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Things to do in Savannah
Savannah, Georgia is a city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and Southern charm. Located on the coast of Georgia, Savannah was founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe and was the first city in the United States planned around public squares. Today, Savannah is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. In this essay, we will explore some of the top things to do in Savannah, including historical attractions, art and culture, food and drink, and outdoor activities.
Savannah’s Historical Attractions
One of the main draws of Savannah is its rich history. The city’s historic district covers 2.5 square miles and features more than 20 public squares, each with its own unique character and charm. The district is also home to hundreds of buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, making it one of the largest urban National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.
Savannah’s historic district is a unique and beautiful place to explore. The squares are a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery, and the buildings that surround them are filled with history and character. Some notable historic sites to visit in Savannah include Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, and the Telfair Museums.
Forsyth Park is one of the most popular and picturesque squares in Savannah. Located in the heart of the historic district, Forsyth Park is home to the famous Forsyth Park Fountain, which was built in 1858 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Savannah. The park is also home to a playground, a café, and several monuments and memorials.
Bonaventure Cemetery is another notable historic site in Savannah. Located on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, Bonaventure Cemetery is known for its beautiful gardens, statues, and mausoleums. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable people, including Johnny Mercer, the famous songwriter who wrote “Moon River.”
The Telfair Museums are a collection of three museums that showcase Savannah’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. The Telfair Academy, located in the heart of the historic district, is a National Historic Landmark that houses a collection of American and European art from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Jepson Center for the Arts, located on Telfair Square, features contemporary art and a wide range of rotating exhibits. And the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, located on Oglethorpe Square, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into life in Savannah during the 19th century.
Art and Culture in Savannah
Savannah is also known for its vibrant art and cultural scene. The city is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), which is one of the most prestigious art and design schools in the world. SCAD has a number of campuses throughout the city, and its students and faculty are a major part of Savannah’s creative community.
The Savannah Music Festival is another important cultural institution in the city. The festival takes place every spring and features a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, classical, and world music. The festival draws musicians from around the world, and its performances take place in a variety of venues throughout the city, including the Lucas Theatre for the Arts and the historic Savannah Theatre.
The Savannah African Art Museum is another notable cultural attraction in the city. The museum features a collection of African art and artifacts, including masks, sculptures, textiles, and jewelry. The museum also hosts a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.
Food and Drink in Savannah
Savannah’s food and drink scene has been gaining national attention in recent years, and the city is now considered a foodie destination. The city is known for its Southern cuisine, which features dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and biscuits and gravy.
The Olde Pink House is one of Savannah’s most famous restaurants. Housed in a historic mansion that dates back to the 18th century, the Olde Pink House serves upscale Southern cuisine in an elegant and romantic setting. The restaurant is known for its shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes.
The Grey is another popular restaurant in Savannah. Housed in a restored Greyhound bus station, the restaurant serves Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist. The Grey is known for its oysters, fried chicken, and inventive cocktails.
For a more casual dining experience, check out The Ordinary Pub. This gastropub serves a variety of American and international dishes, including burgers, tacos, and fish and chips. The restaurant also has a large selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Outdoor Activities in Savannah
Savannah’s mild climate and beautiful surroundings make it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. One of the most popular outdoor attractions in the city is Tybee Island, which is located just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Tybee Island has beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and plenty of opportunities for water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Skidaway Island State Park is another great outdoor attraction in Savannah. The park features hiking and biking trails, a boardwalk that winds through a salt marsh, and a nature center with interactive exhibits.
Finally, no visit to Savannah would be complete without a stroll along the Savannah Riverfront. The Riverfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and it offers beautiful views of the Savannah River. The Riverfront is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Old Fort Jackson and the Waving Girl statue.
All in all, Savannah is a unique and beautiful city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving food and drink scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring Savannah’s historic district, discovering its art and cultural institutions, or indulging in its delicious Southern cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. And with its mild climate and beautiful surroundings, Savannah is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. So why not plan a trip to Savannah today and discover all that this beautiful city has to offer?
