Beautiful Forsyth Park in Savannah

Savannah is a wonderful Southern vacation destination: a worthy addition to any history buff’s bucket list. A winning combination of historical attractions, beautiful public parks, amazing architecture, and gorgeous historical inns, has led to an ongoing influx of tourism. Southern charm, an ever expanding foodie scene, along with many reported paranormal occurrences makes a trip here even more intriguing. Below is a sample 3 day Savannah Vacation Guide for new visitors.

As there is much to see and do, this is just a brief glimpse of some of the best attractions the city has to offer. I have visited the city numerous times and believe that this guide will help you to enjoy some of the city’s best public squares, restaurants, and attractions within a limited time frame.

Monterey, one of the 22 gorgeous public squares of the historic district

Know Before You Go

  • Fall is the best time to visit if you are looking to take part in seasonal Halloween related fun. Also, this is the best time of the year weather-wise. Fall temps are in the mid-upper 70’s on average (better than 90’s!).
  • If your aim is to avoid large crowds, do avoid St. Patrick’s Day weekend and the Rock N’ Roll marathon at all costs!
  • Book your hotel of choice far in advance. The East Bay Inn is a wonderful lodging choice. Hotels.com usually offers the best deals. Also check for package deals on the inn’s website.
  • Book any tickets for tours well in advance! You do not want to get all the way here and miss out on a wonderful tour. Noble Jones and Old Town Trolley tours are my 2 recommended choices.
The haunted East Bay Inn in Savannah, Georgia
The beautiful East Bay Inn sits within walking distance of the riverfront!
  • The airport is about 15 miles from the historic district. A lyft will cost somewhere in the range of $30. If driving, most hotels have lots. The East Bay parking rate is $35 a day.
  • Pack comfy clothes and walking shoes. You will be putting in a lot of miles! Savannah is a pretty casual city, so there is no need to go extra fancy.
  • Do not overplan. It’s always better to have extra time then spend the entirety of your trip rushing around.
  • If you have the time, consider a daytrip to Charleston or Tybee Island, both located just a short drive away.

Day 1

Gorgeous brick walls at the East Bay Inn in Savannah, Georgia
Beautiful brick walls at the East Bay Inn

What to do:

  • Hotel check in at the East Bay Inn
  • Complimentary wine hour at Tandem
  • Dine & shop at City Market
  • Ghost tour

4pm: Check in at the gorgeous East Bay Inn. As one of Savannah’s most picturesque and haunted hotels, you get a little 2 for 1 with this one. This beautiful property was built in 1852 as a cotton warehouse. The beautiful exposed brick walls and Southern charm remain.

Room at the Savannah East Bay Inn
Southern charm with a historic touch!
The gorgeous room at Savannah's East Bay Inn
The brick walls are so gorgeous!

A few highlights of this inn:

  • Walking distance to the riverfront & most attractions
  • Free trolley tour pick up from the hotel
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • One free beer or wine each day
  • On-site restaurant
  • Pet friendly ($75 for up to 2 pets)

5pm: Get yourself settled in. Check out the lovely room. Head to the lobby bar (Tandem) for your free drink. Enjoy a drink window side or relax in your room admiring the historical charm. Next, I recommend taking a stroll along the beautiful riverfront.

7pm: Take a stroll around the historic City Market, a lovely open air market dating back to the 1700’s. There are a number of great shops and restaurants here. Stop by the Little Crown Pie co. for a tasty comforting vegetable potpie. Also check out the gorgeous colorful artwork at the A.T. Hun Gallery, located just next door.

Historic City Market in Savannah, Georgia
The City Market is a scenic place to shop & dine
Veggie pot pie at the Little Crown Pie Co. in Savannah, GA
A delicious veggie pot pie
AT Hun Art Gallery in Savannah, Georgia
An eccentric art gallery worth visiting

For the night owls

For anyone looking to keep the party going, you may want to get spooked on a ghost tour. Savannah is known to be one of the most haunted destinations in the country. Ghosts have been sighted pretty much everywhere. River Street Ghosts runs a family tour at 9pm and an adults only option at 11pm. Also Ghost and Gravestones runs a popular haunted trolley tour. You will learn fun tales of hauntings, drive past old cemeteries, and even get to tour the Andrew Low house at night. I love anything to do with the supernatural, and Savannah offers much in this arena, esp around Halloween!