There’s a stunning city in Georgia that serves as the epitome of Southern charm and beauty, and it’s a destination I’ve been dying to visit for a long time. This past month, I finally got to cross this beautiful city off my bucket list, and I was genuinely surprised by how much it exceeded my expectations.
Savannah, Georgia does not disappoint.
One thing that surprised me the most was the ‘Old World’ feel throughout the whole city. It feels almost European, yet undeniably rooted in the unique charm of the American South.
Everyone should experience Savannah at least once.
Here are 5 reasons why this city needs to be on your bucket list:
1. Living, Breathing History
Savannah’s rich past is exactly what gives the city its unique Old-World atmosphere.
From the American Revolution and the Civil War to the Prohibition era and Savannah’s iconic film history, the city is dripping in history.
Walking through Savannah often feels like stepping back in time, with many local shops and restaurants paying homage to the architecture. However, the history goes much deeper than aesthetics.
Throughout the city, you can find the rare, historic Savannah Grey Bricks.
These bricks carry a heavy history, as they were produced using slave labor. In some bricks, you can still see the fingerprints of the person who made them—a powerful and overwhelming experience that grounds you in the reality of the city’s past.
You’ll also find steep historical steps along the riverfront, originally designed to protect the city from invasions from the water during wartime. You can literally feel the stories in the cobblestone streets.
2. The Perfect Riverfront Home Away From Home
One of the most captivating parts of Savannah is the infamous River Street, stretching along the Savannah River waterfront.
This cobblestone strip is a cornerstone of the city’s identity and it’s home to incredible dining and shopping, but more importantly, it is hands-down the best area to stay.
I was lucky enough to be in town for the unveiling of a brand-new era for Savannah. The iconic Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront officially rebranded as Hotel Orielle during a highly anticipated midnight reveal on September 1st. Hotel Orielle is the epitome of Savannah luxury as a proud member of Marriot’s Autograph Collection (i.e., upscale and luxury independent boutique hotels that feature distinct, character-driven designs).
With the new name comes a fresh vision centered around “the art of noticing,” which is evident in the property’s tiny, thoughtful details.
Staying at Hotel Orielle gave me the chance to take in Savannah through a new lens.
It’s steps away from everything, features a unique design aesthetic, and boasts the best evening rooftop vibes in the city at its Rocks on the Roof bar.
Pro-tip: Even if you aren’t a guest of Hotel Orielle, you should definitely carve out one of your evenings for an hour or two at Rocks on the Roof. You won’t regret it!
3. Attractions You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
You will never run out of things to do in Savannah.
As America’s most haunted city, a spooky excursion is mandatory. One of my favorite experiences was the “frightseeing” tour with Ghosts and Gravestones. This guided trolley ride takes you through the city’s darkest lore and secrets, making spooky stops at famous haunted locations like the Andrew Low House.
If you prefer your history with a cocktail, the American Prohibition Museum is a must. It captures the social and political climate of the 1920s, showing you the secret ways people secured their spirits before dropping you into a working speakeasy hidden inside the museum. I felt like we traveled back in time during our visit and will go back the next time I visit for sure!
Right underneath the American Prohibition Museum was another of my favorite attractions, the Savannah Pirates and Treasure Museum. This museum also makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, and you learn real pirate history and lore. The museum is full of interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts. They also have a fun pirate bar with themed drinks, including nonalcoholic drinks that look like magical potions being brewed right in front of you (kids and adults love it!).
Both of these museums are a great way to learn about Savannah’s history while also getting out of the Savannah heat.
The best part of all these attractions is that they’re in close walking distance to Hotel Orielle! I love not having to think about how to get around to all the things I’d like to do, and it was amazing being so close to the best parts of Savannah.
4. Unmatched Scenery
The best way to get a lay of the land and take in the stunning scenery is by booking Old Town Trolley Tours.
Their Hop-On Hop-Off trolley winds through Savannah’s most beautiful streets while guides share the fascinating stories behind the sights. You’ll pass under canopies of live oaks draped in Spanish moss and cruise by iconic spots like Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square (famous for the Forrest Gump bench scene).
But the view that completely took my breath away was The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. As stunning as it is from the outside, stepping through the doors is a transcendent experience. It should be at the very top of your Savannah itinerary!
After your tour, take a walk down the riverfront for more amazing views and stop in the River Street Market for some local souvenirs.
5. A True Foodie’s Paradise
Savannah is a mandatory destination for food lovers. You can barely walk a block without passing an amazing restaurant or tasty dessert shop.
One of the great things about staying at Hotel Orielle is that you don’t even have to leave the property for top-tier dining. I had an incredible breakfast every morning at Coastal 15 Fish House, which blends coastal cuisine with southern comfort, and enjoyed one of my favorite dinners there as well.
If you’re looking for a great spot for lunch and cocktails with the girls, The Grove is the perfect vibe. For fine dining out on the town, Collins Quarter and Vic’s On The River are spectacular choices.
Savannah is full of amazing places to get sweet treats. Some of the best candy and sweet shops are along the riverfront and just down the street from Hotel Orielle, including Savannah’s Candy Kitchen – don’t forget to stop in for a free warm sample of their famous pralines!
Another quick walk from Hotel Orielle is Byrd’s Famous Cookies and Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop, where you can stop by for free samples and all sorts of tasty treats. If you’re craving a scoop of ice cream, one of the best spots in the South is Leopold’s Ice Cream. The perfect treat for a hot Southern day!
Honestly, there are too many incredible eats to list, which is why I highly recommend booking a tour with Savannah Taste Experience. This walking food tour takes you through downtown for some of the best sips and bites in the city. My personal favorite? The zucchini dumplings at Municipal Grand. I promise you, they are one of the best things I have ever eaten.
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Savannah radiates welcoming, authentic Southern kindness.
There is an easy-going rhythm to the city that invites you to explore at your own pace without ever feeling rushed.
It’s incredibly walkable, famously dog and family-friendly, and thanks to those massive live oaks and cascading Spanish moss, the streets stay shaded and cool even in the warmer months.
Savannah was one of my favorite places to check off my bucket-list. You should absolutely go check out this stunning ‘Old World’ jewel of the American South.
