Savannah. Where do I begin? Let’s just say I think half of my heart is still there. I wake up on days dreaming about the Spanish moss covered trees, the historical buildings and the kindness of the people. Some of my favorite things about about Savannah.
I visited Savannah at the beginning of August. I knew it would be hot, as it is the south and it was the middle of Summer. I definitely had to stay more hydrated than the usual. I actually got lightheaded once and had to go have a sip + seat in Starbucks to feel a little better. Besides that, it was an unforgettable trip of wit and delight in so many way.
WHERE TO STAY:
I stayed at the Brice Hotel, (a boutique hotel within the Kimpton brand) located in Savannah’s National Landmark Historic District, which is ideally located not far from the famed River Street area. The staff greeted us with southern hospitality and since I arrived in the morning, a lovely coffee station (ice coffee as well) was there to greet myself and all hotel guests in the lobby.
My suite was roomy, bright, exceptionally clean and well appointed. One of the unique and utterly beautiful features of the hotel is the tree lined, picturesque courtyard. There are plenty of seats dotted around the courtyard for you to say enjoy the morning paper, have a meet up or sip on some sweet tea. The pool is beautiful enough to beckon you to stay there all day and stay cool. If you want to see the city on a bike ride, yup they have you covered there as well. You can take a bike out at no extra charge.
There is a restaurant inside the hotel called Pacci where the south meets Italy in its cuisine. The decor in the restaurant feels rustic meets modern farmhouse, which made my heart happy. The food is amazing and their craft cocktails were just the perfect way to end the nights.
WHERE TO EAT:
VIC’S: I enjoyed Vic’s coffee bar for cold brew coffees and iced lattes. But that’s not the only thing you can get there. Did you know Savannah is famous for being a cocktail friendly city? You can enjoy a cocktail freely on the streets in to-go cups. No hassling. No issues. Just be responsible.
CAFE M: Feeling like you want to take a trip to Paris but can’t make it there? Head over to Cafe M. From lavender lattes to authentic French quiches, pastries and macarons, this is a must visit to start your day off right.
VIC’S ON THE RIVER: Upstairs from Vic’s coffee shop, Vic’s also has a beautiful restaurant and bar where it boasts dining space (inside and out) that is famous for its mouthwatering southern meals. We could have eaten there everyday the food was so good.
COLLINS QUARTER: A causal American food spot to hit up for dinner is Collins Quarter. I was smitten with the jewel tone colors of the decor and the bright airy feel of the space. I loved all the summer inspired cocktails they offered and their burgers and sandwiches were perfectly prepared and full of flavor.
WHAT TO DO:
You must visit River Street. It’s where so much fun happens. Shopping. Eating. River Cruising and more. There are steps throughout the historic district that lead down to River Street. They are very old and there are signs everywhere that let you know, you are taking them at your own risk and to be careful. The steps are narrow in width so just be careful and mind your step. The entire River Street area is paved with ballast stones, so it’s very important to wear comfortable shoes. Head on over to River Street Candy Factory. I don’t even really like Pecans but their candy coated version was so good I had to buy a few bags to take home. No wonder people travel near and far to visit them. They don’t have just candy covered pecans. Honestly, they are a wonderland for those who have a serious sweet tooth. AKA me. The River Street area is steeped in history. The buildings, monuments and markets that line River Street eloquently communicate the story of the city and it’s people. From Washington’s Guns to the Waving Girl Monument there is so much you don’t want to miss. 
RIVER CRUISE: Go on a Savannah Riverboat cruise. You can enjoy luncheon cruises as well as cultural entertainment, dinners, romantic sunsets and magical moonlight cruises. For tickets and more information click here
TROLLEY TOURS: These can be found dotting all over the city. It’s a wonderful way to see the city and learn all about it with the aid of an educated local filling you in on all the good information you otherwise wouldn’t learn on your own. If you are visiting someone who lives in Savannah, they can get a FREE Hometown Pass and receive one complimentary trolley ticket when accompanied by a paid adult guest.
PEDICAB TOUR: You can book one for half hour to a full hour. If you want a full day on one it will cost your around $150 but you can shop, eat and explore Savannah neighborhoods and squares with your own personal valet/concierge/chauffeur in one! Book one by clicking here.
WORMSLOE STATE HISTORIC SITE: If there is one place that was on my must see list, it was Wormsloe. Truthfully, photos do not give this place justice. It is quite awe inspiring, humbling and breath taking to see in person. There are some 400 mossy trees that line the one and a half journey that culminates at the oldest standing structure in Georgia.
FORSYTH PARK: Take a stroll to see Forsyth Park Fountain. It’s the center piece of the park’s 30 acres. It’s stunning to see this cast iron fountain. When it was unveiled in 1858, it was the largest fountain in the United States. It’s been a must-enjoy attraction since the first bit of water turned on.
CARRIAGE TOUR: Taking a carriage tour is another way to see Savannah. One can be taken with Carriage Tours of Savannah, the oldest operated one in the area. Their 50 minute narrated tours depart from their wagon in the center of City Market, at Jefferson and West St. Julian Street. Click here to learn more.
The history+ old world charm of Savannah made me fall in love, the people made me want to stay. It’s a magical place I can’t wait to revisit.
