Is there anything better than getting away for a weekend? Especially if that getaway is in a charming town like Savannah, GA? This weekend, forget about your responsibilities and escape to a place where you can enjoy history, shopping, delicious food, and plenty of Southern hospitality.
This charming Southern town has something for everyone – from exploring its historic district to indulging in some retail therapy or enjoying fresh seafood. If you’re looking for tips on how to make the most of your trip, read on! We’ve compiled some information on the best places to stay and eat, as well as some fun things to do while you’re here. So whether you’re visiting for the first time or are returning for another great escape, let us help you plan your perfect weekend getaway in Savannah!
What You Should Know Before You Visit Savannah, GA
If you are visiting Savannah, GA, for the first time, there are a few things you should know before you go! Here are some tips and information on what to expect during your visit:
Transportation
There is no need to drive throughout Savannah! The Historic Savannah area is quite flat and easily accessible by foot or bike, with free shuttle services provided all across downtown.
Although the airport is situated away from the city, it’s easy to get a taxi or Lyft there – plan on spending approximately $25 if you want to use one. But if you want to explore surrounding areas for a day, like Bonaventure Cemetery or Tybee Island, you have three options: renting a car, booking a tour that comes with transportation (such as this Bonaventure Cemetery tour or this Tybee Island tour), or taking another Lyft.
Weather
The weather in Savannah is pretty mild year-round, but the best time to visit is probably in the spring or fall when it’s not too hot or humid. March, April, October, and November tend to have the most pleasant weather – averaging in the mid-60s to low-70s°F (around 20°C) – but can also be a bit rainy.
If you’re visiting during summer, expect temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s°F (30-35°C), with humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter. December through February are the coldest months, with average highs around 60°F (15°C). Savannah’s weather is relatively mild compared to other parts of the country, so don’t let a little chill keep you away!
What To Pack
Again, because Savannah’s weather is fairly mild year-round, there’s no need to overthink your packing. A few basics to pack for any season include comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of walking!), lightweight layers that can be easily removed if it gets too warm, sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses for sunny days. If you’re visiting during summer, pack light and airy clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton that will help you stay cool, and if you’re visiting in winter, bring a jacket or scarf for cooler evenings.
Weekend Getaway, Savannah, GA – 3 Days In Savannah
Below, we’ve put together the perfect Savannah itinerary for your weekend. From exploring the city’s historic district to indulging in some delicious food, this trip has it all!
Day 1: Arrive In Savannah + Explore The Historic District
After arriving in Savannah and checking into your hotel, take some time to explore the city’s historic district! Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with quaint houses, visit beautiful parks and squares, and see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Stop 1: Kick off your morning with a stroll through Forsyth Park
Savannah’s Forsyth Park, with its famous nineteenth-century fountain, is one of the city’s most popular photo locations, and it’s a great place to start your sightseeing. We recommend approaching from the north end of the park–here, you’ll find the famed fountain as well as plenty of green space, seats, shaded vistas, and brilliant flowers.
If you keep going south, you’ll find a lovely big lawn with blooming flowers. You’ll also find The Collins Quarter’s second cafe – if you want to drink a delicious morning latte surrounded by natural beauty, this is the place for you!
Stop 2: Visit the Owens-Thomas House & Museum
Next up on your tour of Savannah’s historic district is the Owens-Thomas House & Museum, one of the best-preserved examples of Regency architecture in the United States. The house was built between 1816 and 1819 for wealthy cotton merchant Richard Richardson and his family, and today, it serves as a museum that tells the story of life in early 19th-century Savannah.
While you’re here, be sure to take a walk through the rear slave quarters, which have been restored to look as they would have during the antebellum period. This is a powerful and moving experience that will give you a better understanding of what life was like for the enslaved people who lived and worked on this property.
Stop 3: Grab lunch at The Grey
After touring the Owens-Thomas House, head to The Grey for lunch; this popular restaurant is located in a 20th-century bus terminal that’s been renovated into a stylish space with an industrial-chic vibe. The menu features Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist, and the food is absolutely delicious. We recommend ordering the shrimp and grits or the pimento cheese fritters – you won’t be disappointed!
Stop 4: Explore The Telfair Academy of Arts & Sciences
The Telfair Academy of Arts & Sciences is one of Savannah’s most popular museums, and it’s easy to see why. The museum is home to an impressive collection of American and European art, as well as furniture, ceramics, and other decorative objects.
But the Telfair Academy isn’t just a museum – it’s also one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. The neoclassical building was designed by noted architect William Jay and completed in 1819. Be sure to take some time to admire the exterior of the building before heading inside!
Stop 5: Visit River Street And Gaze at the Savannah River.
No trip to Savannah would be complete without a visit to River Street, one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. This historic waterfront area is located in downtown Savannah and is lined with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and restaurants with outdoor seating that offers views of the Savannah River.
If you’re looking for something to do, we recommend taking a riverboat cruise or visiting one of the museums along River Street.
Stop 6: End your day with a walk through Savannah’s Historic District
As your day comes to an end, take some time to wander through Savannah’s historic district one last time. This is a great opportunity to explore some of the smaller streets and alleyways that you may have missed earlier in the day. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.
Day 2: Take A Day Trip To Tybee Island
Just a short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island is the perfect place to spend a day enjoying the sun and the sand. The island is home to miles of beaches, as well as a number of historical landmarks and attractions.
Stop 1: Start your day with a visit to the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum
No trip to Tybee Island would be complete without a visit to the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum. The light station, which includes the iconic Tybee Island Lighthouse, is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.
The museum is located in the keepers’ quarters, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of the light station and its importance to maritime navigation. Be sure to climb to the top of the lighthouse for some stunning views of the island and the surrounding ocean!
Stop 2: Spend some time relaxing on the beach
After touring the light station, it’s time to hit the beach! Tybee Island has miles of sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the island’s coastal waterways.
Stop 3: Grab lunch at The Crab Shack
No trip to Tybee Island would be complete without a meal at The Crab Shack. This popular restaurant is located on the waterfront, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy some fresh seafood. Be sure to try the crab legs – they’re absolutely delicious!
Stop 4: Take a walk through Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument is a must-visit for history buffs. The fort was built in the early 1800s to defend Savannah from attack, and it played an important role in the Civil War. Today, the fort is open to the public, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of this important landmark.
Stop 5: End your day with a sunset cruise
As your day comes to an end, there’s no better way to relax than with a sunset cruise. Bull River Sunset Cruises offers a variety of different cruises that depart from Savannah, and you’re sure to enjoy the stunning views of the coastline as the sun sets.
Day 3: Explore Neighbouring Locations
Just a short drive from Savannah, Pooler is a great place to spend a day exploring. The city is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum and the Georgia Aquarium.
Stop 1: Start your day with a visit to the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum
The Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pooler. The museum is dedicated to the history of the Eighth Air Force, and it features a variety of exhibits on the air force’s role in WWII.
Stop 2: Spend some time at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and it’s definitely a must-visit for anyone spending a day in Pooler. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of aquatic life, including sharks, stingrays, and dolphins.
Stop 3: Grab lunch at The Chocolate Martini Bar
The Chocolate Martini Bar is Savannah, Georgia’s finest restaurant, as well as a unique, playful place with excellent cuisine, martinis, and desserts. Our restaurant offers exquisite private dining rooms, outstanding cuisine, exceptional customer service, and low costs. Make sure you schedule your reservation in advance to get the best possible table.
Stop 4: Visit Splash in the Boro
Splash in the Boro is a water park that’s perfect for a hot day in Pooler. The park features a variety of slides and attractions, including a lazy river and a wave pool.
Stop 5: End your day with some shopping at Tanger Outlets
Tanger Outlets is the perfect place to find some great deals on clothing, shoes, and more. The outlet mall is home to a variety of popular stores, including Nike, Gap, and Under Armour.
Other Places To Visit In Savannah
Here, we discuss some honorable mentions that didn’t quite make it into our Savannah weekend getaway itinerary. You can check them out if you have enough time!
1. Visit the Olde Pink House: The Olde Pink House is a historic house museum that was built in 1771. The house is open to the public for tours, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of Savannah.
2. Take a Ghost Tour: Savannah is known for its ghosts, and there are a variety of different ghost tours that you can take. If you’re interested in learning about the city’s spooky history, then a ghost tour is definitely for you.
3. Tour the Mercer Williams house: The Mercer William house is a historic house that was built in 1868. The house is open for tours, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of Savannah.
4. Visit the Colonial Park Cemetery: Colonial Park Cemetery is a historical cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, which became a city park in 1896. The cemetery was founded in 1750 when Savannah was the capital of the British Province of Georgia and the last of the Thirteen States.
5. Dine at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is a historic restaurant in Savannah, Georgia, that serves traditional Southern cuisine. The restaurant was founded in 1943 by Sema Wilkes, and it’s been featured on the Food Network and in magazines such as Bon Appétit.
6. Explore City Market: City Market is a famed location in Savannah, Georgia, that features a variety of shops and restaurants. The market is located in the historic district of Savannah, and it’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Ready For Your Weekend In Savannah?
Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history and nature or simply want to relax on the beach, you’re sure to find it all in Savannah. We hope this Savannah weekend itinerary has helped you properly plan for your trip. Thanks for reading!
