Planning a weekend in Savannah? Get ready to fall in love with this charming Southern city. From its historic squares and moss-draped oaks to its vibrant food scene and coastal beauty, Savannah offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Use this article to plan the perfect weekend getaway!
Weekend in Savannah: Activities
Visit the Forsyth Farmers’ Market
This farmer’s market is open year round from 9am-1:00pm at the south side of Forsyth Park. Forsyth Farmer’s Market is a “food only” market, meaning you’ll find vendors selling produce, eggs, meats, mushrooms, cheese, bread, preservers and more! A few times a year, you’ll see an arts market on the other side of the Forsyth Park, but this is the only time there will be vendors selling items other than food.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral Basilica is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral located just a few blocks from Forsyth Park. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city, regardless of if you are religious or simply appreciate beautiful architecture. The Cathedral is free to visit and admire the interior and exterior. The church is closed for tours during religious services, funerals, wedding and other events. If you do choose to visit, please remember the Cathedral is an active place of worship and be respectful of those praying.
River Street
A trip to Savannah isn’t complete without a stroll down River Street! This lively waterfront stretch along the Savannah River is lined with an array of restaurants, shops, bars, and more. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or classic Southern comfort food, the dining options here have you covered. The shopping scene is equally diverse, offering everything from souvenir shops and boutiques to art galleries. And don’t forget to pop into the candy stores for some delicious fudge or pralines—they’re a must-try!
Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure Tour
Once you’ve finished exploring the city, make your way to Tybee Island for an unforgettable dolphin tour. Captain Derek’s Dolphin Tour takes you out on the water, and within just 20 minutes, you’ll be spotting dolphins! This area is home to hundreds of dolphins that love to come out and play. A unique feature of this tour is the boats’ higher horsepower, which creates a wave behind the boat that dolphins can’t resist jumping in. You’ll also get to cruise by the charming Cockspur Lighthouse, perfect for snapping a cute picture.
If your schedule allows, I highly recommend booking the sunset Dolphin Cruise. We were treated to the most magical sunset when we went, and it was easily the highlight of our trip to Savannah!
Where to Eat
Lady and Sons
If you’re craving mouthwatering Southern cooking, be sure to check out Paula Deen’s restaurant, Lady and Sons. If you’re dining with a group, I highly recommend going for the family-style meal. You can choose 2-4 meats and 4 sides to share, and the best part? The family meal includes unlimited refills on all the food, so no one leaves hungry!
Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew
Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew is a relaxed spot serving up some seriously delicious BBQ! Their meats are smoked on-site daily, and you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu!
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Leopold’s is one of the oldest and most iconic ice cream spots in Savannah, making it well worth the visit. Their ice cream is homemade using secret family recipes, and they offer a variety of flavors, including seasonal options. While there’s usually a line out the door, it moves pretty quickly, and the delicious ice cream is definitely worth the wait!
Weekend in Savannah – Where to Stay
If you want to be close to all the sights, consider staying at hotels on River Street, Bay Street, or in the Historic District. These central locations are bustling and make it easy to explore on foot, though they come with a higher price tag. For a more budget-friendly option, you can stay about 20 minutes outside the city. If you choose this option just spend your days enjoying Savannah’s charm and return to a more affordable hotel just outside the city each night.
