Things to Do in Savannah
Besides Fusion – A Baker’s Dozen
Each year, I put together a list of fun things to do in the Fusion host city. This year we’ll be in Savannah, Georgia, which is one of my favorite cities anywhere. This was an easy list for me to prepare since there are so many great things to do in and around Savannah. If you’re arriving before Fusion or sticking around awhile after the conference wraps, here are some adventures you might consider.
By Barry Dahl, Teaching & Learning Advocate, D2L
Steps from the Statue
There are places included that are within walking distance of the hotel district and a few others that might require some sort of wheeled transportation. As far as distances go, I measured from the African-American Monument statue just off River Street by the Savannah Belles Ferry Landing.
Restaurant
The Olde Pink House
Savannah has hundreds of restaurants to choose from. No doubt you can find lots of great places with just a simple search, but here’s one that captures the essence of Savannah and the south. I’m not saying that this is the best food in Savannah, but for a combination of Southern cooking, Southern charm, and old Savannah architecture – The Olde Pink is hard to beat.
Museum
The Graveface
Lots of museum choices in Savannah, but here’s one that’s unique. Eclectic mix of actual artifacts from the worlds of true crime, cults, sideshow history, 1950s roadside attractions, and the occult. For example, the Graveface is home to the largest collection of John Wayne Gacy artwork.
Mental Health Refresher
Pounce Cat Cafe
Need a little pick-me-up after a hard day of conferencing? How about some cat therapy? Always works for me.
Need to Cool Down?
Leopold’s Ice Cream
If you’re into Tutti Frutti ice cream, Leopold’s invented it!
Supernatural
Savannah Psychics
Spiritual Readings, Tarot Readings, Palm Readings, Psychic Readings & Mediumship Readings. You could always go on one of the many Ghost Tours, but how about a more personal other-worldly experience?
Savannah History
Bonaventure Don, Cemetery Tour
You really haven’t lived until you’ve spent a couple hours in a cemetery. As Don Teuton says on his website, “Stroll with me through the Real Garden of Good and Evil. All fact. No fiction. You name your own price.”
Celebration
Black History Tour of Savannah
Rita Fuller-Yates is a Black Historian, Author, Professor, and Entrepreneur who says “It’s our time to take back our narrative and tell our stories. We understand why it was done in the past, but now it’s our turn.” On one of these tours you won’t just learn about black history, you’ll celebrate the achievements by the black community over the centuries.
Indigenous History
Massie Heritage Center
You’ll find the largest collection of Yamacraw American Indian artifacts in the country at the Massie Heritage Center. After 118 years of service as a public school, the Massie School started the transition to a “Heritage Interpretation Center” for the students of Savannah and Chatham County. Over 50 years later it is still managed and maintained by Savannah-Chatham Public Schools and is open to the public.
Constitutional Amendments
Prohibition Museum and Speakeasy
Take a trip back in time and explore the spirited clash between the Wets and the Drys—a battle that reshaped America in unforgettable ways. Journey through the timeline, starting with the early stirrings of the Temperance movement, all the way to the roaring Prohibition era. Trivia: can you name the major sport that developed from Prohibition’s bootlegging operations?
Confections
Savannah’s Candy Kitchen or River Street Sweets
I love Pecan Pralines so much that I started making them myself and now all my tennis buddies look forward to when I bring some to share. My first exposure to pralines was at one of these two candy kitchens. They’re both very good, and a bit competitive with each other. I also recommend the pecan turtles/gophers that they each sell. These are iconic candy stores facing the river in Savannah.
Libations
Alley Cat Lounge
No shortage of bars and taverns in Savannah. Something you might want to know is that Savannah has a “To-Go Cup Area” where it’s legal to walk around the Historic District with a to-go alcoholic beverage, if that’s your thing. Stop in a River Street bar and ask for a beer to go, and then just keep strolling down the street, and I repeat, if that’s your thing.
Although not in the To-Go Area, the Alley Cat has a great reputation for being different from the rest. Think of a speakeasy-style basement bar, dimly lit where they pay attention to the science of mixology, and you won’t be disappointed.
Laughter
Savannah for Morons Comedy Trolley Tour
“If you have a sense of humor and want to be entertained for an hour and a half while seeing the historic squares, the riverfront, the Spanish moss and Julia Roberts, I couldn’t recommend the Morons more…We did both a “normal” tour and the Savannah for Morons tour and enjoyed this much more…5 Stars. Would hit it again and tell my friends.” – some rando from Ohio.
All-Day Adventure
Tybee Island
Tybee Island, affectionately known as “Savannah’s Beach,” is a laid-back barrier island just east of Savannah, offering five miles of scenic public beaches perfect for sunbathing and ocean fun. Visitors can enjoy a casual dining scene with fresh local seafood, explore charming cottages and shops, and visit iconic spots like the historic Tybee Lighthouse and the Marine Science Center. With its relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and picturesque coastal views, Tybee makes an ideal seaside complement to a Savannah getaway.
Looking for more about Savannah?
Visit Savannah has additional travel resources for Fusion attendees, including a show your badge program for local discounts.
Enjoy your time in Savannah and the surrounding area. Hope to see you at Fusion!