There is something truly magical about Savannah, Georgia. Some say it is the charming atmosphere, while many agree that it is the numerous parks and rich history. Maybe it’s the famous Southern hospitality and cuisine. So, we set out to spend one day in Savannah.

Savannah is Georgia’s oldest city dating back to 1733. It is the fifth-largest city in Georgia. From cobblestone streets to century-old live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, Savannah is filled with culture and is one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the United States. 

Start your day at Forsyth Park

We arrive in Savannah later in the morning, so to start our day we head to one of the most popular spots in Savannah. Forsyth Park is a 30-acre park and a beautiful green space in the city center. Beautifully designed, amid huge trees covered in moss and a glorious fountain.

The park is a great place to take a walk or relax after a long day. An iconic fountain and large shady oak trees invite you to slow down. We found a bench to sit and rest for a while. This is a great park for people-watching however, I focused on taking pictures of one of the most photographed landmarks in Savannah.

Reynolds Square

After a visit to the park, we felt like we needed to relax just a bit more so we headed to Reynolds Square which was named for Captain John Reynolds, governor of Georgia in the mid-1750’s. The bronze statue in the middle of the square honors John Wesley, founder of Methodism. Wesley spent a few years in Savannah (1735-1738), during which time he founded the first Sunday school in America. His humble beginnings are the roots of the Methodist faith that are evident in Savannah.

The statue shows John Wesley preaching outdoors, just as he did when leading services for Native Americans.

Horse Drawn Carriage Tour or Trolley Tour

If you listen, you can hear the clip-clop of a horse-drawn carriage transporting guests through the streets of Savannah. In case, you need some transportation, many folks find it a romantic way to view the city. A carriage ride brings this city alive. Several carriage companies offer intimate adventures or just a wonderful way to see Savannah. If riding behind the rear of a horse is not your thing, then several trolley companies will also transport you past some of the city’s most notable features.

Lunch at The Olde Pink House

Since we were all getting a bit hungry, a few steps away the Olde Pink House was calling our name for lunch. This famous Savannah restaurant offers southern-style cooking in an elegant 18th-century mansion.

The Olde Pink House: 23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA

We were seated outside on the balcony. The Olde Pink House offers Southern Cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is known as one of the best in town. It was the perfect place to have lunch. But a word of advice. Call ahead to make a reservation.

Brenda and Micah both had the fried chicken and said it was excellent. The crab cakes made an appearance, topped with fried green tomatoes with a savory remoulade sauce. Micah’s wife Dream had the Fried Shrimp and Oysters and enjoyed a drink, called the “Pink Lady,” made with fresh-squeezed lemonade and raspberry vodka. Dream says it was just as refreshing as it looked.

The Cotton Exchange

Long ago, the world’s daily price of cotton, timber, and turpentine was set in this very building. Savannah ranked first as a cotton seaport on the Atlantic Ocean and second in the world. Over two million bales of cotton moved through Savannah in its prime as a cotton port. The fountain in front displays a winged lion or griffin in the center. Griffins are mythical beasts that were said to guard ancient treasures. The historic Savannah Cotton Exchange building is now home to the Savannah Chamber of Commerce.

The men who negotiated the price of cotton are known as Cotton Factors. They stand on these iron railings and bridges and bid on the loads, as wagons full of cotton passed underneath. Now, these buildings are occupied by pricey antique shops, historic inns, cafes, and offices.

Taking a stroll down River Street

Y’all can’t come to Savannah and not go to River Street to do a little shopping. (Sorry had to get one of those Southern terms in) This historic cobblestone street extends two miles along the banks of the Savannah River.  It is surrounded by buildings that are now restaurants and shops full of true southern charm. Between the candy shops, souvenir shops, and the beautiful riverfront, this is a great area to visit while you are in Savannah.

Brenda and I were lured into the Savannah Bee Company like a honeybee if attracted to sweet clover. If you visit, take home a few jars. I bought the sample pack that included Tupelo, Orange Blossom, and Sourwood honey. They also sell beauty products made from honey. Brenda purchased the body wash, hand cream, and soap. I can’t wait to get home and pour some honey on my freshly baked buttered biscuits.

You can adopt a honey bee with proceeds supporting the Bee Cause Project. This initiative installs observation honeybee hives in schools worldwide to teach children about the importance of bees as pollinators. I am still trying to figure out exactly which bee I adopted from the rest of the swarm. Meanwhile, the honey has made a temporary home under my Christmas tree this year.

Continued your walk around the downtown historic district, and you will notice the Gold Dome. This is the Savannah City Hall. Built-in 1906, the building’s beautiful dome originally made in copper was gold-leafed in 1987 with sheets of 23-karat gold.

Leopold’s Ice Cream

From the old jukebox and Coke machine in the parlor to the original marble soda fountain behind the bar, Leopold’s feels like a step back in time. A Savannah institution, the family-owned ice cream parlor has been serving up its award-winning ice cream since 1919.

Try the coconut ice cream blended with lots of sweet flakes of shaved coconut. Other popular favorites include Butter Pecan, Lemon Custard, and Rum Bisque. This is the place where Tutti Frutti was invented but be ready to wait in line. Yes, this ice cream shop is that popular. Someone came out and passed out free ice water to quench our thirst, which is a nice touch.

Leopold’s Ice Cream 212 E. Broughton Street, Savannah

It is impossible to see all of what Georgia’s oldest city has to offer in one day. Plan on spending a long weekend what Vannah has to offer. Savannah is such a beautiful city.

If you still have some time in Georgia, located just off of the Georgia coast between Jacksonville and Savannah, Saint Simons Island is rich in history, charm, and natural beauty, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.

What are your favorite things to do on a long weekend in Savannah? Comment below and let me know!