How to enjoy the ultimate long weekend in Savannah, Georgia

For those of us in the greater Atlanta area, Savannah is our closest beach escape. It’s about a four-hour drive from my home, making it an ideal destination for a weekend retreat.

I prefer to take a half day on Fridays so I can arrive in Savannah with enough time to check in and relax before dinner. I usually take my time leaving on Sundays, allowing me to fully enjoy my weekend.

Here are my tips for maximizing your weekend experience.

• Arrival time: I suggest starting your day no later than mid-afternoon, ideally around 2pm. If possible, arriving on Thursday night is even better!

• Airport transportation: Consider splurging on a rideshare to get into the city from the airport, as the bus ride could take an hour or more.

• Getting around: You'll likely explore the city on foot. For longer distances, like trips to Tybee Island or areas south of Forsyth Park, taxis and rideshares are your best bet.

• Accommodation: Savannah offers a range of options from quaint inns to upscale hotels. My favorites include the nostalgic Thunderbird Inn, the museum-like lobby of the JW Marriott Plant Riverside District, and the Alida Hotel, named after a historic preservationist. I’ve also enjoyed staying at a friend’s Airbnb, which gives me a taste of local life.

• Packing essentials: The most crucial item is a pair of comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk. A hat is advisable during the summer, and I like to carry a folding fan to stay cool. Savannah has a relaxed vibe, so you won’t need to follow a strict dress code unless a restaurant specifies one.

Friday

Morning: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast. Dottie’s Market offers artisan foods to take on the go, like specialty jams and sauces, but it's the prepared meals that steal the show. The bagel BLT is sure to keep you satisfied for hours. If you’re just after coffee and a pastry, pop into the Coffee Fox down the street.

The shops on Broughton St typically open around 10am, so after your meal, explore local boutiques such as Clockwork Skateshop, Nourish for organic bath products, and secondhand finds at Glory Days Vintage.

How to spend the day: Get a quick glimpse of the city’s history by joining Free Savannah Tours for a 90-minute walking tour. There’s a small booking fee, and tips are appreciated, but it’s the most affordable tour available, offered at 9:30 and noon.

Many of Savannah’s historic homes now serve as museums, so take a step inside to discover how their former residents lived. The Juliette Gordon Low house is a favorite for both Girl Scouts and adults. The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters provides a crucial perspective on the lives of the wealthy and enslaved individuals in the 19th century.

After a morning of exploration, savor an outdoor lunch by picking up picnic goodies from Fancy Parker’s, a stylish take on the gas station concept housed in a historic service station. Grab some fried chicken, sandwiches, and a soda to enjoy in one of Savannah’s beautiful squares. Chippewa Sq, famous from the 1994 film Forrest Gump, is just a short walk away.

Next, make your way to City Market, filled with a variety of shops and eateries. Be sure to visit the American Prohibition Museum, which delves into the history of this failed experiment and concludes in a speakeasy where you can savor a cocktail.

Dinner: If you can only dine at one restaurant, choose the Grey. Its numerous awards are well-earned, featuring a menu that showcases local flavors, including oysters and pork glazed with sorghum. For a more laid-back vibe, Crystal Beer Parlor is beloved by locals for its burgers and crab dip.

After dark: While River St has its appeal, if you prefer to avoid the party scene, consider visiting one of Savannah’s cocktail bars, like Artillery or Alley Cat Lounge.

Saturday

Morning: Kick off your day at the Forsyth Farmers Market in Forsyth Park, which operates year-round. It opens at 9am, featuring both fresh produce and prepared food vendors, perfect for grabbing a coffee and pastry to start your exploration. Once you’re fueled up, take a 30-minute drive to Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach community, where you can grab another caffeine fix at Tybean. If you’re without a car, consider getting a hotel pool pass for a relaxing day at places like the Thompson or the Alida.

How to spend the day: On your way, pick up lunch from Finches Sandwiches & Sundries in Thunderbolt. The Romaine Empire sandwich is a favorite, especially when paired with a side of Old Bay-dusted tots to share.

If you prefer lounging on the beach and catching some waves, settle in for a relaxing afternoon. For those wanting adventure, stroll to the historic pier, featured in films like The Last Song (2010) and Baywatch (2017), or explore the trails at Fort Pulaski. You can also tour the 1773 Tybee Lighthouse or grab a cold drink at Back River Brewery.

Dinner: Before heading back downtown, indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the island’s eateries. Sea Wolf offers eclectic decor, tiki-style cocktails, and a menu featuring oysters and gourmet hot dogs. Meanwhile, The Crab Shack is a Tybee favorite, where you can enjoy generous portions of shrimp and crab at tables nestled among the trees.

After dark: Once back in Savannah, if you're up for it and not too fatigued from the sun, consider joining one of the city's nighttime ghost tours, or unwind with a drink at the Original Pinkie Masters, a historic dive bar in Savannah.

Sunday

Morning: On your final day, rise early and head to the Starland District for breakfast. At Flora and Fauna, you can enjoy biscuits, breakfast sandwiches, and exquisite pastries, while Big Bon Bodega offers fresh bagels made daily.

How to spend the day: Discover the diverse shops and businesses in the district, such as Two Tides Brewing, which serves coffee in the morning and pints by afternoon. Don’t miss Superbloom for unique jewelry and gifts, or Graveface Records & Curiosities for records and quirky treasures. Grab a slice at Starland Yard, an open-air food hall fashioned from converted shipping containers.

After you’ve savored everything, return to your hotel to check out, bidding farewell to the city – at least until your next weekend adventure.