Savannah is a city where history is not just preserved in museums but woven into the everyday fabric of its cobblestone streets and moss-draped squares. Walking through the Historic District often feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by elegant antebellum architecture and stories that span nearly three centuries. From colonial settlements to Civil War landmarks, the city offers a tangible connection to the American past.
For travelers planning a trip to the Hostess City, the sheer number of significant landmarks can be overwhelming. Understanding which sites offer the most profound historical impact and cultural context is key to building a rewarding itinerary. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the most essential stops for history enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.
Savannah’s unique layout, centered around 22 remaining public squares, creates a walkable outdoor museum unlike any other in the United States. Each square often holds a monument, a battleground, or a story of the people who shaped the nation. By visiting these specific locations, you can trace the evolution of the city from a British colony to a bustling modern port.
The landmarks selected below represent a mix of architectural mastery, military significance, and cultural heritage. Whether you are interested in the American Revolution, the Civil War, or the Gilded Age, these sites provide a comprehensive overview of Savannah’s legacy. They also serve as a testament to the city’s dedication to preservation and historical accuracy.
This article is designed to be your definitive resource for exploring the most important historic sites in the city. We have prioritized locations that offer guided tours, educational markers, and authentic preservation to ensure you receive accurate information. By following this guide, you will gain a deep appreciation for the events that shaped not only Georgia but the country as a whole.
Before you set out to explore, it is essential to understand the geographic and historical context of these landmarks. Most are located within walking distance of one another in the National Historic Landmark District. The following list details the stories, significance, and unique features of the locations you cannot miss during your visit.
Savannah Historic District
| Address | 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Phone | (912) 944-0455 |
Savannah’s Historic Downtown is a beautiful place to explore on foot. The streets are full of history, gorgeous architecture, and that classic Southern charm you hear so much about. We were hoping to see the fountain in Forsyth Park but it was under renovation during our visit. Even so, there was plenty to see, and we really enjoyed walking around and taking it all in
It’s one of the most beautiful places we’ve visited. We’re in awe of the charming streets lined with majestic oak trees draped in spanish moss, historic squares, and well-preserved architecture made it felt like stepping back in time. It’s very walkable, family-friendly, and full of great restaurants, shops, and interesting landmarks. We spent the whole day exploring and loved the relaxed atmosphere. A must-visit if you’re in Georgia!
Savannah Historic District is absolutely charming, with beautiful oak-lined streets, historic architecture, and a relaxing atmosphere. The River Street area is lively, with great restaurants, unique shops, and scenic views of the river. A perfect place to walk, explore, and experience the city's rich history.
I visited Savannah for the St. Patrick's Day parade. I am so glad I was able to go this year, as it was such a great time. I highly recommend going to Mirabelle's for a coffee or a bite to eat. I also stopped into E. Shaver bookstore to take a look around and saw 2/4 of the the cats that live there. Since it started to thunder storm on me I did end up driving around the town for a while, but was glad I did. I will definitely be making a trip back up.
We absolutely loved Savannah. The architecture is stunning, with beautiful historic buildings and charming streets everywhere you look. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the city truly embraces a slower pace of life — they really take care of pedestrians, which makes walking around so pleasant.
The food was delicious everywhere we went, and the atmosphere is magical. We especially loved hearing live jazz music playing on the street — it added the perfect touch to the experience. Savannah is simply beautiful and feels like stepping into another era.
Highly recommended! We can’t wait to come back. 😊
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
| Address | 124 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 790-8800 |
Very interesting house. It was build with first plumbing in Savannah. Lots of beautiful rooms with beautiful furniture, paintings and the most important the story. The tour was great, lots of information and lots of details about the house, families that lived there and people who served in the house. I love the bridge on the high level. It is really give the house something special. The ticket includes 2 more museums in Savannah. If you have time to visit all 3, It is a very good deal.
Will was an amazing guide through the museum. He was very knowledgeable about the architecture and the experiences of those residing on the property. Highly recommend touring this site to learn more about the lives of the enslaved and the property owners. I wish we had done a little research before visiting as the ticket to this site is bundled with two other Telfair sites and are good for a full week. Unfortunately, we visited on Sunday and departed Monday when they are all closed
Definitely buy tickets in advance, like before you even arrive in Savannah if your schedule is tight! My teenagers were really impressed by the history of this home. Our tour guide had them paying such good attention, they pointed out similar architecture/processes/items in other old homes we later visited. Wished we could have chatted longer with our guide, the cultural details were eye-opening to our modern, western U.S. perspectives. Plan on extra time to explore the exhibits in the basement and enjoy the courtyard garden.
Very nice option when you have a short Savannah visit. Self-paced audio tour is a great way to explore the house. Nice and friendly staff.
A beautiful restored home. There’s so many to choose from around here! The thing that they try to lean on, is that the Marquis de Lafayette stayed here. Outside of that this house really has no historic value. It has just been preserved.
Wormsloe State Historic Site
| Address | 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:45 PM |
| Phone | (912) 353-3023 |
Wormsloe Historic Site is a charming place to visit and offers plenty to see and explore. As soon as you arrive, you'll find a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, rent bicycles, or catch the tram that takes visitors farther into the property. While the tram is convenient, I highly recommend walking the famous avenue of majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss—it's the highlight of the visit and absolutely breathtaking.
Inside the property, there's a small museum with interesting exhibits about the site's history. Don't expect to see a grand plantation house, as only the original tabby ruins remain, but the ruins themselves offer a fascinating glimpse into Georgia's colonial past. At the back of the property, you'll also find a peaceful overlook of the marshlands that's well worth the walk.
If you're visiting during the summer, be prepared for the heat and humidity—they can be intense. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and take your time enjoying the scenery. Overall, Wormsloe Historic Site is a beautiful and historic destination that's well worth a visit while in Savannah.
You have to pay an entrance fee, which also includes parking. There is a shop where you can buy magnets, shirts, and souvenirs, and the architecture combines a modern design with the natural, wooded surroundings.
The ticket also includes a ride on small tractor-style vehicles that pull several seats behind. These run every 30 minutes and have a guide who explains the tour along the way.
The museum itself is not very big or particularly impressive. However, what stands out is the beautiful tree-lined path from the entrance to the museum. The trees are very old and have a stunning natural shape.
Once you arrive, you can also visit nearby ruins just a short walk away. Overall, the museum itself is nothing too special.
You also have the option to rent bicycles, which I recommend if you want to take the classic photo along the tree-covered path.
The restrooms were very clean and had accessibility for people with disabilities.
We had a wonderful time exploring Wormsloe. While you can choose to walk the grounds, taking the shuttle through the iconic path of 440 massive oak trees was both informative and enjoyable. They’ve recently updated their shuttles, which made for a comfortable experience even though they are wooden bench seats. They run every 30 minutes, take you to the museum and trails, and the ride itself lasts about 15–20 minutes each way.
After the ride, we spent some time in the small museum which was cute and took the trail out to the Colonial Life Area. It’s a nice walk through the forest with plenty of fresh air and different kinds of birds that really adds to the visit. The Colonial Life Area was small so don’t expect a large village or anything. We also managed to find a few things in the gift shop, which has a surprisingly good selection. Definitely a highlight if you're looking for that classic, historic, and forest atmosphere!
Driving down the avenue at Wormsloe feels like stepping back in time. The centuries-old live oaks create a majestic, ethereal canopy, with Spanish moss draping over the branches like silver veils. It’s more than just a beautiful sight; it’s a hauntingly serene atmosphere that defines the heart of coastal Georgia.
These are the prices of admission that you can just purchase on site.
Adults (ages 18–61): $12.00
Seniors (ages 62+): $9.00
Youth (ages 6–17): $5.75
Children (under 6): $3.25
They will load you up on an open-air tram pulled by a tractor with a guide to narrate your 1.5 mile journey through the oak trees.
We went on a weekday in August and it was super hot so make sure you are dressed accordingly and bring a hand fan and drinks if necessary. They have indoor restrooms on site and they so have cold drinks for sale at the gift shop there.
We loved it here and I would definitely recommend visiting if you ever find yourselves in Savannah, Georgia.
This was such an interesting tour. Really fascinating history. Beautiful!! I would have loved the 1.5 mile walk, however the trailer ride was nice as it was extremely hot & humid, the guide on the ride was good, but I was really hoping for more history on the place. There were lots of signs to read & the most fascinating thing I learned other than this is NOT where they filmed Forest Gump - was NOT to touch the Spanish moss. They said there is “red bug” in it that will burrow into your skin & give you a nasty rash!! Good to know since Spanish moss is all over Savannah!!
Mercer Williams House Museum
| Address | 429 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 238-0208 |
What a fascinating visit to the former home of the great antiques dealer, art collector and interior designer Jim Williams. I noticed a beautiful Renoir painting of a little girl in one of the rooms. Fascinating visit to see the real life location referenced in the book "Midnight in the Garden if Good and Evil" by John Berendt!
The Mercer-Williams House is absolutely one of Savannah’s most famous historic homes, and the setting on Monterey Square is hard to beat. The scale, history, ironwork, and overall presence make it worth stopping by, especially if you’re walking through the historic district.
That said, I have to admit the architecture is not my favorite. The oversized, highly decorative window hoods and pedimented window surrounds feel extremely gaudy to me. They are huge, heavy-looking, and so dramatic that they almost compete with the rest of the house instead of complementing it. I know that kind of ornament is part of the Italianate style, but personally it feels a little too much.
Still, it is an iconic Savannah landmark and definitely worth seeing. I just lose a star or two for the “look at me” window treatment. It is historically interesting, but aesthetically, those windows are doing the absolute most.
Amazing tour. Interesting story of the current resident still living there from the original bloodline. Cool original pieces and true history in the book midnight in the garden of good and evil. We even saw an owl!
What a great opportunity to visit such a monumental house this house that was made famous by the book midnight in the garden of good and evil. Our tour guide was amazing gave a great description of the owners of Mr. Jim Williams legacy, of course of the murder that took place at the house , and there was an added bonus. I had the privilege of speaking with Susan, the niece the niece of Mr. Jim Williams and we had super conversation. If you’re in Savannah this is a stop that you cannot miss the Mercer William house!
A lovely home with friendly and knowledgable staff. Unique in the sense that the owner still lives there while it's open to the public but then that was kind of a bummer because we didn't get to see the whole house. Beautiful home and nice tour of what you could see though.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
| Address | 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | (912) 233-4709 |
The Cathedral Basilica is a beautiful working Catholic Church. There is no charge to enter but they ask for a voluntary donation (they suggest at least $3.00 per person). It helps to keep the church clean and the AC on. There are times during the day that they are celebrating daily mass. The church is closed during those times. Otherwise you are welcome to come in to view the incredible artwork, stained glass windows, and gorgeous architecture. There are volunteers who give brief information about the history of the Cathedral Basilica.
We took our time and were there a little over an hour.
If you like soaring architecture, incredible artwork in a reverent historical setting, this place is for you.
If you find yourself wandering through Savannah, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a great edition to your itinerary. Even if you aren't religious, the sheer artistry of the structure is enough to leave anyone in awe.
Why It’s Worth the Stop:
• Outstanding Architecture: From the street, the towering spires and French Gothic style make a powerful impression. It feels like a piece of European history dropped right into the heart of Savanah.
• Breathtaking Interior: Once you step inside, the scale of the beauty really hits you. Between the vibrant stained-glass windows, carved statues and depictions, and the intricate murals, every inch of the sanctuary is a work of art.
• A Peaceful Experience: Visiting during the week is a pro tip. Since there were no services in progress, the atmosphere was incredibly serene, allowing us to take our time and really soak in the details without the crowds.
Pro-Tips for Your Visit:
• Cost: There is no mandatory entrance fee, making it accessible to everyone.
• Donations: They do suggest a $3 per person donation, which is a small price to pay to help maintain such a historic treasure.
I've seen some really beautiful churches and this one is very impressive. We went there two times because the first time they were having mass so I recommend checking their schedule. The stained glass, organ, ceiling and altar are all incredible. I plan to attend mass when I return to Savannah in a few months.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is absolutely breathtaking and was one of the highlights of our visit to Savannah. Walking inside immediately transported me back to the beautiful churches I visited in Italy. The architecture is stunning, with incredible attention to detail everywhere you look.
The stained glass windows are truly spectacular and worth taking the time to admire. As the light shines through, the colors and artistry create an unforgettable experience. The entire cathedral has a peaceful, awe inspiring atmosphere that makes you want to sit quietly and take it all in.
Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate history, architecture, and beauty, this is a must-see when visiting Savannah. Pictures don’t do it justice you have to experience it in person.
Stunningly beautiful as well as very peaceful. It felt like a refreshing and cleansing experience compared to all the haunted ghost tours and historical deaths the city is known for. We sat and prayed a while. Felt rejuvenating. They allow you to take pictures which is good. Open to the public majority of the day unless there is a private event.
Old Fort Jackson
| Address | 1 Fort Jackson Rd, Savannah, GA 31404 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 232-3945 |
Excellent! Beautiful fort, well preserved, with enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. It was very hot during our visit, but there are shady benches and the interior of the fort is cool. Bring sun screen, a hat and bug spray. Make sure you stay for the musket and cannon firing. Excellent historic explanation by the knowledgeable staff.
Well worth the trip the staff was knowledgeable. A piece of history that is often over looked. You get a real appreciation for the historical value when you're boots on the ground. We aware of bugs so come prepared for mother nature. The musket and cannon fire on its own was worth the time spent here.
We loved exploring this fort. So much history. I had taken more photos, but it would only allow me so many, but it sits on the Beautiful Savannah River and when you are up on the second level
You will have a great view and see some dolphins playing and feeding in the river.
Depending on how long you would want to visit. I would suggest taking in the views after learning the history.
Nice visit to an American history site. The staff were very nice and insightful of the history of the Fort. See them firing off the cannon was the highlight of the visit. Will definitely return!
Bring your bug spray!! We were lucky enough to time it with a school field trip and got to sit in on medical, weaponry, and signaling demonstrations. The guides really know their stuff and are super entertaining. Plan your visit around the scheduled canon firing and USE the provided ear protection. They're only firing a third of the canon's capacity, but it's got kick! Also caught a cargo ship on its way to the ocean. Great visit, we took a little over an hour, but you could definitely spend more time there!
The Old Sorrel-Weed House Museum & Tours
| Address | 6 W Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 257-2223 |
The Sorrel Weed House ghost tour was a really memorable experience and one of the highlights of our time in Savannah. The home itself is beautifully preserved and decorated with period-appropriate furnishings that immediately transport you back in time. Even during the tour, the house feels both elegant and unsettling, with a heavy atmosphere in certain areas.
On the tour, we were able to explore the carriage house, the basement, and the first floor, though the second floor was not included. The property is large, and some areas feel especially eerie when you’re moving through them at night.
One of the most chilling moments was hearing three distinct knocks coming from a door in the basement while we were there, which definitely added to the overall experience and atmosphere of the tour.
Our guide was excellent—very knowledgeable, attentive, and engaging throughout the entire visit. They did a great job balancing history with the ghost stories tied to the home.
Overall, it was a fantastic tour. The Sorrel Weed House is not only beautiful and historically rich, but also delivers a genuinely spooky and immersive experience that makes it easy to see why it’s one of Savannah’s most well-known haunted sites.
I took over 100 photos today. Michael was our guide. He’s very knowledgeable, funny, and made our 2 person tour one to remember. Booked tickets off a qr code after a trolly stop 10 minutes before the tour. Very sad history. Absolutely gorgeous furniture and architecture. Definitely worth the trip and price.
We took in the late night ghost hunting session.
Amber, our tour guide was very high energy and explained everything to us and we had a lot of experiences that can’t be explained. We went together in small groups and explored each area of the house at different intervals.
The spirits really were active and we had a great time. Well worth it!
I heard this was the most haunted location in Savannah & it didn’t disappoint. From the time I walked in, I felt things & was touched on the back after only about 1 minute of being in the basement. In the next room I found out the story of that spirit & how he likes to touch people. This tour is a must see when in Savannah especially at night. Wonderful tour guides as well!
The tour was great, we had a wonderful time and our guide was awesome! Learned so much (and got a little spooked). The only reason for 4 stars and not 5 is because there were multiple parts of the house that were temporarily closed off (dining room, entire upstairs) so we felt like it was a bit more limited than promised.
Forsyth Park
| Address | Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (912) 351-3841 |
Today I was finally off from work. I decided to go bike riding downtown. I always like to go through Forsyth Park! By my surprise I saw that there were art booths close to the water fountain! Savannah artists selling their art, jewelry, handmade skin care and more! I purchased a necklace from a shabby chic booth. I was in love with everything she had. I also purchased a beautiful bracelet from Kimono Silk booth. The owner from both booth was so friendly and talented. Stop by Forsyth during morning hours on Saturdays! It was so fun to be there!
Wonderful backdrop and such RICH HISTORY... the whole area... a battlefield. And several movies made in the area as well... Run Forest Gump... and the murder mystery movie with Kevin Spacey inside that mansion... awesome...
Not into haunted tours and desire to check out the Pirate shows or tours...
Several years ago I saw a photo of the park and fountain and always wanted to see it for myself. The real life version did not disappoint! The park contains several lovely flower gardens, my companion said The Fragrant Garden did smell delightful, and the other ornamental gardens were a riot of color. The fountain contained many details I was not aware of - the sculptures were beautiful. Read many memorial plaques around the park explaining historical significance. Maintenance of the park was impeccable. So glad it was the first sight we got to visit while in Savannah!
Wonderful Saturday Farmers Market with a wide array of Fresh food and craft vendors. Lots of shady places to sit. The kids play area was inclusive and clean. The fountain is beautiful. Tons of shady places under the trees for a picnic. Bring a blanket to sit on and relax.
Forsyth Park is a must visit when I’m in Savannah.
It is such a beautiful spot for a relaxing stroll, photos, people watching, and just taking in the city. The fountain is iconic, the trees and Spanish moss are gorgeous, and the shaded walking paths make it easy to slow down and enjoy the park.
Lots of people were taking graduation photos while I was there, and I totally get why. It is such a pretty backdrop.
Definitely worth stopping by, even if it’s just for a quick walk and a few photos.
Andrew Low House Museum
| Address | Andrew Low House Museum, 329 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 233-6854 |
This was a very good tour of the Low House. Juliette Gordon married the only son of Mr. Low. The home has many interesting aspects to see, and the family histories made it an interesting tour as well.
We chose the audio tour which is on your phone so unless you brought headphones you hear everyone’s at different points. The guided tour is going on also and halls are too small to pass. Bring your patience. It’s kept up nice so you can see a lot.
Exceptional house tour, and we've done a few. Ed is the tour guide you want for this beautiful home, he really brought it to life.
This was a hard review for me. There's nothing wrong with this place and it's perfectly fine for what it is.
If you are into this era of history you'll love it. I'm just not that into it so it was a tad boring for me. We went here as a part of our ghost tour.
Beautiful home inside and out. Remember, no flash photography and don't touch anything except for the handrails.
Chippewa Square
| Address | Chippewa square, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (912) 231-0906 |
I was in town for a conference, and it was fun to stay right next-door to Chippewa Square. I love the history of how Forrest Gump was filmed there, but also the actual history that was shared with the context of the city itself. I love the idea of the squares, helping to showcase Savannah, and hope to visit more of my next time back.
The trees are particularly beautiful.
Chippewa Square is a quaint little town square park. You can stop and sit on a bench where Forrest Gump was filmed and just enjoy the quiet under the live oaks drapped with spanish moss. Take a moment and just rest on your walk through the City Market area.
A nice quite place to relax with plenty of shade. It's of yes with Spanish moss. This is also the place from Forest Gump and the bus stop scene. The park bench is in a museum, but you can still stand in the same spot if your nostalgic.
Very beautiful square. I would say it was one of my favorite. The movie Forest Gump was filmed on this square. Specifically the part when Tom Hanks sit on the bench on bus stop, give away chocolate and talk about his life. The bus stop was fictional, therefore do not look for it. It was on the northern side of the square. According to Savannah History museum, the bench from the movie was the present to Savannah city by Paramount Pictures and currently located in Savannah History museum.
The place is very beautiful and it was really cool to see where the Forrest Gump scene was filmed. The area is full of beautiful trees and has a great atmosphere. The only downside was a slight smell of urine in some areas.
Savannah History Museum
| Address | 303 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 651-6825 |
We really enjoyed our time at the Savannah History Museum! We went on a weekday, so other than one relatively quick group of noisy elementary school kids (they weren't bad, just kids being kids), we wandered through the exhibits at a leisurely pace without feeling crowded or rushed.
Individually, each exhibit is fairly small, but that makes for easy pacing, and I think it makes it better for families and kids as it keeps things informative and interestingwithout being overwhelming. There's still a ton to learn, and their Jazz exhibition was especially nice!
Also, the gift shop is nice (though predictably high in price), and it was especially neat to find a Gullah New Testament there.
Nice museum. Large movie theater with history video loop. Some areas wheelchair inaccessible. Bathrooms barely wheelchair friendly. Must pay to park to arrive by shuttle. Self guided. Nice for history lovers and families. Extra charge for specialty exhibits.
I feel like this museum has a bit of an identity crisis. The answer is that it’s mostly as the name and plies about Savannah‘s history. However, it starts with the revolutionary war, then jumps to the Girl Scouts, throw in some jazz music, and end in World War II…
My friend and I went here on a rainy day a couple of weekends ago. We went on a Sunday. We had a lot of time before our flight and were looking for something to do indoors since it was raining. The cost was $12 for an adult. There is a small fee if you pay with credit card. The museum isn’t very big but it is nice. There are a lot of cool artifacts and information about Savannah. Towards the end is the iconic bench from Forest Gump. There is also a cute gift shop to pick up some souvenirs. For the price I think it is definitely worth visiting. We had a nice time!
Come for the Tom Hanks bench, stay for the history of how the city was laid out and made fair and equal for all. From the 60x90ft housing lots to how all the famous squares came to be. Really cools history of the entire city.
Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum
| Address | 10 E Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 233-4501 |
Ever wanted to see where the founder of the Girl Scouts lived?
The staff was super nice! I think honestly it was the guest interaction piece that I am grading. The house is beautiful. It has been restored.
The Girl Scouts founder does not have your atypical experience. You’ll be surprised to learn about the trials and tribulations, especially of her marriage.
One story that you probably won’t hear: The ghost story of Nelly and Will (William) Gordon is one of Savannah's most romantic and famous paranormal legends. It centers on the couple's deep devotion to one another, culminating in a deathbed reunion where Will’s spirit allegedly returned to escort his dying wife into the afterlife.
Kinsley gave a wonderful tour. She really knew her stuff! It's a great house tour even if you aren't affiliated with the Girl Scouts.
If you are or have ever been a Girl Scout it’s a must do place to visit. Staff are friendly in the museum and store. Store offered Girl Scouts memorabilia and other gift shop items. There are patches and pins available.
Perfect tour guide who explained so much - she was full of knowledge! Wonderful experience for my Windsor Forest Garden Club starting with me making plans for us to go, buying tickets, etc.
Beautiful rooms filled with period furniture and period accessories!
Was a very enjoyable tour and very well kept house to show the birthplace of Juliet Gordon-Lowe. I was in Girl Scout from K-12. I appreciate getting to go as my older self as I think my younger self would not have found it as intriguing.
American Prohibition Museum
| Address | 209 W Saint Julian Street, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (912) 220-1249 |
We had such a fun time at the Prohibition Museum while visiting Savannah! It was way more interesting and interactive than we expected, and we loved getting to learn about the history of Prohibition in a way that actually kept us entertained the entire time. There were so many little details, stories, and exhibits throughout that made it feel like an experience rather than just walking through a museum.
The speakeasy was definitely one of our favorite parts and such a fun way to end the experience. If you’re visiting Savannah and looking for something a little different to do, we would absolutely recommend adding this to your list!
This was a fun, informative museum. The exhibits were well maintained, and the staff was quite friendly. Ironically, the museum served alcoholic beverages! If you are looking for a quick glimpse into our nation's history, I would recommend checking this place out.
Came here with my siblings had a very unique experience. There is a game you can play towards the bar area. It’s a code/symbol game. If you solve it you get a reward.
The bathroom is in the back before exiting through the opposite side.you do have to purchase tickets to enter. Once you exit you can enter a gift shop if you’ll like to. 08/25
This was such a fun and interesting experience. The staff were super friendly and welcoming. Definitely would come here again and bring more people. The place definitely made me feel like I was part of that era and it was so knowledgeable. The speakeasy was my fav part of it all!
We had the pleasure of taking a private tour of the American Prohibition Museum today, and it exceeded all expectations.
Our group of four was guided by Rory, who was absolutely outstanding. His depth of knowledge, engaging storytelling, and sense of humor made the entire experience both educational and incredibly entertaining. He brought the history of Prohibition to life in a way that kept us all fully engaged from start to finish.
Rory truly looked the part as well—dressed in a sharp, vintage-style burgundy suit with a matching fedora, he seemed like he stepped right out of the Prohibition era. His presence added an extra layer of authenticity to the tour, and his expressive, welcoming style made the experience even more enjoyable.
The museum itself is very well done, with high-quality historical displays that really help immerse you in the era. You can tell a lot of thought and care went into the experience.
The tour was so enjoyable that the full hour flew by before we even realized it. We walked away having learned a great deal and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. And to top it off, the complimentary cocktails at the end were spot on—a perfect finish to a great experience.
If you’re visiting Savannah, this is a must-do—and if you can, ask for Rory. He truly made the tour unforgettable.
Historic Steps
| Address | 207b E River St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
These steps are rough. The area is amazing! Go eat, drink, people watching, boat rides, ect. Amazing way to spend a day make sure you walk all the way both ways and check out everywhere
Rate a set of stairs? OK.
First, there are several of them around the river area, and I'm not sure which ones I'm rating.
They Might Be Giants.
The memorable one was the one with really tall steps. I'm not a civil engineer, so I don't know what is involved in designing a staircase. I guess you have a certain elevation to cover at a certain angle, and if you want a straight staircase (not circular or 'switchback'), you're kind of locked into how high each step can be if they're going to be 'deep' enough for your whole foot.
In this case, really tall. Pictures don't do them justice. Other people climbing those stairs remarked on it.
I guess I'm glad they kept this history and didn't just replace it with something more modern (options are available nearby). That's kind of the story of Savannah - it took some effort to preserve the history, and I'm glad someone did.
These Historic Steps unfold like a quiet meditation on life and death over Savannah and , ultimately, ourselves. Each aged and weathered stone bears the burdensome imprint of countless ascents and descents, as though the past lingers not in grand declarations of accomplishments but in the steady erosion of returning to nothingness; to climb them is to trace the fragile line between presence and absence, where every rise suggests effort and every weathered edge hints at what has been lost. While their reputation leans heavily on history, what they truly offer is a subtle reminder that all things—people, moments, memories, even stone—are shaped, diminished, and ultimately cease to exist over the inevitability of time's passage and the universe's cruel indifference to our existence.
5 stars
Believe it or not, if these steps aren't exciting enough for you, there are other historic steps nearby
Cool steps, very steep! Take your time, and enjoy the short walk up the stairs. Definitely unique.
Davenport House Museum Entrance and Shop
| Address | 323 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (912) 236-8097 |
The Davenport House Museum is a beautifully preserved Federal-style home built in 1820 by master carpenter Isaiah Davenport , tucked into the historic district on Columbia Square. We walked in without a reservation, grabbed spots in a small tour group of six, and let our guide Melanie take over from there. She was phenomenal — not just knowledgeable, but intentional. She had a way of slowing down at the details most people rush past, and making sure you actually sat with what you were seeing.
The tour begins in the basement, where the Urban Enslaved Exhibit details the lives of the 13 enslaved people who lived and worked in the mansion during the 1820s. The rooms are staged with period artifacts, furniture, clothing, and linens , and the space doesn’t flinch from what it’s depicting. Then you move upstairs through the stately restored rooms of the Davenport family — the contrast is quiet and deliberate, and it lands. What struck me most was that both stories were told with equal weight and care. The free and the enslaved. That choice matters.
Fine interior plasterwork, authentically restored period rooms, and a spectacular staircase are highlights of the upstairs — but honestly, it’s the human history that stays with you. In 1955, the house was nearly demolished for a parking lot, saved by a group of women who went on to form the Historic Savannah Foundation and spark a preservation movement that ultimately saved an entire city. That context layers the visit in a way that’s hard to shake.
This is a place for everyone — history enthusiasts, couples, families, school groups, curious travelers who want more than a carriage tour. The small group size makes it feel personal, not performative. Five stars, no hesitation.
I highly recommend touring this house if you are just going one or two. The guide, Barry, gave so much good information. There is a lot of research on the family and the enslaved who lived there. They had a lot of original items and we learned a lot about daily life.
The quality of our tour guide made all the difference! We scheduled this tour at the end of the day and were exhausted when we arrived, but the gentleman taking us around was friendly, engaging, welcomed questions, even tolerated silly side comments from me (I think I'm so funny...) The house is beautiful, the grounds are peaceful (schedule your 15-min wedding ceremony for next Valentine's Day), the gift shop has some great stuff, and staff is willing to sit and chat even after the tour is finished. I really liked the basement's exhibits and the detailed explanation of how/why historic downtown Savannah needed saving. The rescue of this home from becoming a parking lot is an inspiring story.
This is a great home to tour! We were blessed to have Bob as our Tour Guide. He helped us stay on track with our schedule for the day all while sharing numerous stories and details about this beautiful home and the Davenport family. He welcomed and answered all of our questions in the kindest way. I would love to have been able to tour all of Savannah with him as our guide. This home is beautiful treasure that you don't want to miss!
The guided tour was fantastic. Tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable about all things related to the Davenport House. So lucky to be able to take this tour and thankful for the 7 Ladies that found the Historic Savannah Foundation that saved this and many other buildings across Savannah. Highly recommend making reservations to insure you get a guided tour and adding this historic house to your itinerary.
I had previously read Savannah by Eugenia Price in preparation for my trip and it was so exciting to read about Isiah Davenport building his family home in her historical fiction novel and then visiting it once I was here!
Tips for Visiting Savannah’s Historic Sites
Navigating Savannah’s rich historical landscape requires a bit of planning to maximize both your time and your understanding of the area. The city’s climate, layout, and preservation rules can impact your experience significantly. By following a few strategic guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable trip that allows for deep immersion into the history without the logistical headaches.
- Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes: The Historic District is best explored on foot, but the cobblestones and uneven brick sidewalks can be brutal on the feet. Leave the dress shoes at the hotel and opt for broken-in sneakers or supportive sandals to navigate the old streets safely.
- Take Advantage of Guided Tours: While self-guided walking is rewarding, local guides offer crucial context and storytelling that signs cannot provide. Consider booking a specialty history tour, such as a Civil War focus or an architectural tour, to gain deeper insights from certified experts.
- Respect the Heat and Hydrate: Savannah’s subtropical climate means high humidity and intense heat for much of the year. Always carry water with you, especially if you plan to walk between the southern and northern ends of the district.
- Check Restoration Schedules: Because Savannah is a living city, some historic homes and sites occasionally close for preservation work or private events. Always check the official website of a specific landmark before your trip to avoid disappointment.
- Visit Early or Late: To avoid the peak heat of the day and the largest crowds from tour buses, schedule your outdoor monument viewing for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour also provides the best lighting for photography against the historic brick and stucco.
Exploring Savannah’s historic sites is more than just a checklist of tourist attractions; it is an immersive journey into the complexities of American history. As you walk beneath the live oaks, you are standing on ground that has witnessed war, prosperity, hardship, and resilience. The city’s commitment to maintaining these spaces allows future generations to learn from the past while enjoying the unique beauty of the Lowcountry.
Whether you have a single day or a full week, prioritizing these landmarks will give you a well-rounded understanding of Savannah’s role in the national narrative. Take your time to sit on a bench in the squares, read the historical markers, and appreciate the architectural details. By doing so, you will leave with a connection to Savannah that goes far beyond the typical tourist experience.
