From world-class art to Gullah Geechee heritage and marshfront flavors, these locally rooted spots capture Savannah’s spirit. Plan ahead, verify hours, and leave time to wander the squares between stops.
Best Things to See in Savannah (2025)
12 Places
From world-class art to Gullah Geechee heritage and marshfront flavors, these locally rooted spots capture Savannah’s spirit. Plan ahead, verify hours, and leave time to wander the squares between stops.
SCAD Museum of Art
Museum
Savannah’s contemporary art engine in a restored 1850s rail depot, with rotating global exhibitions and the Evans Center spotlighting African American art. Frequently recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and praised by local arts critics.
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
Historical place museum
A landmark house tour that pairs Regency architecture with rigorous interpretation of enslavement in urban Savannah. Consistently cited by U.S. News Travel and noted by Condé Nast Traveler as essential to understanding the city’s past.
Ships Of The Sea Maritime Museum
Historical place museum
Housed in the elegant Scarbrough House, this independent museum pairs ship models and maritime art with lush gardens and lively after-hours programs. A favorite of local historians and featured across Savannah travel guides.
Pin Point Heritage Museum
Museum
A living account of the Gullah Geechee community, operated by Coastal Heritage Society with storytelling from residents. Highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler for offering depth beyond downtown’s tourist track.
Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum
Museum
Community-rooted museum chronicling Savannah’s civil rights movement through local leaders and archives. Endorsed by Explore Georgia and local media for thoughtful, docent-led context.
First African Baptist Church
Baptist church
Tours led by church members at one of the nation’s oldest continuously active Black congregations, with stories of faith, resilience, and the Underground Railroad. Frequently recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and respected regional guides.
Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home Museum
Museum
A small nonprofit museum interpreting the early life of the celebrated author across from Lafayette Square. Marked by 2025 centennial programming and noted by national outlets for revealing Savannah’s literary side.
Savannah African Art Museum
Museum
Free, docent-led tours explore a strong collection from West and Central Africa. Recognized by U.S. News Travel and active in citywide cultural festivals and rotating exhibits.
Bonaventure, Historic Savannah, Low Country & Private with Shannon Scott Tours
Tour operator
Local historian-led storytelling brings art, symbolism, and Savannah lore to life in its famed Victorian garden cemetery. Recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and praised by recent visitors for depth and care.
Forsyth Farmers' Market
Farmers' market
A producer-only Saturday market championing Coastal Georgia growers, with food access programs and education. Spotlighted by Travel + Leisure and Southern Living as a must for tasting local Savannah.
Starland Yard
Food court
An artsy, family-friendly yard with rotating food trucks, Pizzeria Vittoria, and live culture programming—anchoring the creative Starland District often highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler.
The Grey
Southern restaurant (US)
A restored 1938 Greyhound terminal turned dining landmark from chef Mashama Bailey—James Beard Award winner and featured in national press. Come for dinner; stay to admire the design and Savannah’s culinary evolution.
