Savannah is located on the very north part of Georgia where you'll find Majestic Oak Trees surrounding the entire city. It's the perfect day trip, especially if you're traveling from Charleston as it's only a 2 hour drive. So if you're planning a short day trip trip to Savannah, here's what to do during your stay:
- Black Rifle Coffee: start off grabbing lattes here and enjoy a short quick walk along River Street. It's the perfect way to start off the day as there are shops and stores around the surrounding area!
- Byrd's Famous Cookies: right around the corner is where you'll find all the best cookies! You'll find stores all around the city but enjoyed the one here. You can also get as many free samples as you want!
- Forsyth Park: swing by the park and see where the locals hang out. The majestic oak trees surround the park as there are hundreds of visitors everyday!
- The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist: go on a tour at the most famous cathedral in Savannah. From gazing at the most beautiful architecture, enjoy learning all about the history and it's significance.
- Sunset boat tour: your trip to Savannah wouldn't be complete without going on a boat tour. Book in advance for sunset and enjoy a relaxing time along the Savannah River
- Collins Quarter at Forsyth: easily the most popular brunch spots in Savannah. Not only is the food amazing, but the vibes are great. Visit during the warmer months and enjoy coffee and brunch with some of the best chia pudding I've ever had!
Hope this list helps! Are you planning a visit to Savannah? ✨
... Read moreOkay, so you've got your Savannah day trip itinerary down, but let me share a few extra tips and tricks I picked up to make your visit even smoother and more memorable!
First off, getting around. While Savannah is incredibly walkable, especially downtown and along River Street, a day trip means maximizing your time. I highly recommend wearing super comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring! If you want to cover more ground without getting tired, consider hopping on one of the historic trolley tours. They offer a great overview, and you can often hop on and off at major attractions, which is perfect for a quick visit. I found it really helped me get my bearings and learn some cool history without feeling rushed. Parking can be a bit tricky, so look for parking garages near River Street or Forsyth Park, or even better, if you're staying nearby, consider a ride-share service to avoid the hassle.
Beyond the fantastic brunch at Collins Quarter, you might be looking for lunch or a quick snack. For a casual and delicious lunch, I absolutely loved grabbing a sandwich from Zunzi's – their 'Conquistador' is legendary! Or, if you're still in the mood for something sweet after Byrd's Famous Cookies, don't miss out on Leopold's Ice Cream, a Savannah institution that feels like stepping back in time. The lines can be long, but it’s worth it for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti or Butter Pecan.
While the article covers some incredible spots, don't forget to take some time to simply wander. I spent an hour just strolling through the historic squares, admiring the stunning historic red brick buildings with white trim and the iconic Spanish moss hanging from the ancient oak trees. Each square has its own unique charm and history, and it's a great way to soak in the city's atmosphere. If you're near River Street, pop into some of the artisan shops – I found some really unique handcrafted souvenirs there.
Speaking of the sunset boat tour, if you can't book the 'Georgia Queen' or another specific cruise in advance, don't despair! There are often other boat operators offering river cruises, especially in the late afternoon. Just check out the kiosks along River Street. Even a daytime river cruise offers fantastic views of the city skyline and helps you appreciate Savannah's port history.
Finally, a quick tip for photographers: the light in Savannah, especially in the late afternoon, is absolutely magical. The way it filters through the Spanish moss creates such a dreamy, ethereal glow. Make sure your camera (or phone!) is charged, because you'll want to capture every bit of this charming city. Enjoy your perfect day in Savannah!
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