Savannah is a place where history and Southern charm blend seamlessly with modern flair. Positioned along the Savannah River, the town was established in 1733 as the first city in Georgia. It boasts one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States, and tourism is a cornerstone, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Let’s take a dive into what the Hostess City of the South is known for!
1. Savannah’s Year-Round Garland: The Spanish Moss
You don’t have to wait until the “most wonderful time of the year” to see garlands draped on beautiful trees. In Savannah, few spots are as synonymous with the city as the ancient, sprawling oak trees adorned with silvery garlands of Spanish moss.
Beneath the giant canopies of trees, the delicate strands of moss sway in the wind, creating a scene that feels both timeless and deeply Southern. This natural spectacle is not just a yearlong backdrop; it is an integral part of Savannah's identity, contributing to a picturesque setting that captivates everyone, evoking the feeling of stepping into a magical wonderland.
2. River Street: Savannah’s Home of Cobblestones and Commerce
Stretching alongside the Savannah River, River Street is a lively, historic artery that captures the essence of the city's past and present. The street itself is an attraction, paved with centuries-old cobblestones that create a distinctly rustic and charming atmosphere.
As you walk along the waterfront, you’re flanked by massive, restored cotton warehouses that serve a new purpose. These impressive brick buildings, once the core of Savannah's commerce, now house a collection of galleries, boutiques, and eateries. River Street Sweets, Savannah’s oldest candy store, is known nationwide for its wide array of handmade treats, including pralines. River Street is also home to the city’s riverboat cruise lines, where you can enjoy dining and live entertainment while taking in the views.
3. From Gump to Gourmet: Savannah’s Cinematic Buffet
Savannah's picturesque streets and timeless architecture have made it a star on the silver screen, transforming the city into a hot spot for filmmakers. Its blend of Southern Gothic elements, historic squares, and stunning river views provides a versatile backdrop that adds authentic character.
The city’s filmography includes a long list of memorable movies and TV shows. Perhaps most famously, the bench where Tom Hanks sat in the movie “Forrest Gump” was located in Chippewa Square, and the Clint Eastwood-directed thriller “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” showcased the city's mysterious allure with the famous “Bird Girl” statue serving as a main, haunting image. Adding to Savannah’s list of locally-filmed projects, Food TV Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race” premiered its 18th season in Emmet Park, hosted by celebrity chef Tyler Florence.
4. Savannah Goes Green in Grand Style
When March arrives, Savannah transforms into a sea of green for one of the most popular St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States. We’re talking about more than just a single-day event; it's a city-wide festival rooted in nearly two centuries of tradition, drawing hundreds of thousands of people who come to take part in the unique and spirited festivities.
The celebration culminates in the St. Patrick's Day Parade, a grand spectacle that winds its way through the heart of Savannah. The streets come alive with the sounds of bagpipes, marching bands, and cheerful crowds as elaborate floats and local organizations make their way along the route. If you love all things green and a multi-day festival, Savannah is where you’ll want to be on St. Patrick's Day!
5. Savannah’s River Welcomes the World
As a major gateway for global commerce, the Port of Savannah is the fourth busiest port in the United States and stands as a powerhouse of economic activity on the East Coast. Situated along the Savannah River, the port is a thoroughfare for items such as heavy machinery and automotive parts.
At the heart of operations is the massive Garden City Terminal, a state-of-the-art facility designed to handle enormous container ships with remarkable efficiency. This modern infrastructure allows Savannah to connect the American Southeast to markets across the globe, playing a crucial role in the international supply chain and driving significant economic growth for the entire region.
6. Savannah Goes Bananas: Like You’ve Never Seen
The Savannah Bananas have completely reinvented the baseball experience, turning a traditional game into a must-see spectacle of entertainment. Forget the slow pace of a typical baseball game! A Bananas game is a high-energy production from start to finish.
Players perform choreographed dances, the team owner is a constant presence in his signature bright yellow tuxedo, and the on-field antics are designed to keep you laughing and engaged every single inning.
When the team is playing on the home field, patrons who are able to snag a ticket to the frequently sold-out games are treated to all-you-can menu items at the concession stand, including cookies. This unconventional approach, among other innovations, has made the team one of the hottest tickets in all of sports!
7. Take Your Pick: Thin Mint Cookies or Samoas?
Speaking of cookies, Savannah holds a special place in American history as the birthplace of the Girl Scouts. In 1912, Juliette Gordon Low gathered 18 girls in her home with a groundbreaking idea. She wanted to create an organization that encouraged self-reliance, leadership, and community service.
This first troop meeting, held in what is now the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, a National Historic Landmark, planted the seeds for a movement that would inspire millions of girls across the globe—and sell millions of boxes of delicious cookies to loyal fans each year!
8. Savannah’s Stunning Architecture in an Open-Air Museum
A stroll through Savannah is like a journey through a museum of architecture, with beautifully preserved structures narrating the city's story at every turn. The visual charm lies not just in its individual buildings but in the cohesive streetscapes they create.
The iconic row houses, painted in a palette of soft pastels and rich earth tones, line the streets and leafy squares, contributing to the city's unique visual identity. Each structure, from the grandest mansion to the humblest carriage house, reflects a piece of Savannah's past—its periods of prosperity, its cultural influences, and its enduring spirit!
9. Southern Comfort: Savannah is a Foodie’s Haven
Ranked as the 4th top destination for food by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice award in 2025, Savannah has a dining scene that reflects its rich history, where classic Southern comfort food is both celebrated and reimagined. The city is buzzing with award-winning restaurants and trendy bistros that offer inventive global cuisine, and everything in between.
With the city set along the river, local ingredients are prominent stars of the show, from fresh-caught Georgia shrimp, fish, and oysters to field crops like sweet onions and juicy peaches. This deep connection to Lowcountry cooking creates an authentic experience, whether you're dining in a historic mansion turned restaurant or a cozy eatery.
10.Tybee Island: Savannah’s Beach Getaway
Tybee Island holds a storied place in Georgia’s coastal history. Its name is derived from a Native American word for “salt,” a resource that was essential to early inhabitants. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Tybee served as a strategic point for trade and defense, shaping its role in significant regional events. Today, Tybee Island draws visitors with its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
To burn off a few calories, you can bike around the island, kayak through marshes, and explore local nature trails. The island’s downtown area invites you to shop for unique coastal treasures and sample fresh seafood at casual, lively restaurants. Festivals, art shows, and live music create a festive vibe year-round, making Tybee a favorite spot for vacations and weekend retreats.
Savannah is more than just a destination; it's an immersive experience where the Old South blends with a progressive, creative spirit. This unique combination creates an atmosphere that charms everyone near and far.
Whether you are exploring its storied past, enjoying its modern cultural offerings, or simply soaking in the beauty of its natural landscape, Savannah leaves a lasting impression. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, look closer, and discover the magic in its details.
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