Treat the kids (and yourself) to a history lesson by visiting
Savannah, Georgia. Established in 1733, “Georgia’s First City” is
rich in history and offers an eclectic mix of celebrated elegance
and contemporary flair sure to please everyone in your family.
Savannah Weather
With moderate year-round temperatures, Savannah enjoys mild
winters at an average of 51 degrees and warm, humid summers
averaging 80 degrees. Scattered showers in the spring and fall
are a regular occurrence in this riverside city, typically lasting 15-
20 minutes.
Savannah's Historic District
Savannah’s historic district is a thriving centre with 23 charming
neighborhood squares, most of which feature an active water
fountain, monument, bench or statue of a great figure in Savannah
history.
The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has renovated
many of the buildings in the historic district to their original
appearance. The contemporary influence the SCAD students
bring is evident by the swanky nigh clubs, bars and coffee shops
that cater to this Generation X crowd.
This “Hostess City of the South” is also a center of African
American heritage, marked by the many historic sites, museums,
monuments and tours dedicated to over 250 years of contributions
African Americans have made to Savannah’s history.
Savannah Accommodations
With over 10,000 rooms, Savannah’s inns, hotels, and bed &
breakfasts offer a variety of comfortable, family-friendly
accommodations at a range of prices.
The Marshall House (123 E. Broughton St., 800-589-6304) in the
historic district is the oldest hotel in Savannah. This bed &
breakfast-style inn features quaint rooms and elegantly appointed
common areas. The Hampton Inn – Savannah North (7050 Hwy.
21, I95 exit 109) is a moderately priced hotel located in greater
Savannah. Offering complimentary continental breakfast, this site
is a great family value.
If your visit takes you to relaxing Tybee Island, check out the
Lighthouse Inn (16 Meddin Dr.) for a peaceful atmosphere and a
warm, friendly feel.
Savannah Family Activities
The one-hour trolley tours offer the opportunity to take note of
places of interest that you will want to return to later during your
visit.
Take a carriage ride through the historic district and experience
the charming architecture and unique “personality” of Savannah’s
downtown areas. Parents and teens will enjoy the haunted history
walking tour, which provides a spooky glimpse into Savannah’s
ghostly secrets.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island, located about 18 miles east of Savannah on the
Atlantic Ocean, is a quaint community featuring five square miles
of beaches and water activities such as kayaking, surfing and
sailing. Take the kids to the Tybee Lighthouse and Museum (just
off US 80). This landmark represents the original lighthouse
constructed in 1736, which marked the entrance to the Savannah
River.
The Tybee Island Marine Science Centre showcases exhibits of
marine life from the Georgia coast, and offers interactive programs
for children.
Scouts of all ages will enjoy visiting the Juliet Gordon Low House.
The birth home of the founder of the Girl Scouts displays original
artwork and keepsakes of Low’s.
Savannah Restaurants
With views of the Savannah River and its paddlewheel boats, River
Street offers a variety of restaurants located in converted cotton
warehouses. Or for a more unique dining experience, the River
Street Riverboat Company (912-232-6404) operates cruises for
lunch, brunch and dinner.
City Market (Jefferson at W. St. Julian Street) a hub of nightlife in
Savannah, also offers several eateries. From elegant dining to
more casual faire, City Market’s charm offers dining options for everyone, as well as small shops for quick snacks, gourmet candies or gelato.
Shopping in Savannah
Stroll down River Street where you will find bookstores and
specialty shops. Visit the River Street Marketplace, a bustling
open-air bazaar featuring unique cultural gifts from Africa, Asia and
other countries, as well as Savannah collectables.
City Market features an array of shopping options to suit many
interests. This historic area, which began in 1755, features 23 art
studios and 8 art galleries and is located just two blocks from
River Street.
The historic district features small boutiques and art galleries that
wind throughout the neighborhood squares, showcasing unique fashions and original artwork by local designers and artists.
Savannah’s “Hollywood” Connections
A jewel of the south, Savannah’s charm and elegance has attracted the attention of Hollywood filmmakers for decades. Arguably one of the best-known films to feature Savannah as its
backdrop is the Clint Eastwood directed “Midnight in the Garden of
Good and Evil”.
Other notable motion pictures filmed in Savannah include “The
Legend of Baggar Vance” starring Wil Smith, and “The General’s
Daughter” starring John Travolta. Not to be forgotten is the
famous scene in the movie “Forest Gump”, where the lead
character, played by Tom Hanks, sits on a park bench in
Chippewa Square at Bull and McDonough streets, munching on chocolate candies while reflecting on the unpredictable nature of life.
About the Author
Anita Paul is a freelance writer, marketing consultant and owner of The Write Image, a marketing communications company that caters to small businesses and non-profit organizations. With over ten years experience in marketing and public relations, she is the author of "Take The Mystery Out Of Marketing" a guide to help business owners create, execute and evaluate a strategic marketing plan. She can be reached at www.thewriteimage.net.