Brimming with Southern charm and warm welcomes, the “Hostess City of the South” is well known for its hospitality, historic buildings and haunted hot spots. If you’re planning on a long weekend in this fun city, we have your guide to staying, eating and playing in Savannah.
Stay
If you’re looking for accommodations that are simply Savannah, don’t miss the Mansion on Forsyth Park. This 1888 mansion overlooks the trees and fountain of nearby Forsyth Park. Or, you can trade park views for river views at the relatively new Bohemian Hotel, which sits on the Savannah River on River Street. If you stay here, be sure to check out the eclectic, haunting pieces of artwork lining the hallways.
If you’re looking for a more spooky experience, don’t miss Kehoe House, a haunted bed and breakfast in the historic district.
Eat
Grab yourself a hearty, down-home Southern meal at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, a cash-only joint where you’ll share large bowls of Southern fare while sitting with strangers at the communal tables. Another not-to-be-missed eatery? Wiley’s Championship BBQ, where you’ll feast on baskets of tri-tip, ribs and pulled pork sandwiches with a side of baked potatoes.
If you’re looking for a touch of class, make advance reservations at The Olde Pink House and enjoy a southern dinner with views of Reynolds Square. And while you’re in town, treat yourself to a heaping scoop of homemade butter pecan ice cream at Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Do
You’ll want to spend at least a day near the Savannah River, where you can wander through River Street. For another look at the city, you can also hop aboard a riverboat cruise and sail down the Savannah. In the historic district, you can meander through more than 20 charming squares and parks, including historic Forsyth Park. While in the historic district, stop by City Market, which has everything from shopping and dining to art and entertainment.
Speaking of art, you can see creative pieces from the city’s most creative minds at shopSCAD. And before you leave, get a sense for why Savannah is often called one of the most haunted cities in America on a ghost tour.
(Main image: jeffgunn)
