Savannah's Top Tourist Attractions

Savannah's Top Tourist Attractions

Savannah is the epitome of idyllic Southern cities. It boasts grand old mansions and green parks with fountains. There are also large moss-draped trees and cobbled streets that run along the waterfront. It is a captivating combination of all these elements that make it one of Georgia's highlights.

Savannah is located on the Atlantic coast, at the mouth of the Savannah River. It borders South Carolina. It was North America's first city to be laid out in a regular format. There were many beautiful historic squares all over the city.

1. Bull Street

Walking along Bull Street and the side streets in either direction are the best way to get to know Savannah's historic districts. The U.S. Embassy is opposite City Hall (1905). This is the starting point. TheCustoms House was built in 1852 at the same site as the colony's original public building.

To the south is Johnson Square. This square was the first to be laid out in the new town. It also houses the Christ Episcopal Church (1838), which sits on the spot of the colony’s first church, 1733. This section of Savannah has many historic squares. There are many coffee shops and restaurants along this stretch, some of which have outdoor tables perfect for people-watching.

2. Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park, Savannah's largest and most active park, is located in the middle of Savannah. It was built in the middle of the 19th century when large parks were still popular in American cities.

This large, cast-iron fountain was originally placed in the park in 1858. It was intended to be the center point of the park. The fountain has been the main feature of the park ever since. It has undergone several restorations, including the most recent major one in the 1980s.

Forsyth Park, which has large shady trees as well as paved paths, is also a beautiful area for walking. There are many interesting buildings that surround the park. The park's spring display of color is spectacular when the azaleas bloom in full. The visitor center and Band Shell are located within the park. These amenities include a cafeteria and snack bar.

3. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Just outside of Savannah is the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. It is one of the most important museums in the country dedicated to World War II history. The museum contains many historical exhibits that cover different phases of World War II. It also has extensive information and a memorial to the Eighth Air Force regiment.

A museum collection includes a B-17 Flying Fortress, other WWII aircraft, and scale models. You will also find extensive displays that contain the personal stories and belongings of members of the Mighty Eighth.

4. Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences

Since 1886, the Georgia Historical Society has operated the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (or the Telfair Museum of Art). It is the oldest state-owned art museum. The Art Collections feature American and European works in a range of media, with a particular focus on 20th- and 19th-century art.

Robert Henri and George Luks are among the featured artists. Detlef Lienau added a sculpture gallery to the museum, as well as a rotunda. It is a 200-year old mansion built in Neoclassical Regency style that houses the museum.

5. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Savannah's Cathedral of St. John the Baptist was built in the 1870s. It was then rebuilt in 1899 following a devastating fire. The redecoration of the cathedral took over a decade. In the 1950s and 1960s, the building was again subject to restoration. More work was done in both the 80s & 90s.

The interior is beautiful, with marble floors and railings as well as a marble altar. The main altar, which was carved in Italy, is 9,000 pounds. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is well-known for its stunning Renaissance-style murals as well as a pipe organ that has 2,308 pipes. The Great Rose Window is located above the organ. It has panels radiating from the central images of St. Cecilia.

6. Squares of Savannah

Savannah's many public squares make it a very attractive city. They are especially great for those hot summer afternoons when you want to get some shade and spend some time with the natural world. These are the most peaceful places in Savannah to relax and find peace.

Many of the most famous squares can be found along historic Bull Street. These include Chippewa Square which is well-known for its appearance in Forrest Gump. There is also the oldest and largest city Johnson Square. Madison Square is convenient for shopping and dining.

Ellis is adjacent to the lively City Market. Franklin Squares is next to Ellis, which has a huge chess set as well as shaded tables and a fountain.

Crawford Square is located at McDonough Street and Houston streets. It has recreational facilities including a gazebo, basketball court, and other amenities. Columbia Square, although it is smaller than others, offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city.