If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, charm, and a touch of Southern elegance, look no further than Savannah, Georgia. This city is renowned for its captivating beauty and captivating history. From its picturesque streets lined with stunning architecture to its fascinating past as a bustling port city, Savannah offers a unique and enchanting experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this travel guide will convince you that Savannah is a must-visit destination for your next trip to the United States.
The USA is high on the travel bucket list for many couples, and for good reason. There is so much to do and see in America, and many couples choose to combine a few destinations, creating their own personal epic USA holiday or honeymoon, to be savoured over several weeks.
You can easily get from one side of The States to the other with affordable internal airfares, or make part of your romantic getaway the classic American Road trip … what an amazing couples holiday, driving some of the classic routes such as Highway 1 or Route 66!
While you may have read lots about New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami, why not consider a part of America that less Australians travel to? A part that is so very different to the more famous cities and regions.
The southern states of the USA have a charm all of their own, and are a fabulous complement to any big-city USA honeymoon or romantic getaway, showing a unique side to The States that you would otherwise not see. Often with an incomparable level of warmth and hospitality, you’ll likely feel at home as soon as you make a trip down country.
One incredibly romantic part of The States is Savannah, Georgia. You might not know a lot about this treasure, but we have a feeling you and your loved one will soon be hankering to make a trip after read our travel guide to this enchanting city.
Here are some of the features of this lovely city and just why it’s a great place for honeymoons and other holidays for couples – regardless of your age or reason for a romantic getaway!
All about Savannah
Savannah is a real Southern Belle. Established in the 1700s, Savannah’s long history is full of romance and nostalgia, retaining its historic feel for couples to see. Classic architecture can be spied no matter where you look, and historic buildings loom over the streets. This gorgeous locale was once a port city, and has long been one of the South’s most important economic centres.
This city isn’t like your usual urban jungle – natural areas are incredibly important to the people of Savannah, so you and your sweetheart will be able to relax in one of the many park squares peppered throughout the city. Curl up on the grass and gaze at the towering oak trees, Spanish moss and perfectly manicured gardens… there’s no doubt about it, this city is a stunning place to spend a day (or a few!).
While Savannah is elegant and graceful, she also knows how to let her hair down. Whether it’s heading to the local bar to listen to sultry jazz music or enjoying some greasy fried chicken, you and your lover can have a great party during your honeymoon or romantic getaway!
Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia
Stroll through Forsyth Park
Couples really can’t go wrong visiting any of Savannah’s parks! For a romantic day out, though, swing by Forsyth Park. This lush, verdant space is a veritable natural playground, and you could spend days enjoying it.
Check out the Confederate Memorial Statue – towering over the vibrant green grass, this is where soldiers met before marching off to fight in the war. You can also check out the fountain at the Forsyth Park’s north end. This was added in the 1800s and definitely has a romantic touch of French influence.
Wander the pathways that wind their way around the path, grab a cup of coffee at the cafe and people-watch, head to the Fragrant Garden, play a game of tennis or see if there’s a free concert being held while you’re in town. Your opportunities for a day out as a couple are absolutely limitless.
Related: Discover The Beauty of Maine USA With a Driving Holiday.
Wander along the riverfront
Savannah’s riverfront boardwalk is a hub of activity, so if you’re craving a bit of hustle and bustle on your romance, this is definitely a unique way to find it.
Historic buildings face out to the tranquil water, creating an extremely quaint atmosphere. It’s perfect for a romantic sunset walk, hand in hand with your sweetheart. Beautiful green trees line the path, as do gorgeous old-wordly lanterns that emit an idyllic romantic amber glow once the sun goes down.
For some daytime action, head to the riverfront while the sun shines down. Market stalls are dotted along the cobbled road, while oodles of traffic heads up and down the water. Added bonus? There’s a range of romantic, luxurious accommodation in this part of town – who wouldn’t want to wake up to such a beautiful view out their window?
Grab a morning caffeine hit from one of the picturesque cafés and watch the boats pass by. Make sure you hop on a river cruise yourselves at some point, though! Considering the river is so vital to Savannah’s identity and prosperity, you need to see the city from the water – we insist.
Related: Plan the perfect honeymoon to Tennessee with this comprehensive guide
Enjoy the city’s vibe
Spend some time exploring the city’s bars, cafes and restaurants to take in its extremely special vibe. The food, the drinks, the music – they all come together to make Savannah the special place that it is.
With such beautiful architecture, roaring hospitality and a bit of a cheeky spirit, you’ll simply adore spending your romantic holiday or honeymoon in this memorable US city.
Enjoy a beach day on Tybee Island
Just a short 20 minute drive from downtown, this charming beach town offers a mix of old-world charm and modern attractions. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, as well as explore the North Beach Birding Trail. And when it comes to food, make sure to try the Seafood Sampler Platter at Crab Shack and indulge in a hand-dipped ice cream cone at the popular Sugar Shack. Despite some changes over the years, Tybee Island has managed to maintain its small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in history, sunny beaches, or a family-friendly environment, Tybee Island is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach day.
Visit Telfair Museums
If you want to explore the rich history and art of the southern United States, visiting the Telfair Museums is a must. As the oldest museum in the region, it offers a unique experience spread across three distinct properties: the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, Telfair Academy, and Jepson Centre. With over 200 years of rare historical artifacts, stunning architecture, and art from around the world, the Telfair Museums is a true gem in Savannah and a must-see destination for any art and history enthusiast.
Shop on Bull Street
Bull Street in Savannah is a bustling hub of activity, with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or just looking for a unique shopping experience, Bull Street has something for everyone. From the trendy Starland District to the historic charm of Savannah’s Historic District, you’ll find a variety of boutiques and stores to browse. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Bull Street!
River Street and Rousakis Riverfront Plaza
River Street and Rousakis Riverfront Plaza are popular destinations for shopping, dining, and enjoying scenic river views. River Street is known for its famous shops like River Street Sweets and unique boutique gift shops. Visitors can easily spend hours exploring the area, indulging in candy, finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and capturing beautiful photos of the river. In addition to the tourist-oriented shops, River Street also offers a selection of local and chain clothing stores and galleries showcasing local art. Rousakis Riverfront Plaza is an integral part of the River Street experience and is cherished by both visitors and locals.
Savannah’s Key Neighbourhoods
Savannah’s city layout is unique and beautiful. General James Oglethorpe designed the city in 1733, featuring a grid of 21 scenic squares with greenery and parks on alternating streets. This layout is still used today and is considered one of the world’s most revered city plans. Even without its rich history and stunning architecture, Savannah’s unique design makes it worth visiting. A brief guide to the neighbourhoods will help you get your bearings and understand why this Southern Belle needs to be discovered by you!
One of the must-see neighbourhoods is the Historic District, particularly the North section. This area is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Chippewa Square, where the famous scene from Forrest Gump was filmed.
The Historic Districts, North and South, are highly walkable and offer many tourist attractions. You’ll find City Market, the Jepson Centre, River Street, and numerous House Museums in the North district. Every street in the Historic District is steeped in – you guessed it, history! – with cobblestone streets, 19th-century mansions, and parks that date back even before the formation of the United States. Heading toward the south is beautiful Forsyth Park and boutique shops. Exploring this neighbourhood can quickly fill up an entire day as you immerse yourself in Savannah’s rich past.
Moving south of the Historic District, the Victorian District is a treasure trove of stunning post-Civil War architecture in the Deep South. Spanning an area of nearly 50 blocks and 165 acres, this district is bounded by Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and East Broad, Gwinnett, and Anderson Streets. The houses in the Victorian District are known for their intricate gingerbread trim, beautiful stained-glass windows, and unique architectural details. Constructed in the late 1800s on brick foundations, most of these two-story homes are made of wood frames. In 1974 the entire district was added to the National Register of Historic Places, solidifying its significance.
Savannah, Georgia Travel Tips
Visit Savannah, the local tourism authority, have put together a handy self-walking guide so you can discover the many historical delights as you stroll the USA’s Southern Belle. Additionally, there is a convenient and free transportation option called the DOT Express Shuttle that you can use to get around the city.
Climate: Savannah experiences a wide range of weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from -1 ºC to 100 28° C. Although snow is rare, the city receives a significant amount of rainfall, particularly in the month of August.
Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to October are considered shoulder seasons – and they’re the peak times for visiting! You’ll get sunny weather, reasonable prices, and smaller crowds. So plan that perfect trip now!
