Howdy! This past December I used my first vacation days to take a trip to Georgia. The main point of this trip was to visit my grandmother who lives there, but I arrived a few days early and took a side trip down to Savannah (and Tybee Island). I have always wanted to go to Savannah! In fact, in high school, my dream school was the Savannah College of Art and Design. I even got a scholarship to attend there! Too bad it wasn’t quite enough money… but that’s ok. I bleed maroon now! Anyways, I wanted to share my list of what to do in savannah with y’all, because other than the items I bought I hardly spent any money on site seeing!
Visit all 22 Squares
Maybe it’s just the landscape architect in me, but I think visiting all of the gorgeous, green squares is a must! The whole city was originally designed by Oglethorpe to be on a grid that encompassed 24 squares. Two of those squares have since been redeveloped. If you make your way down Bull Street. This street is not only recognized as one of the Great Streets in America by the American Planning Association but is also one of the most scenic streets! Also, if you ever get lost, just head back to Bull Street and you’re set!
Forsyth Park
Since you’re already heading down Bull Street to check out all of the squares in Savannah, you might as well make your way to the city’s main park, Forsyth Park! This is the site of the most iconic pictures you see of Savannah, with the promenade of oak trees as you approach the enormous granite fountain! Definitely an Instagram worthy place! After I walked around the park for a bit, I stopped by this coffee shop off of West Park Avenue called The Sentient Bean. As I’ve mentioned before, I judge a town by the local coffee shops, and let me tell ya, Savannah does not disappoint! So this is number 1 on my “must-stop coffee shop” list.
Take an Architecture Tour
Savannah is rich in history. After all, it is part of the original Georgia colony. Due to its rich history, there are no shortage of museums to check out in the city. However, I think one of the best ways to get a taste of this historic background of Savannah is to look at the architecture! There are plenty of walking architecture tours you can take, or you can do it my way and just google buildings as you go! My way is free * Insert Hair Flip*.
Visit the Cemeteries
Ok Dainty Squid, I’m coming for your brand. If you go to Savannah, check out the cemeteries! Again, there is a ton of history there, but not only that, they are kinda pretty in a spooky sort of way! Bonaventure is the main cemetery to add to your list to visit while in Savannah.
Savannah College of Art and Design
Ok, visiting SCAD was on my list for obvious reasons. After all, I dreamed of being a SCAD bee for a long time! Why should it be on your list though? It is actually such a cool school! The campus is spread all throughout the city in the neatest looking buildings! Two SCAD buildings I recommend are the art museum (duh!) and the main visitors center called Shop Scad. Here you can get the rundown of the school’s history and academics.
Did I leave wishing I could go to school at SCAD again? Why yes, yes I did. Oh, wait, this is a perfect opportunity to shamelessly plug my post about the art school I did attend! Check it out!
Shopping Broughton Street
Y’all, I felt like I was back shopping in the arcades of Cardiff again while on Broughton Street. This street is so walkable (like most of the old side of town honestly) and has a bunch of local stores! Here is my list of stores you should check out if you are in a shopping mood:
- Blick Art Supply Store ( I know lot’s of cities have these, but I’ve always had to order from the catalog. It was nice to look around in a physical store)
- Avalon Exchange (Its an awesome thrift store)
- 24e Design Co.
- Half-Moon Outfitters
- The Paris Market (you’ll find this one on everyone’s list of what to do in savannah because it is incredible!)
- The Coffee Fox (another amazing coffee shop!)
- Leopold’s Ice Cream (Classic!)
Obviously there is a substantial amount more to do in Savannah than just this list, but hopefully, this gave you a good idea of some fun and affordable options of what to do in savannah. I can’t wait to go back there! Maybe next time as a grad student at SCAD?! Just kidding, I’m done with school. Got to focus on enhancing my Landscape Architecture skills!
