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The latest in my series from the wonderful folks at CreekFire Motor Ranch all about the hidden gems in Savannah has got me yearning to go back and visit some of these places I’ve missed.
Founded in 1733, Savannah, Ga., is steeped in history and culture, from Antebellum architecture to Civil War battlefields and legendary pirate taverns.
But Georgia’s oldest city is more than just history. It’s the home of Savannah College of Art and Design, the nation’s second-largest St. Patrick’s Day parade, and some of the South’s most innovative restaurants. And it’s a stone’s throw away from miles of beautiful beaches.
Whatever you’re into, you’re sure to find things to do in Savannah that interest you. Here are seven treasures you won’t want to miss:
Where to Go
Located 15 minutes from Savannah’s historic district, the Wormsloe Historic Site has enchanted visitors and movie-goers alike, as the backdrop to films such as Forrest Gump.
A mile and a half of towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss lead into the property where Noble Jones, one of Savannah’s original settlers, built his home in 1745. Today, you can tour the ruins of that home, which was built using “tabby” concrete incorporating oyster shells. Then, stroll the rest of the grounds for a glimpse back at Colonial life in the South.
Self-billed as “Savannah’s Most Interesting Shop,” Alex Raskin’s Antiques houses a massive collection of interesting stuff – from folk art to furniture, rugs, clocks, and décor.
It’s all packed into a personality-filled pre-Civil War mansion, complete with peeling paint and cracked plaster. Whether or not you buy anything, the excursion makes for an Instagram-worthy experience.
While Bonaventure Cemetery gets the bulk of the attention after being featured in the best-selling book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Colonial Park Cemetery is equally interesting.
Established around 1750, the cemetery houses the tomb of Button Gwinnett, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, along with those of many other notable Savannah residents. You’ll also glimpse the resting places of those who perished in the city’s 1820 yellow fever epidemic, as well as daring men who lost their lives during the dueling era.
Get a VIP Tour in Savannah with a private guide.
Just 20 minutes outside of Savannah’s Historic District is a one-of-a-kind campground that lets you escape into nature without giving up all of life’s luxuries.
This 105-acre camping and RV resort, built by a local Savannah resident, boasts multiple pools, a hot tub, fishing, boat and canoe rentals, a food truck and much more. Bonfires and live entertainment keep guests occupied after the sun goes down.
CreekFire rents out RVs and luxury cabins on-site. And there’s even a vintage camper available!
Read my full review of CreekFire here.
What to Eat
No stop in the South is complete without sampling the local barbecue. Sandfly BBQ serves up “Memphis-born, Savannah-made” fare inside a vintage streamliner railroad dining car.
Yelpers rave about the huge portions of ribs, brisket and pulled pork, but it’s the Brunswick stew that brings the locals back again and again.
While Savannah conjures up thoughts of low-country shrimp and grits, Zunzi’s offerings are worlds – or at least continents – apart. You’ll find sandwiches, salads and other takeout food inspired by South African cuisine and fused with the flavors of Switzerland, Holland, and Italy – reflecting the owners’ unique heritage.
The Conquistador (baked chicken breast) and the Godfather (chicken and South African sausage) sandwiches are among the most popular menu items. Just don’t forget Zunzi’s signature “S#!¥ sauce.”
The best hidden gems in Savannah is its own speakeasy, and you need a password or a key to get in. It’s rumored that the doorman will also allow you in for a generous tip ($20). However, make sure that you dress in the appropriate period clothing!
As if that’s not cool enough, once inside Mata Hari you’re transported back to the Roarin’ 20s, with Prohibition-style cocktails, period décor, live entertainment and bartenders serving up absinthe.
Looking for more family-friendly eats? Be sure to read my choices for Family Friendly Eats in Savannah.
By checking these seven spots off your Savannah bucket list, you’ll see why this truly memorable city is one of the South’s premier travel destinations. For more information, visit Savannah.com.
You may also enjoy 10 Surprisingly Cool Things to do with Teens in Savannah.
Do you have any hidden gems in Savannah that I may have missed? Comment below and tell me! I’m looking to make the most of my trip and get an authentic experience.
