Historic Downtown Savannah

Historic Squares Nearby Hotel River Street

The city of Savannah, Georgia was established by General James Edward Oglethorpe in 1733. With its stunning 18th and 19th-century design, historic downtown Savannah offers 24 squares, tranquil city parks, live oaks complete with Spanish moss, historic churches, antebellum mansions, huge magnolias, historic inns, museums, and well-known “haunted” cemeteries. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Savannah Historic District also offers examples of typical Georgian, Greek Revival, and Gothic style architecture exemplified in notable buildings such as the Owens-Thomas House, the Edmund Molyneux Mansion and the Spencer Woodbridge House. Important historical sites, like the Tomochichi Memorial, the Beach Institute, and the King-Tisdell Cottage offer a glimpse into the lives of slaves and Native Americans during the early days of Savannah and the pre-civil war era.

Savannah’s Historic Squares. Known for its 24 historic squares, Savannah offers vitiors a wide range of styles and sizes for visitors of all ages. A visit to shady Calhoun Square highlights the Gothic-revival Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church. Chatham Square, created in 1847, is home to the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. Chippewa Square features a bronze figure of General James Edward Oglethorpe, and Forrest Gump's bench. Wright Square is the gravesite of the famous Indian chief, Tomochichi, among other famous landmarks.  [Top]

River Street. One of downtown Savannah’s most popular tourist destinations, River Street is located on a bluff facing the Savannah River. Once an abandoned area of the city, today visitors can enjoy a wide range of restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, shops, and galleries, as well as hotels and inns, all housed in over nine blocks of renovated cotton warehouses. For some exciting free entertainment, enjoy a stroll along the Savannah River, where a working harbor complete with cargo ships, tugboats, and sailing yachts can be viewed. A city park along the waterfront offers a quiet place to relax and enjoy the sights and is home to a variety of festivals and special events throughout the year. Be sure to visit the Waving Girl statue, City Hall, Emmet Park, the memorial commemorating the 1996 Olympics, and the famous Washington Guns. The City Market is also located just off River Street and offers more great entertainment, food and shopping opportunities.  [Top]