-foot-wide ceiling dome, a 1,237-seat theater, and offers 4K digital cinema projection and Dolby Digital surround sound for university screenings and signature events, such as the Savannah Film Festival.
Located in the lobby of the Lucas Theatre for the Arts, Lucas Café & Pâtisserie offers coffee, tea, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Lucas Café accepts credit and debit cards. (The theater has gone cashless)
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Tickets can be purchased or reserved online at scadboxoffice.com, by calling 912.525.5050, or by visiting the box office window at 216 E. Broughton St. The SCAD Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 pm (Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., June through August).
The theater does operate during the day, with the live performances usually taking place from around 3 pm until closing.
The admission price to the Savannah Lucas Theatre can vary depending on the event and seating location. On average, ticket prices range from $65.00 to $113.00, with an average price of $95.50. For specific events, prices can start as low as $10 and go up to $1000. It's advisable to check the official website or ticketing platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Evening: Go down to the riverfront for dinner at Vic's On the River. 26 E Bay St, Savannah.
Vic's on the River is situated in a historic cotton warehouse overlooking the Savannah River and Historic River Street. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor dining options, allowing guests to enjoy their meals under centuries-old live oaks or with
spectacular views of the river. The setting combines historic charm with a casual yet upscale dining experience, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The menu at Vic's reflects a sophisticated take on traditional Southern cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local seafood.
Vic's on the River is known for its attentive service and vibrant atmosphere, often featuring live music in the
evenings. The restaurant is accessible from both Bay and River Streets, making it easy for visitors to stop by.
While it can get busy and somewhat loud, many guests appreciate the lively environment and the quality of the food.
We weren't ready to call it a night yet so took a stroll down River Street to check out a speakeasy we'd been told about - the Mata Hari Speakeasy. $$
NOTE FOR THE LADIES IN PARTICULAR: Be careful walking on the cobblestone streets in high heels, especially after having a drink! An elevator that avoids having to get to and from River Street via cobbled ramps or steep, old staircases is located behind City Hall.
You'll see what I mean about streets and staircases in the following video...
They aren't called "The Steps of Death" for no reason and you don't want the last Savannah attraction you see to be the local Emergency Room!
While located at 306 W Lower Factors Walk, Savannah, Mata Hari's is not exactly the easiest place to find! We headed in the general direction of the address and then ended up just following the crowd.
Don't forget to ask your hotel concierge for the secret password to gain admittance!
Or you can try Jay's tactic...Call Mata Hari's. Pretend to be a Front Desk Agent for a nearby hotel. Say you have a guest interested in visiting their establishment. They will give you the password.
As you knock on the door, a small window slides open and the eyeballs staring out ask for the password. No password, no entry.
Now, here’s the kicker—getting into Mata Hari isn’t just about knowing the password. No, no. Buy a ticket to the burlesque show, and you’ve got yourself a golden key to this secret kingdom. No password needed—just grab your ticket, knock on the unassuming door and show your burlesque ticket.
For Burlesque tickets, go to The Downtown Delilahs website, they are the troop that typically performs there.
Shows are 9:15pm and 11:15pm.
Our impression of Mata Hari's? Our advice would be leave any expectations you have at the door and don't mistake the doorman giving you a hard time to get in as "being rude". It's all part of the shtick and back in the 20's you didn't just waltz into a speakeasy whether you knew the password and/or had a key or not.
Don't expect a professionally choreographed Broadway show! The Downtown Delilah's are BURLESQUE dancers, which means lots of twerking Miley Cyrus style.
In reading the traveler reviews I did, those who didn't enjoy Mata Hari's all mentioned it didn't meet their expectations and that was because their expectations of what a speakeasy is like were unrealistic.
If you just go with the flow without expectations, enjoy the music/show for what it is and mingle with your fellow guests, you'll have a good time.
And if you don't like Mata Hari's, Savannah has plenty of other speakeasys you can visit.
It's our last day in Savannah so it's a free day to do whatever you wish to do before leaving.
How we spent our last day in Savannah...
Morning: We had breakfast at Westin's Aqua Star as Jay wanted to golf that morning.
Spotted this guy swimming in the river in front of the hotel so of course, had to push Jay's "Damn alligators on the golf course!" button and suggest the gator probably followed him just to play golf with him that morning.
(Unfortunately it didn't show up on the golf course...I would've laughed like hell if it had!)
Afternoon: Had a leisurely lunch at Huey's On the River. 115 East River Street, Savannah.
Huey's On the River is one of Savannah's historic River Street restaurants offering an authentic New Orleans themed menu.
The historical setting of the restaurant places you in an 1817 cotton warehouse designed of balastone and brick with floor-to-ceiling windows. Huey’s On the River’s menu has creatively combined a mouth-watering blend of traditional American cuisine with touches of Cajun, Creole, and southern cuisine.
They also run changing daily specials from 3 pm to 9:30 pm.
Huey’s On The River offers brunch and dinner menus featuring appetizers, entrées, sandwiches, and decadent desserts. Popular menu items include:
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The Bayou seafood platter
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Shrimp Creole
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Pasta Jambalaya
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Savannah River Farms pork chops
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Low country surf and turf
Popular dessert menu items include praline cheesecake, bourbon sorghum pecan pie, and key lime pie.
During lunch we decided we'd make a trip to the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium. 30 Ocean Science Cir - 31411, Savannah. (Not to be confused with the Atlanta Aquarium!)
The UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium in Savannah on Skidaway Island is home to Georgia’s first saltwater aquarium, featuring 16 exhibit tanks that showcase Georgia’s marine life. Most species are caught by aquarium staff right off the coast. A public touch tank allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of Georgia’s marine invertebrates such as snails and crabs.
An ADA approved boardwalk and nature trail winds through the maritime forest and along the Skidaway River salt marshes.
Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant provides integrated research, education and extension programs that foster the responsible use of Georgia’s coastal resources by individuals, decision-makers and management agencies.
The program is managed through a federal-state partnership between the University of Georgia (UGA) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Sea Grant College Program, a national network of 34 Sea Grant programs located in coastal and Great Lakes states and territories.
Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s mission is to improve the environmental, social and economic health of the Georgia coast through research, education and extension.
Admission Fees
Adults: $8
Children (ages 3-17): $6
2 and Under: Free
Seniors (65+), Military and College Students with I.D.: $6
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M.
Saturdays 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
Sundays Closed
Our last brief stop for a quick look around of the afternoon was the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum.
41 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Savannah.
The Museum's Collection is housed in the elegant home built for William Scarbrough, one of the principal owners of the Steamship Savannah.
Ships of the Sea Museum exhibits ship models, paintings and maritime antiques, principally from the great Era of Atlantic trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Admission:
ADULT: $17.50
STUDENT: $14.50 - THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL, OR COLLEGE WITH ID.
DISCOUNT: $14.50 (SENIOR - 65 OR OVER, PAST OR PRESENT MILITARY).
CHILD: FREE (5 AND UNDER).
FAMILY: $48.00 (UP TO 2 ADULTS AND THREE CHILDREN UNDER 18).
GROUP: $11.00/PERSON (SELF-GUIDED TOUR FOR GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE WHO MAKE RESERVATIONS AHEAD OF TIME).
Evening: We decided to spend our last evening in Savannah in style, having dinner at Elizabeth on 37th.
105 E 37th St. Savannah.
For starters, what an absolutely gorgeous place!
Housed in a Greek Revival mansion built in 1901, Elizabeth on 37th has been a defining part of Savannah’s fine dining landscape since its founding in 1981 by Elizabeth and Michael Terry.
For over four decades, guests have gathered here to enjoy refined coastal cuisine, gracious Southern hospitality, and one of the city’s most celebrated wine programs.
This is a family run restaurant, the third generation of the family now running the restaurant.
Your meal is served in 7 courses, with a choice of 2 to 3 different foods within some of the courses.
$125 per person and it was worth every penny! Everything was impeccable!
Homeward bound with great memories of a great time in Savannah.
Updated March 19, 2026