A- Overview:
Located four hours southeast of Atlanta, but a world away from that bustling, modern metropolis, Savannah offers an enchanting stroll back in time. Savannah is widely renowned for its historical features which stand as an open invitation for visitors to uncover its hidden charms. Luscious peach trees, Civil War history, delicious cuisine, and ethnic festivals are part of the Savannah experience. Elegant old mansions and centuries-old cemeteries add to Savannah’s rich and colorful history.
Savannah’s old world grace and Southern hospitality give the city a unique flavor found nowhere else in the world. The meticulous preservation of its historic treasures extends to buildings, parks, and other properties and draws tourists from all over the country.
Established in 1733, the city cherishes its reputation as the nation’s largest urban landmark – a tribute earned by the city’s active role in all facets of American history.
While visiting Savannah, be sure to take advantage of all that the city has to offer. The city proudly showcases many fine restaurants,shops, boutiques, and quality museums. Savannah’s historic district, beautiful beaches and majestic scenery combine to make any visit to the Hostess City of the South an unforgettable experience. Visitors can relax and enjoy each day of their visit in what is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in America.
B- City Information:
Population: 131,370
Elevation: 42 feet above sea level
Land Area: 74.7 square miles
Location: Savannah is situated at the mouth of the Savannah River, which forms the border between Georgia and South Carolina. The Intracoastal Waterway runs along the east coast, much of which is comprised of ecologically vital marshes.
Time Zone: Savannah is located in the Eastern Time zone (when it’s noon in Savannah, it’s 11am in Chicago and 9am in Los Angeles). Savannah observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October
Weather:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average temp. (°F)
49.1
52.2
59.0
65.1
72.7
78.7
82.0
80.7
76.6
67.1
58.6
51.3
High temperature (°F)
60.2
63.7
70.6
77.3
83.9
89.1
91.9
89.9
85.7
77.9
70.2
62.3
Low temperature (°F)
38.0
40.7
47.3
52.9
61.5
68.3
71.9
71.4
67.4
56.3
47.0
40.1
Precipitation (in)
4.0
3.0
3.6
3.3
3.5
5.4
6.0
7.2
5.1
3.2
2.4
2.9
Climate:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Days with precipitation
9
8
9
7
8
12
13
13
10
6
7
8
Wind speed (mph)
8.2
8.6
9.1
8.6
7.6
7.4
6.9
6.7
7.2
7.3
7.2
7.6
Morning humidity (%)
83
82
84
84
86
88
89
91
91
89
87
84
Afternoon humidity (%)
55
51
49
46
51
56
58
60
60
54
53
55
Sunshine (%)
54
57
62
71
68
65
64
62
58
63
61
55
Days clear of clouds
9
8
9
11
9
7
6
6
7
12
11
9
Partly cloudy days
6
6
9
9
10
11
14
14
10
8
7
7
Cloudy days
16
14
13
11
12
12
12
12
13
11
12
15
Snowfall (in)
0.1
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
Local Seasons:
Due to its year round moderate climate, great golf, shopping and dining, any time of year is great for a visit. Winter daytime temperatures can get into the 70s F but usually average in the mid 60s F, allowing visitors to enjoy many of the cities sites and attractions. While a dusting of snow is possible, it rarely sticks. Spring and fall are slightly warmer but offer the same opportunities to travelers. Summers are busy and the weather can be very warm and humid. With the nearby beaches, it’s a great time to work on that perfect tan. Naturally, golf is always close at hand and available year round.
How to Get There:
By Car
I-95 is the major north/south interstate from New England to Miami and is just 10 miles from Savannah’s Historic District. I-16 is the major east/west interstate from Savannah to Atlanta.
By Air
Savannah International Airport (SAV/KSAV)
400 Airways Avenue
Savannah, GA 31408
912-964-0514
Serving the Greater Savannah Region of the Colonial Coast of Georgia and the Low Country of South Carolina. The airport is served by many of the regional carriers.
Ground Transportation:
Taxi, rental cars, and limousine service are available at the airport
By Train:
Amtrak
2611 Seaboard Coastline Drive
Savannah, GA 31401
800-USA-RAIL
By Bus
Greyhound Bus Lines
610 Oglethorpe Ave.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-232-2135
Savannah is a regular stop on Greyhound routes, both for passengers and next-day Florida-Georgia package service.
Getting Around:
Chatham Area Transit (CAT)
900 East Gwinnett St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-233-5767
CAT offers fixed bus routes in Savannah and Chatham County.
Scooters
Coastal Scooters
418 W. Broughton Street
Savannah, GA 31401
912-232-5513
Belles Ferry
912-447-4000
Getting to Hutchinson from Downtown is easier than ever. The Belles Ferry leaves the ferry landings on River Street and Hutchinson Island at regular intervals.
The Cat Shuttle
912-233-5767
This free and convenient shuttle has 32 stops throughout the Historic District including shops, attractions, hotels and more.
National Holidays:
New Year’s Day, January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January
President’ Day, the third Monday in February
Memorial Day, the last Monday in May
Independence Day, July 4
Labor Day, the first Monday in September
Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25
New Year’s Eve, December 31
C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Oatland Island Education Center
711 Sandtown Road
Savannah GA 31410
912-987-3773
Oatland Island Education Center is an environmental project operated by the public school system. Nature trails are offered over this 175 acre area. Visitors can observe the ten habitats housing animals indigenous to coastal Georgia. A marsh walkway, marine monitoring station, compass trails and observatories offer a diverse look at nature. Great for a day of exploration!
Tybee Mountain Water Park/Mini Golf
1508 Butler Avenue
Tybee Island GA 31328
912-786-5552
Tybee Mountain Water Park/Mini Golf features a 50 foot tower. Families can enjoy the many features of the park including the olympic size swimming pool, bath house, video arcade, beach shop, concessions and 19 holes of miniature golf.
Hauntings Tour
Chippewa Sq
Savannah, GA
912-234-3571
A unique candelight stroll through the dark mysterious streets of Savannah.
Skidaway Marine Science Complex
Mcwhorter Drive
Skidaway Island GA 31411
912-356-2496
Skidaway Marine Science Complex is an oceanographic center located in historic Modena Plantation on Skidaway River. Exhibits include 12-panel, 12,000 gallon aquarium containing flora and fauna of the Atlantic Continental Shelf. The Complex consists of Marine Extension Service and Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.
Savannah Science Museum
4405 Paulsen Street
Savannah GA 31405
912-355-6705
Bring the family for a day of exploration and discovery at the Savannah Science Museum. The museum features special exhibits geared towards children.
Old Fort Jackson-Coastal
1 Fort Jackson Rd
Savannah, GA
912-232-3945
Owens-Thomas House Museum
124 Abercorn St
Savannah, GA
912-233-9743
Designed by the renowned English architect William Jay. The Owens-Thomas House Mueum is the first Regency mansion in Savannah. Originally built in 1816-1819, the house was built from to stand as an English home. The interior of the house is adorned with Greek-inspired ornamental molding, half-moon arches, stained-glass panels, and Duncan Phyfe furniture.
Savannah History Museum
303 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Savannah, GA
912-238-1779
The museum is currently housed in a restored railway station.Exhibits range from old locomotives to a tribute to Savannah-born songwriter Johnny Mercer. The museum is situated on top of the site of the Siege of Savannah.
Ships Of The Sea
41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Savannah, GA
912-232-1511
Savannah’s only maritime museum. ship models are on display, including steamships, a nuclear-powered ship (the Savannah), China clippers with their sails unfurled, and Columbus’s ships. Open to the public 10 am to 5 pm
Colonial Park Cementary
Oglethorpe and Abercorn Sts.
The park is the final resting place for Savannahians from 1750 to 1853. Shaded pathways lace through the cemetery, and you may want to stroll through and read some of the old inscriptions. There are several historical plaques to look at, one of which marks the grave of Button Gwinnett, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Green-Meldrim House
14 W. Macon St.
912-233-3845
Designed by New York architect John Norris and built in 1850 for cotton merchant Charles Green, this splendid Gothic Revival mansion cost $90,000 to build–a princely sum back then. The house was bought in 1892 by Judge Peter Meldrim, whose heirs sold it to St. John’s Episcopal Church, for itsparish house. General Sherman lived here after taking the city in 1864. Sitting on the mansion’s Gothic features include a crenellated roof, oriels, and an external gallery with filigreed ironwork. Inside are mantels of Carrara marble, carved black-walnut woodwork, and doorknobs and hinges of either silver plate or porcelain. The house is furnished with donated 16th-, 17th-, and 18th-century antiques, although some original pieces have recently been reacquired.
Isaiah Davenport House
324 E. State St.
912-236-8097
This residence was the historic Savannah structure that prompted citizens to focus on restoring the historic area within Savannah’s downtown. Master builder Isaiah Davenport built began building his home in 1815 and completing it five years later in1820. The interior of the house contains an impressive array of semicircular stairs with wrought-iron trim, polished hardwood floors, fine woodwork and plasterwork, and a soaring elliptical staircase.
Telfair Mansion and Art Museum
121 Barnard St.
912-232-1177
Featured as the oldest public art museum in the Southeast, this structure was designed by William Jay in 1819. The mansion was built for Alexander Telfair and sits across the street from Telfair Square. Contains a vast and impressive collection of artwork and furndshings.More Info
City Market
Jefferson at W St Julian St
912-232-4903
City Market is a four-block courtyard featuring 9 restaurants, 15 shops, 8 art galleries, 23 artists studios, historic tours and 250 years of history.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
222 E. Harris St.
912-233-4709
Soaring like a hymn over the city, stand the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The design mimics the French Gothic-style cathedrals, with the characteristic pointed arches and free-flowing traceries. The cathedral retain’s a very international influence, for it was constructed in 1799 by the French, and most of the cathedral’s stained-glass windows were in Austria, and the high altar is made of Italian marble, and the stations of the cross were imported from Munich.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
Savannah History Museum
303 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Savannah, GA
912-238-1779
The museum is currently housed in a restored railway station.Exhibits range from old locomotives to a tribute to Savannah-born songwriter Johnny Mercer. The museum is situated on top of the site of the Siege of Savannah.
Ships Of The Sea
41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Savannah, GA
912-232-1511
Savannah’s only maritime museum. ship models are on display, including steamships, a nuclear-powered ship (the Savannah), China clippers with their sails unfurled, and Columbus’s ships. Open to the public 10 am to 5 pm
Oatland Island Education Center
711 Sandtown Road
Savannah GA 31410
912-987-3773
Oatland Island Education Center is an environmental project operated by the public school system. Nature trails are offered over this 175 acre area. Visitors can observe the ten habitats housing animals indigenous to coastal Georgia. A marsh walkway, marine monitoring station, compass trails and observatories offer a diverse look at nature. Great for a day of exploration!
Tybee Mountain Water Park/Mini Golf
1508 Butler Avenue
Tybee Island GA 31328
912-786-5552
Tybee Mountain Water Park/Mini Golf features a 50 foot tower. Families can enjoy the many features of the park including the olympic size swimming pool, bath house, video arcade, beach shop, concessions and 19 holes of miniature golf.
Skidaway Marine Science Complex
Mcwhorter Drive
Skidaway Island GA 31411
912-356-2496
Skidaway Marine Science Complex is an oceanographic center located in historic Modena Plantation on Skidaway River. Exhibits include 12-panel, 12,000 gallon aquarium containing flora and fauna of the Atlantic Continental Shelf. The Complex consists of Marine Extension Service and Skidaway Institute of Oceanography.
Savannah Science Museum
4405 Paulsen Street
Savannah GA 31405
912-355-6705
Bring the family for a day of exploration and discovery at the Savannah Science Museum. The museum features special exhibits geared towards children.
E- Events & Entertainment:
Events
January
Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Observance Day Celebration
Held the third weekend of January
912-236-4898
Call for location and additional information
Savannah celebrates the life and times of this Civil Rights pioneer.
Taste of Savannah
912-232-1223
Call for exact location and dates
Tempt your taste buds! Restaurants and caterers serve samples of their best menu items that are representative of Savannah. Writers and editors from national food magazines judge the culinary and decoration competition while guests select the Guest Choice Award.
February
Georgia Heritage Celebration’s Colonial Faire and Muster
912-651-2125
Call for exact location and dates
The celebration of the founding of the Colony of Georgia in Savannah on February 12, 1733 by James Edward Oglethorpe has been a tradition among Georgians since 1734. The Celebration encourages a better understanding of, and appreciation for, Georgia history. Various events seek to promote the study and preservation of the state’s rich history and the historical sites, documents, and other materials which offer a window on that past.
Black Heritage Festival
912-236-4898
Call for exact location and dates
Cultural and intellectual activities including dance performances, musical concerts, lectures, art exhibits and more.
March
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Held March 17
Location: Savannah Historic District
912-232-3448
Call for exact locations and times
It isn’t easy being green – unless you’re Savannah. How do you manage more than 250,000 weekend guests? You throw the South’s most famous and the southeast’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. The Savannah Historic District marks its St. Patrick’s Day’s Celebration with festivities along the waterfront and a parade on March 17 where the streets are lined with revelers in green, and cocktails and grits are dyed to match.
Savannah Music Festival
Held in late March
Location: Downtown Savannah
912-234-3378
This captivating celebration of the cultural arts is held in the Historic District of Savannah featuring world-class music in downtown venues. This festival lasts for 15 days and includes numerous international talents including blues, classical, jazz and world.
Annual Tour of Homes & Gardens
Location: Historic District
912-234-8054
This annual spring event offers self-guided walking tours through private homes and gardens in Savannah’s National Landmark Historic District.
April
International Festival
912-525-5050
Call for location and exact dates
The annual international festival celebrates the college’s international art community and shares it with the entire Savannah community. Highlights of the event include international cuisine at “Cuisine from Around the World,” dance demonstrations, music, a global fashion show and art and cultural displays.
N.O.G.S. Tour of Hidden Gardens
912-961-4805
Call for locations and exact dates
Admission Charged
This walking tour includes eight walled gardens plus the award-winning Massie School Garden, one of the Garden Club’s community projects. Different private gardens are selected each year for their excellence of design, historical interest and beauty.
Sidewalk Art Festival
Location: Downtown Savannah
912-525-5050
Call for exact dates
Admission Free
This annual event draws thousands of people to watch SCAD students create chalk masterpieces on historic Forsyth Park squares along with a student and faculty art exhibition, fair, food and children’s and youth areas for young artists.
Savannah Garden Expo
912-236-4795
Call for location and dates
The enchanting garden show features an open-air market, exhibition gardens, workshops, demonstrations, seminars and lectures.
Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf, PGA Champions Tour
Location: The Club at Savannah Harbor
912-236-1333
Call for exact dates
Admission Charged
Come and enjoy some of golf’s all time greatest players as they tee up at the home of the PGA Tour of Champions, Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf; experience Troon Golf and The Club at Savannah Harbor.
Blues & BBQ Festival
Location: Roundhouse Railroad Museum
912-651-6823
Call for exact date
The Roundhouse Railroad Museum is filled with the sounds of great blues and the smell of slow-cooked barbeque as the annual Night in Old Savannah Blues & BBQ Festival gets underway. Great music, food, drinks, trains and more!
Spring Fling Art and Music Festival
912-786-4431
Call for exact location and date
Art and music festival featuring more than 50 artists from the southeast along with local musicians.
May
Savannah Seafood Festival
912-234-0295
Call for exact location and dates
Surfin’ on the Savannah River with sensational seafood, live entertainment, daily beach party bash and much more.
Savannah Shakespeare Festival
912-234-9860
Call for exact location and dates
City Lights Theatre performs live Shakespeare classics, dance performances, Kids for Kids Theatre and more.
Scottish Games Festival
912-232-3945
Call for exact location and dates
Traditional style Scottish Games Festival featuring competitions, clan displays and booths, food and drink, music of the bagpipes and other Scottish music.
Tybee Island Beach Bum Parade
Held Memorial Day weekend
Location: Tybee Island Beach
912-786-5444
Celebrate the arrival of summer with a huge water fight. Parade of fellow water warriors enhances this family friendly experience.
SCAD Sands Arts Festival
912-525-5225
Call for exact location and dates
This annual event invites sand-loving SCAD students to create forms in the sand on the beaches of Tybee Island. Four contests are available for viewing: sand castle, sand sculpture, sand relief and wind sculpture.
June
First Saturday on the River
Held on the first Saturday of the month
Location: River Street
912-234-0295
This event, held on the fist Saturday of June and features local art, crafts, entertainment and food on beautiful historic River Street.
Savannah Asian Festival
912-651-6417
Call for exact location and dates
Volunteers from many Asian organizations, including Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Indian, Korean, Thai, and Pakistani, plan this public festival to showcase the talents of the Asian community in Savannah. The festival features activities such as food booths selling Asian delicacies, cultural booths with demonstrations, art and educational hands-on workshops in Chinese Calligraphy and Painting, Henna Skin Decoration, Korean Games, and Filipino Bamboo Pole Dancing; and fascinating performances of Asian dance, music and martial arts.
July
Fourth of July on the Waterfront
Held on the fourth of July
Location: On the Waterfront
912-234-0295
Fantastic fourth celebration featuring artists from around the region, food, fun and fabulous fireworks over the Savannah River.
Fourth of July Fireworks on the Beach
Held on the fourth of July
Location: At the beach
800-868-2322
Tybee Island’s Independence Day celebration with fireworks on the beach.
August
First Saturday on the River
Held on the first Saturday in August
Location: River Street
912-234-0295
This event held on the first Saturday of August and features local art, crafts, entertainment and food on beautiful historic River Street.
Seafood & Music Festival
912-786-5444
Call for exact location and dates
This two day event features local and national music acts and island cuisine.
September
Savannah Jazz Festival
912-232-2222
Call for exact location and dates
A wonderful week long celebration of blues and jazz that promotes, preserves and perpetuates this exquisite art form through performances by great musicians throughout the coastal empire.
October
Oktoberfest
912-234-0295
Call for exact location and dates
It’s an oompah stomping, dachshund dashing, bratwurst tasting and beverage toasting weekend with your friends on the river. Featuring arts and crafts, live entertainment, oompah bands, wiener dog races, fabulous food and much more!
Savannah Greek Festival
912-236-8256
Call for exact location and dates
The three-day Greek Festival includes authentic Greek foods and pastries, merchandise, grocery products and live music.
Savannah Film Festival
912-525-5050
Call for exact location and dates
The festival features the best in independent, innovative and influential films and videos from around the world, as well as panel discussions and presentations by visiting artists.
Jewish Food Festival – Hard Lox Café
Location: Hard Lox Café
912-233-1547
Call for exact date
Experience a taste of Savannah’s Jewish soul food. Experience the tastes of Hard Lox Cafe sweets with all the flavors of Jewish heritage.
November
Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights
912-201-2201
Location: On the waterfront
Call for exact dates
Bring the family to enjoy the kick-off of the Savannah Harbor Holiday Series on the waterfront. Over 60 festively decorated yachts and sailboats parade along the Savannah River followed by a fireworks extravaganza.
December
Christmas on the River
912-234-0295
Call for exact location and dates
Dash your way to River Street for a merry holiday. View a Christmas parade with carolers, bells, and Santa; also featured are displays of arts and crafts.
Holiday Tour of Homes
912-236-8362
Location: Historic District
Call for exact dates
Enjoy a self-guided walking tour of homes in Savannah’s lovely Historic District. Private residences representing the full range of Savannah’s historic downtown neighborhood are open to the public during the special season. Each tour includes a holiday tea.
Arts & Entertainment
Trustees Theatre
216 E Broughton St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-525-5050
Call for performance schedule
The theater hosts a variety of performances, concerts and lectures for the college and community. By restoring the theater to its former Art Modern splendor and by attracting major performers, it has contributed to the revival of the Savannah theater district.
Ballet
Savannah Ballet
6709 Waters Ave
Savannah, GA 31406
912-352-7487
Founded July 2003, Ballet Savannah is a new era of professional ballet in Savannah.
Sports
Savannah SandGnats Professional Baseball
Class A affiliate of the Expos
1401 E. Victory Dr.
Savannah, GA 31404
912-351-9150
Season runs April – November