Exploring Savannah, Georgia: A Blend of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Welcome to Savannah, Georgia, a city steeped in history, adorned with Southern charm, and bustling with vibrant energy. Known for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and lush greenery, Savannah offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Since I have lived in the South all my life I have been to Savannah at least 10 times and here are a few places I invite you to explore. Prepare to embark on a journey through this enchanting city, uncovering its rich history, exploring its up-and-coming areas, savoring its culinary delights, and indulging in its vibrant nightlife.
Expect honest feedback on places I’ve visited. I prioritize trying new experiences over revisiting the same spot multiple times to ensure everyone gets the best experience possible. With limited time, I aim to enhance your trip in any way I can. I’ll highlight places I loved and those I wouldn’t revisit, though I recognize that even great places can have off days.
Savannah Historic Strolls: No visit to Savannah would be complete without exploring its Historic District, a treasure trove of beautifully preserved buildings, lush squares, and intriguing landmarks. I love walking along the cobblestone streets lined with moss-draped oak trees and marvel at the stunning architecture, including the iconic Forsyth Park, the Mercer-Williams House, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist church is one of my favorite churches in SC & GA.
The Forsyth Park Fountain, also known as the Forsyth Fountain, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Savannah. Built in 1858, the cast-iron fountain was inspired by the fountains found in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. You may recognize it from famous movies and shows. I love the historic trees, including majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Some of these trees are believed to be over a century old, adding to the park’s timeless charm.
Breweries and Distilleries: Savannah is home to a great deal of craft beer and spirits scene, with a variety of breweries and distilleries offering unique libations crafted with local ingredients. You can sample a flight of craft beers at Southbound Brewing Company or Moon River, known for its innovative brews and laid-back taproom atmosphere.
For a taste of Savannah’s distillery scene, head to Ghost Coast Distillery and take a tour of their state-of-the-art facility, followed by a tasting of their award-winning spirits. They have a wide variety of flavors and their lineup includes vodka, whiskey, gin, and rum, all made with locally sourced ingredients. One of my favorites is the Georgia Peach rum.
B A R S
Whenever I visit a place I will visit; Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube, Google reviews, and multiple blogs to see if there are places that locals go or that AREN’T always listed on Trip Advisor. Below are some of my favorites.
A recent favorite bar is Planters Tavern, located beneath the infamous The Olde Pink House Restaurant. As soon as you step into this tavern you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. The walls are low and dark and there are candles everywhere. Even though this bar is underground and packed it gives off the appearance that the locals want it to be a secret that everyone wants to keep. So Shhhhhh!
Another one to try is the Peacock Lounge. This gem is hidden behind the restaurant Flock the Wok. I have eaten here at least 2x and each dish was fantastic. The Peacock Lounge is one of those chill house bars with seats in corners and small bites. You can tell they want to ensure you enjoy your experience.
Rocks on the Roof: Rocks on the Roof is Savannah’s newest rooftop hotspot. Relax and unwind while enjoying fantastic views of Savannah River and the historic district from this rooftop lounge.
Electric Mood Skydeck rooftop lounge: his playful adult oasis is THE place to dance under neon lights, snap photos on LED swing sets and relax with your closest buds. This is a fun bar. I recommend going around sunset.
Repeal 33: The creative team behind Prohibition is excited to bring you their latest flagship restaurant. Offering delectable Southern-based cuisine brought to you by Jim McCourt and acclaimed Chef Greg Garrison.
Six Pence Pub is a neighborhood bar that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to London,
Below are some that I wouldn’t revisit: (personal preference)
- Treylor Park (I know they are known for their food. Which is good, but I would go somewhere else for a cocktail.
- Wet Willies
- Savannah Tequila Bar (Savannah River Side) I feel like this is very touristy. Plus I know someone who loves tequila and they don’t have a wide variety like you would expect.
C O F F E E
Coffee Shops: One of my favorite things to do when I visit a city is go to local coffee shops. A few of my favorites include;
Mirabelle Savannah-This quaint coffee shop is perfectly located directly across from one of my favorite churches in the south, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. I recommend walking into the historic church and visit the Mirabelle for coffee afterward. There are a few seating areas available that look over the church. https://www.instagram.com/mirabellesavannah/
The Coffee Fox. They roast their beans and have a few locations. My favorite is the one on Broughton Street. https://www.thecoffeefox.com/
S H O P P I N G
From quaint boutiques to upscale shops, Savannah offers a wealth of shopping opportunities for every taste and budget. Explore Broughton Street, Savannah’s premier shopping destination, and browse through a diverse array of shops offering everything from designer clothing to handmade jewelry.
The Paris Market- is located on Broughton Street (across from The Coffee Fox). This unique shop has a little bit of everything Parisian including a cafe. Although, I would still get coffee across the street at The Coffee Fox.
Savannah Bee Company: You can try as many samples of their flavored honey. It’d be delicious. Their honey has become so popular they now have a location in Charleston SC.
ShopSCAD is a great spot to find that gift for the person who has everything. Purchases supports the local SCAD artists and students.
Nourish Soap: They have an area you can make your own salt scrub and seasonal scents. I think their shower steamers are fantastic. They have the BEST natural deodorant. I have tried them all.
City Market Area: This area has many art, knick-knack, vintage, and food shops. It’s not somewhere I stay long but I would recommend walking through it at least once.
R E S T A U R A N T S
CHIVE Lounge: FAVORITE place in Savannah. I have eaten here at least 4 times and it is exceptional. They marry classic seafood dishes bursting with flavors. If you love curry this is your place. The Chilean Sea Bass with red curry sauce is my all-time favorite. I swear I could pour that sauce on anything. Their risotto is chef’s kiss. One of us always gets the daily special. https://www.chivelounge.com/
Flock to the Wok: If you love Asian food, this is your spot. A few of my favorite dishes are; Shishito peppers, their dumplings, genghis khan beef and general tso chicken. Now I get it- going to Savannah for Chinese food, however… trust me and then come at me. 🙂 https://flocktothewok.com/
The Vault Kitchen: A fusion restaurant of Asian dishes and sushi. https://thevaultkitchen.com
Another Must See: Chocolat by Adam Turoni. I am not your typical chocolate lover but my gosh… this place is phenomenal. There are 2 locations in Savannah and they recently opened one in Charleston. My favorite location in Charleston is The Chocolate Library on Bull Street. You pick out your chocolates by opening the bookcases!! https://www.chocolatat.com/
Below are some restaurants that I wouldn’t revisit: (personal preference)
- Flying Monk Noodle Bar
- River House Seafood
- Fiddlers Crab House
So there you have it, folks – Savannah, Georgia: where history, hilarity, and hospitality collide in the most delightful of ways. Pack your sense of humor and your stretchy pants – you’re in for a wild ride!