Top Attractions in Savannah

Top Attractions in Savannah
The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah offers charming Southern hospitality combined with a mysterious atmosphere created by creepy Spanish moss and humid summers. Approximately half of the 2,500 buildings in Savannah have architectural or historical significance, and a stroll through the tree-lined neighborhoods is rewarded with elegant examples of Georgian, Gothic Revival, Victorian and Federal buildings. Whether you enjoy the fine dinning offered in the local restaurants, exploring the scenic local cemeteries on a nocturnal ghost tour or want to experience the lifestyle of the old South, Savannah offers plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions to attract your interest.

Forsyth Park

The first large park established in Savannah, Forsyth Park is located within 30 acres of the Historic District. One of the best known features of the park is the picturesque white fountain built in 1858, but other popular park attractions include the Confederate and Spanish-American War memorials and the Fragrant Garden as well as tennis courts and a shady jogging path. A frequent location for outdoor plays and concerts, the park is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.

Forsyth Park
Gaston Street to Park Avenue, along Bull Street
Savannah, GA, 31401
(912) 651-2128
savannahga.gov/

City Market

The City Market began in 1755 when farmers and fishermen brought their products and produce to town. At the time, the market was the social center of Savannah as people gathered to make their purchases of wares sold out of horse-drawn wagons. The authentic atmosphere has been recreated in recent years, and the City Market is now home to art galleries, open-air cafes and jazz clubs. The popular pedestrian-only area is situated in the heart of Savannah's Historic District. Stroll along the district on foot, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, or rent a bike and go exploring.

City Market
Between Franklin Sq. and Johnson Square, on W. St. Julian St.
Savannah, GA, 31401
(912) 525-2489
savannahcitymarket.com/

Mercer-Williams House Museum

The house was originally built for General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of singer-songwriter Johnny Mercer. Designed by New York architect John S. Norris, it was made famous in John Berendt's 1994 book, ''Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.'' The house was the site of Jim Williams' successful antiques business, and the book explored the circumstances and eccentricities surrounding the real murder of a local hustler by Jim Williams as well as the eccentricities of the local personalities. Jim Williams, who privately restored more than 50 houses around Savannah, bought the then vacant house in 1969 and launched a two-year restoration project. Open to the public, the museum features pieces and artwork from Williams' private collection, including 18th and 19th century furniture, 18th century portraits and a collection of Chinese porcelain.

The Mercer Williams House Museum
429 Bull Street
Monterey Square
Savannah, GA 31401
(877) 430-6352
mercerhouse.com

Owens-Thomas House & Museum

A fine example of English Regency architecture, the Owens-Thomas House was designed by British architect William Jay and was built between 1816 and 1819. Featuring the most modern conveniences available at the time, the house had indoor toilets installed even before the White House or the Palace of Versailles. In addition to the museum, you can stroll through the property, including an English-inspired parterre garden and the original carriage house, which has one of the South's oldest intact urban slave quarters. Constructed primarily with local materials, the house is a National Historic Landmark and is owned by the Telfair Museum of Art. The house and museum are open to the public every day except for the major holidays.

Owens-Thomas House & Museum
124 Abercorn St.
Savannah, GA, 31401
(912) 790-8800
telfair.org/visit/owens-thomas-house/overview/

Article Written By Betsy Bender

Betsy Bender is a media consultant with experience in publishing, event management, media relations, digital media and television production. Specializing in entertainment, travel and sports, Bender has worked with high-profile personalities, facilitated publicity campaigns for network television programs and traveled to more than 100 cities in eight countries, including Russia and Australia.

Write for Trails.com
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