A Taste of Southern Charm: 48 Hours in Savannah

Hunting for fun cities to plan a weekend girls getaway can be a challenge. Luckily in Savannah, things to do with your girls really is a long list! Arguably one of the most historic cities in the states, Georgia offers loads of southern charm Savannah-style. If your wandering pack is still seeking summer getaway inspiration, look no further! Sun, soul food, and spooky adventures can all be found in coastal Savannah. Be sure to arrive in Savannah with an empty stomach to experience a taste of southern charm.

B Historic: Southern Charm Savannah

First and foremost, southern hospitality is easy to find at B Historic Savannah. In fact, the warm smile on the concierge’s face felt just like home. She offers an introduction to the city, circling points of interest on a map. Most importantly, she includes the best spots to find southern charm, Savannah-centric cuisine. This trip was partially a workcation, therefore its location and amenities made for an ideal way to get the most out of 48 hours in Savannah.

Spanish Moss and Southern Charm

Break in those sneakers; Savannah is a walking kind of city. To get a taste of southern charm, take a stroll up Bull Street and wander through one of the charming 24 squares. Strangely enough, wandering through the gardens is worth the trip. 

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After working up an appetite exploring, grab a snack and dine alfresco in Forsyth Park. The charcuterie and cheese board from The Coffee Fox will stop your stomach from grumbling. You may even be privy to an impromptu Jazz concert while you eat. Finally, grab a selfie with your pack in front of the catalog-ordered fountain from France.

Be Spooked on a Haunted Pub Crawl

Ghost hunters beware, Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the United States. Ultimately, our crew hit two birds with one stone on a Ghost City Tours haunted pub crawl. The tour begins in the eerie basement of Tondee’s Tavern, where it is rumored slaves were brought from pens to be sold at auction. Unfortunately, the tunnels have been closed for safety reasons. However, take a look as you climb back up the stairs, can you find the remains of the tunnel opening? 

The tour is two hours and moves at a perfect pace for curbside drinking. Yes, open containers are allowed on the streets of Savannah. Stops include the Pink House and Abes on Lincoln.  Look out for the ghost of Anne in room 204 at 17hundred90 Inn. Afterward, end the night with one of the Inn’s famous key lime pie shots at the bar in the basement.

 

Eat your Soul Food at Mrs. Wilkes

Fear not, in Savannah things to do (and eat) don’t just end here! No trip to Georgia is complete with our experiencing a taste of southern charm Savannah at Mrs. Wilke’s Dining Room. Mrs. Wilkes took over the boarding house in 1943, offering a family style southern cooking to the public.

Today the dining room is open for lunch Monday thru Friday, and be sure to bring cash. The dining room has quite the reputation in town, as a result, be prepared to wait at least an hour in line. Trust me, the fried chicken and sweet potatoes were absolutely worth the wait. Bring a copy of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil to help pass the time in line. This page-turner is a great way to learn about the scandalous past of the Mercer House in Monterey Square.

Trolley your way through Savannah

Normally hop-on-hop-off bus tours should be avoided. Of course, that is my humble opinion. As a matter of fact, the best way to explore new cities is by foot, but Old Savannah Tours has certainly will change that perspective. At any rate, I hopped on and settled in for the ride. The trolley hits all the main attractions such as the fountain at Forsyth Park, St. John’s Cathedral, City Market, and the Pirate’s House.

Don’t be surprised if the famous faces of Savannah step onboard and educate you on their association with the city. For instance, you could meet Forrest Gump in Chippewa Square or architect William Jay in front of the Owens-Thomas House.

Another thing to keep in mind, Savannah in June is HOT and MUGGY. The trolley is not air conditioned so take a break for safety sake. Furthermore, be sure to bring a water bottle along for the ride. Don’t let dehydration get in your way while exploring Savannah. Things to do in this city just never end!

Dance the Night Away Downtown

From dueling piano bars to speakeasys on the river, there’s plenty to do after dark in Savannah clubs. You can find live music downtown most nights during the week. In addition, drinking in the street is allowed in Savannah. Just be sure to pour the beer in a plastic cup before venturing to the next bar. Uber does service the city and is a great way to arrive safely back to your hotel at the end of the evening.

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Next Time Around in Savannah: Things to Do

First and foremost, take more than 48 hours in Savannah to explore! Regrettably, there wasn’t enough time to see it all, but I hope to venture back soon. In the meantime, please check out my bucket list!

For those history buffs!

• Immerse yourself into the history of 18th century to present-day Savannah at the Savannah History Museum.
•  Take a stroll down River Street.
• Learn more about the Civil Rights Movement at the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum.

Looking for some sun and scenery?

• Soak in the sun and sand on a day trip to Tybee Island
• Marvel at the beauty of Bonaventure Cemetery
• Take advantage of the art scene that Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offers
• Relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city at Skidaway Island State Park

Wanting more spooky suggestions?

• Take a Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil walking tour
• Get your liquid courage before entering some of the creepiest bars in the city on the Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl

Can’t forget that Savannah soul food!

• Devour grits and gravy at Narobis
• Enjoy an organic meal at Alligator Soul
• Try all the Southern classics at The Lady and Sons

How will you experience a taste of southern charm  Savannah-style this summer?