You Can Explore This Coastal Georgia City Entirely on Foot—and It’s Stunning

Few things are better than enjoying a walkable city in Georgia, where a car is typically necessary to get from one place to another. Fortunately, one of the best walkable cities in Georgia is Savannah, with a rich history, excellent restaurants, plentiful shopping, and museums to peruse. This coastal town offers a compact historic district filled with everything you need for an exciting car-free weekend.

Why This Georgia City Is So Easy to Explore on Foot

Though Georgia has several great, walkable getaways such as Dahlonega in the mountains and Madison in the foothills, Savannah is a larger city with a compact downtown that makes it incredibly easy to see and do a lot on foot. Apart from plentiful sidewalks, Savannah is very flat thanks to its coastal location. Furthermore, the historic city was planned in an orderly system of squares on a grid pattern, making it highly navigable. While there are many neighborhoods and districts worth visiting, the greatest concentration of things to do can be found in the North and South Historic Districts, also known as the Historic Landmark District.

The Best Things to See Within Walking Distance

One of the most scenic cities in Georgia, Savannah might be best known for its historic squares with Spanish moss-laden oaks and beautiful fountains. Start at the largest of the squares: Forsyth Park. From here, you can meander down Bull Street to see Monterey Square, Madison Square, Chippewa Square, Wright Square, and Johnson Square to cover the central, picturesque heart of the district. Take time to venture out along Jones Street, near Monterey Square, which is considered to be Savannah's prettiest street. Here, you'll find awe-inspiring historic homes dating to the 18th and 19th centuries. Making your way back to Bull Street to continue along the squares, head east once you reach Chippewa Square to walk through Colonial Park Cemetery, which dates to 1750 and includes simple headstones, but a scenic gate. Here, you can visit the grave of Button Gwinnett, who signed the Declaration of Independence. After visiting the cemetery, continue north along the squares toward the Savannah River, where you can stroll River Street, offering sweeping views of the river and ships docked at the edge of the port town.

Apart from simply drinking in the Southern scenery, there are plenty of things to do in Savannah, Georgia. To the west of Bull Street, you'll find myriad museums centered on a number of interesting subjects, such as the American Prohibition Museum. One museum worth walking to is undoubtedly the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) Museum of Art. Here, you'll see an impressive array of photography, sculpture, paintings, and even fashion and jewelry exhibits.

Tips for Visiting Without a Car

With many hotels located within the historic district, it's easy to spend an entire weekend exploring the city without a car. If you do, however, arrive in Savannah by car for a day trip or plan to stay outside of the city center, parking isn't a challenge. You can easily find free street parking past Liberty Street near Forsyth Park. Once the car is parked for the day, be sure to wear comfortable shoes to cover several miles throughout the day.

The best time to visit Savannah is typically the shoulder seasons. Fall and spring offer vibrant scenery and mild temperatures that are comfortable for walking long distances. Keep an umbrella handy for unexpected showers, and if you do visit during the summer when temperatures reach their peak, carry a fan too. Sunscreen is also a key item to keep on hand throughout the year. Don't forget a camera to capture the stunning views and architecture throughout the city, as well.

Whether you have a day or a week to explore Savannah, Georgia, this stunning port city is well worth seeing by walking it at a slower pace. From the most notable historic landmarks to hole-in-the-wall restaurants and shops, Savannah is a walkable city best experienced yourself. So, plan ahead and pack your favorite shoes for an immersive trip.