Although Savannah has often been in the shadow of Charleston, considered the best Southern city in the United States for some years, it is a stunning destination full of charm and mystery from its captivating history and elegant architecture to its spooky and surprising activities.
Beyond its charms, Savannah is known for being the first planned city in the United States, for its world-famous movie sets such as the iconic scenes of Forrest Gump and Midnight’s True Story in the Garden of Good and Evil, and for its elegant architecture and squares.
Savannah’s attractions are enhanced by the nearby beaches of Hilton Head Island (South Carolina) and Tybee Island (Georgia). All in all, visiting Savannah is ideal for history buffs, lovers of the paranormal, or those who simply want to enjoy the city’s charm and beauty.
Savannah, Georgia: A city with a rich and mysterious history
Savannah, the USA’s first planned city, blends history, beauty, and intrigue
Founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, Savannah was the first planned city in Georgia. It all began when James Oglethorpe landed in this area along with 120 passengers completing his 13th American colony which was named Georgia in honor of English King George II.
Unlike other colonial settlements, Savannah has 22 historic park-like squares surrounded by lush greenery. This particularity makes the town more attractive especially with its grand mansions.
The mysterious side of Savannah
Beyond the charm of the history of the creation of this beautiful city, there are also mysterious stories that have put it in the spotlight with the creation of the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt, based on the shooting of Danny Hansford by the internationally known antiques dealer Jim Williams that happened in this city.
This event is one more in the list of mysteries surrounding Savannah which is ranked as one of the most haunted city in the United States as it has witnessed all the misfortunes in this city from war and famine to disease and natural disasters.
A city of cinematic fame: Savannah on the big screen
In addition to his literary fame with the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil which was later made into a movie, Savannah has been the setting for many successful films worldwide including the iconic Forrest Gump which mainly features a scene on a bench in Chippewa Square when he is telling his story. Current films include Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine’s The Idea of You.
Tip: Visit the Forrest Gump Bench Replica at the Savannah History Museum for a photo op
Best things to see and do in Savannah
Must-see attractions and hidden gems
Savannah is a treasure worth visiting. Commonly known as the jewel of the South, it combines history, culture, and architecture, and is one of the cheapest destinations for a beach vacation. In short, this southern dream offers many things to see and do.
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is the heart and soul of Savannah, Georgia—a 30-acre oasis of oak-lined walkways, historic monuments, and the city’s most photographed fountain. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or people-watch, Forsyth Park is a must-visit.
Attractions include the garden of fragrances, tennis and basketball courts, and the Collins Quarter for food breaks.
- Location: Southern end of Savannah’s Historic District
- Size: 30 acres
- Established: 1840s
- Named after: Governor John Forsyth of Georgia
River Street
River Street is a gem of Savannah. Nestled alongside the Savannah River, River Street boasts more than 75 antique shops, boutiques, galleries, brew pubs, and restaurants, many held within one-time cotton warehouses.
Taking a river cruise is a great way to see Savannah by the river that made her, or if you are happier on land, River Street boasts a number of bars where you can sit back with a cocktail and watch the ships go by.
- Location: Lower level of Bay Street, parallel to the river in the Historic District
- Historic vibe: Once part of Savannah’s cotton industry, the buildings lining River Street were 19th-century warehouses—now converted into shops, galleries, and restaurants.
The Mercer-Williams House
The Mercer-Williams House was the setting for the grisly story of Danny Hansford’s murder by the homeowner recounted in the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
The Mercer-Williams House was designed by New York architect John S. Norris for General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer. Construction began in 1860 and was subsequently interrupted by the Civil War. It was eventually completed in 1868 after General Mercer sold the unfinished structure to John R. Wilder. Thus, no Mercer ever actually lived in the house that bears their name.
In Savannah, the majority of historic homes use the name of the home’s original family in addition to the most prominent family.
Today, the Mercer-Williams House is a museum that displays furniture and artwork from Mr. William’s private collection and an extensive collection of Chinese porcelain.
Tours of the house run every 20–40 minutes and are on a first come, first serve basis.
- Address: 429 Bull Street, Savannah, GA (entrance located behind the main house at 430 Whitaker Street)
- Information: (912) 238-0208
- Admission: $13.50
- Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 10 am-5 pm; Sunday, 11:30 am-5 pm
Tour the historic churches
It’s impossible to walk around Savannah without noticing the church steeples. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is the most well-known with its stained glass windows and white exterior. They have free self-guided tours most days of the week but they also accept donations. Independent Presbyterian was rebuilt in 1891 after a devastating fire. Christ Church on Bull Street was built in 1733 making it the first house of worship in the state. The Historic First African Baptist Church opened in 1774 and features pews built by slaves and a subfloor used on the Underground Railroad.
Take a haunted tour
As the most haunted city in the United States, Savannah has many mysterious places that can take you on an adventure through the city as you discover its ghosts.
Among them are some haunted houses and mansions throughout the historic district such as 432 Abercorn Street rumored to be haunted by many former residents, Mercer Williams House featured in the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Davenport House known for its hauntings, and 12 West Oglethorpe an abandoned haunted house where apparitions are said to have been seen.
Bonaventure Cemetery is also a must-visit for any lover of the supernatural and is a recurring setting in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The cemetery is open to the public daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
There are many tour companies in Savannah that provide the perfect spooky experience.
Here’s your guide to choosing the perfect haunted experience:
Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour
- Type: Guided trolley tour with stops
- What you’ll see: Colonial Park Cemetery, haunted buildings, plus entry into the Andrew Low House or Perkins & Sons Ship Chandlery
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly but spooky enough
- Duration: ~75 minutes
- Best for: First-time visitors & history lovers
Blue Orb Ghost Tour
- Type: Walking tour (adults-only; family versions available)
- Highlights: Deep storytelling, paranormal history, and the “Uncensored” tour for darker tales
- Reputation: Frequently ranked among the best ghost tours in the US
- Best for: True crime and paranormal fans
The Dead of Night Ghost Tour
- Type: Late-night walking tour
- Focus: Darker and more intense stories (not for kids)
- Stops may include: Sorrel-Weed House, Wright Square, and other haunted downtown spots
- Best for: Adults who want chills & vivid ghost lore
Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tours
- Type: Walking tour
- Options: 90-min or 2-hour tour with deep dives into Savannah’s paranormal hotspots
- Style: Historically detailed with well-researched stories
- Best for: History buffs & skeptics who want facts with their frights
Bonaventure Cemetery Tour (by day)
- Type: Not technically a ghost tour—but it’s eerie, beautiful, and full of legends
- Guide: Shannon Scott is one of the most well-known guides
- What you’ll see: Famous graves (like Johnny Mercer’s), haunting statues, and Southern Gothic scenery
Haunted spots often visited
- Sorrel-Weed House: One of the most haunted homes in the South
- Colonial Park Cemetery: Graves dating back to the 1700s
- The Marshall House Hotel: Civil War hospital turned hotel
- Moon River Brewing Company: Haunted bar with reports of poltergeists
Tips for your ghost tour
- Wear comfy shoes: Lots of walking on cobblestones
- Bring water: Especially on summer nights
- Book ahead: Night tours often sell out
- Bring a small flashlight or use your phone (some spots are dimly lit)
Beach escapes near Savannah: Tybee and Hilton Head
Tybee and Hilton Head are the classic beach getaways in Savanna. With Tybee 20 minutes away and Hilton Head Island 1 hour away in South Carolina, they are the perfect places for a day of sun and miles of beach.
Tybee Island offers beaches ideal for relaxation, a historic lighthouse, and dolphin tours. Hilton Head Island delights with luxury resorts, golf activities, and pristine beaches.
Looking for more on Savannah
- Savannah Bucket List: 30 Things to See and Do in Savannah
- 15 Best Free Things to do in Savannah
- The Ultimate Coastal South Road Trip: From New Orleans to Savannah
- The Ultimate Deep South Road Trip: Savannah to Charleston
Best time to visit Savannah
Plan your trip around Savannah’s perfect weather and festivals
The best time to visit Savannah is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer the most comfortable weather, lush scenery, and a full calendar of festivals and outdoor events perfect for exploring the city’s charm on foot.
Due to its location in the southern United States, Savannah experiences a humid subtropical climate. Its winters are not harsh but it gets hot in the summer.
Season highlights
Why spring (March–May) is best
- Weather: Mild and sunny with highs in the 70s–80s°F
- Azalea season: The city bursts into color—Forsyth Park and the squares are stunning
- Events: Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick’s Day Parade (one of the largest in the US)
- Pros: Pleasant temps, gardens in bloom, lively atmosphere
- Cons: Can get crowded
Why fall (September–November) is also great
- Weather: Cooler but still warm with less humidity
- Fewer tourists: Easier to book restaurants and accommodations
- Events: Savannah Film Festival, Oktoberfest on River Street
- Pros: Ideal walking weather, fewer crowds, lower lodging costs
- Cons: Early fall can still be humid; hurricane season (June–November) is a low risk but worth watching
☀ Summer (June–August): Hot & humid
- Weather: Highs in the 90s°F with high humidity
- Perks: Cheaper hotel/RV park rates, longer daylight hours
- Downsides: Sweltering heat, afternoon storms, bugs, and fewer walking tours due to the heat
❄Winter (December–February): Quiet & mild
- Weather: Highs in the 50s–60s°F
- Events: Holiday lights and a quiet, romantic vibe
- Pros: Great for deals and solitude
- Cons: Some outdoor activities are limited; less greenery
Worth Pondering…
Savannah is a lovely pastel dream of tight cobbled streets. There are legendary scenes to rival any dreamed up by Tennessee Williams.
—Rosemary Daniell