Savannah | USA Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most enchanting and historically rich cities in the southeastern United States. Known for its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, antebellum architecture, and vibrant coastal culture, Savannah offers a uniquely Southern experience that blends the charm of the Old South with a modern, artistic sensibility. It is the oldest city in Georgia, founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, and it served as the colonial capital of the Province of Georgia.

Below is a detailed overview of Savannah, covering its history, layout, attractions, culture, cuisine, climate, and more:

1. Historical Significance

Savannah holds a unique place in American history:

Colonial Foundation: Founded as the first settlement of the Georgia colony, Savannah was designed with a visionary city plan based on a series of squares and wards, making it one of the earliest examples of urban planning in America.

American Revolution and Civil War: During the Revolution, Savannah was under British control. In the Civil War, it was spared from destruction during Sherman’s March to the Sea, as Union forces found the city so beautiful that General Sherman presented it as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln in 1864.

Preservation Movement: In the 20th century, the city was at the heart of one of the nation’s first and most successful historic preservation movements, which saved many of its original buildings and squares from demolition.

2. Urban Design and Layout

Savannah is internationally renowned for its layout:

The Oglethorpe Plan: Created by founder James Oglethorpe, the city’s grid system features 22 historic squares (out of an original 24), each surrounded by historic homes, churches, and public buildings.

Historic District: Covering over 2 square miles, the Savannah Historic District is one of the largest in the U.S. It’s a walkable area filled with preserved architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, shaded squares, fountains, and monuments.

River Street: This cobblestone street along the Savannah River is lined with converted warehouses that now house shops, restaurants, and galleries.

3. Major Attractions

Forsyth Park: A 30-acre park in the heart of the city, known for its beautiful fountain, walking paths, and open green spaces. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: An architectural masterpiece with stained-glass windows and ornate interiors, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the South.”

Savannah Historic District: Offers numerous house museums, including the Mercer-Williams House (featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil), the Owens-Thomas House, and the Davenport House.

Bonaventure Cemetery: A hauntingly beautiful cemetery famous for its live oaks and statuary, immortalized in literature and art.

City Market: A four-block open-air market and gathering place filled with art, food, and music, reflecting the city’s lively spirit.

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD): This prestigious art school has helped revitalize the city and contributes significantly to its cultural vibrancy.

4. Cultural Landscape

Savannah has a deeply rooted cultural scene that merges tradition with innovation:

Art and Design: SCAD's presence has infused the city with a contemporary artistic edge. Art galleries, installations, and student exhibitions are common throughout the city.

Music and Performance: The Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Jazz Festival, and Savannah Philharmonic bring classical, jazz, blues, and world music to the forefront. The Lucas Theatre and Trustees Theater host live performances, films, and lectures.

Film and Literature: Savannah is a popular filming location due to its historic beauty. The book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt significantly boosted tourism and national interest in the city’s Gothic charm.

5. Culinary Scene

Savannah’s food culture is a rich fusion of Southern tradition and coastal influence:

Southern Staples: Dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, crab stew, low country boil, and biscuits are mainstays.

Seafood: Given its coastal location, fresh oysters, blue crab, and wild Georgia shrimp are integral to local menus.

Fine Dining: Restaurants like The Grey (housed in a former Greyhound bus terminal), Elizabeth on 37th, and Husk Savannah blend tradition with culinary innovation.

Historic Restaurants: The Olde Pink House, set in an 18th-century mansion, offers a quintessential Savannah dining experience with Southern flair.

Sweets and Markets: Don’t miss Leopold’s Ice Cream, one of America’s oldest ice cream parlors, or Byrd Cookie Company for Southern-style cookies and snacks.

6. Events and Festivals

Savannah’s events showcase its rich traditions and artistic leanings:

Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade: One of the largest and most spirited St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the U.S.

Savannah Music Festival: A multi-week event bringing international performers across genres.

SCAD Savannah Film Festival: One of the premier student and professional film festivals in the Southeast.

Savannah Food & Wine Festival: Celebrating the city’s culinary heritage with tastings, chef demonstrations, and wine pairings.

Savannah Book Festival: A literary event that brings prominent authors to speak in the city's squares and theaters.

7. Natural Environment and Climate

Savannah enjoys a humid subtropical climate:

Summers: Hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

Winters: Mild and short, with rare occurrences of frost or snow.

Spring and Fall: The best times to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes.

The city’s proximity to the Atlantic coast and nearby marshlands contributes to its lush, green surroundings. The live oak trees draped with Spanish moss, azalea blooms, and the riverfront vistas create one of the most picturesque settings in the American South.

8. Coastal Proximity and Outdoor Activities

Tybee Island: Just 20 minutes from downtown, Tybee Island offers beaches, lighthouse tours, and water sports.

Salt Marshes and Rivers: Kayaking, boating, and dolphin watching are popular, thanks to the city’s access to the Savannah River and coastal estuaries.

Golf and Parks: Several golf courses and nature parks are located nearby, including Skidaway Island State Park and Wormsloe Historic Site, famous for its oak-lined avenue.

9. Transportation and Accessibility

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport: Offers direct flights to major U.S. cities.

Historic Trolley Tours: Widely used by tourists to explore the city’s squares and historic sites with knowledgeable guides.

Walking and Carriage Rides: The compact size of the Historic District makes it perfect for walking or horse-drawn carriage tours.

Public Transit: The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service throughout the city and suburbs.

10. Economy and Living

Savannah’s economy is anchored in:

Tourism: A major economic driver, supporting hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

Port of Savannah: One of the largest and fastest-growing container ports in the U.S., vital for logistics and international trade.

Manufacturing and Aerospace: Companies like Gulfstream Aerospace are headquartered in the region.

Art and Education: SCAD has helped position the city as a creative and cultural center.

Savannah is a city where history lingers in the air, art pulses through its veins, and every corner seems curated for charm. Whether you’re walking beneath mossy oaks in a quiet square, enjoying a plate of shrimp and grits, or watching the sun set over the riverfront, Savannah offers a timeless, soul-stirring experience that few places can rival.