Savannah, the epitome of Southern charm and culture, remains one of the most popular destinations for a laid-back vacation. With a storied past going back centuries, the city has a lot to offer–historical buildings, cobblestone-laid town squares, verdant parks, spooky buildings, and more. Whether you want to appreciate the architecture or enjoy Southern cuisine or go on a ghost tour, the city will not disappoint you. In fact, sticking to the standard tourist itinerary is failing to do justice to this intriguing city. So step outside the regular tourist circuit and explore hidden aspects of this destination. Our list of the best non-touristy things to do in Savannah, Georgia will get you to explore off-the-beaten-path Savannah.
1. Go on a family-friendly ghost tour (from USD 20.0)
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Savannah, take your family on this fun ghost tour that’s perfect for both kids and adults. You’ll learn about the history of Savannah, as well as scary stories on why it’s haunted. You’ll pass through key locations and hear all the grisly details on what makes the place so creepy! From spooky hidden burial grounds to famous local ghosts, you’ll hear all the tales that contribute to making Savannah the most haunted city in America.
Fraidy Cat - The Family Fun Ghost Tour of Savannah
Duration: 1.5 hours
2. Learn how to sail (from USD 85.0)
This two-hour activity will set sail on the Wilmington River. The odds of being able to spot dolphins, make new friends, and experience a gorgeous view are definitely high in this fun little excursion. Sit back and relax as the wind guides the sails. You’ll catch some great views of the islands and marshes and find out firsthand what makes this area so scenic.
Sailing in Savannah
Duration: 2 hours
3. Check out the antiques at Alex Raskin Antiques
Alex Raskin Antiques is a wonderland that will leave you gasping in surprise. This antique store is located within an old-time unrestored Savannah mansion in the Historic District. Spread over four stories, the house is strewn with antiques–furniture, paintings, knick-knacks–that owner Alex Raskin purchases from auctions the world over. All of them are for sale but you may find it the price a little steep! Even if you won’t buy anything, the stunning range of antiques and the eerie vibe of the building makes it a worthwhile visit.
Alex Raskin Antiques
Address: 441 Bull St Savannah
Website: Alex Raskin Antiques
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm
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4. Shop at the Paris Market
This two-level, quirky store and cafe with all things French is a charming place to wander around and find interesting pieces curated by the owners from their travels around the world. The variety ranges from art to handcrafted soaps and jewellery! On the upper floor is a Parisian cafe where you can relax and check out their baked goods and drinks–don’t forget to try their macaroons and infused teas.
The Paris Market & Brocante
Address: 36 West Broughton Street Savannah
Website: The Paris Market & Brocante
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
5. Visit A Century of Hats
If you are someone who likes offbeat collections then A Century of Hats is indeed something you need to add to your itinerary. Located within Mansion on Forsyth Park, Autograph Collection, a luxury hotel in the historic district, this is a small museum that features a 100-year collection of women’s’ hats (from the 1860s up to 1960s). The collection is displayed chronologically within two display cases and showcases incredible variety, from charming wedding bonnets to preposterous creations. Just walk beyond the hotel’s elegant lobby to find the collection.
A Century of Hats
Address: 700 Drayton Street Savannah
Website: A Century of Hats
6. Get an in-depth look into the American Prohibition Museum (from USD 18.14)
Get an in-depth look into a controversial period of American history–the Prohibition Era–with this museum. The only one in the country dedicated to this fascinating subject, the museum has 13 galleries with innumerable exhibits that provide a vivid and detailed picture of its history and its impact on people, businesses, and the society. A delightful addition is a speakeasy located within the museum–speak the secret password and you will be admitted into a swanky bar themed around the 1920s, serving authentic cocktails of the time.
Savannah: American Prohibition Museum Ticket
Duration: 1.0 to 80.0 hour
7. Catch a movie at Lucas Theatre
An iconic landmark in Savannah’s Historic District, Lucas Theatre for the Arts hosts films, musical performances, and theatrical productions. The theatre, which opened in 1921 and was later restored extensively, stands out with its striking marquee on the outside and opulent decor with stunning ornamentation inside. Instead of just walking by the beautiful building, step in and check out the available shows. You may be in luck and catch a classic running!
Lucas Theatre for the Arts
Address: 32 Abercorn Street, Savannah
Website: Lucas Theatre for the Arts
8. Explore Flannery O’Connor’s childhood home
Acclaimed Southern author Flannery O’Connor grew up in Savannah and her childhood home is now a museum that celebrates her life. Completely restored to the original Depression-era style prevalent during her childhood, the home gives an illuminating view into her early years and the influences on her. Take the guided tour of around 30 minutes with knowledgeable guides who will share interesting facts and anecdotes about her life and the society at large then. Free events are frequently held on the premise so do check their website before you visit.
Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home
Address: 207 E. Charlton St. Savannah
Website: Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home
Opening hours: 1pm - 4pm (closed on Thu)
Price: 8 USD
9. Take a helicopter ride
Get a spectacular aerial view of downtown Savannah and Tybee Island against the backdrop of a setting sun with this helicopter tour. For around 45 minutes, you will glide through the city over landmarks like Tybee Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, as well as Savannah’s historic downtown. Adding to the experience will be the pilot who will provide commentary filled with little known trivia and stories as you pass each sight.
10. Dine with your family at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
For an extraordinary dining experience, plan a lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. This unique restaurant offers quintessential Southern food, served family-style. Which means you do not order food off a menu–instead you are seated at a table of 10 (may include strangers!) and served multiple courses. You will be treated to absolute classics of Southern cuisine such as mashed potatoes, fried chicken, and okra gumbo, with the total number of dishes exceeding 15! The owner or her family typically pay a visit to every table to chat. Entrance is on a first-come-first-serve basis, so expect to line up. Also, the restaurant only takes cash so be prepared with the necessary amount.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
Address: 107 West Jones Street Savannah
Website: Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am – 2pm (closed Sat & Sun and all throughout January)
Price: 25 USD
Nearby option
11. Drive through the Wormsloe Plantation
With historic ruins, a breathtaking avenue of oaks, costumed tours, a visit to Wormsloe Plantation is a wonderful way to experience a slice of Savannah’s past. Located just outside Savannah this historic site is most well-known for its incredible avenue featuring beautiful live oaks and Spanish moss that leads up to the ruins of a colonial estate. Drive down or walk down the avenue for an ethereal and unforgettable experience and then explore the remains of the estate which is now a museum containing excavated artefacts and other memorabilia. You can also join a costumed guide who will take you on a tour of important spots within the estate.
Wormsloe Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Road Savannah
Website: Wormsloe Historic Site
Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
12. Go dolphin watching (from USD 59.0)
If you love donuts and are fond of dolphins, then oh boy, this tour is for you! On this tour, you’ll be cruising the waters around Hilton Head Island and taking in the fantastic South Carolina scenery. No need to bring binoculars as you’ll be provided one as part of the tour. Best of all, you’re guaranteed to see dolphins up close and enjoy delicious donuts. Win-win, right?
Dolphins & Donuts Cruise
Duration: 1.5 hours
See Savannah up-close
Relatively speaking Savannah is a small city and, given its amazing beauty, one that is best explored walking. This gives you an opportunity to appreciate its architecture at closer quarters and really experience the city’s unique atmosphere. So wear your most comfortable shoes and get ready to explore Savannah, Georgia through these non-touristy things to do!
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