Savannah, Georgia is located on the north end of the coast of Georgia, in the United States, at the southeast corner of the state. It is located where the Savannah River, which creates the border between Georgia and South Carolina, enters into the Atlantic Ocean. The temperatures are milder than most of Georgia due to its location on the coast. The winds coming in from the ocean will keep it a little warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Savannah International Airport is located just outside the city and brings in tourists from all over the world. In addition, Savannah lies at the intersection of Interstate 95 and16, making it a convenient location for automobile travelers as well.
Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in the country with many examples of old southern architecture, and historical locations. All of the old parts of the city are divided into and surrounding squares, or parks. These squares often make driving through the city tricky as there are few straight routes through this part of town, but the beautiful statues, fountains, and homes around these squares make it worth the effort.
The largest and most beautiful park in the city is Forsyth Park with its iconic fountain. Several scenes from the movies Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil were filmed there.
History buffs will truly enjoy this magical city. Between the historic homes, old cemeteries and forts, and the many other historic attractions located around Savannah make this a true historian’s paradise. There are also some of the oldest churches in the country located in Savannah. After all, Savannah was the first planned city in the country and one of the oldest.
Besides the great old architecture, a walk along Riverfront and River Street, bordering the Savannah River, will bring the tourist to the heart and soul of the city’s restaurant and club scene. A stroll along these several blocks will pass dozens of great seafood and other types of restaurants, clubs featuring every type of music, and stores selling everything from fudge and peanuts to souvenirs and works of art. This part of the city is often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans and frequently has the same party atmosphere.
And speaking of parties, Savannah hosts the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day party in the country after New York City. The huge parade changes route every year but always wanders through the historic district. If you love Mardi Gras or Carnival, you won’t want to miss St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.
If you are looking for a little more culture, Savannah is home to the Savannah Dance Theatre, the Coastal Jazz Association, and many other live music venues and festivals, as well as performing arts theaters. A growing number of artists are calling this city home as the Savannah College of Art and Design brings national and international attention to its great arts programs. The Convention Center, located across Savannah River from River Street hosts many cultural events throughout the year. Ferries run every few minutes and are free.
If shopping is your pleasure, Savannah is home to several major malls hosting all the usual stores, but it is in the historic district where you will find the true flavor of the city. Arts and crafts, antiques, and other souvenirs of this great, old, historic city abound, and a walk through the old parts of town is a shopper’s haven.
And finally, there is the proximity to the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. A short drive outside the city brings you to Tybee Island, a funky little island with many great condos for rent and some very nice hotels. You will also want to sample the seafood along that route and on Tybee itself.
No matter what sort of vacation you have planned, Savannah has it all. And if you are looking for some old-world flavor, you can’t do better than Savannah, Georgia.
