Savannah, Georgia, a city renowned for its historic squares, Spanish moss-draped oaks, and Southern charm, boasts many picturesque streets. Yet, when you ask locals and seasoned visitors alike to name the most beautiful street in Savannah, the answer is overwhelmingly consistent: Jones Street. Having explored every corner of this enchanting city, I can confidently say Jones Street easily secures a top spot on my list, and I’m eager to share why it holds such a special allure.
Moss-covered stairs and an American flag accentuate the timeless beauty of a Jones Street doorway.
If you’re just beginning your Savannah journey, welcome! As someone deeply familiar with this captivating city, I’ve crafted resources like the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide to help you navigate and appreciate all its wonders.
Finding Your Way to Jones Street
Let’s start with the practicalities. Jones Street is nestled in the very heart of Savannah’s famed Historic District, a mere stroll north of the iconic Forsyth Park. Its central location makes it easily accessible for anyone staying within the Historic District, especially given Savannah’s remarkably walkable layout.
For those with mobility considerations, Savannah offers convenient options like the complimentary DOT shuttles or charming pedicabs, which typically suggest a fee of around $1 per block. If you’re arriving by car, free parking is available on the streets surrounding Forsyth Park south of Gaston Street, allowing for a pleasant three-block walk from the park’s northern edge to Jones Street.
Local’s Tip: Metered parking on Jones Street itself becomes free after 5 PM. For more comprehensive parking insights, check out our guide to parking in Savannah.
But what truly elevates Jones Street to the status of one of America’s most beautiful streets? Let’s explore the elements that contribute to its undeniable charm.
Pinnable image showing two Savannah homes on Jones Street with text overlay that reads Is Jones Street the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
The Allure of Brick: Streets and Sidewalks
Savannah’s beauty is interwoven with its historic brickwork, evident in many of its streets. Interestingly, many of these brick-paved streets are now concealed beneath layers of asphalt, a decision that, to many, diminishes the city’s visual appeal. However, Jones Street remains a glorious exception.
Jones Street, the prettiest street in America, with a wide expanse of brick pavers in the foreground and large homes and mature oaks in the background.
The western stretch of Jones Street, extending from Drayton Street to Tattnall Street, proudly displays its original red vitrified bricks. This expansive brick paving contributes significantly to the street’s historic ambiance. While the eastern portion features asphalt blocks, their grey hue, though less traditionally charming, still maintains a degree of visual appeal. Be warned, though – both surfaces can make for a rather bumpy bicycle ride!
Historic homes with gas lanterns and a beautiful old brick sidewalk along Jones Street, one of the prettiest streets in Savannah GA
The generously wide sidewalks along Jones Street often mirror the street’s brickwork, further enhancing the pedestrian experience and making it perfect for leisurely strolls.
A Tapestry of Historic Homes
Jones Street is a veritable showcase of historic Savannah architecture. Beautiful historic homes stand shoulder-to-shoulder, defining the street’s character. Remarkably, this area has retained much of its 19th-century appearance. While mature trees have grown grander and modern necessities like parking meters have been added, Jones Street largely echoes photographs from over a century ago.
Gas lanterns and a vibrant red door accent the facade of a mid-19th century historic home on Jones Street.
Stately brick mansion with wrought iron balconies and large windows framed by black shutters
Side-by-side comparison of William Remshart row homes on Jones Street in Savannah from 1933 and 2021
Generally, the oldest residences are concentrated closer to Bull Street, Savannah’s central north-south axis, while homes towards the eastern end of Jones Street tend to be more recent, relatively speaking. The 100 and 200 blocks (both East and West Jones) are prime locations to admire the oldest architectural gems, whereas the 400 and 500 blocks of East Jones present a diverse mix of older and somewhat newer historic properties.
Front porch view of a modest pale green home on Jones Street surrounded by lush greenery
Homes with small porches and pretty landscaping on the far east end of Jones Street in Savannah GA
For a deeper dive into the architectural history, explore our dedicated post on the most historic homes on Jones Street, where you can discover even more photographic treasures.
A Display of American Patriotism
Jones Street also exudes a distinctively American spirit. Homeowners frequently display American flags, adding a touch of patriotic pride to the streetscape.
Picturesque sidewalk scene of Jones Street, the prettiest street in Savannah, with brick sidewalks, magnolia trees, and stately homes
View looking down the sidewalk along Jones Street. The greenery is lush and American flags are backlit by the sun. Large oaks shade the area
The 100 block of East Jones Street often features the most concentrated and striking display of flags, creating a particularly impactful visual.
Unique and Historic Street Signage
To truly appreciate Jones Street, walking is essential. It’s at a slower pace that you’ll notice the delightful details that set it apart, including its unique street signs. Take, for instance, the concrete sign at the corner of Barnard and Jones.
Concrete sign with the word Jones Street stamped into the side
Another distinctive sign graces the intersection of Jones and Lincoln Streets. This appears to be a custom creation, perhaps commissioned by homeowners, as it’s unlike any other street sign I’ve encountered in Savannah.
Nighttime scene at the corner of Jones and Lincoln streets in Savannah showing two elaborate gas lantern attached to a historic brick home
Home with a unique metal sign connecting two lamps that wrap around the corner of the home
Details like these are easily missed from a car window, reinforcing the value of exploring Jones Street on foot. Remember to look around – up, down, and sideways – to fully appreciate the subtle yet captivating details Savannah offers.
Lush Gardens: Secret and Seen
The landscaping along Jones Street is simply breathtaking. Gardens, both private and those spilling onto the public space, contribute significantly to the street’s verdant charm.
A courtyard on Jones Street in Savannah is bursting with spring color from hot pink azaleas and yellow climbing roses
Old stairs covered in bright green moss
Peachy-pink wall with a green vine creeping along the edge
Jasmine, moss, and various climbing vines thrive, clinging to walls and fences, creating picturesque vignettes at every turn. Despite limited yard space in the traditional Savannah layout, homeowners maximize the “tree lawns” – the narrow strips between sidewalk and street – for gardening.
Container plants and climbing Confederate Jasmine surround the entry to a home on Jones Street
Neatly landscaped green space on Jones Street in Savannah
Container plants are another popular way to introduce color and life to front entries. Given that many homes are built right to the sidewalk’s edge, containers often serve as the primary means of adding greenery near doorways.
Container gardens and mossy stairs are characteristic features of Jones Street’s charming residential landscape.
While window boxes are less common than in cities like Charleston, you might occasionally spot one adding a touch of floral charm. Perhaps the most delightful garden experiences on Jones Street are the glimpses into private courtyards, often revealing fountains, sculptures, and tranquil water features.
A statue of UGA the bulldog, the Georgia mascot, guards the entry to a garden on Jones Street
Golden Hour Glow: Gorgeous Sunsets
As a photography enthusiast, I’m always in pursuit of beautiful light, and Jones Street is an excellent location for capturing the magic of sunset.
View down the sidewalk of Jones Street with a warm sunset glowing through the trees and illuminating a historic home
Jones Street runs east-west, meaning sunsets occur at the Tattnall Street end, casting long, picturesque shadows across the street and sidewalks as the sun dips below the horizon.
Explore More: For more of Savannah’s visual delights, discover 11 Photos That Will Make You Fall in Love with River Street.
Majestic Southern Live Oaks
No discussion of Savannah’s beauty is complete without mentioning its iconic trees. Southern live oaks are a defining feature, and Jones Street is generously lined with these magnificent trees, many draped in ethereal Spanish moss.
Beautiful historic homes on Jones Street with a giant tree in the foreground and neatly trimmed jasmine covering the ground around it
Giant Southern Live Oaks dominate the landscape of Jones Street, showcasing nature’s grandeur.
The City of Savannah’s Greenscapes Division deserves praise for their diligent upkeep of these urban giants, ensuring the trees remain healthy and beautifully trimmed. The trees in Savannah, and especially on Jones Street, are truly a sight to behold.
Are you beginning to understand why Jones Street is often hailed as Savannah’s prettiest? Just wait until you experience it in springtime, when the azaleas are in full bloom.
Springtime Azalea Spectacle
Spring is widely considered one of the best times to visit Savannah, largely due to the city-wide explosion of azaleas. Jones Street is no exception, with vibrant azalea bushes adorning many of the historic homes.
Dozens of white, fuchsia, and pale pink azaleas bloom in the foreground. Rows of multi-story homes along Jones Street are visible in the background
One unique aspect of Jones Street is its lack of direct connection to Savannah’s famous squares. To experience the squares, you’ll need to stroll one block north to Charlton Street or south to Taylor Street. I highly recommend doing just that, especially when the azaleas are blooming, and be sure to extend your walk to Forsyth Park for even more floral beauty.
Dining on and Near Jones Street
After exploring Jones Street, you might find yourself hungry. Fortunately, several excellent Savannah restaurants are located on or near Jones Street:
Clary’s Cafe: A Savannah institution, Clary’s Cafe is the perfect spot for a hearty Southern breakfast. Its historical significance is enhanced by its connection to “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” with the book’s cast having dined here.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: For an authentic Southern lunch experience, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is unmatched. Serving family-style Southern dishes at communal tables, it’s a true taste of Savannah.
Crystal Beer Parlor: Popular with both tourists and locals, Crystal Beer Parlor offers a relaxed atmosphere, walls adorned with local memorabilia, and a diverse menu. Don’t miss their Georgia Peach Cobbler or Fried Pound Cake for a sweet Southern treat.
For a more immersive culinary experience, consider a walking food tour. Two highly recommended options include:
Food tours provide a delightful way to explore the Historic District, meet fellow food enthusiasts, and sample signature dishes from various restaurants.
Staying on Jones Street
To fully immerse yourself in Savannah’s charm, consider staying in a historic home. And what could be more historic than the Eliza Thompson House, the very first home built on Jones Street?
Eliza Thompson House: This beautifully restored historic inn offers reasonable rates, exceptional service, and a prime location on Jones Street. It’s an ideal choice for experiencing Savannah’s history firsthand.
Plan Your Savannah Getaway
Ready to plan your visit to Savannah and experience the beauty of Jones Street? Here are some additional resources to help you plan your trip:
A colorful old statue of a firefighter peers over the front porch railing of a house on Jones Street, standing guard next to a cheery yellow door
Do you have any questions about Jones Street or other beautiful streets in Savannah? Ask in the comments below!
Love this post? Pin it for later!
Pinnable image showing a mossy staircase with text overlay that reads Is Jones Street the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
Pinnable image of historic home with text overlay that reads Is Jones Street the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
Pinnable image of historic home with text overlay that reads Is Jones Street the Prettiest Street in Savannah?Related Articles:
Erin, author of the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide, is passionate about helping visitors discover the best of Savannah. Living in the vibrant Starland District, she continually explores Savannah’s hidden gems and the captivating surrounding Lowcountry.
