savannah travel info

Savannah   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA + Tips from a Local

Much of Savannah's charm lies in meandering through the Historic District's verdant squares – all 22 of them. For an overview of the Historic District's top attractions, consider signing up for a guided tour or choose among the many

• All Things To Do
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Take a walk in Forsyth Park Take a walk in Forsyth Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you are visiting in the fall, check out the free weeklong Savannah Jazz Festival in the park, which features local vendors and food trucks. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Go to this 30-acre park in the heart of Savannah's Historic District to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Keep your camera ready, though, as there is plenty to see here as well. Stroll past the stunning white-stone Forsyth Fountain, memorials dedicated to the Spanish-American War, the Fragrant Garden for the visually impaired and the 300-year-old Candler Oak tree. From the park, you can see several historic sites within walking distance, including the Mercer-Williams House Museum and the Sorrel Weed House .

Go on a Savannah history tour Go on a Savannah history tour

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you want a totally unique experience, there are also bike tours, dog-walking tours, a comedy trolley tour called "Savannah for Morons" and food tours. –  Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Savannah's recorded history stretches back to 1733 when General James Oglethorpe docked his ship on the Savannah River and named this new territory (and America's 13th colony) "Georgia." You can hear all about Savannah's past and the events that shaped its present on a history tour. What's more, you won't have any trouble finding a tour that suits your interests, Savannah boasts a bevy of  city tours  – from architecture to ghosts to photography – for a variety of travelers.

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist free

Towering over Lafayette Square in the Historic District, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist's Gothic towers should lure in any architecture buff. The original cathedral was established in 1799 by the first French colonists to arrive in the area. The brick structure you see today is not the original (since its founding, the church moved locations and was partially rebuilt following a fire in 1898), but the cathedral still impresses visitors with its imposing spires, Italian marble altar and stunning stained-glass windows. What's more, a Catholic cathedral of this size is a bit of a rarity in the South, where Catholicism is not the dominant religion.

Most travelers who took the time to see this cathedral were flabbergasted by its beauty, comparing it to Europe's medieval churches. Even if you're not interested in attending Mass, you should still set aside 10 to 15 minutes to take a brief peek inside the stunning interior. However, recent visitors said attending Mass here is worth considering (even if you're not Catholic), thanks to the beautiful atmosphere and talented choir. Feel free to take a self-guided tour inside the cathedral, but remember to be respectful as it's still an active house of worship.

Popular Tours

Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

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from $ 31.03

Savannah Ghosts & Gravestones Trolley Tour

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from $ 39.54

Savannah Land & Sea Combo: City Sightseeing Trolley Tour with Riverboat Cruise

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Bonaventure Cemetery Bonaventure Cemetery free

While a stroll through a cemetery may sound a little morbid, a visit to the more than 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery is a must for lovers of the written word. Originally called the Evergreen Cemetery (and occupying land previously used for a plantation), the Victorian-style cemetery was purchased by the city of Savannah in 1907 and redesigned to its current size. Keep your eyes peeled for the tombstones of such celebrities as poet Conrad Aiken and lyricist Johnny Mercer. You should also make a point of looking for the grave of Danny Hansford (buried in the neighboring Greenwich Cemetery), whose murder inspired John Berendt's best-selling book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

According to many visitors, the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure won't disappoint, but travelers said that bug spray, a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes are a must. You can tour the cemetery on your own, but recent visitors said you should also consider signing up for a guided tour to gain a better understanding of the cemetery's intriguing history.

River Street River Street free

Running alongside the Savannah River in the Waterfront district is River Street, a lively area perfect for afternoon strolls. The cobblestone street is lined with more than 75 souvenir shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs housed in old cotton warehouses. It's also the place to go for pub crawls, making it attractive to party-seekers, and thus, slightly less family-friendly after dark. Plus, the area comes alive with street musicians after the sun sets.

Recent visitors recommended spending a few hours here for the gorgeous river views and excellent people-watching. Many also recommended the restaurants here.

Old Sorrel-Weed House Old Sorrel-Weed House

U.S. News Insider Tip: A couple feet away is Chippewa Square – the backdrop for the "Forrest Gump" scene where Tom Hanks sits on a bench to narrate the character's life story. If you are looking for the bench, visit the Savannah History Museum to see a replica. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

Constructed in 1840 in the Greek Revival style, this Mediterranean villa was owned by a shipping merchant named Francis Sorrel and then became the boyhood home to Brig. Gen. Moxley Sorrel, who fought in the Civil War. But that's not why the house is so famous. In addition to appearing in the opening scenes of "Forrest Gump," the house has also been featured in an episode of HGTV's "Ghost Adventures." In fact, it's often referred to as one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah and is a frequent stop on some of the best Savannah ghost tours . It's believed that Francis Sorrel's second wife died by suicide at the house, along with one of his enslaved workers. Visitors to the house can choose between a history and architecture tour, a historic walking tour, a ghost tour or a "paranormal investigation."

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

George Welshman Owens was a wealthy planter, lawyer and politician who lived in this house with his wife, six children and up to 14 enslaved people beginning in 1833. The last Owens descendant to live in the house was George Owens' granddaughter, Margaret Gray Thomas, who left the property to the Telfair Academy of Arts and Science in her will in 1875. Unlike the other two Telfair Museums – the Jepson Center and Telfair Academy – the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters focuses less on art and more on the Owens' family furnishings and history of the earliest intact urban slave quarters in the South.

A tour of the facility reveals what life was like for the upper class in 19th-century Savannah: You'll see Greek-inspired craftsmanship and beautiful stained glass, in addition to the old carriage house and slave quarters. You'll also have a chance to peruse the common spaces, such as the drawing room and the dining room, where the family entertained guests, and can learn more about the day-to-day life of the family's enslaved workers through interactive exhibits in the butler's pantry, the working cellar and the slave quarters.

Tour Fort Pulaski National Monument Tour Fort Pulaski National Monument

Named for Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski, this 19th-century fort was originally constructed to defend Savannah from coastal attacks. Notably, it was here that Gen. Robert E. Lee was first assigned after graduating from West Point. During the Civil War, it was occupied by Confederate troops until being surrendered to Union forces in 1862.

Fort Pulaski was also a safe haven for enslaved people as part of the Underground Railroad. Union Maj. Gen. David Hunter issued an order in April 1862 stating: "All persons of color lately held in involuntary service by enemies of the United States in Fort Pulaski and on Cockspur Island, Georgia are hereby confiscated and declared free." As such, many enslaved people came to Fort Pulaski and once on the island, began a free life on the Georgia coast. Meanwhile, others joined to form one of the first colored troops divisions in the Civil War. Hundreds of enslaved people were granted freedom as a result of Hunter's order.

"Savannah for Morons" Comedy Trolley Tour

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from $ 58.85

90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

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from $ 40.72

Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour

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from $ 32.00

Take a daytrip to Tybee Island Take a daytrip to Tybee Island free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you are into pristine beaches, avid camping, birdwatching and unearthing fossils, consider visiting an uninhabited nature preserve called "Little Tybee Island," which is only accessible only by boat. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

When you've had your fill of ghost stories , green squares and historic homes, head to Tybee Island. Just a half-hour east of the Historic District, Tybee Island is home to 5 miles of beachfront, the famous Tybee Island Light Station and the Marine Science Center, among other attractions. On your way to the beach, consider a stop at  Fort Pulaski Monument , a Civil War landmark sandwiched between Savannah and Tybee Island.

Historic Savannah Theatre Historic Savannah Theatre

Built by architect William Jay, who also designed the Telfair Mansion , the historic Savannah Theatre opened its doors to the public in 1818 and again in 1950 following a remodeling in the art deco style. The lobby features a display of artifacts, newspaper articles and photographs from the past. Still an active theater today, it hosts live shows, musicals, comedy performances and a paranormal investigation experience.

Many recent visitors praised the live performances in the beautifully restored theater and particularly recommend the annual Christmas show.

Savannah African Art Museum Savannah African Art Museum free

The Savannah African Art Museum is home to a collection of more than 1,000 pieces of artwork from West and Central Africa. The African art on display here includes a variety of 19th- and 20th-century spiritual and ceremonial objects, created from metal, wood, ceramics and more. According to the museum, its mission is to "provide engaging experiences that educate and start conversations about the power, diversity, and spirituality of African art." Tours of the collection are available Wednesday through Saturday, running every 30 minutes, and typically last about an hour. Visitors can choose a tour of the West Africa collection or the Central Africa collection.

All recent travelers give this museum positive reviews, calling it a hidden gem in Savannah. Many were impressed with the variety of artwork here, from masks to textiles to sculptures. Several compliment the knowledgeable guides, who are able to shed some light on the history of the various art.

Wormsloe State Historic Site Wormsloe State Historic Site

Right up there with  Forsyth Park  and  River Street , Wormsloe State Historic Site is one of Savannah's top attractions. Even if you never heard of the site, you've likely seen it in pictures: its star attraction is the mile-long avenue leading to the former plantation, which is lined on both sides by towering live oak trees dressed in Spanish moss.

Most travelers venture here for the free photo-op alone, but what lies beyond the entryway is also worth your attention. Here you'll find the ruins of Wormsloe, the oldest standing structure in Savannah and the Colonial estate of Noble Jones, a carpenter who came to Georgia in 1733 with James Oglethorpe and the first group of settlers from England. In the 1750s, Jones used a group of enslaved people to maintain the property, plant crops like cotton, grains and vegetables, and keep Wormsloe profitable. Along with the ruins, visitors can tour a small museum featuring artifacts unearthed at Wormsloe and watch a brief film about the site and Georgia's founding. There's also a 7-mile-long interpretative nature trail that runs along a marsh on the Skidaway River, as well as costumed interpreters demonstrating the tools and skills of Colonial Georgia.

First African Baptist Church First African Baptist Church

A National Historic Landmark, the First African Baptist Church was first organized in 1773 by the Rev. George Liele and is the oldest continuous Black church in North America. The reverend, who was born into slavery but later granted freedom by the British for his loyalty, became the church's pastor in 1775 and the church was officially established as a body of organized believers in 1777. After the British lost the Revolutionary War, rather than chance re-enslavement in the South, Liele fled to Jamaica . Before leaving for Jamaica, he ordained Andrew Bryan (one of the congregation's original members) to be the second pastor of the church until 1812 when his nephew Andrew Marshall took over. Under Marshall's leadership, the church acquired the property where it currently stands in downtown Savannah.

The church still features many historical elements, including stained-glass windows and the original light fixtures, balcony pews and baptismal pool. Today, visitors can attend a service or take a tour to admire its beauty. Previous travelers highly recommend stopping here to learn about its history and importance as a safe haven along the Underground Railroad.

Savannah's Ghost City "Dead of Night" Walking Night Tour

(2020 reviews)

from $ 34.99

Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour

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from $ 81.57

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Savannah

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Savannah City Market Savannah City Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Amid the attractions within City Market, the American Prohibition Museum is an unexpected find. It features cool exhibits and an authentic speakeasy serving up the Chatham Artillery punch – rumored to be made using a recipe that dates back to 1870! –  Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

If you're planning to tour Savannah's Historic District, City Market is a great place to start. Spread out across four blocks, the open-air marketplace features restored warehouses sheltering everything from restaurants to boutiques to art galleries. When you're not shopping, listening to live music or enjoying a casual bite to eat, simply sit and people-watch: past visitors said this area is great for resting tired feet and taking in the Savannah scene. Plus, City Market is also a popular drop-off point for  trolley and carriage tours , so if you need to kill time before or after your tour, plan to check out the market.

Mercer Williams House Museum Mercer Williams House Museum

A stop at the Mercer-Williams House is a must when in Savannah. While it was commissioned by Gen. Hugh W. Mercer (great-grandfather of lyricist Johnny Mercer), this house is much more famous for what happened here when it was owned by Jim Williams. Williams was a noted Savannah antiques dealer and the central character in John Berendt's best-selling book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," which detailed the shooting that took place in the house in 1981. While the upstairs is off-limits, you're invited to explore the ground floor, which is ornately decorated with 18th- and 19th-century furnishings, Chinese porcelain and portraits dating back to the 1700s.

Though most recent visitors were pleased with their tour of the Mercer-Williams House and highly recommended it if you are a fan of the book, they did warn that no photography was allowed in the garden or the house. Also, keep in mind that since members of the family still occupy the residence, only the ground floor is accessible to visitors.

Telfair Academy Telfair Academy

If you're a fan of art forms from the 19th and 20th centuries (or if you just need a break from the Georgia heat), you'll want to spend a few hours perusing this mansion-turned-museum, which was originally built in 1819 for Alexander Telfair. Housing four primary art forms – paintings, architecture, sculpture, and printmaking, including paintings from the Impressionist period, plaster casts of such renowned works as the Venus de Milo and period furniture left over from the Telfair family themselves, this marble-clad museum – the first public art museum in the South – shelters a diverse array of pieces. But the real highlight of the museum is Sylvia Shaw Judson's famous Bird Girl statue, which appears on the cover of John Berendt's bestselling book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Most recent visitors were charmed by the Telfair Academy, with many citing it as a "must-see" while in Savannah, specifically because of the renowned Bird Girl statue. What's more, many appreciated that admission to Telfair Academy also covers entrance to each of the other Telfair sites, including the Jepson Center and the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters . Many travelers loved the ability to see all three sites for one, discounted ticket price.

Jepson Center Jepson Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: While visiting the Jepson, enjoy a meal at the on-site Wildflower Café, a fast-casual restaurant that opened in 2023. – Tanvi Chauhan, Contributor, Travel

The Jepson Center is a modern art and interactive museum designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie. The museum's contemporary collection is home to various travelling exhibits, giving visitors something new to explore each year. Among the ongoing exhibits, 18 works in classic European painting and impressionism are on site. Among these, visitors will also find featured Savannah artists Valentino Molina and Mary Hoover Aiken. Other notable elements about the center include sculpture terraces, education studios and a 220-seat auditorium. The Jepson Center is also slated to open the Telfair Children's Art Museum in summer 2023, offering learning experiences through modern, immersive technology and hands-on activities. Art enthusiasts can purchase souvenirs at the gallery store or stop for light bites at the cafe situated in the building's gorgeous atrium. Museum admission is not required to visit the gallery shop or cafe.

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Your Trip to Savannah: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

From its oak-covered public squares and historic architecture to its moderate climate and coastal beauty, this Georgia city is a worthy year-round destination. Located just four hours from Atlanta and two hours from Charleston , the city is a great side trip from either of those cities as well as a worthy destination in its own right.

With its well-preserved Historic District, endless festivals, interactive museums, award-winning restaurants, and more, Savannah has plenty of activities for all seasons, visitors, and ages. Here's a complete guide about when to visit, where to stay, what to do, getting around, saving money, and more on your visit to Savannah.

Planning Your Trip to Savannah

• Best Time to Visit: With azaleas and flowers in full bloom, favorable weather, and a full roster of festivals like the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, spring is the most popular season for visiting Savannah. Summers can be oppressively hot and humid, but there are nearby beach and water-related activities to help you keep cool, and the city is less crowded in July and August than it is in spring and early summer. Fall offers fantastic weather and fewer tourists than spring, while winter can be chilly, but provides lower hotel rates and smaller crowds.
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Getting Around : Because parking is expensive and navigating one-way streets can be tricky, the Historic District is best explored on foot or via the fare-free Downtown Transportation (DOT) network , which offers shuttle buses and a ferry to popular tourist areas and centrally-located parking garages. The buses operate every ten minutes, starting at 7.am. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends and make 24 stops along both the Downtown and Forsyth Park routes. The broader, fare-based Chatham Area Transit (CAT) offers service to other parts of the cities and surrounding areas, including an express bus to and from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars are also available at the airport.
• Travel Tip: Since traveling by foot is the best way to explore the city, wear comfortable walking shoes. And pack an umbrella for unexpected downpours.

Things to Do

First-time visitors will want to take advantage of the Historic District's 22 public squares   , including Forsyth Park , which features 30 acres of greenery, walking paths, and a distinctive Parisian-inspired central fountain. Other free options include exploring the 100-acre Victorian-era Bonaventure Cemetery , strolling the galleries and restaurants that occupy the old warehouses of River Street, and touring historic houses of worship like Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the oldest Catholic Church in Georgia, and the First African Baptist Church .

Other noteworthy attractions include the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low , the longest-running live performance theatre in America   , Savannah’s Telfair Museum (the Southeast's oldest public art museum), the SCAD Museum of Art , the Savannah History Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, and the Savannah Botanical Gardens .

Given its location on the Savannah River and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, boating, and paddle boarding in both the city and nearby areas like Tybee Island and Skidaway Island State Park.

Food and drink lovers will want to explore the area's top bars, breweries, and restaurants.

Some of the top experiences in Savannah include:

• A trolley tour of the historic district . Both Old Town Trolley Tours and Old Savannah Tours offer narrated, hop-on, hop-off tours of the city. Both trolleys depart from the Visitors Center at 15-20 minute intervals. They include stops at points of interest like River Street, the Savannah History Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, City Market, and Forsyth Park.
• Southern cuisine at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House. Come hungry and ready to make new friends at this 19th-century era boarding house turned restaurant, where Southern favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, butter beans, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, and coleslaw are served family-style at communal tables.
• River Street. This promenade runs along the southern portion of the city's riverfront and is brimming with shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants, many of them housed in historic warehouses. Stroll the cobblestone streets, ride a historic street car along the riverfront, take a dolphin or river tour, or enjoy the free ferry ride to Hutchinson Island.

Explore more activities in Savannah with our guides to the city's spookiest spots and best things to do .

What to Eat and Drink

As a coastal city, Savannah is an excellent spot for seafood as well as traditional Low Country cuisine. You can also find a variety of international fare, from classic Italian pizza to upscale Australian bistro fare. The city also has a thriving nightlife, with both dive bars and elegant cocktail joints, as well as several local breweries and distilleries.

No trip to the city is complete without a visit to The Grey, a 1930s Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal turned modern Southern restaurant. Chef and co-owner Mashama Bailey won the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2019   for her thoughtful soul food that takes advantage of local and seasonal produce like crab with Carolina Gold heritage rice and bell peppers and smothered quail with blackening spice, Creole spice, and grit cakes.

Other top Savannah dining destinations include the Olde Pink House , which specializes in Low Country cuisine in the city's only surviving 18th-century mansion, and Elizabeth on 37th , which offers new American fare, including a chef's tasting menu.

For more casual options, try whole-hog Carolina BBQ with the fixings, at B's Cracklin' BBQ, vegan-friendly brunch at Fox and Fig Cafe, all-day breakfast at Collins Quarter , Neapolitan pizza at Vinnie Van Go-Go , and both beef and veggie burgers at Green Truck Pub .

Want to sample some of everything? Opt First Squares food tour, which includes an overview of the city's culinary history as well as tastings at six restaurants and food purveyors in the Historic District.

A far as bars, Kevin Barry's Irish Pub on River Street, Ordinary Pub at City Market, the rooftop bar Perch at Local 11 Ten  overlooking Forsyth Park, and the Savannah Distillery Ale House, with over 100 craft beers in the Historic District, are all reliable options. Savannah is also home to several local breweries and distilleries, including Ghost Coast Distillery (whiskey, rum, gin, bourbon, and other spirits), Southbound Brewing Company , and Coastal Empire Beer Co , of which offer tours and tastings.

Where to Stay

• Historic District: From luxury options like the DeSoto Savannah on Madison Square, like the riverfront adjacent Alida , and the boutique Perry Lane to reliable chains like the Hampton Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites and the pet-friendly Kimpton Brice , the historic district has hotel options for every budget and is the most convenient to the city's biggest and most popular attractions.
• Midtown: Just a 10-minute drive from the Historic District, Midtown is a quieter option with plenty of restaurants, parks, and activities for visitors. Most standard chains like Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn & Suites and the La Quinta Inn have properties here.
• Pooler: For travelers on a budget, there are several options near the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, like the Best Western Plus, Comfort Inn & Suites, and Quality Inn, all of which are about a 20-minute drive from downtown.

Getting There

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) offers direct flights to and from Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Newark, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., and other U.S. cities via major airlines like American, Delta, JetBlue, and United.

The drive from the airport to downtown is approximately 20-25 minutes. You can rent a car at the airport or catch a rideshare like Lyft or Uber or hail a taxi just outside of the baggage claim. Chatham Area Transit also offers bus service to and from several points in the city, including downtown.

Savannah is an easy drive from nearby major cities like Charleston, South Carolina (108 miles north), Atlanta (250 miles), and Jacksonville, Florida (140 miles). Most of the city's hotels have parking lots or valet, so driving a car into the city isn't an issue, as long as you don't mind paying parking fees.

Money-Saving Tips

• Take advantage of the city's public green spaces and parks. With 22 public squares in the Historic District alone, you're never far from a free place to wander and marvel at the city's trees, flowers, and architecture.
• Book a hotel in offseason. Hotel rates can skyrocket during tourist seasons (particularly spring through the end of June), so try visiting during a less busy month like February or August.
• Tour churches and cemeteries. These are some of the city's most notable spaces and many, like Bonaventure Cemetery (the city's most extensive and featured prominently in the book and later the film version of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil"), have free walking tours.
• Consider purchasing a city TourPass, which has one, two, and three-day options starting at $72 for adults and $42 for children. The pass includes admission to over 30 top city attractions like the Savannah History Museum and Telfair Academy, plus trolley privileges.

Visit Savannah . "Savannah's Squares and Parks."

Visit Savannah . "Step Inside America's Longest Running Live Performance Theatre."

James Beard Foundation . "The 2019 James Beard Award Winners." May 6, 2019.

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Resplendent with elegant townhouses, antebellum mansions, greenery filled public squares and mammoth oak trees bedecked in Spanish moss, Savannah is a gorgeous and culturally rich city.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Bonaventure Cemetery

Less than a 10-minute drive east of Savannah’s Historic District you’ll find one of the most peaceful, quiet, green escapes tucked away next to the…

Forsyth Park

The 33-acre Forsyth Park, Savannah’s largest, was named after Georgia’s 33rd governor John Forsyth and is home to the most famous fountain in the city…

Laurel Grove Cemetery

In a city filled with cemeteries, Laurel Grove is among the most picturesque. The Victorian-era gravesites hint at the city’s history and the lovely…

Wormsloe Historic Site

A short drive from downtown, on the beautiful Isle of Hope, this is one of the most photographed sites in town. As soon as you enter, you feel as if you…

Little Tybee Island

This uninhabited barrier island, only accessible by boat or kayak, is just south of Tybee Island and is actually double its size. The preserved land is…

Mercer-Williams House

Although Jim Williams, the Savannah art dealer portrayed by Kevin Spacey in the film version of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, died back in 1990…

North Beach

With fewer services and a vibe that feels more remote, this stretch of beach is a great place to relax. You can watch massive container ships drift in…

Telfair Academy

Considered Savannah's top art museum, the historic Telfair family mansion is filled with 19th-century American art and silver and a smattering of European…

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The top 8 things to do in savannah.

Sisters of the New South

This laid-back cafe beloved of locals serves up Southern soul-food favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The red-velvet cake is among the best we've…

SCAD Museum of Art

Architecturally striking (but what else would you expect from this school of design?), this brick, steel, concrete and glass longhouse delivers your…

A wonderfully retro makeover of the 1960s Greyhound Bus Terminal gives us one of Savannah's culinary darlings, where chef Mashama Bailey's 'Port City…

Tybee Pier & Pavilion

Tybee's main beachside hub, with public bathrooms, concessions and a long fishing pier. Tables in the pavilion are available to rent by the hour.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Located on Cockspur Island at the mouth of the Savannah River, Fort Pulaski was constructed after President James Madison ordered coastal fortifications…

Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home

This stone row house on Lafayette Sq is where the literary great was born in 1925 and lived until she was 13. Her second short-story collection won the…

This hidden favorite slings bountiful peel-and-eat seafood platters in a multishack complex along an alligator lagoon. Tables have a hole in the center…

Colonial Park Cemetery

Established in 1750, Savannah's oldest surviving Revolutionary-era resting place was used for Savannah’s white burials for a century, until its closure in…

Tybee Island Light Station & Museum

Take a self-guided tour of Tybee's iconic lighthouse and see panoramic views of the island from its observation deck. Tickets include admission to the…

Collins Quarter

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Pin Point Heritage Museum

Set in what used to be the AS Varn & Son Oyster Seafood Factory, this museum highlights the culture and history of the Gullah-Geechee peoples in the Pin…

9 of the best free things to do in Savannah

Cathedral of St John the Baptist

Completed in 1896 but destroyed by fire two years later, this impressive cathedral, reopened in 1912, features stunning stained-glass transept windows…

Savannah African Art Museum

Privately owned museum showcasing 19th- and 20th-century spiritual and ceremonial art objects from 22 African countries, with museum volunteers giving…

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Transportation

Savannah's compact center makes it a very walkable destination. But when the temperature rises, there are plenty of fun and easy options to get around.

Free Things to Do

Experience Savannah's Southern charm without spending a penny with this guide to the city's best free experiences.

Traveling with Kids

Savannah's beautiful streets and many attractions are perfect for a family vacation. Here's everything you need to know about coming with tots in tow.

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22 Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia, According to Locals

Themed walking tours, sunset drinks, and beautiful cobblestone squares await in this beloved Southern city.

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Regularly on best-of lists in the travel world, Savannah, Georgia attracts explorers of all kinds. Some want to get to know the city's rich history, others simply want to enjoy its stunning cobblestone squares lined with live oaks and Colonial and Victorian homes. Jessica Osborne and Melissa Taylor, co-owners of E Shaver Booksellers , describe Savannah as “mysterious, beautiful , eclectic, and just a little weird." Immersing yourself in the city's history, food , and culture is the ultimate travel goal.

While many locals, including Taylor and Osbourne, recommend visiting the coastal community for at least three nights, Savannah is one of those places travelers can return to again and again, experiencing something new on each trip. Whether you’re headed to the Hostess City for the first time or you simply can’t stay away for too long, you’ll want to check off at least a few of the 22 best things to do in Savannah, Georgia. 

1. Stroll through the city’s parks and squares.

At 30 acres, Forsyth Park is the largest green space in Savannah’s Historic District, with ample room for walking, picnicking, and big events — if you're here in September, check out the annual Savannah Jazz Festival. Any time of year, stop by the famous fountain before making your way to Chippewa Square, where you’ll find the “Forrest Gump” bench. 

2. Get your caffeine fix at The Coffee Fox.

Instead of your typical black coffee, opt for the signature horchata latte at The Coffee Fox to start your day. If you’re hungry, snag a kolache (a Czech pastry), or something off the all-day brunch menu at The Collins Quarter , just a five-minute walk away. 

3. Enjoy a beach day on Tybee Island.

Bear2016/Getty Images

Tybee Island, one of the best beach towns in the South , is about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Brandon Carter, executive chef and owner of Savannah restaurant Common Thread (more on it later) loves this easy excursion himself. “The drive out is great to help you decompress. Tybee has beach town vibes and great little shops. Don’t forget to hit Sea Wolf for strong drinks and tasty hot dogs,” he says. 

4. Browse the shelves at E Shaver Booksellers.

You don’t need to be an avid reader to appreciate the charm of E Shaver Booksellers, an iconic bookstore on Bull Street. If you are a bibliophile, you’ll surely leave with a new novel or two in hand — and don’t forget to wave goodbye to the store’s several cats as you exit. 

5. Load up on sweet treats at Back In The Day Bakery.

A midday pick-me-up is always a good idea, especially if you’re exploring the city by foot. Back in the Day Bakery , owned by Cheryl and Griffith Day, is just the ticket. A wildflower honey bun or a blueberry muffin will keep hunger at bay. 

6. View the latest exhibitions at the SCAD Museum of Art. 

Savannah hums with creativity, and a large part of that stems from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The SCAD Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum affiliated with the school, has a series of rotating contemporary art exhibitions on display throughout the year; see what’s on view here . 

7. Venture down cobblestoned River Street.

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

Perry Lane Hotel ’s Mandy Heldreth, a lifelong Savannah resident, says this famous riverfront path is a must-see when in town. “Take a walk down the cobblestones on River Street. The historic walkway takes you along the Savannah River, where you can see the cargo vessels continuing into the Port of Savannah.”

8. Visit the three Telfair Museums, the first public art museum in the South.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

The oldest public art museum in the Southeastern United States, Telfair Museums is actually made up of three museums. Two are National Historic Landmark sites: the Telfair Academy and the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. The Jepson Center for the Arts is the third structure, a modern one built in 2006 and home to an art collection that stretches from the 19th century to today. The best part? You only need one ticket for all three. 

Related : 10 Best Places to Travel in January

9. Fill up on fresh seafood.

In a coastal city like Savannah, it’s no surprise that the seafood is wildly good. “There’s a walk-up fried fish place called Shabazz [with] a real sense of place. My order: fried whiting, fries, Shabazz juice, and a slice of 'Yusuf's World Famous Pie.' I love that place,” chef Carter said.

10. Sign up for a ghost or history tour. 

Walking tours are a great way to get to know this destination. Patt Gunn, founder of Underground Tours of Savannah , often leads 90-minute historical treks in town, highlighting the journey of enslaved Africans brought to Savannah and sold in Johnson Square — an important part of the city’s past. 

Whether you’d prefer to walk, bike, or catch a narrated ride on a boat or trolley, tour options abound —just pick the theme that best suits your interests. Check out Underground Tours of Savannah , Ghost City Tours (if you want a spookier take on Savannah), Architectural Savannah , Old Town Trolley Tours , and Savannah Riverboat Cruises , to name a few.

11. Immerse yourself in art, music, and shopping at City Market. 

cweimer4/Getty Images

Savannah’s historic City Market once welcomed fishermen, farmers, and horse-drawn carriages on a daily basis. Today, the open-air market, which spans four blocks, is a hub for galleries, shops, restaurants, and the American Prohibition Museum , which even has an onsite speakeasy. 

12. Escape the heat by visiting another city museum. 

W. Metzen/ClassicStock/Getty Images

Savannah’s museum roster is vast and varied. In addition to the Telfair Museums, the SCAD Museum of Art, and the American Prohibition Museum, there’s the Savannah African Art Museum , the Mercer Williams House Museum , and the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum , named for the “father” of the Civil Rights Movement in Savannah and the 13th pastor of Savannah’s First African Baptist Church.

13. Sit down for a meal at The Olde Pink House.

Known and named for its pink hue, The Olde Pink House is a tourist favorite in Savannah. The menu is distinctly Southern — think fried green tomatoes and fried chicken — and it maintains a fabulous reputation throughout the city. 

14. Pick up local produce at Forsyth Farmers’ Market.

If you’re in town on a Saturday, Taylor and Osbourne recommend “[starting] the morning with a walk around the farmers’ market at Forsyth Park .” Once you’ve made your selections, head down Bull Street toward Broughton Street to visit two of their favorite shops: The Paris Market and Terra Cotta .

15. Throw back a few oysters at Common Thread.

Named by Bon Appétit as one of the best new restaurants in 2022, Common Thread is an “ingredient and seasonally inspired restaurant concept” inside of a restored two-story home built in the 19th century. Chef Carter helms this beloved place, and his dynamic menu changes based on produce availability, but you can never go wrong with the oysters to start. For other meals nearby, Chef Carter recommends having a “light and flavorful” lunch at Wildflower Cafe on Telfair Square and a nightcap at Lone Wolf Lounge .

16. Stretch your legs in Bonaventure Cemetery.

Sean Craft/Getty Images

Three miles from downtown is Bonaventure Cemetery , an azalea-filled resting place known for its role in John Berendt’s 1994 book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Osbourne’s pro-tip for visiting the 100-plus acres? “Bring bug spray.”

17. Cool off with some ice cream at Leopold’s. 

Serving homemade ice cream since 1919, Leopold’s is a Savannah staple. When the Southern city’s temperatures reach the 90s, nothing takes the edge off quite like a scoop or two inside the famed ice cream parlor. 

18. Saddle up to a different kind of bar at Savannah Bee Company's flagship store.

Opened in 2008, the Broughton Street location of Savannah Bee Company treats visitors to both a honey-tasting bar and a mead-tasting bar. It’s the perfect way to break up your day, and you can also pick up a souvenir from your travels.

19. Make a reservation at Chef Mashama Bailey's The Grey. 

Chef Mashama Bailey is known throughout the culinary world; in 2019, she was awarded the title of Best Chef Southeast by the James Beard Foundation. In Savannah, her name is synonymous with her restaurant The Grey , which is set in an Art Deco building that was once a Greyhound station. According to Taylor, “You should absolutely eat at the bar in The Grey; the building restoration is a beautiful thing."

20. Have a rooftop drink at Perry Lane Hotel.

Courtesy of Perry Lane Hotel

Peregrin at the Perry Lane Hotel grants visitors great views of the city, but they're particularly magical at sunset. The bar has signature cocktails, zero-proof concoctions, and multiple frozé options, including rosé, aperol, lillet rouge, and lemon.

21. Visit the First African Baptist Church and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.

David Madison/Getty Images

A National Historic Landmark, Savannah’s First African Baptist Church is said to be the “oldest continuous African-American congregation in America.” Tickets for tours can be purchased here . The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist — about one mile away — is open for self-guided tours seven days a week, though hours vary. 

22. Wait in line for a seat inside Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room.

If you want Southern comfort food, there’s one place to go, and that's Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room . “Lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ is totally worth waiting in line for,” says Taylor. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the lucky individuals inside are privy to a family-style meal of fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, butter beans, okra and tomatoes, and other mouth-watering delights.

Savannah First-Timer's Guide

Plan the Perfect Trip to Savannah

Savannah GA Vacation Tips for First-Time Visitors

Are you ready to start planning a trip to Savannah but feel overwhelmed by all there is to see and do in the city? No worries! I’ve got you covered with this handy Savannah, Georgia “vacation starter guide.”

Consider it a brief overview to get you started with your trip-planning adventures!

If you’re new around here, first of all… welcome ! My name is Erin, and I authored the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide .

It’s a very helpful resource ( or so I’m told ) that contains some of my best Savannah travel tips in one downloadable ebook.

Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.

Before you can begin booking flights or planning a trip to Savannah, you need to decide when to visit and determine where to stay , right?

You probably also want to know the answer to the frequently asked question, “Is Savannah safe ?” — especially if you’re traveling solo.

I can help with all of the above. I live in Savannah and go for walks throughout the city on a near-daily basis), so I know the city pretty well. I’m happy to help!

Savannah GA Travel Guide

Let’s start with the basics…

Location: Savannah is located along the beautiful Georgia coast in the southeastern portion of the United States.

This area of the U.S. is often referred to as the Deep South, and coastal Georgia is sometimes referred to as the Coastal Empire.

The South Carolina Lowcountry is just across the river, so many travelers combine their visit to Savannah with trips to the Lowcountry .

If you have a full week to travel, it’s popular to split time between Savannah and Charleston.

Size: The current population of Savannah is around 142,000. It’s a city, but it feels much more like a small town!

Historic District: The Historic District is the most popular section of the city, and it’s where most visitors choose to stay.

It’s only 2.031 mi², so it’s very small, flat, and walkable.

When most people picture Savannah, the Historic District is the image they have in mind.

NOTE: My free resources library contains a printable list of 50 things to do on foot in the Historic District. The list includes enough things to keep you busy for at least a few days.

Best Time to Visit Savannah

One of the first things you’ll need to determine when planning your trip is deciding which time of year to visit.

There are pros and cons to each season — except summer. It offers only cons.

Ha… I’m kidding!! (A little.)

Most Popular Season: The most popular season to visit is spring in Savannah .

That’s when the azaleas and jasmine are in full bloom and when the Historic District looks its prettiest.

Allow me to present some photographic evidence…

Most Popular Month: March is the most popular month to visit, with the week surrounding St. Patrick’s Day being the most popular (and the most expensive!) week of the entire year.

That’s because Savannah is home to one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day festivals in the United States!

Savannah’s weather during March is so nice it’s often referred to as “Chamber of Commerce weather.”

Since the weather is also nice in the fall, and because Savannah is known for its extreme spook factor , October is a close second in popularity.

The Holiday Season: If you’re a fan of places that celebrate the holidays like a Hallmark movie special, then you won’t want to miss Christmas in Savannah !

Low Season: The low season occurs in January and February and then again in August and September. You can usually find the best deals in January, February, and August.

Weather in Savannah

Weather is a big factor in determining when to visit. Fortunately, Savannah has nice weather for the majority of the year — except summer .

Are you sensing my disdain for summer weather yet?

Winter : The winter season is rather mild. You might wear a jacket and gloves in the morning, short sleeves during the day, and then need your jacket again once the sun sets.

Average highs are in the mid 60s to low 70s and the lows are typically in the upper 40s. Snow is so rare that it only happens once every five to ten years.

Spring: Spring is incredible in Savannah! Birds chirp, azaleas bloom, and the entire Historic District is abuzz with activity. It’s fantastic walking weather, but a thick yellow pollen covers nearly every surface.

The highs are usually in the mid 70s to low 80s. Lows range from the upper 50s to mid 60s. It rains some, but usually not enough that it would ruin your plans.

Summer: I cannot stress enough how hot and humid it is in Savannah during the summertime.

It’s not hot like Florida, where you get a steady coastal breeze and the warmth of the sun feels good on your skin. It’s hot in a soul-sucking kind of way — where the air feels dead and swampy.

You’ll find yourself thanking sweet baby Jesus every five minutes for the existence of air conditioning and slushy drinks from Wet Willies.

Highs range from upper 80s to the low 100s, but the “feels like” temps may hover around 110 (or higher).

Because it’s so humid, it’s common to have mid-afternoon showers during the summer months. The heat and humidity build up until they reach their breaking point, and then the afternoon thunderstorms roll in like clockwork every day around 3 pm.

Fall: Fall is my favorite time of year! Just make note that fall weather doesn’t start in Savannah until late October or early November.

The leaves usually begin to change colors in late November and last throughout December. It’s very common to see trees with fall color in front of homes that have Christmas trees in the windows!

Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season technically begins in June, but it’s rare for the bigger storms to hit earlier than August.

It’s common for Savannah to fall in the direct path of a major hurricane at least once per year, which results in mandatory evacuations of the city.

Hurricane season in Savannah peaks in September and early October. The season technically ends at the end of November, but it’s rare to have storms that late into the season.

I highly suggest travel insurance for hurricanes to cover potential trip cancellations if you book a trip anywhere from mid-August to mid-October.

If anything above a Category 3 storm rolls through Savannah, city officials usually instate mandatory evacuations.

My Savannah First-Timer’s Guide goes more in-depth into the pros and cons of each season, and it includes major annual events you might need to consider during the trip-planning process.

For example, there are a few times each year when accommodation prices spike due to the crowds. These spikes usually take place during some of the biggest annual events in Savannah .

It’s best to avoid traveling during those times unless you have a specific interest in the associated events.

Sections of Savannah

Step two after deciding which time of year to visit is deciding where to stay. The further in advance you can book your accommodations, the better chance you have at scoring a good deal!

Historic District: As I mentioned in the intro, the Historic District is the most popular section of Savannah. In fact, I highly recommend staying there if your budget allows.

It’s filled with beautiful mansions and is broken up every other block or so with green spaces called squares. You can walk to most attractions, so you won’t need a car.

Some of the most well-known spots in Savannah are located in the Historic District. Those include River Street , Factors Walk , Broughton Street, City Market , and Jones Street .

Victorian District: The Victorian District is directly south of the Historic District. If you’re looking at a map of Savannah, it falls along the southern half of beautiful Forsyth Park.

As you might deduct from the name, you’ll find a high concentration of Victorian-style homes in the area. Savannah has some incredible Victorian architecture. Here’s more photographic evidence as proof…

Starland District: This artsy section of Savannah is located within a broader area known as the Thomas Square Streetcar District. The Starland District is a smaller subsection of the streetcar district.

It’s popular for its trendy restaurants and hangout spots, as well as its thriving art scene. Starland is where you’re likely to find lots of locals hanging out (as well as Southern Living editors , apparently).

Plant Riverside District: This is one of the newer sections of Savannah — located along the far northwest section of the riverfront.

It’s considered an entertainment zone, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars in this area. To learn more, check out some of the must-see spots in the Plant Riverside District .

My Savannah First-Timer’s Guide goes into detail about the various sections of Savannah. It includes lots of photos of each area and has a printable map of the Historic District .

Is Savannah GA Safe?

If I had a dollar every time I was asked this question, I might own a fancy mansion in the Historic District instead of my modest little house in the Starland District!

I have lots of thoughts on the topic of safety in Savannah , but I think we can agree that it’s important for you to pick a safe place to stay — especially if you opt for a home rental outside the boundaries of the Historic District.

While Savannah looks like a charming small town, in actuality it’s a city and has the level of crime you might expect in any metropolitan zone.

Don’t be fooled by the Historic District’s endearing vibe and think it’s safe to leave your doors unlocked or to go wandering around in unfamiliar areas by yourself late at night. It’s not.

My crime map shows violent crime statistics for the current year in Savannah. The focus is on homicides, stabbings, and gunshots with injuries.

I don’t keep track of all crimes — only the worst of the worst. You can click on each incident on the map to pull up additional details about it.

Overall, if you’re a first-time visitor to Savannah, the Historic District is the ideal place to stay!

It’s generally well-patrolled by the Savannah Police Department. There are very few trouble spots within the Historic District, and even those are only bad in the wee hours of the morning when you’ll probably be fast asleep.

If you’re worried about safety, my ebook has an entire page of places that are best for first-time visitors to avoid.

Since I haven’t mentioned it yet, I also want to point out that if you haven’t read John Berendt’s book, “ Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ,” I highly suggest doing so before your trip.

It’s a New York Times Best Seller about the eccentric personality types who tend to choose Savannah as their home.

It also covers the most famous shooting that ever occurred in Savannah, so it’s a true crime “must read.” (Promise me you’ll read the book BEFORE you watch the movie, though. The book is so much better!)

Many of the stories within its pages revolve around the notorious Mercer Williams House . It’s one of a handful of historic homes you can tour in Savannah.

OK, hopefully the posts linked above will help you narrow down when to visit and where to stay. If you want to start planning your activities, I have a huge list of things to do in Savannah .

Do you have any Savannah Georgia vacation questions for me? As always, please let me know in the comments below.

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• Destinations

Savannah Travel Guide

Savannah brings travelers an incredible range of experiences, all infused with Southern flair. Step back in time through historic home walking tours and a stroll down the cobblestone streets. Fresh seafood, barbecue, and ethnic restaurants abound; there's live music, art bursting out of every corner, and miles of sandy beaches, not to mention multiple nature preserves teeming with coastal wildlife. — Kai Saunders

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Home › Visitor Info

Savannah Visitor Information

See also: – Tourist attractions and other things to do in Savannah – Must-see sights in Savannah – Savannah’s events by month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December – Free things to do in and near Savannah

Planning Your Visit

Weather & when to visit.

Savannah is a good year-round vacation destination, but is at its best in the spring, and then the fall, when the weather is pleasantly warm and more likely to be dry.

Winters are generally mild, and this can be an ideal time to visit if you want to avoid the larger crowds and higher prices of the peak tourist seasons. Summers in Savannah are typically humid and uncomfortably hot, with frequent rainstorms, though destinations such as Tybee Island and Hilton Head Island are very popular at this time of year.

– Read more about the best time to visit Savannah

– Savannah’s weather by month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November or December

Getting To Savannah

Savannah is principally served by the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, 12 miles northwest of the Historic District. Several major domestic airlines operate flights to the airport. Downtown Savannah is easily reached by taxi or rideshare, or car.

More information: – Airport options for flying to Savannah and the Georgia coast – Ways to get downtown or to other regional destinations from Savannah’s airport

Amtrak operates three train services along the Atlantic Seaboard with stops at Savannah; the station is located around four miles from the downtown Historic District.

More information: – Details of train services to and from Savannah, ticket types and reservation info – Ways to get downtown from Savannah’s train station

Several Greyhound coach services operate to Savannah (some of which are with regional affiliate Southeastern Stages), with connections to cities across the country. The station in Savannah is conveniently located, just west of the Historic District, and connects with Savannah’s public transit system.

– More about bus services to Savannah and travel options from the station

Traveling To Savannah From...

For more detailed information on travel options to Savannah from selected cities (including comparisons of ticket cost and travel time by plane, train and bus), see the following pages: – Atlanta – Charleston – Charlotte – Jacksonville – Miami – Nashville – New York – Orlando

See also information on completing your journey to the nearby seafront communities of Tybee Island or Hilton Head, or to the cities of Macon, GA, Brunswick, GA or Beaufort, SC.

Accommodation

Most visitors to Savannah enjoy the convenience of staying in the Historic District, where there is an abundance of hotels, inns and bed and breakfast accommodation. River Street is particularly popular, with many places to stay on the street itself and more hotels nearby just northwest of the Historic District.

Rental accommodation is also available throughout the Historic District and in the residential areas to its south, with options ranging from single rooms, small apartments and quaint carriage houses to large and many-bedroomed properties.

The main disadvantage of lodgings in and near the Historic District is price, with essentially nothing available here for budget travelers. Cheaper accommodation can be found in Savannah’s Midtown district (around the lower reaches of Abercorn Street), and near the airport, but for the real bargains look in nearby communities such as Pooler, Port Wentworth and beyond.

The oceanfront community of Tybee Island, 30 minutes drive from Savannah, offers another alternative place to stay, with reasonably-priced hotel rooms and rentals often available outside of the peak summer months.

If you prefer to camp, there are several RV and camping sites within convenient reach of Savannah.

Once You Arrive

Visitor information center locations.

Savannah’s main visitor center is located just to the west of the Historic District on Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard. Paid parking is available in an adjacent lot.

Martin Luther King Visitor Information Center 301 Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard 912-944-0455

There are also several other smaller visitor centers around Savannah and nearby.

Ellis Square Visitor Information Center 26 Barnard Street 912-525-3100 x 1343 Hours vary seasonally.

River Street Visitor Information Center 1 West River Street 912-651-6662

Savannah Airport Visitor Center 400 Airways Avenue 912-966-3743

→ See all visitor center locations and latest hours

Luggage Storage

Downtown luggage storage facilities are available with Bounce, Stow My Bags and Luggage Drop. Rates are typically in the region of $5-$10 per bag, per day.

Public Restrooms

Public restrooms are available at the Visitor Centers at Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard and River Street (see above for details). Restrooms are also located at the Bryan Street and Liberty Street parking garages. See on map

Getting Around Savannah

Savannah is easy to get around as a pedestrian. Its Historic District is not too big, and walkable, with many shaded streets and places to rest along the way. Free shuttles, and the paid public bus services, connect outlying parking garages to the popular sights.

A combination of walking and public transport is often the most convenient way to get around the city, as congestion can be heavy and the city’s one way system on many downtown streets makes navigating to specific places more difficult.

If you do decide to drive, short-term and longer-term parking is available throughout the city, either on-street or in a number of parking lots and garages located across the Historic District.

– More about where to park in downtown Savannah

Free Shuttle/Public Bus Services

Two free shuttle bus services operate every 10 minutes, following north-south and east-west loops around the Historic District. These shuttles have stops near many of the key tourist spots around the city.

Savannah’s ordinary bus service can also be a good way to get into or around the city. Tickets (free transfers available) are $1.50 per trip. Two children under 41 inches tall may ride for free with each paying adult.

– More information about Savannah’s free downtown transportation and city bus services

Taxi & Rideshare Services

Many taxi companies operate in Savannah and its vicinity. Maximum meter rates in Savannah are $2.50 for the first one sixth of a mile, plus $0.38 for every additional sixth of a mile. This is equivalent to a charge of $4.40 for the first mile traveled, and $2.28 per additional mile after the first. Fuel surcharges (in the amount of $1 or $2 per trip) may sometimes be added to the fare.

A flat rate fare is often available for journeys to and from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. A $1 surcharge also applies for fares from the airport. See details of these rates and any additional fees for extra passengers and out-of-state travel at the Savannah Airport website.

Rideshare services Uber and Lyft both also operate in the Savannah area.

© Melanie K Jones 2024

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Food Lovers Are Heading to Savannah and So Should You

The dining scene in this charming Southern city is heating up.

Caroline is a Southern-born and New York-based restaurant industry writer, casserole aficionado, and former prep cook. She has covered the hospitality industry for more than a decade.

WILL CROOKS

I arrived at Late Air in the last minutes of a Friday night “apero hour” and ordered a fizzy bianco vermouth-pét nat cocktail and a plate of pickled Georgia shrimp. Next, the bartender poured me a glass of sparkling Chardonnay from Beaujolais to go with a tangle of green beans, peanuts, and crunchy tofu. With its quirky menu and new-to-me bottles, the natural wine bar reminded me of my favorite spots in New York, Mexico City, and Paris. But I was snacking and sipping in Savannah, the Spanish moss-draped town of 150,000 in coastal Georgia.

Growing up, Savannah was the closest thing I had to a big city. I lived 95 country miles away, and every few months, my mom would load us into our minivan and drive to Savannah to shop. We’d eat lunch at Spanky’s, a restaurant that claims to have invented the chicken finger, or at a chain restaurant near the mall. Occasionally, we went downtown for a cheeseburger at the old-school Crystal Beer Parlor. But meals were mostly incidental. 

Indeed, no one would have considered Savannah a food destination until a decade ago, things started to change, with investment in the city’s downtown — and with the 2014 arrival of game-changing restaurant The Grey. Mashama Bailey and John O. Morisano opened The Grey in an art deco Greyhound bus station, and ever since the restaurant’s progressive Southern cooking has drawn travelers, locals, national press, and cooks to Savannah. That slow river of transformation became a flood during the pandemic, when Savannah’s less-restrictive COVID policies and warm weather fueled a boom in tourism. Now, the Hostess City can count a destination-worthy restaurant and bar scene to its many charms — contemporary art, historic architecture, oak-lined squares, and liberal open container laws, among them.

COURTESY OF BROCHU’S

On my most recent visit, in walking distance of Forsyth Park, some of the city’s most picturesque acres, I polished off a bowl of bucatini bolstered with umami-rich sardines and anchovies at Saint Bibiana, a modern Italian restaurant opened by recent transplant Derek Simcik. Down the street, I scoped out Strangebird, a Southern-meets-Mexican barbecue joint inside a renovated Streamliner diner where chefs Daniel “Nilo” Aranza and Felipe Vera engineer a delightfully sloppy birria burger and salsa macha-topped refried butter beans. Strangebird is the latest restaurant from restaurateur Brandon Carter, who has opened three restaurants in Savannah since 2021. The others are Common Thread, a fine-dining spot set in a Victorian mansion, and Wildflower Cafe at the Jepson Center, a contemporary art museum. 

Yes, tourists still line up for pizza slices at Vinnie Van GoGo’s and legendary fried chicken lunches at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House, but these mainstays don’t offer the town’s only pizza and chicken worth waiting for. At Vittoria Pizzeria, Kyle Jacovino sells blistered Neopolitan-ish pies made with naturally leavened dough; I savored one of his farmers market pizzas topped with merguez bolognese, ramps, and morels. Jacovino arrived in town the same year that The Grey opened, as chef of Hugh Acheson’s short-lived The Florence, and decided to stay. “It’s a cool town. It’s not hyper stressful. It’s affordable to live in and raise a family,” he says. 

COURTESY OF VITTORIA PIZZA

Around the corner, at Brochu’s Family Tradition, I tucked into their whole chicken dinner, a tray packed with fried thighs brined in chamomile tea, charred breast, chicken salad, biscuits and gravy, with housemade sunchoke hot sauce and pickles. Chef Andrew Brochu had originally planned on opening his Southern-inflected concept in Chicago, where he had worked at Alinea and Roister. The pandemic squashed that dream, and he started over in Savannah, where his wife Sophie grew up. “It took COVID to make us say, ‘Let’s go down South and see what’s going on,’” says Brochu. “I found the space here, and we just bought a home.”

Todd Harris, another Chicago transplant, moved to Savannah in 2021 and took over the kitchen at Garage at Victory North, a favorite late-night hangout spot, the following year. “Savannah was attractive because Mashama was here,” he says. At Garage at Victory North, Harris celebrates Southern ingredients, including okra he grows in a backyard garden and collard greens he dresses up into a Caesar salad, and weaves one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic dishes, red rice, into a creamy, must-order risotto. 

GABRIELA HERMAN/GALLERY STOCK

The juxtaposition of old and new is what makes Savannah exciting right now for diners — and chefs. The city has always had a wealth of history and culture to share, but now there’s a deeper bench of hospitality talent to tell its stories on the plate.

On my last night in town, a Monday, I popped into Over Yonder, a honky tonk bar and industry hangout. I expected the place to be empty but had to elbow my way to the bar to order a cheeseburger and ranch water. Across the room, I spotted Ryan Landers, the bartender who’d poured my wine at Late Air a few days before. Brandon Carter and his culinary team were there too. We may have shared a few tequila shots. “I love the energy of this city,” said Carter, as we raised our glasses to Savannah.

Where to eat in Savannah

COURTESY OF DOTTIE’S

Brochu’s Family Tradition

Chef Andrew Brochu traded Michelin trappings for a fun, no-frills restaurant in the artsy Starland District neighborhood. Pull up to the bar at Brochu's for grilled oysters and a piña colada slushie.

The Garage at Victory North

At this bar , restaurant, and late-night hangout in Starland District , start with a classic cocktail, and build a meal around Savannah red rice, oxtail, and buttermilk fried chicken.

Common Thread

At Brandon Carter’s debut Savannah restaurant, Common Thread , you’ll dine in a lovingly restored Victorian home and eat the region’s best produce tucked into okonomiyaki, fermented into kimchi, sidled next to Georgia beef, and drizzled with huancaina sauce.

Strange Bird

Expect to sit next to a sweet tea–sipping local at this Southern-meets-Mexican barbecue joint , where birria burgers, shrimp burritos, and barbacoa tacos reign supreme.

Saint Bibiana

This modern Italian restaurant from chef Derek Simcik, a recent transplant, anchors the new  Hotel Bardo . Every dish at Saint Bibiana — even the burrata and the grilled branzino — has nuance and intrigue layered in.

Grab a falafel or sabich pita, and head to Forsyth Park for a picnic, or enjoy a saucy shakshuka at fast-casual Israeli newcomer Shuk .

Pizzeria Vittoria

Kyle Jacovino’s pizzeria anchors the Starland Yard food truck park. Order a beer nearby while you wait for an ideal Margherita or a cheffy market pie.

Former New Yorkers, chefs Christopher Meenan and Ericka Phillips opened this all-day café and market, dedicated to Phillips’ great-grandmother. Stop in Dottie's for a towering shrimp po’boy while shopping on Broughton.

Where to drink in Savannah

PETER FRANK EDWARDS/REDUX

After living in New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, and Virginia Beach, Madeline Ott and Colin Breland chose Savannah for their natural-wine bar Late Air . The couple has introduced 50 bottles to the state since opening.

Savoy Society

Jane Fishel has owned bars in Savannah since 2012, and her airy downtown spot, Savory Society , touts advanced bartending — there are amaros, infusions, and cheese in cocktails — without attitude.

Over Yonder

You have to walk through Moodright’s, a bar and duckpin bowling alley, to reach this late-night hot spot. Locals love the double-stacked smash burgers and Georgia-brewed Creature Comforts beer at Over Yonder .

Where to stay in Savannah

Perry lane hotel.

At the intimate, art-filled Perry Lane Hotel , guests are greeted with Cava and can mosey to the first-floor bar, The Wayward, for complimentary happy-hour cocktails. Chef Daniel Herget left a plum post in South Beach to lead the hotel’s restaurant, The Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market.  Rooms from $309

JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

This historic power plant–turned–hotel holds a concert venue and a serious collection of gemstones, geodes, and fossils. Watch cargo ships steer in and out of the city’s busy port while you slurp oysters at District Seafood, one of 11 restaurants and bars on-site.  Rooms from $299

Thompson Savannah

Art curated by local gallerist Susan Laney fills the lobby of this hotel near River Street’s eastern edge. From the hotel, you can snag a breakfast sandwich at Stevedore Bakery before strolling along the Savannah River or sipping a culinary cocktail at rooftop Bar Julian.  Rooms from $269

Related Articles

The best outdoor restaurants in Savannah to check out now that it's getting warmer

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

Highest-rated restaurants with outdoor seating in Savannah, according to Yelp

Theres something special about taking in a meal while enjoying the air outside, and it could even contribute to your happiness, particularly if there are plants around . During the pandemic, having outdoor seating was a lifeline for many restaurants, allowing them to operate both takeaway and dine-in services.

Many also used the opportunity to show off their personality with decor and furniture that fit their vibe. Are you partial to a luxurious fake garden? Or are you more into lawn chairs and tiki vibes?

Globally, many people may have associated the outdoor dining experience with the cafes of European cities or street food stalls in Asia. Travelers and locals alike often spend hours sipping coffee and eating delicious and cheap food. In the U.S., outdoor seating can take the form of small tables, semi-private nooks, or communal-style seating for the masses, like at a beer garden. Key to a good outdoor table is shade from the sun and, in urban settings, walls or barriers that can cut down on fumes and noise from nearby car traffic.

Restaurants may also play up other perks—like having a great view. The coronavirus pandemic also increased demand for outdoor heaters so restaurants could keep serving meals outside in the colder seasons. All these adjustments have led to more Americans rediscovering the pleasures of dining al fresco, away from the noise inside.

While a good chunk of pandemic-era outside seating may have shrunk back since the return to "normal," many restaurants still have their prized patio tables ready for patrons. Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated restaurants with outdoor seating in Savannah using data from Yelp . Rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews. Keep reading to see if your favorite spot made the list.

#30. Cotton & Rye

- Rating: 4.5/5 (881 reviews) - Price level: $$$ - Address: 1801 Habersham St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: American (New) - Read more on Yelp

#29. Le Banh-Banh Mi Sandwiches

- Rating: 4.5/5 (52 reviews) - Address: 36 Barnard St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Vietnamese - Read more on Yelp

#28. Duck Donuts

- Rating: 4.5/5 (153 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 7127 Hodgson Memorial Dr Savannah, GA 31406 - Categories: Coffee & Tea, Breakfast & Brunch, Donuts - Read more on Yelp

#27. Mate Factor

- Rating: 4.5/5 (398 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 401 E Hall St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Coffee & Tea, Bakeries, Sandwiches - Read more on Yelp

#26. Unforgettable Bakery & Cafe

- Rating: 4.5/5 (38 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 238 Eisenhower Dr Savannah, GA 31406 - Categories: Bakeries, Sandwiches, Desserts - Read more on Yelp

#25. Kis Cafe

- Rating: 4.5/5 (11 reviews) - Address: 714 Mall Blvd Savannah, GA 31406 - Categories: Cafes - Read more on Yelp

#24. Anita Deli Sandwich

- Rating: 4.5/5 (36 reviews) - Address: 348 Jefferson St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Delis, Breakfast & Brunch, Wraps - Read more on Yelp

#23. Fork & Dagger Diner

- Rating: 4.5/5 (40 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 1402 Habersham St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Latin American, Breakfast & Brunch, Sandwiches - Read more on Yelp

#22. Pounce Cat Cafe

- Rating: 4.5/5 (72 reviews) - Address: 404 W Broughton St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Themed Cafes, Coffee & Tea, Pet Adoption - Read more on Yelp

#21. The Garage

- Rating: 4.5/5 (29 reviews) - Address: 2605 Whitaker St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Cocktail Bars, American (New) - Read more on Yelp

#20. Ardsley Station

- Rating: 4.5/5 (151 reviews) - Address: 102 E Victory Dr Savannah, GA 31405 - Categories: American (Traditional), Wine Bars, Cocktail Bars - Read more on Yelp

#19. Katrina's Mexican Grill

- Rating: 4.5/5 (15 reviews) - Address: 2 Park Of Commerce Blvd Ste C Savannah, GA 31405 - Categories: Mexican, Bars, Sandwiches - Read more on Yelp

#18. Fox & Fig

- Rating: 4.5/5 (684 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 321 Habersham St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Cafes, Vegan, Breakfast & Brunch - Read more on Yelp

#17. Java Burrito Company

- Rating: 4.5/5 (36 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 420 E Broughton St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Coffee & Tea, Mexican - Read more on Yelp

#16. kreole kitchen

- Rating: 4.5/5 (6 reviews) - Address: 14045 Abercorn St Unit 2518 Savannah Mall Savannah, GA 31419 - Categories: Cajun/Creole, Soul Food - Read more on Yelp

#15. Amigo's Taqueria

- Rating: 4.5/5 (59 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 12333 Largo Dr Savannah, GA 31419 - Categories: Mexican - Read more on Yelp

- Rating: 4.5/5 (37 reviews) - Address: 1450 Dean Forest Rd Savannah, GA 31405 - Categories: Japanese - Read more on Yelp

#13. Holy Pie! Pizzeria

- Rating: 5.0/5 (24 reviews) - Address: 1450 Dean Forest Rd Savannah, GA 31405 - Categories: Pizza - Read more on Yelp

#12. Kennedy Fried Chicken

- Rating: 5.0/5 (8 reviews) - Address: 924 Pennsylvania Ave Savannah, GA 31404 - Categories: Fast Food - Read more on Yelp

#11. Kreole Kitchen

- Rating: 5.0/5 (8 reviews) - Address: 1800 E Victory Dr Unit F Savannah, GA 31404 - Categories: Caribbean, Soul Food, Salad - Read more on Yelp

- Rating: 5.0/5 (12 reviews) - Address: 411 W Charlton St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: American (New), Cocktail Bars - Read more on Yelp

#9. The Narra Tree

- Rating: 5.0/5 (41 reviews) - Address: 7054 Hodgson Memorial Dr Savannah, GA 31406 - Categories: Filipino - Read more on Yelp

#8. Savannah Filipino Authentic Cuisine

- Rating: 5.0/5 (89 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 5515 Waters Ave Savannah, GA 31404 - Categories: Filipino - Read more on Yelp

#7. Munchie's BBQ & Subs

- Rating: 5.0/5 (20 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 2110 Montgomery St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Barbeque - Read more on Yelp

#6. Sweet Patricia's Bakery

- Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 1722 Habersham St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Bakeries, Desserts, Salad - Read more on Yelp

#5. Taqueria El San Luis

- Rating: 5.0/5 (71 reviews) - Price level: $ - Address: 7094 Hodgson Memorial Dr Savannah, GA 31406 - Categories: Tex-Mex, Tacos - Read more on Yelp

#4. Hungry Vegan

- Rating: 5.0/5 (46 reviews) - Address: 2 E Lathrop Ave Savannah, GA 31415 - Categories: Vegan, Soul Food - Read more on Yelp

#3. Big Bon Pizza

- Rating: 5.0/5 (19 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 2011 Bull St Savannah, GA 31401 - Categories: Pizza, Bagels, Sandwiches - Read more on Yelp

#2. 2 Chefs Southern Kitchen

- Rating: 5.0/5 (11 reviews) - Address: 2007 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Savannah, GA 31415 - Categories: Soul Food, Seafood, Southern - Read more on Yelp

#1. Chez Carole Paulo Int'l Restaurant & Catering

- Rating: 5.0/5 (5 reviews) - Address: 11215 Abercorn St Ste 10 Savannah, GA 31419 - Categories: Breakfast & Brunch, Haitian, American (New) - Read more on Yelp

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Are Disposable Hotel Slippers the Next Plastic Straws?

Slippers supplied by hotels — flimsy models usually made of plastic and fabric — are the next single-use item in the cross hairs of sustainability activists.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

In November, managers at the Arenas del Mar resort near Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica, challenged employees to come up with ways to operate more sustainably. The maintenance crew suggested electric locks on guest room doors. The food and beverage department proposed making jams from fruit peels. And the housekeepers advised: Ditch the slippers.

“It didn’t make sense because you use them once and throw them out,” said Hans Pfister, the president and co-founder of Cayuga Collection , the hotel group that manages the resort, which took housekeeping’s advice. “It’s very wasteful.”

Like plastic straws and mini bottles of shampoo, disposable slippers — flimsy models usually made of plastic and fabric, and often found bedside at turndown or bagged in hotel closets — are the next single-use item in the cross hairs of sustainability activists.

“Anything single-use is problematic,” wrote Willy Legrand, a sustainable hospitality expert and a professor at the IU International University of Applied Sciences in Bad Honnef, Germany, in an email. He cited the large footprint of a small slipper once you factor in production, shipping and waste. Single-use slippers, he said, “feel out of place and out of touch.”

Nina Boys, the vice president of sustainability for Beyond Green , a group of hotels vetted for their sustainability practices, called slippers “low-hanging fruit” in the fight against plastic.

Slippers as status symbols

While plastic straws can be easily replaced with paper versions and small shampoo bottles by larger dispensers, subbing for slippers is more complicated based not just on materials but cultural expectations and perceptions of luxury.

Providing slippers in hotels is rooted in the Asian tradition of removing your shoes indoors, said Diana Verde Nieto, a sustainability expert and the author of “ Reimagining Luxury .”

“As hotels started to cater to international guests, particularly those from Asia, the provision of slippers became a way to accommodate and respect these cultural norms,” Ms. Verde Nieto wrote in an email. She added that the comfort and hygiene associated with slippers has become a universal luxury standard today.

Offering slippers also helps hotels earn status ratings from travel organizations like AAA or the European Union’s Hotelstars .

Some resorts have found it easier to address sustainability through food waste and community engagement than footwear. Winvian , the boutique resort with 18 cottages and one suite on 113 acres in Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills, grows about 70 percent of its produce on the property and built a cottage from the wood cleared at the site. Guests receive reusable sandals in the spa, but in the rooms, visitors will find plusher designs that they are encouraged to take home and reuse; about half do and the rest are discarded.

“The problem is, it’s one of those things that people have come to expect,” said Heather Smith Winkelmann, the managing director of the resort.

Ivan Bauza is the director of sales and marketing at the Setai , a luxury hotel in Miami Beach. “Our guests are very demanding and expect everything brand-new,” he said, adding that amenities like full-size bottles of shampoo and slippers that are intended for guests to take home — occasionally including trendy models from the boutique brand Brunch — “shows the luxury aspect” of hospitality.

‘Rethinking’ slippers

The waste associated with disposable slippers is sizable, according to Mr. Legrand of IU, who calculated that high-end hotels in the United States with an average occupancy of 63 percent might discard more than 10 million pairs of slippers a month.

In a 2018 study, Chekitan S. Dev, a professor in the hospitality school at Cornell University, tracked 50 hotel amenities to determine how much they were used. Only 27 percent of guests used bathrobes supplied in the rooms. “We didn’t study slippers, but can safely assume that as many, or a few more, use slippers, especially as they are often unpacked and placed at bedside during turndown service, encouraging their use,” Mr. Dev said.

Hotel cleaning standards often dictate discarding slippers that have been removed from their packaging, according to members of Unite Here, the union that represents hotel housekeepers.

“Waste from hotel slippers may seem minor when compared to larger issues like energy consumption, food waste or water usage,” Mr. Legrand wrote. “However, at the end of the day, every bit of waste adds up and increasing attention is being paid to these aspects as part of a broader sustainable industry approach.”

Sourcing greener footwear

Hotel companies that have made commitments to banning single-use plastics have blazed a trail to more eco-friendly slippers.

Six Senses , a collection of 23 high-end resorts, offers slippers made from natural materials like jute or bamboo, or from recycled plastic. Six Senses Crans-Montana in Switzerland stocks Kaaita felt slippers made from recycled plastic bottles that can be washed and reused or recycled at the end of their life span. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group phased out single-use slippers in 2022 and replaced them with models made of cardboard, cork and cotton that are cleaned and restocked in the rooms. The Dorian, Autograph Collection hotel in Calgary, Canada, stopped supplying disposable slippers in the hotel’s suites in favor of upgraded ones that are thicker and more durable; they are available on demand to guests in other rooms. Patrons are encouraged to take them home for “multiple uses rather than single use,” wrote Ian Jones, the general manager, in an email.

Green Key , which vets hotels for sustainability practices, suggests hotels make slippers and other single-use amenities available on request, rather than mandating elimination. In keeping with its commitment to eliminate single-use plastics, the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina only supplies slippers to guests who ask for them.

Few slipper-supplying resorts go as far to reduce footwear waste as Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali. At its on-site Sustainability Lab, which turns glass bottles into drinking glasses and old umbrellas into tote bags, shredded slipper parts become stuffing for bean bag chairs.

“By closing the loop on waste, we are creating a circular economy,” said Morgan Martinello, the resort’s general manager.

Refuse or reuse

Will travelers start bringing their own slippers the way they carry their own water bottles and shopping bags? They might have to.

“We are having many a debate about slippers, pens, cotton balls, toiletries,” said Oliver Milne-Watson, the general manager of the Newman , a luxury hotel set to open later this year in London. The rooms will not contain single-use plastics though the management has found it difficult to find a satisfying reusable slipper.

“We’re asking, ‘Can we make this with something with a longer life cycle and if not do we really need it?’” Mr. Milne-Watson said.

Experts doubt the needle on slippers will fully swing until travelers speak up.

“We are at the stage now with this as it was with food waste a few years ago,” Mr. LaGrand, the IU professor, said. “It is when we start monitoring, measuring and quantifying both the cost of sourcing and wasting that the realization kicks in: We must do something about it!”

They are already on the minds of some travelers.

“I’ve contemplated how short of a life span these tend to have in the past, and now I’ve gotten into the habit of taking my used pair with me when I leave the hotel,” said Karla Cobreiro, 33, a publicist based in Miami. She puts them in a carry-on alongside a sleep mask and other essentials. “Now I slip into them on long flights.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .