The Ultimate Savannah, USA Guide: Historic Charm, Southern Cuisine & Spanish Moss Magic
Savannah, USA isn’t just a destination—it’s a living museum of Southern elegance. The scent of blooming jasmine mingles with the sound of horse-drawn carriages on cobblestone streets as Spanish moss drapes ancient oaks in ethereal veils. It’s a city where history breathes through every wrought-iron balcony and shaded square.
Why Savannah, USA Stands Out
Black statue in the park, Savannah, USA
- Historic Architecture: The Owens-Thomas House (1819) showcases English Regency architecture and contains some of America’s earliest indoor plumbing systems.
- Cultural Scene: The Savannah Music Festival each spring brings world-class jazz, blues, and classical performances to intimate historic venues.
- Local Specialties: Shrimp and grits at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room—a creamy, spicy masterpiece that defines Lowcountry cuisine.
Pro Tip: Visit in late October through November when the weather is perfect (70s Fahrenheit), summer crowds have dispersed, and hotel rates drop 30%. Arrive at popular attractions like the Mercer-Williams House at opening time (9 AM) to avoid lines.
Map of Savannah, USA
Use these interactive maps to explore Savannah, USA and plan your route:
📍 View Savannah, USA on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open Savannah, USA in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) served by Delta, American, United, and JetBlue. Uber/Lyft to downtown costs $20-25, taxis $30-35. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Silver Service stops at Savannah station with connections from New York to Miami. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: I-95 provides direct access. Parking: $2/hour at street meters, $15-25/day in garages. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: DOT shuttle ($3 all-day pass), free ferry to Hutchinson Island. Check official city transport websites for passes and schedules.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer ideal weather with temperatures in the 60s-70s°F and fewer crowds than peak summer.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 85-95°F, humid with afternoon thunderstorms | River Street festivals, but crowded and expensive |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 45-65°F, mild with occasional cold snaps | Holiday decorations, lower rates, but some attractions have reduced hours |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 65-80°F, perfect walking weather | Ideal for photography tours, garden visits, and outdoor dining without crowds |
Budgeting for Savannah, USA
Bottom view of gray and blue castle, Savannah, USA
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $80-120/night (B&Bs, budget hotels) | $150-250/night (boutique hotels) | $300-500/night (Mansion on Forsyth, Perry Lane) |
| Meals | $15-25/day (Zunzi’s sandwiches, street food) | $50-75/day (The Olde Pink House lunch) | $150+/day (Elizabeth on 37th tasting menu) |
| Transport | $3/day (DOT shuttle pass) | $20-30/day (Uber/taxi) | $150/day (private carriage tours) |
| Activities | Free (walking squares, cemetery tours) | $40/day (house museum entries) | $200/day (private guided history tours) |
| Daily Total | $100-150/day | $250-350/day | $600-800+/day |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forsyth Park Fountain | Iconic 1858 cast-iron fountain surrounded by 30 acres of gardens and walking paths | 24/7 | Free |
| Bonaventure Cemetery | 100-acre riverside cemetery famous for its haunting beauty and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil connections | 8 AM-5 PM | Free (tours $25) |
| Wormsloe Historic Site | Dramatic oak-lined avenue leading to colonial estate ruins with live demonstrations | 9 AM-4:30 PM | $10 adults |
| Mercer-Williams House | Italianate mansion made famous by Jim Williams’ story and restoration work | 10:30 AM-4:10 PM | $12.50 adults |
3-Day Itinerary: Savannah, USA’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Historic District Immersion
- Morning: 7:30 AM photography walk through Forsyth Park before crowds arrive. The morning light through Spanish moss creates magical scenes.
- Afternoon: 12 PM guided tour of Mercer-Williams House ($12.50) followed by lunch at The Collins Quarter (try their famous avocado smash toast, $14).
- Evening: 6 PM ghost tour
White and brown concrete building under blue sky during daytime, Savannah, USA
