Savannah, Georgia is one of the cities I’ve had on my must-visit list for years. I finally made my way there for a recent weekend getaway and it did not disappoint! This charming, historic city is unlike any other I’ve visited on the east coast. Well, it feels like Charleston, but better. There’s just something about Spanish moss covered trees and no open container law!

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, Georgia, save this list of 12 fun things to do during your stay in the “Hostess City of the South!”

Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

You can spot the two steeples of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist at several points throughout Savannah. This Roman Catholic cathedral is free to visit in the mornings and afternoons (donations are of course accepted). Prepare for a breathtaking view when you enter!

Eat Nachos at Treylor Park Hitch

Hitch was our first stop on our weekend in Savannah, and I *almost* went back a second time. The nachos were just that good! I’m not a huge chip girl, so the fact that these nachos were actually waffle fries was a game changer. Sit outside and take in the sights & sounds of the street with every bite.

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Spot the Gingerbread House

Architecture lovers, the Gingerbread House is a must-see for you! Built in 1899, this house stands out among the rest in Savannah’s Victorian neighborhood with its Steamboat Gothic design. Find it at 1929 Bull Street.

Brunch at Collins Quarter

During my pre-trip research, Collins Quarter came up on just about every Savannah recommendation list. On a busy Saturday morning, we waited just 15 minutes for an outdoor patio table at this yummy corner spot. I highly recommend the Short Rib Hash paired with a boozy brunch drink to kick off a day of exploring!

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Drinks on a riverside rooftop

The riverside area of Savannah is a bit touristy, but definitely worth a visit for your first trip. There are countless outdoor patios and rooftop bars where the drinks flow and the views do not disappoint. This photo was snapped at Rocks on the River atop the Bohemian Hotel.

Stroll through Forsyth Park

After experiencing Forsyth Park in both rainy and sunny weather, I can confirm it’s beautiful 24/7. Forsyth Park is one of the most beautiful city parks I’ve seen with statues, fountains, and Spanish moss-covered trees.

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Get lost in Alex Raskin Antiques

Alex Raskin Antiques was half creepy, half cool with its crumbling walls and multiple floors of antiques. Everything was way out of my budget, but it was a neat place to get lost for a bit. At the time of my trip, visits were by appointment only. Call in advance and check it out!

Try maté at Maté Factor

Our Airbnb host recommended this rustic Victorian corner coffee shop and I’m so glad we went. At Maté Factor, their drink specialty is maté, a South American caffeine equivalent that doesn’t give you the nerves and jitters of espresso. Try the Mocha Mint and pair it with the egg and cheese sandwich!

Browse the shelves of E Shaver Booksellers

Voted the South’s Best Bookstore in 2020, E Shaver Booksellers is probably the cutest independent bookstore I’ve ever set foot in. Three cats call this 12-room bookstore home which adds its the charm. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot them in the window!

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Walk on Jones Street

Jones Street is said to be the most beautiful street in Savannah. Take a stroll down Jones and I’m sure you’ll spot some Instagram photoshoots happening here (guilty as charged). Relax and take in the Jones Street views with an outdoor brunch at Clary’s Cafe at the intersection of Jones & Abercorn.

Drinks at Two Tides Brewing

Just a couple of blocks from The Gingerbread House, Two Tides Brewing was one of my favorite Savannah spots. We felt like locals at this house-turned-brewery in the artsy Starland District.

Explore the City Squares

On any visit to Savannah, Georgia, you’ll probably naturally stumble upon but I had to list it just in case! Savannah is made up of 22 city squares each with their own histories. This post is a great starting point to get an understanding of Savannah’s city squares and what they each represent.

There you have it! A starting point of stuff to do on your next trip to Savannah, Georgia. Know any good recommendations that I missed? Let me know in the comments so I can have an excuse to make a second trip! For more weekend getaway ideas in the Southeast, check out this post.