So, you have one glorious day to see all the best parts of Savannah, Georgia. How will you decide what is worth it and what is better saved for another day?
Well, we’ve put together a Day Trip Guide that will give you the best of the best that Savannah has to offer. From the stunning antebellum architecture to the coastal beauty and southern hospitality, it’s hard to only stay one day.
But, your one day in Savannah will be well more than worth it. So, without further adieu, let’s jump into our day trip guide to Savannah, Georgia.
Any day trip in the south should start with a hearty brunch. So, start your day with coffee and biscuits at Maple Street Biscuit on West Broughton Street.
Whether you indulge in the Sticky Maple, a chicken biscuit with bacon that’s covered in sticky maple syrup, or the Five and Dime which is a chicken biscuit with sausage gravy and a fried egg.
Of course, you’re favorite lattes or lunch options are also available if you need something a little more.
Next up, we would start our one day in Savannah by getting the history and overview of the city. Then, everything else you see and experience can be appreciated in the context of the city’s rich culture.
On a walking tour, you can see how the Civil War affected the city, explore the gorgeous antebellum architecture, see the famous Chippewa Square from Forest Gump, and walk through Forsyth Park.
There is a myriad of walking tours available, but you can also simply walk through on your own. The city has plenty of signs explaining historical spots and is incredibly walkable. So, make sure to wear your comfiest shoes for this part of your day.
Hopefully, you’ve worked up an appetite after a walking tour of the city because Savannah’s soul food isn’t done yet. Head on over to Joe’s Homemade Cafe. Yes, it is as good as it sounds.
Everything has been made from scratch with the highest quality ingredients. Joe himself is a magician when it comes to flavors, so prepare to have your taste buds wowed. With fresh sandwiches, salads, and fresh, rotating desserts, you’ll have trouble deciding what to get.
One favorite panini is Crawford. It has roasted herb chicken breast, roasted red peppers, provolone cheese, and Joe’s basil pesto. Top that off with the delectable lemon cheesecake – if it’s not sold out – and you’re well on your way to foodie heaven.
Next up, we’re going to take you to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. This is one of the most beautiful churches on the east coast.
From the intricate gold-leaf designs, Italian marble altar, and stunning stained-glass windows, each part has been handcrafted to exemplify beauty.
If you just want to walk around, plan on spending fifteen to twenty minutes here. While technically free, a two-dollar donation is appreciated.
Even for those who are not religious, consider attending a mass here. The talented choir will show off the brilliant acoustics of this building, giving you an even greater appreciation of the architecture.
After your Cathedral tour, head on over to City Market. These few blocks of marvelous shops and squares are the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
From cafes with snacks for an afternoon pick-me-up to boutique shops, enjoy the spunk of Savannah here. There are numerous art galleries around, as well as live music often being performed in the streets, usually during the summer.
If you’re getting weary, you can easily hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city for some true southern charm.
Finally, when you’ve gotten your fill of art, music, and shopping, head down to River Street to wind down your day. Nestled on the Savannah River, this is a great spot to grab some ice cream to cool off during the heat of the day.
Try not to ruin your dinner, though, because Savannah still has stellar food awaiting. River Street is quite touristy, so know that ahead of time.
A plethora of bars, souvenir shops, and galleries line the cobblestone streets. Being the port hub years ago, there is a vast amount of history here waiting to be explored as well. If you’re up for it, hop on a sunset river cruise or just find a bench to appreciate the twilight hours.
When your appetite has recovered from lunch, check out the Cotton Exchange Tavern. Back in the day, this building was a cotton warehouse, but it now serves delightfully fresh seafood.
Here, you will be served favorable portions of freshly caught seafood, as well as an unparalleled selection of steaks, well-stuffed sandwiches, and grand salads.
Whether you just want a pail of oysters with cocktails overlooking the river or a full-on buffet of stuffed flounder with deviled crab and sherry cream sauce, you will enjoy every minute spent here.
If you want to try all the seafood, pick your favorite Seafood Scampi: linguini pasta topped with sautéed jumbo shrimp and crabmeat in a white wine sauce.
Whatever you end up choosing, you will love winding your day trip in Savannah at this bustling but homey joint.
So, we hope that this has helped you jumpstart your planning for your day trip to Savannah. There are so many things to do in this city, but this will give you the highlights.
We won’t be surprised if you fall in love with the southern charm, though, and want to stay another day. So, put on those walking shoes and pearls and get ready to experience a wonderful day in this southern city.
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