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One of the oldest cities in the state of Georgia, Savannah is full of history. Its southern charm draws you in as you stroll through beautiful streets and marvel at stunning the architecture around you. With so much history in the city, there is plenty to see and do for free in Savannah, Georgia.
Bonaventure Cemetery
Photo: sfgamchick
While it may seem strange to go to a cemetery while visiting a city, the Bonaventure Cemetery has become a favorite for visitors due to its haunting beauty. Walk the tree-lined roadways and wander through elaborate cemetery sculptures and architecture in the 100-acre park. Notable people interred at Bonaventure Cemetery include novelist Conrad Aiken, Academy Award-winning lyricist Johnny Mercer and Georgia’s first governor Edward Telfair. Visit on the second weekend of each month to join a free tour given by the Bonaventure Historical Society.
Ride the Ferry
See Savannah from the water with a free ride on the Savannah Belles Ferry. The ferry connects the Trade Center Landing on Hutchinson Island, City Hall Landing, and Waving Girl Landing (next to the Marriott Riverfront Hotel). These ferries, reminiscent of the ferries a century ago, run seven days a week from 7 a.m. to midnight every 20 to 30 minutes.
Wander Historic Savannah
Photo: Rob Shenk
The Savannah Historic District is a National Historic Landmark. Explore the beautiful 18th- and 19th-century Greek, Georgian, and Gothic architecture in the area. Notable for its grid plan design, laid out by Gen. James E. Oglethorpe, founder of the British colony of Georgia, the Savannah Historic District’s houses and public buildings were built around a series of public squares. Today, 22 of the original 24 remain and are great places to enjoy a picnic or stroll.
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Built at the end of the 18th century, the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Georgia. The church is the focal point of Lafayette Square with its twin spires dominating the Savannah skyline. Especially of note are the Cathedral’s gold leaf designs, Italian marble altar, and beautiful stained glass windows.
River Street
Photo: clambellina
Running along the Savannah River is the lively River Street full of restaurants, bars, galleries, and antique shops. Also, plenty of free events happen throughout the year. If you don’t feel like walking, ride the free River Street Streetcar. This 54-passenger streetcar is an authentic 1930s streetcar and is one of only two in existence in the world. With six stops along historic River Street, the streetcar runs Thursday through Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.
City Market
Dating back to 1755, City Market was once the center of commerce for fishermen and farmers, and today it’s no different. This four-block market is abuzz with life and is home to a variety of restaurants, artists’ studios, specialty shops, and entertainment options.
Tybee Island Beach
Photo: m01229
Get out of the city by visiting Tybee Island, a beach town 20 minutes away from downtown Savannah. Relax and enjoy a day playing on white sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the Tybee Lighthouse, or visit the restaurants and shops by the Tybee Pier and Pavilion.
This post was written as a part of the #HipmunkCityLove project.
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Havent heard of this place but you’ve made it look rather inviting! Thanks for sharing!