Savannah, GA is a charming city that offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant culture. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Savannah has something for everyone. But when is the best time to visit Savannah GA?
The answer depends on what you want to see and do in this southern gem. Savannah has four distinct seasons, each with its own pros and cons. In this article, I will explore the best places to visit and the best things to do in Savannah during each season. I will also give you some tips on how to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Savannah.
So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
Spring: The Season of Blooms and Festivals
Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Savannah, GA. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The city is adorned with colorful flowers, such as azaleas, magnolias, and dogwoods. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of jasmine and honeysuckle.
Spring is also the season of festivals in Savannah. The most famous one is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is one of the largest and oldest in the country.
Additionally, the parade attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. The parade features marching bands, floats, dancers, and of course, lots of green.
Another popular spring festival is the Savannah Music Festival, which showcases various musical genres, such as jazz, blues, classical, and world music. The festival features local and international artists who perform in various venues across the city. Furthermore, the festival also offers workshops, lectures, and educational programs for music lovers.
Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Spring:
Forsyth Park
Firstly, Forsyth Park is the largest and most iconic park in Savannah. It covers 30 acres of green space and features a stunning fountain, a fragrant garden, a playground, and a cafe. It is a great place to relax, picnic, or enjoy a concert.
Bonaventure Cemetery
Secondly, the Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most beautiful and historic cemeteries in the country. It dates back to the 18th century and is the final resting place of many famous Savannahians, such as poet Conrad Aiken, songwriter Johnny Mercer, and novelist Flannery O’Connor. Furthermore, the cemetery is known for its majestic live oaks, Spanish moss, and marble statues.
River Street
Lastly, River Street is the heart of Savannah’s waterfront. It is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. It is a great place to stroll, shop, dine, or enjoy the views of the Savannah River. Moreover, it is the site of many events and festivals, such as the First Friday Fireworks, the Savannah Craft Brew Fest, and the Oktoberfest.
Best Things to do in Savannah in Spring:
Take a Trolley Tour
Firstly, taking a trolley tour is one of the best ways to see the highlights of Savannah. You can hop on and off at your own pace and explore the historic district, the squares, the mansions, and the museums. Furthermore, you can also learn about the history, culture, and legends of Savannah from your guide.
Visit the Wormsloe Historic Site
Secondly, the Wormsloe Historic site is the oldest standing structure in Savannah. It is also one of the most famous museums in Savannah. It was built by Noble Jones, one of the original settlers of Georgia, in the 1730s. This is a colonial estate that features a tabby ruin, a museum, a nature trail, and a live oak avenue. It is a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers.
Enjoy a Ghost Tour
Thirdly, Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America. It has a dark and mysterious past that includes wars, fires, epidemics, and murders. You can join a ghost tour and visit some of the most haunted places in Savannah, such as the Sorrel-Weed House, the Mercer House, and the Colonial Park Cemetery. You can also hear some of the spooky stories and legends that haunt Savannah.
Summer: The Season of Heat and Beaches
Summer is the hottest and most humid time to visit Savannah, GA. The average temperatures can reach up to 90°F, with high humidity and frequent thunderstorms. The city can feel muggy and sticky, especially in July and August. However, summer also has its perks, such as lower prices, fewer crowds, and longer days.
Summer is the best time to visit Savannah GA if you love beaches and water activities. Savannah is close to several beautiful beaches, such as Tybee Island, Hilton Head Island, and Jekyll Island. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, or boating in the Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit some of the historic lighthouses, forts, and museums on the islands.
Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Summer:
Tybee Island
Firstly, this is the closest and most popular beach destination to Savannah. It is only 18 miles away and offers a laid-back and family-friendly atmosphere. This island has five miles of sandy beaches, a pier, a pavilion, and a marine science center. It also has a historic lighthouse, a fort, and a museum.
Hilton Head Island
Secondly, the Hilton Head Island is something that you should visit. It is a more upscale and resort-like island, about 45 miles away from Savannah. It has 12 miles of pristine beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, bike trails, and spas. Furthermore, it also has a wildlife refuge, a coastal discovery museum, and a harbor town.
Jekyll Island
Thirdly, Jekyll Island is a more secluded and natural island, about 90 miles away from Savannah. It has 10 miles of unspoiled beaches, a historic district, a turtle center, and a water park. Additionally, it also has a golf club, a tennis center, and a bike path.
First one on this list is the Savannah Botanical Gardens. It is a hidden gem in Savannah that offers a tranquil and scenic escape from the heat. It covers 10 acres of land and features a rose garden, a camellia garden, a perennial garden, and a pond. Besides, it also has a historic farmhouse, a children’s garden, and a nature trail.
Explore The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art
Secondly, do not forget to visit the SCAD Museum of Art. It is a modern and innovative museum that showcases the works of contemporary artists, designers, and students. It has a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations. Additionally, it also hosts exhibitions, lectures, and events throughout the year.
Cool off at The Savannah Rapids Park
Lastly, Rapids Park is a refreshing and fun place to visit in summer. It is located along the Savannah River and features a waterfall, a canal, and a bridge. Furthermore, it also has a visitor center, a playground, and a picnic area. You can rent a bike, a kayak, or a paddleboard and enjoy the water and the scenery.
Fall: The Season of Colors and Culture
Fall is another great time to visit Savannah, GA. The weather is cooler and drier, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Moreover, during this time, the city is decorated with autumn hues, such as red, orange, and yellow. The leaves change color and create a stunning contrast with the green moss and the white buildings.
Besides, fall is also the season of culture and art in Savannah. The most notable event is the Savannah Film Festival, which is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the country. The festival showcases independent and international films, documentaries, and shorts. Furthermore, the festival also features celebrity guests, panel discussions, and workshops.
Apart from these, another notable event in fall is the Savannah Jazz Festival. This is the oldest and largest free jazz festival in the south. The festival celebrates the legacy and diversity of jazz music, with performances by local and national artists. Besides, the festival also offers educational programs, jam sessions, and blues nights.
Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Fall:
City Market
Firstly, the City Market should be on your list! It is a four-block area that is the center of Savannah’s nightlife and entertainment. It has a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. The market is a great place to enjoy live music, comedy, and art. Additionally, it is the site of many events and festivals, such as the Oktoberfest, the Halloween Bash, and the Christmas Tree Lighting.
Savannah Historic District
Secondly, the Savannah Historic District is the oldest and most famous part of Savannah. It covers 2.5 square miles and features 22 squares, each with its own history and charm. Additionally, this also has hundreds of historic buildings, monuments, and museums. It is a great place to admire the architecture, learn about the history, and experience the culture of Savannah.
Oatland Island Wildlife Center
This is a wildlife sanctuary that houses more than 150 animals, including wolves, cougars, bobcats, alligators, and birds of prey. Furthermore, it also has a heritage homestead, a barnyard, and a forest trail. It is a great place to see and learn about the native wildlife of Georgia.
Best Things to do in Savannah in Fall:
Take a Carriage Ride
Firstly, it is mandatory that you take a carriage ride. It is one of the most romantic and relaxing ways to see Savannah. You can ride in a horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Besides, you can also choose from different themes, such as historic, haunted, or private.
Visit The Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters
Secondly, the Owens-Thomas House is one of the most important and impressive historic houses in Savannah. It was built in 1819 and is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Additionally, it also has one of the earliest and most intact urban slave quarters in the south. Besides, you can take a guided tour and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked in this house.
Enjoy a Picnic at Skidaway Island State Park
This is a scenic and serene park that offers a natural escape from the city. It has six miles of trails, a boardwalk, an observation tower, and a playground. Moreover, it also has picnic areas, campsites, and cabins. You can enjoy the views of the salt marsh, the forest, and the wildlife.
Winter: The Season of Lights and Holidays
Winter is the coldest and least crowded time to visit Savannah, GA. The average temperatures can drop to 40°F, with occasional frost and snow. The city is quieter and more peaceful, with fewer tourists and events. However, winter also has its charm, especially during the holiday season.
Additionally, winter is the best time to visit Savannah GA if you love lights and holidays. Savannah is a festive city that celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve with style and spirit. The city is illuminated with thousands of lights, candles, and decorations. The streets are filled with music, parades, and fireworks.
Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Winter:
Broughton Street
This is the main shopping street in Savannah. It has a variety of stores, boutiques, cafes, and theaters. It is also the site of the annual Holiday Tree Lighting, which kicks off the holiday season in Savannah. The tree is a 50-foot-tall Norway spruce that is decorated with 10,000 lights and ornaments.
Savannah Theatre
This is the oldest continually operating theater in the country. It was built in 1818 and has hosted many famous performers, such as Oscar Wilde, W.C. Fields, and Lillian Russell. It is also the home of the Savannah Christmas Show, which is a musical extravaganza that features songs, dances, and comedy.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises
This is a unique and fun way to see Savannah from the water. You can board a riverboat and enjoy a cruise along the Savannah River. You can also choose from different themes, such as the Dinner Cruise, the Gospel Cruise, or the New Year’s Eve Cruise.
Firstly, you must visit the Davenport House Museum. It is a historic house museum that showcases the life and style of the early 19th century. It was built in 1820 by Isaiah Davenport, a prominent builder and architect. Moreover, it is also the site of the annual Holiday Evening Tours, which offer a glimpse of how the Davenport family celebrated Christmas in the 1820s.
Explore The Pin Point Heritage Museum
Secondly, do not forget the Pin Point Museum. It is a cultural museum that preserves and celebrates the history and traditions of the Gullah/Geechee people. The Gullah/Geechee are descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. The museum is located in a former oyster and crab factory and features exhibits, artifacts, and stories.
Enjoy a Hot Chocolate at The Gryphon Tea Room
Lastly, visit the Gryphon Tea Room. It is a cozy and elegant tea room that offers a variety of teas, coffees, pastries, and sandwiches. This tea-room is located in a former pharmacy building that dates back to 1926. It is a great place to warm up and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: The Best Time to Visit Savannah GA is Anytime
Savannah, GA is a city that has something to offer in every season. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, history, or fun, you will find it in Savannah. You can enjoy the blooms and festivals in spring, the beaches and water activities in summer, the colors and art in fall, or the lights and holidays in winter.
The best time to visit Savannah GA depends on your preferences and interests. You can choose the season that suits your budget, schedule, and mood. No matter when you visit, you will be welcomed by the hospitality, charm, and beauty of Savannah.
Savannah is a city that will captivate you and make you want to come back again and again. It is a city that will make you fall in love with the south. It is a city that will make you say, “Savannah, I’m in full swing.”
Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.
The specific geographical location of New Orleans, especially the proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, blesses the city with a vast coastal landscape.
So, along with the local heritage and culture of the city, the beaches and beach activities on the Gulf Coast can be a prominent factor in boosting tourism here.
From Bay Saint Louis, the closest beach to New Orleans, to more beautiful options like the Biloxi Beaches, await you with a lot of excitement!
No wonder people are opting for vacation rentals near the New Orleans beach locations and cruise trips in the Mississippi River.
Adventure Life is such a service, organizing a Lower Mississippi River Cruise. You can contact them at +1.800.344.6118 to know more about the cruise trip.
Along with these cruise trips, many other activities like fishing, nature strolls, hiking, and bird watching make the beautiful beaches in New Orleans a lot of fun!
Charmed and impressed with these beaches, we have created a beach tour guide at Tour and Travel. Let’s explore the places!
Closest Beach To New Orleans | Explore The Gulf Shores At Their Best
Summer days in New Orleans can be extra balmy. So, winter, especially January, is the ideal time to explore the beaches here. The average temperature in New Orleans ranges between 43-62 degrees F and rarely there is snowfall in the city.
All these weather conditions add to beach fun and vibe in New Orleans, and these are places you need to be at for some beach fun.
1. Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi | The Closest Beach To New Orleans
Distance from New Orleans: 58.7 Miles
An hour's drive from New Orleans will take you to Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi. The water here is shallow, but the peaceful ambiance and stretches of white sand more than makeup for it.
Enjoy sunbathing and crabbing here on a sunny day, and let your kids build adorable sand castles.
2. White Sands Lake Day Beach
Distance from New Orleans: 74 Miles
Franklinton, on the north of New Orleans, has White Sands Lake Day Beach. This is a man-made and spring-fed lake that has become a popular tourist destination near New Orleans.
The Aqua Park is the prime attraction here. Your little ones will love playing on the slides and with inflatable water toys here. You can even play beach volleyball, kayaking, and boating here.
For a relaxing experience, you can even try full-day cooking. The entry fee to the Aqua Park is $18 for adults and $12 for children.
3. Biloxi Beaches
Distance from New Orleans (90.2 Miles)
The City of Biloxi has been one of the forerunners in restoring the beaches after the rampage of Hurricane Katrina. On its southern border, Biloxi is surrounded by a beautiful white sand beach, the Harrison County Sand Beach.
With a whopping 26 miles of shimmering white sand, the Harrison County Sand Beach is the largest man-made white sand beach in the world. You can take a stroll along the pedestrian pathway here and on your way, you will also find some magnificent sand dunes.
The beach is also known for hosting special events. You can contact the Harrison County Sand Beach Authority at (228) 896-0055.
Moreover, you can take a drive along Beach Boulevard to enjoy the sound of the Mississippi and meet the historic oak trees. You will even find the antebellum homes here.
4. Grand Isle State Park
Distance from New Orleans (110 Miles)
Grand Isle State Park is next on our list of closest beaches to New Orleans. If you want to experience the coastal wildlife of Louisiana, there can be no better place than your destination.
Nestled at the southeast corner of Louisiana, the Grand Isle State Park is accessible to visitors with an entry fee of just $3.
Here, you can be a part of the deep-water fishing excursions and wildlife viewing. If you are here for fishing, don’t miss the longest fishing pier in Louisiana. It is 400 feet in length.
Do you want to make the most of the Grand Isle State Park fishing experience? Why don’t you get in touch with the best fish charter services, like the Southern Angler Fishing Charters, and explore the options? You can reach out to them at +1 504-458-7328.
Furthermore, this state park has a lot of hiking trails that you can explore. You will even enjoy birdwatching here with varieties like seagulls and pelicans displaying their prowess.
5. Dauphin Island, Alabama
Distance from New Orleans (148 Miles)
Dauphin Island on the border of Alabama and Mississippi, is a great spot for family vacation near New Orleans. This will be your ideal destination if you especially want to relax and have a low-key holiday.
Like many other beaches in New Orleans or beyond, it does not experience a rush of visitors. However, if you want to know about the local history, you will love visiting Fort Gaines here.
This historical site has an association with the American Civil War. You must pay $10 for adults and $5 for children to visit this historical fort.
Moreover, Dauphin Island is a wonderful location for avid birders. It is home to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Covering a span of 165 acres, this bird sanctuary will allow you to walk through the trails and meet winged wonders.
You will find osprey, gray catbirds, blue jays, and yellow-rumped warblers here.
No wonder that the American Bird Conservancy has termed Dauphin Island as the "Globally Import Bird Area.” Dauphin Island is also “America's Birdiest City."
6. Orange Beach, Alabama
Distance from New Orleans: Around 200 Miles
Orange Beach, Alabama, is not the closest beach to New Orleans. However, covering the 200-mile distance between the two is worth it because of the pristine shores. Looking at the stretches of white sand shores is an experience in itself.
Another major attraction on Orange Beach is the coastal cuisine. In fact, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism organized a specialized Foodie’s getaway for a gastronomic tour of the area.
Further, there are dedicated food trails like the “Oyster Trail,” “Burger Trail,” “Shrimp Trail,” etc. The Mardi Gras Food & Drink trail is another attraction for food lovers here.
You can email Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism at Info@AlabamasBeaches.com to learn more about this food tour.
You can even get real-time updates about the city of Orange Beach, Alabama, from the government website or by contacting the authorities at 251-981-6979.
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Taking a vacation by the ocean is a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. However, simply visiting the beach for a day leaves little opportunity to truly unwind.
Opting to stay at a beach hotel allows fully immersing in the coastal atmosphere. Quality accommodations near the surf provide an ideal home base for exploring the area.
Checkout Seven Prime Advantages Of Staying At A Beach Hotel
Here are 7 key advantages to booking a room right on the sand.
1. Ultimate Convenience And Access To The Water
Staying steps from the ocean at a beach hotel like Princess Bayside Beach Hotel ensures the greatest ease and flexibility. Waking up to stunning views and walking right outside to enjoy activities is unmatched. Guests can slip down to the shore whenever inspiration strikes without needing transport. Concierges also offer beach chairs, towels, and other amenities for maximum relaxation. Simply step out the door for a morning swim or easy sunset stroll.
2. All Inclusive Meals And Activities
Many beach hotels provide all-inclusive packages covering dining, drinks, and water sports. Options save guests money versus paying out of pocket each time. Families appreciate scheduled kids' programs too. All-day access means never having to leave for meals or miss storm-watching from cozy indoor areas. Some properties even hold cooking classes, live music, and cultural presentations enhancing the experience. Packages ensure making the most of every beach moment.
3. Exceptional Service And Amenities
High-end beachfront resorts understand vacationers desire premier customer service and nice touches. The attentive staff takes care of every need from laundry to beach equipment delivery. Most five-star properties offer top-tier dining, pools, spas, fitness centers, and entertainment. Special requests get addressed promptly. Luxurious beds, bath products, and indoor/outdoor spaces pamper guests relaxing in style right at the shoreline.
4. Picturesque Natural Surroundings
Spending days immersed in stunning ocean vistas and natural coastal beauty recharges the soul. Waking to the sunrise sparkling on waves or watching seabirds soar relaxes the mind. Exploring rock pools, dunes, and coastal trails offers adventures. Strolling along pristine sands offers unique seascapes, landscapes, and wildlife glimpses impossible anywhere else. Gentle ocean sounds lull guests to peaceful slumbers every night in these special environments.
5. Convenience For Beaches, Activities, And Local Exploration
Well-located beach hotels provide the perfect launch point for fun. Walking or short drives access many area attractions versus long commutes. Guests easily zip between surfing lessons, whale-watching trips, shopping, and sightseeing on a whim. Concierges offer area expertise too. Centrally situated properties allow leisurely days focusing on the beach or active touring at nearby parks, fishing charters, and cultural sites.
Related: A Guide To Traverse City Beach – 10 Best Beaches To Explore
6. Families Appreciate Kid-Friendly Amenities
Beach vacations with children require certain comforts. Top resorts meet needs with kids' pools, clubs, game rooms, and more. Parents rest easy knowing children stay busy and safe. Spacious suites let families spread out comfortably. All food service, babysitting, and activity coordination means relaxation even with young visitors. Being right on the sand also provides instant family entertainment together whenever schedules permit.
7. Romance And Celebrations
Couples and groups seeking an idyllic backdrop choose beach hotels for sentimental trips. Private in-room jets and whirlpool tubs coupled with stunning ocean panoramas set an intimate mood. Many feature top-rated restaurants perfect for romantic dinners overlooking the surf. Resorts also cater weddings, vow renewals, anniversaries, and other special occasions magnificently. Guests build lasting memories in these dream coastal settings.
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Spain, with its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, tantalizing food, and picturesque landscapes, is a country that captures the heart of every traveler. If it's your first time visiting, the prospect can be both exciting and a little daunting. How do you navigate this unfamiliar yet enchanting territory?
Don't worry. These five insider tips are just what you need to make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Here's what you should keep in mind.
1 - Understand Spanish Culture
Familiarize yourself with Spanish customs and norms before your trip. Spanish people are known for their laid-back lifestyle and love for socializing. In Spain, meal times are later than what you might be used to; lunch typically starts at 2 p.m., and dinner at 9 p.m. or later.
Siestas are a real thing, with many shops closing in the afternoon for a few hours. The nightlife is vibrant and starts late. And one more thing: remember the Spanish love for celebrations and festivals — you might just find one happening during your visit!
2 - Explore Iconic Landmarks
Spain is rich in history and boasts of numerous World Heritage sites. From the royal palaces in Madrid, the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra in Granada, to the historic old town of Toledo, there's a lot to see.
You should — of course — prioritize your itinerary according to your interests and time constraints, but don't miss out on these marvels.
3 - Discover Hidden Gems
While tourist hotspots are great, the real charm of Spain lies in its hidden corners. Venture off the beaten path and explore local markets, try a cooking class, take a flamenco lesson, or visit a local vineyard. These unique experiences will give you a taste of authentic Spanish life.
If you're documenting the trip, going off the beaten path also gives you a chance to capture moments and sights that most travelers never get to experience. There's plenty of good public transportation in Spain, but if you'd like to explore, it can be smart to rent a car or charter a Yacht. The latter is easier than you might think, as the SeekSail website shows.
4 - Optimize Your Itinerary
Don't make the mistake of cramming too much into your itinerary. Spain is a country to be savored. Traveling between cities can be time-consuming, so it's better to explore a few places thoroughly rather than trying to see them all.
Remember to plan your day around the Spanish rhythm. You should take advantage of the late morning to explore, relax during the siesta hours, and soak in the nightlife.
5 - Pack Appropriately
Spanish weather can be quite variable. Summers can be scorching hot, while winters are cold, especially in the north. Pack light, breathable clothing for summer and layers for winter. Don't forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you'll be doing!
Remember, traveling is all about immersing yourself in the local culture and stepping out of your comfort zone. Use these tips to truly engage with Spain's captivating charm. And who knows, you might even come back home with a touch of the Spanish zest for life!
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