Savannah's Top Neighborhoods: Cocktails, Cobblestones, and Coastal Adventures

Featuring elegant oak-lined streets, hidden eateries, and delightful bars, each neighborhood in Savannah offers unique treasures and historical charm that invites exploration.

You could easily spend an entire weekend strolling through the city's layout, with its shaded green areas and parks providing a welcome respite from the summer heat. Here’s all you need to know about Savannah’s best neighborhoods.

Downtown / Historic Savannah

Ideal for history enthusiasts

For those who love the energy of city life, Downtown Savannah offers a blend of charm and Southern hospitality, standing out as one of the country’s most significant historic districts. This neighborhood features Savannah’s historic squares, museums, homes, and restaurants that date back centuries.

The 22 historic squares scattered throughout the downtown area serve as communal spaces for relaxation and recreation, complete with benches and shaded spots ideal for picnics. Each square measures approximately 200 x 200 ft.

Home to some of the nation’s finest museums, this neighborhood includes the Telfair Academy, the oldest public art museum in the South, established in 1886, showcasing over 6,300 artworks spanning American Impressionism to European sculptures.

The Savannah History Museum houses more than 10,000 artifacts dating back to 1733, the year the city was founded. Additionally, the Railroad Museum, designated as a National Historic Landmark, is situated in the former Central of Georgia Railway Terminal.

For a fantastic brunch, check out The Collins Quarter (be sure to try their Lavender Mocha); for dinner, visit a.Lure for gourmet low-country cuisine or B. Matthew’s Eatery for a taste of southern fusion. Classic choices like The Olde Pink House or Mrs Wilkes Dining Room are always popular. Don’t miss local favorite Zunzi’s, known for their South African sandwiches, especially the Godfather, which attracts long lines at peak hours. Top accommodations in the area include the Alida and The Drayton Hotel.

Starland District

Ideal for architecture enthusiasts

Located about a mile south of Forsyth Park, the Starland District features streets adorned with art galleries and various creative spaces, but it’s the charming homes and unique office buildings that truly captivate visitors. These residences are brimming with character and distinction.

Beyond admiring the stunning architecture, visitors enjoy snapping photos of the vibrant murals scattered throughout the area. For an unforgettable tiki experience, visit the Water Witch Tiki, named after a legendary (and perhaps haunted) Union ship that was set ablaze off Savannah's coast in 1864. Don’t miss the Banana Spliff, crafted with dark rum, bourbon, banana liqueur, Mezcal, and bitters.

Starland is also a haven for those seeking retail therapy, particularly fans of vintage treasures. Be sure to explore The Cottage Shop and Graveface Records & Curiosities.

Moon River District

Perfect for nature enthusiasts

Located just 20 minutes south of downtown, the Moon River District is home to Skidaway Island State Park, featuring six miles of scenic trails. Afterward, be sure to check out the Wormsloe Historic Site in the area.

Nestled between the charming village of Isle of Hope, bordered by the Skidaway River, and the expansive Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge—one of the largest islands in the Savannah area—this stunning natural landscape is a must-see. For dining, indulge in delicious seafood at renowned spots like Wyld and Castaways.

Victorian District

Ideal for romantic getaways

In this charming neighborhood just south of the Historic District, you'll find an abundance of enchanting Victorian-style homes. Visit Ardsley Park, Savannah's oldest subdivision, to admire classic Victorian architecture. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, this area offers a variety of cozy B&B options rather than large hotels.

This neighborhood is also home to the expansive 30-acre Forsyth Park, featuring its iconic white fountain—often a centerpiece in many visitors’ photos. For a warm and inviting place to stay, consider The Printmaker’s Inn.

If you're looking for a local gem that’s both laid-back and tasty, swing by Betty Bombers for some fantastic burgers and sandwiches. The renowned Mansion on Forsyth Park underwent a major transformation after its sale in 2022 and reopened in early 2024 as the luxurious Hotel Bardo Savannah, perfect for those who enjoy upscale accommodations and dining.

Midtown Neighborhood

Ideal for shopping

Located just three miles from downtown, this area boasts fantastic restaurants and a variety of locally owned shops. Abercorn Walk is a delightful shopping center where you can indulge in some retail therapy, while locals rave about nearby spots like Bella's Italian Cafe and Hirano's, a popular teppanyaki and sushi bar in Habersham Village.

For authentic Southern cuisine, make your way to Sweet Potatoes Kitchen, where the corn pudding and homemade biscuits are must-tries. And don’t forget to indulge in the fried chicken! While this neighborhood lacks boutique hotels, both the Hampton Inn and Fairfield Inn offer dependable lodging options.

Tybee Island

Ideal for families

Tybee Island is a beloved destination for locals in Savannah. Just a half-hour drive from Downtown, this five-mile beach town remains family-friendly while also becoming a popular tourist destination in recent years. With its laid-back vibe, Tybee offers casual restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels perfect for relaxation or fun. Many accommodations, such as the historic DeSoto Beach Hotel and the full-service Hotel Tybee, provide direct beach access.

For a change of scenery from the beach, visit the Tybee Marine Science Center and the Tybee Island Light Station. The area is also home to a variety of unique art galleries and shops.

Tybee Island features a range of casual dining options to please even the pickiest eaters, from the Caribbean-themed North Beach Bar & Grill to the excellent Sundae Cafe for lunch and dinner. The Crab Shack is known for some of the best steamed seafood around, and their Half & Half platter, which includes half a pound of snow crab and half a pound of shrimp, is sure to satisfy any appetite.

The Islands

Ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle

Savannah's most sought-after residential areas are situated on its islands, providing beautiful marsh views and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center. Wilmington and Whitemarsh Islands are larger, home to thousands of residents, while Talahi Island offers a smaller, more rural atmosphere.

Whitemarsh Island

Located about six miles from downtown Savannah, Whitemarsh Island (pronounced “witmarsh”) comprises a series of islands south of the Savannah River. The nearby Whitemarsh Preserve features trails for hiking and biking.

Wilmington Island

Wilmington Island is home to around 15,000 residents and is located about 11 miles northeast of downtown Savannah. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, fishing charters, and day trips to Daufuskie Island from Bull River Marina. For those who prefer land-based activities, the Savannah Country Club offers golf and various recreational amenities.

Talahi

Talahi Island, nestled between Savannah and the ocean, lies along US 80 (Islands Expressway) near Wilmington Island, approximately eight miles from Savannah's center. The island has fewer than 2,000 permanent residents and is primarily residential.

Characterized by its dense woods, Talahi Island is a rural retreat ideal for those seeking a natural escape. The Islands Farmers Market operates every Saturday during the warmer months (March through June and September through December).