Many travelers head for the highways as winter approaches the Northeast because of the inevitable drop in temperatures. Here is a retirement travel idea for those retirees headed down Route 95 to Florida on their 1,300 mile annual pilgrimage. By the time you get to Savannah Georgia you will still have a full day’s travel to your destination. Above all, stop in Savannah and spend a day (or two) relaxing and preparing for the remainder of your journey. After all, you will be in Florida for the next few months anyway. Therefore, a day or two in Savannah will offer a welcome respite. Additionally, it is a fascinating City.
Ever since the book, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” was published in 1994 we have been fascinated by Savannah.
The book explores the charm, secrets, and social dynamics of Savannah’s high society. That is to say, it provides a fascinating portrayal of the city and its inhabitants.
Combine that with the fact that Savannah has a reputation of being one of the most well preserved cities in the United States.
We intended to find out more.
History of Savannah Georgia
Savannah is famous for its historic architecture. In other words, the city is filled with beautiful mansions, churches, and other buildings that have stood for centuries.
Oglethrope Plan
Savannah, Georgia was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe as the first capital of the Province of Georgia. Oglethorpe’s vision for the city was to establish a community where persecuted English debtors and religious refugees could start over and enjoy religious freedom.
His design for the city called for 22 leafy squares. The City was divided into a grid pattern with a series of squares interspersed throughout the city. Most importantly, the squares were interconnected by wide, tree-lined streets, offering a picturesque and inviting atmosphere.
Cobblestone streets and stunning antebellum architecture flourish throughout the City. These beautifully restored building are located around the many heavily treed squares.
City Squares
Johnson Square is the original central hub of the city. For example, the Christ Church (built in 1838) and the Johnson Square Fountain are located around the square.
Wright Square, honors the Native American chief who aided the early English settlers. In addition, the famous PIRATE’S HOUSE restaurant is on this square. It is known for great food and good ambiance.
Telfair Square is home to the Telfair Academy, a neoclassical mansion built in the early 19th century.
Madison Square, named after U.S. President James Madison, features the Green-Meldrim House. During the Civil War the Union General, William Sherman, stayed here.
Of course you will want to visit Chippewa Square. Most importantly, this is where Tom Hank’s bench in the movie “Forrest Gump” is located.
Forsyth Park, although not technically a square, is a large public park with a central fountain. Firstly, the park serves as the centerpiece of Savannah’s historic district surrounded by elegant, historical mansions. Secondly, it is a popular spot for concerts and family outings.
Savannah’s River Street
Another highlight of the Historic District is Savannah’s bustling River Street. River Street is lined with converted cotton warehouses-turned-shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Therefore, they each have spectacular views of the Savannah River.
The old Central of Georgia Railway Station on Martin Luther King Jr Blvd houses the impressive Savannah History Museum. The museum showcases the city’s development from its colonial beginnings to the present day. Firstly, it features exhibits on the Revolutionary War and slave history. Secondly, it highlights the influential past residents of the city; like Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of Girl Scouts and Jonny Mercer, famous singer and song writer.
Where to Stay
To complete your Savannah experience choose from a range of exceptional accommodations that reflect the city’s charm and hospitality. For example, the Mansion on Forsyth Park is a lavish choice with its grand architecture and luxurious amenities. On the other hand, the Marshall House offers a historic ambiance with its charming rooms and convenient location in the heart of the Historic District. Similarly, on Gwinnett Street, is the Print Makers Inn. Meanwhile, the Planters Inn, on Abercorn Street, offers an excellent location for easy sightseeing.
SCADA
Our biggest surprise was to discover the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and how it has changed the City of Savannah in a most positive way.
Over the years, SCAD had become a beacon of creativity and innovation, attracting aspiring artists and designers from all corners of the world.
SCAD recognized the potential in the old and neglected buildings scattered throughout Savannah. Rather than letting these architectural gems fade away, the college decided to breathe new life into them. With a keen eye for revitalization, SCAD purchased these buildings, one by one, with a vision in mind.
The first building to undergo the transformation was an abandoned warehouse in the heart of the city. Once a quiet and forgotten structure, it now hums with energy as an art gallery.
Next on the list was a dilapidated mansion that had lost its former grandeur. With careful restoration, the once-decrepit estate became a vibrant hub for fashion design, where aspiring designers create exquisite garments and showcase them in dazzling fashion shows.
One by one, SCAD’s restoration projects continue with unwavering determination. An abandoned theater transformed into an intimate cinema, where students and locals alike could appreciate the art of storytelling on the big screen. A forgotten elementary school was reborn as a hub for digital media, nurturing the next generation of animators, game designers, and filmmakers.
SCAD’s dedication to preserving the city’s architectural heritage did not go unnoticed. The community embraced the college’s efforts, and the refurbished buildings became cultural landmarks, drawing visitors and tourists from far and wide. The city’s skyline has changed. Historic structures now seamlessly blend with the modern creative spaces.
Low Country Trifecta
Savannah Georgia is the southern most city in the Low Country that deserves the acclaim for true Southern Hospitality and Charm. Along with the other two, Charleston, SC and Beaufort, SC these three cities offer the traveler an opportunity to relax, enjoy life with good times and good food.
