36 Hours (or more!) in Savannah, GA

Parks and squares:

Savannah is full of gorgeous greens, and I recommend putting your sneakers on and getting to Forsyth Park as well as the numerous squares neatly set throughout the city. Each square is named after a figure or event notable to Savannah's history. There is something to learn at each one you meander through, with Chippewa Square and Lafayette Square being two of my favorites. The residential streets around Forsyth Park are also stunning — with Jones Street taking the cake!

Stepping back in time:

A city rich in American history, I recommend participating in at least one tour while you are in town. There are an abundance of walking, trolley and even Segway tours, though I would be inclined to choose a church tour. Regardless of your religious affiliation, the churches in Savannah are absolutely stunning and no two are alike. Lastly, it is no secret that Savannah is known for its haunted happenings. Ghost tours are extremely popular, and a good option for walking off your not-so-light southern supper. Should you prefer a private tour option, guides are available to customize a unique experience based on exactly what you are looking for! These tours are typically a mix of driving and walking so that you can cover more ground during your time together. Reach out for more information on finding a tour best suited to your needs!

Boutique browsing:

Think of cute, quaint local shops that you can feel great about supporting. My best finds were further away from the riverfront, on Whitaker Street. Asher + Rye, One Fish, Two Fish and Southern Crafted were my three favorites for curated collections of home goods, gifts and unique items made in the south.

Slow down - Southern style:

As a native northerner, my favorite part of touring (and now living!) in the South is the slower pace of life. Take advantage of the beautiful pools at Hotel Bardo and Perry Lane, or bop around and enjoy the cocktails atop some of the plentiful rooftop bars around town.

Day trips:

Savannah is a small city, and as this guide highlights, a weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the city. It is suited to pair perfectly with a few other stops in the area depending on what you are looking for. Charleston is an easy two-hour drive away. Even closer, you will find the quaint southern towns of Bluffton and Beaufort, SC. Looking for the beach? Hilton Head Island is an hour away, and should you want the perfectly landscaped Montage Palmetto Bluff, you can be pool-side or on the links in only forty minutes. If you are pressed for time, your closest option for a day trip would be to Tybee Island Beach, only about a half hour away.

Breakfast, lunch and coffee shops:

• Mirabelle: Coffee (in the most adorable cups) and bites with a view of The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

• Asher + Rye: Beautiful home good shop en route to Forsyth Park with a coffee spot attached to it.

• Collins Quarter: Lively atmosphere meets hearty but not heavy brunch.

• Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: About as Southern as you can get! Think home cooking and communal dining for the ultimate taste of the south. Note that it is only open for a few hours a day Monday–Friday, and there is almost always a line. You will dine at large tables of ten for a unique experience.

Dinner and drinks:

• Saint Bibiana: Coastal Italian fine dining located in Hotel Bardo. A beautiful space and cozy ambiance.

• Myrtle and Rose Rooftop: Great for a mid-day cocktail, shared plate and break from the shopping and touring along the river. Lively atmosphere with a pretty, feminine aesthetic.

• The Fitzroy: Aussie American gastropub. No fuss or frills, but good food, a menu to appease all diners and more of a locals' feel to the ambiance.

• Bar Julian at Thompson Savannah: A bit further away from the hustle and bustle, nestled in between newer residential construction, this is the tallest rooftop bar in Savannah. Their menu offers Mediterranean-themed bites, and it's a pretty spot to look over Savannah on a sunny afternoon.

• The Olde Pink House: A Savannah staple — definitely more on the touristy side, but they offer all of your southern staples in the cutest of spaces. Centrally located. I would grab a spot in the bar area for a more relaxed dining experience.