Are you looking for the best things to do in Savannah? You have come to the right place!
I took a fabulous trip to Savannah this summer and absolutely adore this charming town.
Savannah feels like stepping into a Southern postcard: sunlight filters through towering live oaks draped with soft Spanish moss.
Historic homes line red brick streets, and peaceful squares are filled with fountains and landmark monuments.
Some of the best things to do on a Savannah trip include visiting Forsyth Park and the many surrounding squares, fabulous dining experiences (like Mrs. Wilkes Restaurant and Little Duck Diner), Spanish Moss Trees galore, cocktail-making classes, and oh so much more!
Let’s dive into planning your Savannah trip!
I completed two experiences in this article in collaboration with OTT. As always, all honest thoughts and opinions provided are fully my own.
13 Best Things To Do in Savannah
1. Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is one of the biggest squares in Savannah.
Forsyth Park is Savannah’s most beloved green space, stretching over 30 acres in the heart of the Historic District.
Its centerpiece is the iconic white fountain, surrounded by oak-lined walking paths, gardens, and open lawns.
Locals and visitors gather here for weekend markets, picnics, or simply to relax under the moss-draped trees.
Tip: Collins Quarter Coffee Shop is located at the edge of the square. This was a perfect AC (and espresso!) stop.
Travelers also post tons of positive reviews of the food.
2. Square Hop
Speaking of squares, I highly recommend square hopping while in Savannah! The historic town features 22 squares.
Each square features unique monuments, fountains, and centuries-old oak trees.
Start at Chippewa Square, known for its Forrest Gump bench scene, then make your way to peaceful Madison Square or the regal statues of Johnson Square.
Many of the squares are surrounded by historic homes, churches, and cafes!
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3. Admire Spanish Moss Trees
If you have ever seen glorious photos of Savannah with dripping, green leaves across its historic architecture, this would be Spanish Moss.
Savannah’s live oak trees draped in Spanish moss are as iconic as the city itself.
Take a stroll through Forsyth Park or along Jones Street to admire these towering giants that frame the city in Southern charm.
Their twisted branches and soft, hanging moss create a dreamy canopy that’s perfect for photos, shade, and quiet reflection.
4. Dine at Wilkes Restaurant
Dining at Mrs. Wilkes’ Restaurant is one of the most unique dining experiences I have ever had.
The family-style restaurant seats you with strangers at a table between 7-10 people. There is no menu.
The Thanksgiving-style meal changes daily. They serve approximately 30 dishes, including sides, main courses, and desserts. The banana pudding was my absolute favorite part!
Mrs. Wilkes officially opened her diner in 1869.
The biggest tip for dining at Wilkes Restaurant is to arrive EARLY- at least 30 minutes before opening.
As of June 2025, Wilkes can seat up to 75 people in two dining rooms. Every table seats between 7-10 people, so you will be family-style dining with strangers.
They stagger the seating to ensure a pleasant dining experience for everyone. This means your food will already be at the table as soon as you sit down.
Here are a few more noteworthy tips for an enjoyable dining experience:
- Wilkes Restaurant is cash only. There is one ATM located inside the restaurant
- There is a fixed cost of $35 per person. This does not include tip
- Pay only when you are ready to leave at the register on the way out the door
- There are two single bathrooms located inside the restaurant
5. Plant River District
The Plant River District is one of Savannah’s modern, newer areas.
Just like the name implies, the district is located along the Savannah River.
The boardwalk is great for watching ships, taking a long walk, and stopping the many restaurants and bars along the way.
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6. Peregrin Rooftop
Peregrin Rooftop is one of my favorite views in all of Savannah. The green turf rooftop overlooks Savannah’s Historic District.
It’s a great location to snap a photograph over Savannah’s historic buildings while enjoying appetizers or cocktails with friends.
During my 5:00pm visit on a weeknight, Peregrin was very spacious with plenty of seating choices.
They also have a roofed section- bonus if it rains!
Tip: There is also a super cool pool on the rooftop for guests staying at Perry Lane Hotel.
7. Juliette Loew’s House
Stumbling upon Juliette Loew’s house in Savannah surprised me!
As a former Girl Scout (oh, middle school), I never connected the dots that the founder of Girl Scouts was born and raised in Savannah.
The beautifully preserved 19th-century home offers guided tours that share stories of Juliette’s life, leadership, and vision.
It’s conveniently located in the heart of the Historic District. Tickets cost $15.
8. Prohibition Museum
Savannah’s Prohibition Museum tells the story of before, during, and after prohibition.
To be quite honest, I never realized just how profoundly this story shaped the country!
We’re talking Prohibition’s impact on dividing the nation, setting the stage for women’s rights, and so much more. The museum has got it all.
The interactive museum is small but you can easily spend a full hour enjoying each of the exhibits, from talking portraits to classic cars and Pabst Cheese (Kraft bought the business when prohibition was repealed)- what? Go check it out!
I took a guided museum tour followed by a cocktail-making class and it truly was a great way to spend two hours.
More on that cocktail-making class next!
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9. Cocktail Class
Looking for a unique, interactive activity? How about learning how to make a cocktail in Savannah!
I signed up for a cocktail-making class at the Museum of Prohibition’s Speakeasy following my tour, and it was an all-around amazing experience!
The small class size (6 participants) was intimate and allowed us to ask questions and be fully engaged in the experience.
The teacher, Chandler, is so very knowledgeable about cocktails and provided an excellent experience.
The class lasts about one hour, providing you plenty of time to relax at the Speakeasy after, or continue enjoying the rest of your Savannah itinerary.
There is also a 2-hour more detailed class available in the evening.
Extra bonus for my teacher friends! This class is the perfect opportunity to switch roles from teacher to student.
Why not learn something new on vacation? Cheers!
10. Little Duck Diner
Come for the rubber ducks, stay for the cheesy grits!
I originally stumbled upon Little Duck Diner when searching for local Savannah tips.
A local recommended the diner, and honestly, it was one of my favorite meals I had during my 4 days in Savannah!
The price for the quantity and quality of food is on point. Big fan of the cheesy grits!
11. Enjoy Praline Cookies
Praline cookies are a must-try Southern treat when visiting Savannah.
One of the most famous places to buy them is at River Street Sweets.
Stop into River Street Sweets or Savannah’s Candy Kitchen to watch pralines being made fresh, then sample a warm one straight off the marble slab.
They have free samples too!
These melt-in-your-mouth confections blend pecans, sugar, and cream for a rich taste of local tradition. YUM!
12. Toaster Barrel
I don’t say this lightly, but Toaster Barrel serves some of the grilled cheese I have EVER had. Ever.
I ordered the crispy goate grilled cheese with chevre, roasted beets, fig, gam, balsamic, walnuts, and apples. Talk about YUM.
You can also order toast ,which is the same amount of food- your grilled cheese will just come on two separate slices, not sandwiched together.
It’s conveniently attached to the Springhill Suites Hotel off Oglethorpe Avenue.
13. Slice of Pie
Enjoying a slice of pie is part of Southern Tradition.
Our Uber driver recommended Little Crown by Pie Society and a slice of apple pie at Crystal Beer Parlor.
We unfortunately didn’t make it to Crystal Beer Parlor, but loved our chocolate pie at Little Crown!
It’s a bit pricey at $7 a slice, but it was a generous size that I split with my friend.
While it’s open until 11:00pm, indoor seating was closed by 10:20pm.
Whether it’s classic pecan, tangy key lime, or a rich chocolate chess, local bakeries serve up slices that feel like home.
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Conclusion
Savannah blends Southern charm, rich history, and natural beauty into one unforgettable experience.
From shaded squares and historic homes to sweet treats and iconic parks, it’s an absolutely charming vacation destination.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, make time to slow down and soak it all in.
Ready to plan your trip? Start building your Savannah itinerary now!
