Exploring Savannah Georgia
We had built up a lot of expectation before arriving in Savannah Georgia. We had so many people telling us how beautiful and charming it is and it’s where true southern ladies and gents reside. However with the riverfront being packed with tourists, we had to do a little searching to find the local hangout.
Our stop to the visitor’s center didn’t exactly set the right tone. I realize that it’s a popular place and can get busy but it was crazy! We had to pay to park in the visitor’s parking lot, which was a first, wait in line next to fanny pack tourists for what seemed like forever all to get overly touristy recommendations to chain restaurants and museums. Since the visitor’s center was a bust, we stuck to what we know best and searched out a local’s coffee shop to get the real scoop. We found The Starland Café, it was a hit and far from the land of fanny pack tourists!
After talking with some locals over lunch and walking square after square we finally started to get to the heart of Savannah.
I loved the vine covered buildings and the sweet smell of Jasmine that seemed to be on every other street corner.
Jason tried channeling his inner Forest Gump. This is the area where the bench scene was filmed. Too bad the real bench has been removed and placed in a museum.
While we did find some beautiful churches I found what Jason considers the devil…..vintage shops! I have to admit, if I had been solo I could have done some damage!
To finish our time in style we found a tea house (Gryphon) with a affordable prices ($18 for full tea service) with a great atmosphere. While it’s not true traditional tea service and the staff is clueless about tea, everyone was friendly and tea in the old pharmacy/library vibe makes it all feel as though you are in a special place.
Adrian
I’ve been going to Savannah two or three times every year for quite a few years, there’s so much to do! I have a full blog post on my blog about Savannah ( http://ladyofthefarm.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-ultimate-savannah-guide.html ) but my absolute favorite places to stay is the East Bay Inn & The Westin, favorite restaurants are Huey’s (Cajun/Creole food that is AMAZING!!), The Boar’s Head (Shrimp Scampi is unforgettable) and of course, B. Matthew’s Eatery(I love the Gnocchi Soup) . I love just relaxing in the squares and especially visiting Forsyth Park for a picnic ( You can find great food in the deli part of the health food store at the end of the park, it’s called “A Brighter Day”). I leave for Savannah tomorrow so I will have to find some more things to do and comment again 🙂 Hope your next trip to Savannah is wonderful!
Liza
I realize this post was from several years ago, but was wondering if you remember where you guys stayed while in Savannah. We are headed there soon.
Joey Belanger
Whatever you are drinking during your picnic looks divine! May I please have the recipe?
Rhett & Deborah
I’m sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy the visitor center in Savannah. Not only did we love the staff and the info, but we parked our 32′ motorhome there for 3 days. It was busy during the day, but in the morning and evenings, we had the place to ourselves. A wonderful resource for RV’s, the visitor center offers RV parking for $8 per day with no hookups.
Nikki Wynn
It was really busy when we went which always makes a difference (harder to have that personalized experience). When we were they the signs said No Overnight Parking so I am surprised they let you stay. We will have to look into that again next time.
Martin Blair
Completely enjoyed this review of what looks like a wonderful city 🙂 well done as always
dave
You barely scratched the surface of Savannah. Missed some great sights and missed the spot where where forest jump sat, FYI there were 3 benches, 1 in in Califonia, 1 is in the visitor center display and 1 is owned by a Savannah cop her got for free when filming ended. For local food you could try Angels (it’s down a lane) or Zuni’s for the southeast champion sandwich. We loved Savannah so much we moved here.
gonewiththewynns
Dave, we did enjoy our time in Savannah and we did go to the spot where forest gump sat. We were only there for a couple of days and we will be back! I will have to let you know so you can give us the insiders scoop!
sue and doug
just saw the show on HGTV..loved it..now it looks like we have some major reading to do!!..great blog so far!
Karsten Askeland
If you are looking for some great places to eat … find out where the local police and firefighters hang out. That’s the place to go. I was driving south of Brunswick, GA a few years ago and came across a restaurant that had no less than 4 police cars parked there from different agencies. I honestly thought a crime had taken place. Being curious (OK nosy) I stopped to discover the best family restaurant in Georgia. Bar none … including Paula Dean’s Lady and Sons In Savannah.
Cindy
A place I haven’t ever been, but always wanted to! You make it look so fun!
Karsten Askeland
Love the Savannah area. Been there several times and returning again in February 2013 with a group of friends. I am loving your travel adventures and am so JEALOUS!! Enjoy!!
Allison
Feel free to delete this comment. Try not to be be so derisive about “fanny pack tourists”, some of them are your readers and it’s hurtful. I use a fanny pack for lenses when sight seeing. Also, I don’t understand the generalized antipathy towards tourists – we’re all tourists in someone else’ city.
gonewiththewynns
Allison, I wouldn’t delete this comment…you are just telling it like it is and we are always up for that! We all travel in our own way and no matter how you slice it, Jason and I are the biggest tourists considering we don’t have a home base anymore. We don’t dislike the fanny pack tourists and like any stero type they are not all the same. I am thrilled to see anyone out traveling and exploring a new area. Sorry to have offended and please don’t stop wearing your fanny pack, I promise to wear one in an upcomming video just as a shout out to you!
Scott
Fanny packs are incredibly practical.
kittykat
Awesome! So green and lush! I wish I could of had some tea and cookies too.
kathy
so glad you found the charming side of Savannah, it really is a pretty town with lots to do and see.
The McNavigators
I could have had a lot of fun too in that vintage shop. Just trying on stuff would be fun…come on, Jason! 🙂
gonewiththewynns
Ah, Joanne I can’t wait till you two are on the road! I will finally have a partner in crime!
tonisha
The Green Truck is a great little spot for awesome food with a cool vibe.
The Clay Spot, a great place to have a clay class and an awesome lady who owns it and teaches you.
gonewiththewynns
Tonisha, awesome recomendation! thanks for sharing.