If you were to ask anyone who has wandered through the enchanting squares of Savannah to name its most beautiful street, chances are, “Jones Street” would be the resounding answer. It’s a sentiment echoed by locals and visitors alike, and for good reason. Personally, Jones Street easily secures a spot in my top favorites, and I’m eager to share with you the captivating elements that make it truly exceptional.
Moss-covered stairs and an American flag add to the charm of homes on Jones Street, Savannah.
If you’re new to streetsounds.net, welcome! I’m your guide to uncovering the most captivating corners of cities, and today, we’re delving into the allure of Jones Street in Savannah.
Finding Jones Street: Your Savannah GPS
Let’s start with the essentials: location. Jones Street is nestled deep within the vibrant Savannah’s Historic District, a mere stroll north of the iconic Forsyth Park. For those staying within the Historic District and comfortable with walking, Jones Street is easily accessible on foot. Savannah’s Historic District is wonderfully compact and pedestrian-friendly, making exploration a breeze.
Pinnable image showing two Savannah homes on Jones Street with text overlay that reads Is Jones Street the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
For visitors with mobility considerations, Savannah offers convenient alternatives. The free DOT shuttles provide easy transportation around the downtown area, or you can opt for a leisurely pedicab ride – a charming way to navigate, with a suggested fare of $1 per block. If you’re arriving by car, free parking is available on the blocks surrounding Forsyth Park south of Gaston Street. From there, a pleasant three-block walk through the park’s north end will lead you directly to Jones Street.
Local Tip: Metered parking on Jones Street itself becomes free after 5 pm. For comprehensive tips on navigating parking in Savannah, be sure to check out our detailed guide to parking in Savannah.
So, what exactly elevates Jones Street to the status of one of the most beautiful streets in America? Let’s explore the features that make it so unforgettable.
Brick by Brick: The Enduring Charm of Jones Street’s Pavements
One of the first things you’ll notice about Jones Street is its distinctive brick paving. Savannah is renowned for its historic brick streets, a feature that contributes significantly to the city’s overall charm. Interestingly, while many of Savannah’s brick streets have been covered over with asphalt in other areas of the city, Jones Street has largely retained its original brick character.
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 showcases its original red vitrified bricks. This expanse of historic paving adds immense visual appeal, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. While the eastern portion of Jones Street features asphalt blocks – a grayish alternative that’s less picturesque – it still maintains a certain historic charm. However, be warned: both brick and asphalt sections make for a somewhat bumpy bike ride!
Historic homes with gas lanterns and a beautiful old brick sidewalk along Jones Street, one of the prettiest streets in Savannah GA
The sidewalks on Jones Street are also generously wide, and many sections mirror the street’s historic brick paving. This thoughtful detail makes Jones Street a perfect location for leisurely strolls, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in the surroundings.
Architectural Grandeur: Historic Houses of Jones Street Savannah
Jones Street is a showcase of stunning historic homes. These architectural gems stand shoulder-to-shoulder, lining nearly the entire length of the street. Stepping onto Jones Street is like stepping back in time; the streetscape has remained remarkably consistent for over a century and a half. While trees have matured and subtle modern additions like parking meters have appeared, Jones Street today closely resembles photographs from bygone eras.
Gas lanterns and vibrant doors accentuate the historic facades of Jones Street homes.
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
The oldest residences tend to cluster closer to Bull Street, Savannah’s north-south dividing line, while homes towards the eastern end of Jones Street are generally newer. For those seeking out the oldest architectural examples, the 100 and 200 blocks (both east and west) are prime locations. The 400 and 500 blocks of East Jones present a blend of older and more recent 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 history and architecture of specific homes, explore our dedicated post on the most historic homes on Jones Street.
A Sense of Patriotism: Flags Flying on Jones Street
Another aspect that enhances the appeal of Jones Street is its palpable sense of American patriotism. Homeowners frequently display American flags, adding a vibrant and spirited dimension 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 is particularly notable for its concentration of flags, creating a striking display of national pride.
Unique Street Signs: Details to Discover on Jones Street
To truly appreciate Jones Street, walking is essential. It’s at a slower pace that you’ll notice the delightful details that make it so unique. Among these are the distinctive street signs. At the corner of Barnard and Jones, you’ll find a concrete sign, a charmingly understated marker of the street’s name.
Concrete sign with the word Jones Street stamped into the side
Another unique sign graces the intersection of Jones and Lincoln streets. This custom-made metal sign, adorned with gas lanterns, is a rare find in Savannah, likely commissioned by local residents, adding an extra touch of personality to Jones Street.
Nighttime scene at the corner of Jones and Lincoln streets in Savannah showing two elaborate gas lantern attached to a historic brick home
Silhouette of a metal street sign on Jones Street in Savannah Georgia.
Metal street sign with gas lamplights attached to the corner of a home
Home with a unique metal sign connecting two lamps that wrap around the corner of the home
Details like these are easily missed when driving. Walking encourages you to look up, down, and all around, revealing the hidden gems that contribute to Jones Street’s special character.
Lush Gardens: Green Escapes on Jones Street Savannah
The landscaping along Jones Street is simply breathtaking. Abundant greenery, from jasmine and moss to climbing vines, adorns homes and sidewalks, creating picturesque vignettes at every turn.
A courtyard on Jones Street in Savannah is bursting with spring color from hot pink azaleas and yellow climbing roses
Yellow climbing roses spill over a wrought-iron fence and onto the sidewalk along Jones Street in Savannah
Vines climb a vintage lamp post, adding to the organic beauty of Jones Street.
Old stairs covered in bright green moss
Peachy-pink wall with a green vine creeping along the edge
While space for traditional gardens may be limited, homeowners ingeniously utilize “tree lawns” – the narrow green strips between the sidewalk and the street – to cultivate miniature gardens.
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 choice, bringing bursts of color and life to front entries. Window boxes, while less common than in cities like Charleston, occasionally add further floral accents.
Side view of multiple homes on Jones Street with 2nd level entrances and lots of container gardens around the stairs
Adding to the enchantment are glimpses into private “secret gardens” tucked behind gates and walls. These hidden oases often feature fountains, sculptures, and serene water features, offering tranquil retreats from the street.
An inviting gate hints at the private garden oases hidden behind Jones Street homes.
A statue of UGA the bulldog, the Georgia mascot, guards the entry to a garden on Jones Street
Golden Hour Glow: Savannah Sunsets on Jones Street
As a photography enthusiast, I’m always in pursuit of beautiful light. Jones Street is an ideal location for “chasing light,” especially during sunset.
View down the sidewalk of Jones Street with a warm sunset glowing through the trees and illuminating a historic home
Being an east-west street, Jones Street becomes bathed in the warm hues of sunset as the sun dips towards the Tattnall Street end. The setting sun casts long, dramatic shadows across the street and sidewalks, creating a magical atmosphere.
Explore More: 11 Photos That Will Make You Fall in Love with River Street
Majestic Oaks: Savannah’s Iconic Trees on Jones Street
No discussion of Savannah’s beauty is complete without mentioning its trees. For me, they are a defining feature of the city and the surrounding SC Lowcountry. Jones Street is graced with numerous Southern live oaks, many draped in romantic Spanish moss.
Beautiful historic homes on Jones Street with a giant tree in the foreground and neatly trimmed jasmine covering the ground around it
Massive live oaks dominate the landscape of Jones Street, often overshadowing even large homes.
The City of Savannah’s Greenscapes Division deserves recognition for their excellent tree maintenance, ensuring these magnificent trees remain healthy and beautifully shaped. The trees of Savannah, and especially those on Jones Street, are truly a sight to behold.
Are you starting to understand why Jones Street is considered one of Savannah’s prettiest streets? Just wait until you experience it in springtime, when the azaleas are in full bloom.
Springtime Azaleas: A Floral Spectacle on Jones Street
Spring is widely considered the best time to visit Savannah, largely due to the explosion of azalea blossoms throughout the city. Jones Street is no exception, becoming awash in vibrant colors during azalea season.
Historic brick home facade on Jones Street with hot pink azaleas blooming in the foreground
Row after row of colorful pink azaleas in front of stately homes on Jones Street in Savannah GA
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 that it doesn’t directly connect to any of Savannah’s famous squares. To experience the squares, simply stroll one block north to Charlton Street or one block south to Taylor Street. And while you’re exploring in springtime, don’t miss a walk through Forsyth Park to witness its own spectacular azalea displays.
Dining Near Jones Street: Savannah Restaurants to Savor
If your exploration of Jones Street leaves you feeling hungry, you’re in luck. Here are three recommended Savannah restaurants located on or near Jones Street:
Clary’s Cafe: A Savannah institution, Clary’s Cafe is the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast. It even hosted the cast of “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”!
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: For a true Southern lunch experience, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is unmatched. Enjoy family-style Southern dishes served at communal tables.
Crystal Beer Parlor: Popular with both tourists and locals, Crystal Beer Parlor offers a relaxed atmosphere, walls adorned with local memorabilia, and delicious comfort food. Don’t miss their Georgia Peach Cobbler or Fried Pound Cake for dessert!
For a broader culinary exploration, consider a walking food tour. Two highly recommended options are:
Food tours are a fantastic way to combine sightseeing in the Historic District with sampling the best of Savannah’s food scene, all while meeting fellow food enthusiasts.
Where to Stay on Jones Street: Historic Savannah Lodgings
To fully immerse yourself in the Savannah experience, consider staying in a historic home. And what could be more historic than the Eliza Thompson House? It holds the distinction of being the first house built on Jones Street. The Eliza Thompson House offers reasonable rates, beautiful accommodations, and exceptional service, making it an ideal choice for experiencing the charm of Jones Street firsthand.
Plan Your Savannah Getaway: Your Travel Guide
Ready to plan your trip to Savannah and experience the beauty of Jones Street? Here are additional resources to help you:
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 questions about Jones Street or other beautiful streets in Savannah? Ask in the comments below!
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Erin, author of the Savannah First-Timer’s Guide, is passionate about helping visitors discover the best of Savannah. Living in the Starland District, she enjoys exploring Savannah’s hidden gems and the beautiful Lowcountry region.
