Savannah, Georgia, often called the Hostess City, beautifully marries its rich historical tapestry with a vibrant riverside culture. Whether your interests lie in delving into history, losing yourself in literature, savoring craft beers, or appreciating art, Savannah’s River Street area and its historical depth offer something for every visitor. While truly experiencing all facets of this iconic Southern city might extend beyond a mere 48 hours, this guide ensures you capture the essence and encourages future visits.
FRIDAY
Discover Savannah’s Highlights with Kelly Tours | 1:00 PM
Imagine exploring Savannah’s enchanting cobblestone streets and picturesque Southern landscapes without the fatigue of extensive walking. Kelly Tours, Savannah’s premier trolley tour, provides just that opportunity. Embark on a journey that allows you to hop on and off at your leisure, as knowledgeable guides lead you through the city’s breathtaking riverfront vistas, past stately Victorian-era mansions draped in moss, and across centuries of compelling history. This tour is an ideal way to get acquainted with Savannah’s layout and key attractions, many of which are conveniently located near the historic River Street Marketplace. Secure your Kelly Tours experience to efficiently discover the breadth of Savannah’s allure.
Immerse Yourself in Local Art at Shop SCAD | 3:00 PM
For an authentic taste of Savannah’s contemporary culture, look no further than ShopSCAD. This unique retail space showcases the talent of students and alumni from the Savannah College of Art and Design, offering a diverse collection of locally created art and fashion that reflects the city’s dynamic creative spirit. Whether you’re searching for paintings, unique holiday gifts, inspiring books, or cutting-edge fashion pieces, ShopSCAD provides an extensive catalog both in-store and online. Exploring ShopSCAD is a perfect way to connect with Savannah’s modern artistic pulse, complementing the historical ambiance of areas like River Street Marketplace.
Savor Southern Flavors at Green Truck Pub | 5:00 PM
To truly initiate your Savannah experience, indulging in authentic Southern cuisine is essential. The Green Truck Pub stands out as the perfect venue for a memorable Southern dinner. This bustling, unpretentious eatery is renowned for its mouthwatering pimento cheeseburger, perfectly balanced coleslaw, and a selection of local beverages that perfectly capture the region’s flavors. Its popularity means it doesn’t take reservations, so arriving in the early evening is advisable to secure a spot and immerse yourself in the genuine Southern hospitality, a quality also found in abundance at places like River Street Marketplace.
SATURDAY
Morning Delights at Forsyth Park Farmers Market | 9:00 AM
Begin your Saturday with a refreshing visit to the Forsyth Park Farmers’ Market. This vibrant market is a cornerstone of Savannah’s weekend scene, offering everything from a quick and delicious breakfast to the finest Georgia-grown ingredients for a delightful afternoon picnic. Among the diverse vendors, you’ll find local farmers, artisan bakers, beekeepers, and brewers, each contributing to the market’s unique charm. As you wander through the stalls, sample sweet breads, Georgia pecans, creamy hummus, and gourmet popcorn. Don’t miss the chance to take home some Southern-style hot sauce or fresh peaches, capturing the essence of Georgia’s agricultural bounty, much like the diverse offerings once traded at historic marketplaces near River Street.
Discover Literary Treasures at E. Shaver Booksellers | 11:00 AM
E. Shaver Booksellers, Savannah’s oldest independent bookstore, is a haven for both book enthusiasts and history aficionados. With over 30 years of history, this charming bookstore houses a wide array of novels and gift items within its 12 unique rooms, creating an atmosphere of literary exploration and discovery. Adding to its unique charm are the resident cats, often found lounging among the shelves. E. Shaver Booksellers is an ideal stop before lunch, offering a tranquil escape and a chance to find literary gems that echo Savannah’s historical narratives, much like the stories embedded in the stones of River Street Marketplace. Check their event schedule for potential book club meetings or author signings to enrich your visit.
Greek Flavors by the River at Olympia Café | 12:30 PM
While Savannah might not be the first place that comes to mind for Greek cuisine, Olympia Café has been a beloved part of the city’s culinary landscape for two decades. Situated with captivating riverfront views, reminiscent of the bustling scene at River Street Marketplace, Olympia Café offers top-rated Greek dishes. Their menu features authentic gyros, tempting desserts like baklava, and an impressive 32 flavors of ice cream, catering to diverse tastes. Moreover, Olympia Café thoughtfully provides a wide selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring a delightful dining experience for everyone against the picturesque backdrop of the Savannah River, a view shared with the historic River Street area.
Step Back in Time at Telfair Academy | 2:00 PM
Immerse yourself in 200 years of living history at Telfair Academy, a remarkable landmark located near the Savannah River. This historic governor’s mansion, dating back to 1819, invites you to explore dozens of rooms, galleries, and halls that vividly recreate Southern living from the 19th and 20th centuries. Inside, discover collections of paintings, sculptures, and period furnishings that narrate tales of bygone eras. Guided tours of Telfair Academy, available daily from 10 am to 5 pm and lasting approximately 45 minutes, offer deeper insights into the mansion’s rich history and its place in Savannah’s cultural heritage, adding a historical layer to your exploration of the River Street vicinity.
Toast to History at the Prohibition Museum | 4:00 PM
Combine history with a unique interactive experience at Savannah’s Prohibition Museum in the downtown area. This engaging museum offers a guided journey through America’s Prohibition era, brought to life with 35 wax figures and over 1,000 authentic artifacts. The 45-minute tour culminates in a visit to a 1920s-style speakeasy within the museum. Here, you can craft your own custom alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, offering a playful end to a historical exploration. The museum provides an entertaining and educational perspective on a significant period in American history, adding another dimension to the historical attractions near River Street Marketplace.
Art Deco Dining at The Grey | 6:30 PM
For a truly unique and retro dining experience, The Grey offers Southern seafood in a beautifully restored 1930s Greyhound bus terminal. This art deco gem transports you to another era while you savor refined dishes like old-fashioned cooked oysters, flavorful red rice, and perfectly prepared dry-aged ribeye, complemented by a curated selection of French wines. The ambiance is both sophisticated and nostalgic, requiring reservations and a dressy casual dress code to fully appreciate the experience. Dining at The Grey is a memorable culinary adventure, echoing the blend of history and contemporary culture found throughout Savannah, including the revitalized River Street Marketplace.
SUNDAY
Sunday Brunch at Goose Feathers Café | 12:00 PM
After a busy Saturday, enjoy a leisurely Sunday morning and head to Goose Feathers Café, a premier brunch destination in Savannah. Known for its Parisian-Greenwich Village ambiance, this café prides itself on scratch-made breads and pastries. Indulge in sweet preserve-filled croissants, chocolate-stuffed delights, or their hearty homemade oatmeal. The eggs benedict are a menu staple, and the breakfast paninis are simply delicious. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor their freshly baked goods, making it a perfect spot to relax and recharge before further exploring Savannah, perhaps revisiting the charming River Street Marketplace.
Antique Treasures at Picker Joe’s Antique Mall | 2:00 PM
Take a piece of Savannah’s history home with you by visiting Picker Joe’s Antique Mall and Vintage Market. This expansive marketplace, boasting over 35,000 items, offers a treasure trove of vintage and antique finds. Whether you’re seeking salvaged Southern décor to enhance your home or a classic piece of jewelry as a gift, Picker Joe’s is likely to have something that captures your interest. The knowledgeable staff, passionate about history, are on hand to assist you in selecting the perfect memento, perhaps a piece that reflects the historical charm found around River Street Marketplace.
Sweet Farewell at Leopold’s Ice Cream | 4:00 PM
Before departing Savannah, a visit to Leopold’s Ice Cream is a must for a sweet conclusion to your trip. This century-old ice cream and soda parlor is a Savannah institution, offering an old-fashioned charm that perfectly complements the city’s historical appeal. Treat yourself to scoops of authentic Georgian butter pecan ice cream or a refreshing glass of freshly-squeezed lemonade. For a cozy option, try a Cocoa Leopold, featuring your favorite ice cream flavor in Leopold’s signature homemade hot chocolate. Leopold’s provides a delightful, classic treat, creating a perfect final memory of your Savannah experience, much like the enduring appeal of River Street Marketplace.
Ready to experience the timeless charm and vibrant culture of Savannah? Book your Stay Today!
The River Street Marketplace in Savannah embodies the city’s deep appreciation for history, beautifully reflected in its recreated sheds reminiscent of the mid-1800s. Today, it offers visitors a unique open-air, international shopping experience right on the Savannah River, where Southern charm and old-fashioned hospitality flourish, creating a memorable taste of Savannah’s historic riverside culture.
