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Browsing Savannah
A.T. Hun Art Gallery
Art lovers and novices alike will thrill to the interpretive works at this fine local gallery. The innovative selections at the A.T. Hun showroom offer many glimpses into the life of low country denizens, but also reflect an impressive range of influences. The sunny gallery is surrounded by the light and noise of City Market, adding to the artistic atmosphere. Whether you're just browsing, looking for a souvenir, or are a serious collector on a quest, this should be your first stop on any artistic tour of the city.
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Andrew Low House
Facing Lafayette Square, this 1848 stucco and brick masterpiece has played host to such notable visitors as William Makepeace Thackeray and Confederate General Robert E. Lee. The home's namesake, however, is that of the husband of Julliette Gordon Low, who founded the Girl Scouts of America within these very four walls. Tours are conducted until 3:30pm, except on major holidays.
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Bonaventure Cemetery
Even if it had not served as the most memorable setting in the 1994 novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this remarkable graveyard would still draw the curious. The moss-covered graves and monuments date back over two centuries, and mark the resting places of Confederate soldiers, generals, plantation owners and Savannah families of note. Don't come looking for the famous Bird Girl statue, however. This signature icon of Midnight Madness was relocated to the Telfair Museum when the heavy traffic of adoring fans began to disturb neighboring graves.
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Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
With its towering spires, elegant French-Gothic architecture, and gleaming white exterior, the cathedral is a downtown sight you can't miss. It is the seat of the Catholic Diocese of Savannah and has stood in its current location since 1899. The original cathedral for the Diocese was constructed in 1835, then was replaced by a new one in 1876, which eventually caught fire and burned down in 1898. After the fire, construction began on the new cathedral and it was erected in less than two years. Since then, the structure has undergone many renovations including the re-leading and cleaning of over 50 stained glass windows and the replacement of the slate roof. It is a beautiful example of detailed Gothic style and a great place to marvel at the architecture and history of the building.
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City Market
Take some time to stroll around City Market and explore all of the art galleries, unique shops, and tasty restaurants. Sample some creamy homemade gelato, sink your teeth into a huge slice of melted pizza, or shop 'til you drop in some of the little souvenir shops and boutiques scattered throughout the market. There is also a great artist scene here, as the streets are lined with colorful art galleries and talented street musicians and performers. If you're interested in taking a carriage ride around this historic part of town, many of them pick up and drop off in the City Market area.
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Crab Shack
The Crab Shack is the place to go to eat great seafood in your bare feet. It's a fun, casual restaurant that has boasted the "best seafood in the area" (by readers of Savannah magazine) many times in the past decade. Choose to sit inside among the fun, colorful décor, or outside under a canopy of oak trees and enjoy the marsh scenery. Starting out as a marina and fish camp, the owners and guests would always make it a point to gather around the fresh catches of the day and enjoy the great food, company, and peaceful location they were fortunate enough to have. With help from local friends, the site later developed into the delectable restaurant it is today, with a menu that has grown from the original six-item list written on plywood when the Crab Shack first opened, to one of the most popular eateries in the area.
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Davenport House Museum
Completed in 1820, this handsome building on Columbia Square is one of the city's finest examples of Federal architecture. Its proposed destruction in 1953 caused such a public outcry that seven local women raised over $20,000 to prevent it. From this impetus was born the Historic Savannah Foundation, which through the years has been responsible for restoring over 1000 historically and architecturally significant city structures.
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Factor's Walk and River Street
A visit to Savannah isn't complete without a stroll on River Street and Factor's Walk. They're both located next to the river (about a block apart) and are home to a variety of restaurants, art galleries, shops, and bars. Factor's Walk was named after the men who worked in the area's cotton industry (they "factored" how much cotton was bought and sold). The area is also known for the original iron and cement walkways and steps that connect the old cotton warehouses to the streets on a higher level above them. After shopping and dining along the river, hop aboard one of the many carriages and trolleys that depart from here for a tour of the rest of the city.
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First African Baptist Church
Founded in 1773 by Georga Liele, the first Baptist in Georgia, this church remains the oldest Black church in the U.S. Once part of the Underground Railroad, it has served as home to the congregation ever since. Participants in the early Civil Rights Movement in Savannah held weekly meetings at the First African Baptist church, and the church remains an important part of African American history in Savannah, Georgia, and the U.S. A unique feature of the church is its collection of stained glass windows depicting African American subjects.
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Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home
One of Georgia's most beloved storytellers got her start at this modest house. O'Connor's unflinching portrayals of life in the South, generously infused with wit and pathos, not only won her acclaim and numerous national awards, but also opened the door for other Southern writers to a more national audience. Her works included A Good Man is Hard to Find and Wise Blood. Readings, lectures and other programs are offered periodically at and through the museum.
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Forsyth Park
If you need a quick rest while walking through the downtown district of Savannah, take a stroll through Forsyth Park. The town green--known as the city's central park--was created in the 18th century to showcase the city's wealth and prosperity. The park has noticeable European flair because it was inspired by city parks in Paris, specifically the Place de la Concorde. With 30 acres of greenery, visitors have plenty of space for a secluded picnic, a peaceful nap, or a quiet game of chess. The Forsyth Fountain, in the center of the park, will supply the background noise for your stroll and the draping moss from the picturesque oaks provide shade in the hot afternoons.
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Fort McAllister
It was from these earthwork battlements that a dwindling Confederate force held out for nearly two years before being taken by the marauding General William Tecumseh Sherman. Upon its surrender in 1864, the destructive swath across Georgia known as Sherman's March to the Sea was concluded, and the backbone of the Confederacy broken. A small museum, visitor's center and a few trails surround the restored battlements.
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Fort Pulaski National Monument
In 1847, Fort Pulaski was considered a state-of-the-art defense system, though it fell easily to Union troops during the Civil War. The fort has been well preserved, and visitors may roam through its protective brick walls. A video presentation and exhibits offer a historical visual while park rangers share details on the history of the monument and its role in history. The monument consists of 5,600 acres including nature trails, picnic areas and spectacular views of the salt marshes.
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Gallery 209
Operating for 26 years in the same location on River Street, Gallery 209 is an artist co-op featuring approximately 30 local artists, all who must work a day and a half in the gallery each month. Artists throughout two floors of gallery space organize their artwork, which includes watercolors, oils, pastels, engravings, fiber art, ceramics and woodwork. Jewelry by local goldsmiths is displayed in the cases at the front of the gallery. Most artists provide some biographical information and many offer note cards featuring their work.
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Georgia Historical Society
Thousands of researchers visit The Georgia Historical Society's Hodgson Hall, circa 1875, to sit beneath the high vaulted ceilings of the library and delve into the vast archives. Founded in 1839, the Georgia Historical Society is dedicated to the preservation of Georgia History, a mission made evident by its expansive collection of 18th, 19th and 20th Century manuscripts, maps, images, diaries, business records and government and military papers. The society coordinates the state's historical marker program and sponsors lectures and public programs throughout the year.
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Grayson Stadium
Grayson Stadium is home to the aptly named Savannah Sand Gnats minor league baseball team. It was originally constructed in 1927 and was used for both football and baseball games. In 1940, a hurricane flattened the stadium and the current structure was built in its place; it was used for football and baseball until 1959, when it was converted to a baseball-only venue. The team's namesake, the sand gnat, is a well-known pest of the area that attaches to the skin of unsuspecting humans and bites. They can be easily conquered with a little bugspray, unlike the baseball team, which has won three South Atlantic League championships since 1993.
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Green-Meldrim Home
Built for a wealthy cotton tycoon and now used as a church rectory, this glamorous Gothic-style home on Madison Square served as the lodging of choice for General William Tecumseh Sherman during his somewhat unwelcome stay in Savannah. From a desk in an upstairs bedroom, Sherman dictated a telegram to Abraham Lincoln, offering the city as an extravagant 1864 Christmas present.
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Hamilton-Turner House
While most culturally significant as the city's only Victorian home open to public perusal, the majority of visitors stop by to examine the mysterious ghost house depicted in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The ghosts of former tenants are said to tread the halls here on a nightly basis, and it is not hard to imagine why they would not want to leave. Once the home of Savannah's mayor, it now stands as one of the finest surviving examples of the Second Empire style.
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Historic Railroad Shops
This National Historic Landmark site is home to the only preserved railroad shops complex and roundhouse of its size. The brick industrial buildings, constructed in the mid 1800s, are a testament to the importance of the railroad to Savannah and the U.S. The 125-foot tall smokestack that still stands is very impressive. The giant turntable still works, and the collection of locomotives and railroad cars, many of which have been fully restored and are operational, are often rolled out and moved.
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Johnny Mercer Theatre
With a seating capacity of over 2,500 spectators, this theater hosts a variety of entertainment events. It is home to the Savannah Symphony Orchestra and hosts numerous Broadway musicals, concerts, ballets, and comedy shows. It has an excellent surround-sound system that makes every performance a memorable event.
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Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
This architecturally stunning home is where the Girl Scouts Founder Juliette Gordon Low was born. The home is called "The Birthplace" by the Girl Scouts organization and was actually Savannah's first National Historic Landmark. The house, built in 1821, was refurbished to reflect the elegant era of the 1880s Victorian Style. The house is open for the public to tour and learn more about the history and culture of the Girl Scouts organization. Some of Low's personal artwork is also on display here.
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Kevin Barry's Irish Pub and Restaurant
Named for the beloved Irish patriot, this restaurant provides a unique Irish experience in downtown Savannah. The staff serves up traditional food and drink, with light-hearted Irish verve. Make sure you stop by in the evenings for some great live Celtic and folk music. In addition to enjoying the music, be sure to try one of the mouth-watering, classic Irish dishes such as shepherd's pie, corned beef & cabbage, or Irish beef stew. Or, get the pub's vaunted fish and chips.
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Martin Luther King Jr. Arena
Located near the Savannah Civic Center, this multi-purpose arena hosts a variety of sports and entertainment shows. It has a seating capacity of 9,000 guests, and plays host to concerts, Ringling Brothers Circus and Disney on Ice Shows. Other attractions are wrestling matches, Monster Truck Shows and exhibitions.
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Massie Heritage Interpretation Center
Housed within the sole surviving original building of the Savannah school system--and hence, the oldest continuously operating school in the state--the Massie provides students and adults alike with a valuable, comprehensive vision of Savannah's past and present.
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Mighty Eighth Air Force Heritage Museum
This modern, interactive museum is several hangars large, and an absolute must for anyone who wants to pay homage to, and get a deeper understanding of, the men who saved England from Nazism in 1942-1944. The museum opened in 1996 to showcase the personal memoirs and artifacts of war heroes who valiantly fought for the freedom and protection of citizens in the United States and foreign countries. The 8th AF, as the unit was commonly called, was first created to fight against the Nazis in 1942 and continued to serve as needed until the Gulf War in 1991. Members of The Mighty Eighth Air Force have earned over 7,000 Purple Hearts, 46,000 Air Medals, 220 Distinguished Service Crosses, and several other awards. During WWII alone, 350,000 men served in the Mighty Eighth, and some 20,000 of them died in this service. On your tour through the museum you can tour planes, view authentic bomber jackets and prisoner of war artifacts, and experience what it was like to fly in a WWII bomber. Once your tour is complete, stop by the Museum pub to relax and discuss what was learned.
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Oatland Island Preserve
Oatland is located on a marsh island and encompasses 60 acres of forest land that is home to over 45 species of animals. The staff at the center preserve and teach about Georgia's diverse wildlife populations to school groups and visitors who are interested in the animals of the state. In addition to animals, the preserve is home to a 525-foot marsh boardwalk, pontoon boats and docks, and lush gardens. Everything on the grounds is used to enhance the educational programs that the center provides to the public. It's a great place to visit to learn about local animals, how to care for them, and how to best conserve their native habitats.
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Old Fort Jackson Historic Site
Originally an earthen fort established during the Revolutionary War, Old Fort Jackson's brick structure was built in 1808, and was further developed between 1845 and 1860. The fort sits on the bank of the Savannah River and is surrounded by a moat. Visitors may explore the tunnel-like passageways that used to house soldiers and store ammunition and supplies. Inside, watch a video presentation on the history of the fort. Cannons and other weapons are on display throughout. Daily cannon firings are offered during the summer months.
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Old Town Trolley Tours
A fun and comfortable way to see the Historic District in style, this reliable outfit operates tours of some of Savannah's most popular attractions. The trolley will pick you up at your hotel, with departures every half hour throughout the day. A wide variety of tour packages are offered, including a very popular “ghost” tour that highlights the city's history of other worldly encounters. Reservations are required.
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Owens-Thomas House
Since 1992, Savannah's Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences has pursued an effort to preserve and completely restore The Owens-Thomas House, circa 1819. The granddaughter of longtime owner Congressman and Savannah Mayor George Welshman Owens donated the house and its contents to the art museum in 1951. Now, as a gallery of period art and furnishings and classic architecture, The Owens-Thomas House is open for visitors to enjoy.
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Pinkie Master's
Where can you go in Savannah to stop feeling like a tourist and truly mingle amongst the locals? Pinkie Master's Lounge of course! Don't dress up and don't be scared of getting snug with strangers at this dive bar. Pinkie's is known around Savannah as the place to get a cold brew, or several cold brews, because most people come after work and stay late. The place is full of character; memorabilia of yesteryear covers the walls, there is always a story or two to be heard, and the juke box keeps the rock ballads going all night. You're sure to have a memorable time here--as long as you let your guard down and stay for a while. Don't forget to ask what Jimmy Carter and Pinkie Master's have in common!
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Pirates House
Avast ye travlin' tourist and stop by the Pirates House near the Savannah River for an authentic encounter with pirates, grub, and lore of long, long ago. After being seated in one of the 15 pirate themed dining rooms, you will enjoy some of the best food in Savannah. The restaurant was established in 1753 as an inn for traveling seamen and quickly became the go to spot for consuming a hearty meal and rum before setting sail at dawn. Stories of shanghaied sailors, vicious battles, and hidden booty are told through the memorabilia displayed on the walls; some of it factual, some of it a blimey tall tale! Captain Flint--a real Pirate and character in the novel Treasure Island--is said to still frequent the Pirate House as a ghost after he died in one of the rooms. Even if you don't believe all that you see and hear, a good time and an excellent meal is sure to be had at the Pirate House.
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Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum
Three floors of exhibits fill this museum dedicated to Savannah's African American heritage and civil rights movement. Named after a famous Savannah civil rights leader and pastor of Savannah's First African Baptist Church for 16 years, the museum presents photographs and various exhibits. A video presentation chronicles the civil rights movement in Savannah through the eyes of people who were there. The building, circa 1914, was at one time the largest black bank in the U.S.
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Savannah History Museum
The Savannah History Museum, located in the Savannah Visitor Information Center, offers a taste of the city's rich history. An open atmosphere invites visitors to wander through the varied exhibits in no particular order and at no particular pace. The park bench from the movie Forrest Gump is here, as is a steam locomotive from the Central of Georgia Railroad. Do not miss the exhibit on fashion and history with a display of women's evening gowns from the late 1800s to the 1960s.
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Savannah Riverboat The Georgia Queen
Get on board the Georgia Queen riverboat and cruise up and down the Savannah River. The old fashioned stern wheeler replica of yesteryear will take you back in time while also entertaining you on one of their themed cruises. Learn about Savannah history while dining on the narrated sightseeing cruise, have a spooky time on a murder mystery cruise, or experience the sounds of the south on the gospel dinner cruise. Your time on the riverboat is sure to be memorable as the views of the city from the river are beautiful and unique.
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Sea Kayak Georgia
Drive by the Sea Kayak Georgia center on Tybee Island and you cannot help but feel the spirit of adventure. A large compound with kayaking equipment everywhere invites you to partake in the action. Focusing on kayaking instruction and guided tours of surrounding coastal areas, Sea Kayak Georgia also offers kayak rentals to individuals familiar with sea kayaking, or who have taken a safety and rescue class, offered daily. Other classes teach basic to advanced kayaking skills.
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Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
A collection of model ships and maritime paintings fills this museum dedicated to the sea. Even the building has a nautical history. The Scarborough House was built in 1819 for the president of the Savannah Steamship Company, who was responsible for building the SS Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. A model of the Savannah is on display, as is one of a sinking Titanic and many more ships. Be sure to stroll through the beautiful garden.
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Skidaway Island State Park
Six miles southeast of Savannah is the 500-acre Skidaway Island State Park, a barrier island and a perfect day-trip for the Savannah visitor wanting to get to know the natural ecology of coastal Georgia. Facilities at the park include a museum, picnic shelters, a playground and observation towers. Tent, trailer and RV sites are available. Two nature trails provide visitors a chance to view the spectacular environment and watch for wildlife, especially shore birds.
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Telfair Museum of Art
Opened in 1886, after wealthy art collector Mary Telfair left her estate and belongings to the Georgia Society, this is the oldest art museum in southeastern territory. Made up of three buildings, with very different, but equally fascinating architecture, the art and cultural artifacts inside are not the only jewels to see. The Telfair Academy has a neo-classical design and offers a glimpse into 19th century life. The Owens-Thomas House is a national historical landmark given to the museum in 1951. The newest 2006 Jepson Center offers a 64,000-sq. foot space, bringing modernism to the century-old museum. From art classes, to rotating and permanent collections, this museum offers visitors a chance to transport themselves in time. Visit the museum store on the way out, or even rent out space for a private party.
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Temple Mickve Israel
To truly see something unique and rare, visit the the Temple Mickve Israel in the downtown area. It is the sole remaining Gothic synagogue in the United States. The congregation was founded in the 1700s, is one of the oldest Jewish congregations in America, and has regular members attending today that are related to the founding members. The synagogue has endured natural disasters and war, including the American Revolution and the Civil War, but still Jewish members only grew stronger and larger in size--eventually needing a larger space to support the growth. Henry G. Harrison, a famous architect from New York was commissioned to design and build the Temple in 1820. As your tour winds through the neo-Gothic architecture, take notice of the medieval designs that influenced Harrison and don't forget to ask about the historic Torah, occasionally used today during special services.
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Tybee Island Beaches
About 20 miles east of Savannah lies Tybee Island, home to a relaxed community, abundant wildlife, picturesque lighthouses, and, most importantly, beautiful beaches. There are five different beaches on the island, each with its own unique characteristics. Strand Station is the most popular beach, as it sits adjacent to Tybee Island Pier and has many lifeguards on duty. North Station beach is (obviously) the northernmost beach on the island and lies near the Historic Tybee Island Lighthouse--a good alternative to explore if the weather is not beach-lounging friendly. Check out Mid Beach for a less-crowded option.
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Tybee Island Lighthouse
This site is one of the most complete light stations in the U.S., retaining not only the lighthouse, but also all of its support buildings. The 154-foot tall lighthouse is the oldest and tallest active lighthouse in Georgia. Visitors may climb a spiral staircase to the top for an impressive view. Track your progress and catch your breath at several landings along the strenuous staircase route. Look down and you will see Fort Screven, which houses the Tybee Island Museum.
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Tybee Island Marine Science Center
You can walk into the Tybee Island Marine Science Center straight from the beach. Aquariums filled with native marine species and exhibits ranging from shells to sharks fill the museum. The touch tank is a great way for visitors to get to know their underwater neighbors, and an exhibit on pollution reminds them of the fragility of the marine ecosystem. Guided beach walks and other group programs may be scheduled, and the center offers a camp for children and a guest lecture series during the summer months.
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Tybee Island Museum
Located in Fort Screven, these original museum rooms housed gunpowder and 700 pound projectiles used in the huge cannon that once sat on top of the building to protect the entrance to the Savannah River. Exhibits cover topics of local history. From the observation deck, view the old gun platform. The periscope in the gift shop area comes from a World War II submarine and provides a unique view of the adjacent Tybee Island Lighthouse.
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University of Georgia Marine Education Center and Aquarium
The UGA Marine Education Center serves as a resource for educators, students and the public on coastal Georgia marine ecosystems. Featuring exhibits on tidal creek, salt marsh, ocean environments and 14 tanks containing native species, the center is the only saltwater aquarium open to the public in Georgia. Kids can climb aboard a model shrimp boat that is part of an exhibit on the shrimp industry. Take a hike on two trails through forest and along the marsh.
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Williams/Mercer House
Originally begun in 1860 for Confederate General Hugh Mercer, the construction of the house stopped at the start of the Civil War and was finally completed eight years later--for a different owner. A hundred years later, the house gained notoriety as the house of Jim Williams, antique dealer and restorer, who lived here from 1969 until his death. The scandal that surrounded Williams' shooting here of Danny Hansford in 1981 would later become dramatized in John Berendt's 1994 mammoth bestseller, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Today the house is owned by Williams' sister and is open to the public.
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Wormsloe State Historic Site
Wormsloe Plantation is worth a visit if only to see the welcoming mile-long driveway lined with huge live oak trees. Located approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Savannah, the plantation was established in 1737 by Noble Jones, one of the first British colonists who arrived in Georgia with General James E. Oglethorpe. A plantation house built in 1828 stands at the site, as does the remains of the original house built by Noble. A museum displays artifacts.
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