12 Incredible Savannah Historical Sites to Add to Your Savannah, GA Itinerary
Last Updated on: 12th July 2025, 07:25 pm
The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah is filled with incredible historic sites. The most important Savannah historical sites you must include on your trip to Savannah include the Mercer-Williams House Museum, Bonaventure Cemetary, the gorgeous Savannah Cathedral and the Juliette Gordon Lowe Historic District (of Girl Scout fame!)
Cate’s Quick Look Travel Cheat-Sheet for a Last-Minute Trip to Savannah
| 🏰 Must‑see historical landmarks | Take the History and Sightseeing Trolley Tour (270 years of history in just 90 minutes!) |
| 🎶 Most popular activity | Enjoy a 1.5 Riverboat Narrated Harbor Sightseeing Cruise on Savannah’s famous Riverboat! |
| 👻 Unique experience | Savannah Ghosts & Graveyard Tour (You won’t regret it – Savannah is full of incredible stories and spooky graveyards!) |
| 🏨 Lovely hotels for an overnight | The Olde Harbour Inn – Stunning river views in the Historic District ($$$) Springhill Suites by Marriott – Large rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a short walk from the Historic District Hotel Bardo Savannah – Boutique-style hotel with chic, stylish décor and a rooftop bar |
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A Brief History of Savannah, GA from a Local (almost!)
Savannah is one of the richest cities in America for both revolutionary-era history and a bit of scandelous modern history! Visiting Savannah is also incredible for art, delicious Southern cuisine, and some of the most beautiful and walkable city streets anywhere. There are also hundreds of Savannah historical sites – some world-famous and some more obscure. This guide will introduce you to the very best of Savannah historical sites that I grew up visiting!
My mother grew up right outside of Savannah, in Richmond Hill, George (historical in its own right as the Summer home of Henry Ford!) and my father spent years as one of the key TV news reporters in Savannah for WTOC. Although I was born during a short period of time they lived in KY, Savannah is where my parents met and married, and I consider Savannah a second home having made countless visits there to see my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins growing up.
There are so many Savannah historical sites because the city was founded in 1733 along an important river dividing Georgia and what became South Carolina. Savannah’s history is intricately tied with the State of Georgia itself – and the original Province of Georgia was founded the same day as Savannah.
Due to its proximity to the river, Savannah became an important commercial port in the fledgling colonies.
By the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War, Savannah was so essential that it became the site of the Siege of Savannah after British troops captured it in 1778, an alliance of American and French troops (explaining some of the remarkable French influence in Savannah!) unsuccessfully tried to take the city back.
When the United States later broke out into Civil War, Savannah had become the sixth most populous city in the Confederacy and a prime target for Sherman’s March to the Sea. Ultimately this led to a peaceful surrender to Union troops.
But Savannah’s history didn’t stop in the 18th and 19th centuries! From its victories, like being home to the first state-chartered public university in the country, to its tragedies, like the fire of 1820, to serving as the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA – Savannah’s years of history are still unfolding!
The Best Savannah Historical Sites To Visit
Below are my personal favorite Savannah historical sites to visit – in rough order of how I suggest you prioritize them on your visit to Savannah, GA. Unsurprisingly for Sacred Wanderings – I contend that some of the very best Savannah historical sites are Savannah’s beautiful churches and a synagogue.
As a journalist in Savannah in the 80’s my Dad took many photos in and around Savannah’s historical sites – my parents even briefly owned a camera store in Savannah! Dad graciously gave me permission to publish some of his photgraphs here. Although they are older, its an honor to get to share Dad’s photos and give you a unique perspective of Historic Savannah!
1. Bonaventure Cemetery
Location: 330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA
Admission: Free. *But see below as I highly recommend making sure you take a guided tour; otherwise it can be a very overwhelming place!*
Tours: Free guided tours of Bonaventure the second weekend of every month (Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm), a free guide app is also available to download. For tours on other days, I *highly* recommend this golf-cart small group tour of Bonaventure.
Opening Times: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Founded in 1846 on the grounds of the former Bonaventure Plantation, Bonaventure Cemetery occupies land first owned by Colonel John Mullryne, a British loyalist whose property was confiscated during the Revolutionary War. The cemetery became a public burial ground in 1907 and now features monuments and graves that reflect Savannah’s history. Although visiting a graveyard might be odd to some, I believe Bonaventure is the best historic site in Savannah and should be first on your Savannah itinerary.
Visitors to Bonaventure will encounter Victorian-era sculptures and gravestones carved with intricate symbolism, marking the resting places of historically significant Savannah residents such as lyricist Johnny Mercer, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Conrad Aiken, and prominent Confederate military leaders.
I highly recommend a guided tour of Bonaventure which will provide detailed stories about the cemetery’s history, including Savannah’s transformation through the Antebellum years, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and into modern times. For a longer tour that also includes Wormsloe State Historic Site below, which I highly recommend visiting, consider this well-reviewed full day tour that includes both Savannah historic sites.
Bonaventure Cemetery is accessible via public transit: from downtown Savannah, board CAT bus route 10 at the Joe Murray Rivers Jr. Intermodal Transit Center. The ride takes approximately 25-30 minutes and stops within a short walking distance of the cemetery gate.
One well-known grave marker belongs to Gracie Watson, a young girl who died in 1889 at age six from pneumonia. Gracie’s father managed the luxurious Pulaski House Hotel, a popular Savannah gathering place in the late 19th century.
After her death, her grieving parents hired sculptor John Walz to carve a lifelike marble statue in her memory. Today, visitors often place small tokens and flowers by Gracie’s statue, moved by her story. This photo of Gracie that my father took has been in a frame in our home since before I can remember!
2. Saint John the Baptist Cathedral (The Savannah Cathedral)
Location: 222 E Harris St
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM and 12:45 PM to 5:00 PM
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, commonly known as the Savannah Cathedral, is an architectural and historical treasure – and one of my top two favorite historical sites in Savannah. Often heralded as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the United States, the Savannah Cathedral demonstrates the resilience and faith of the French Catholic community in the region.
Since my family is a mix of French Canadian and Southern – I feel like the Savannah Cathedral is a particularly beautiful representation of my heritage!
The original Cathedral was completed in 1876, but the famous spires were added in 1896. However, just two years later, a devastating fire ravaged the cathedral.
By 1912, the cathedral had been fully restored, including the installation of new stained glass windows. While you’re visiting, don’t miss the murals depicting the four evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John as well! I suggest that it’s best to visit the Savannah Cathedral l in the morning so you can see the morning light shining through the windows.
Often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the South,” the Savannah Cathedral is famous for its lavish interior decoration. There is a beautiful shade of blue on the ceilings and detailed murals – and if you get the chance to go near Christmastime – the decorations are absolutely gorgeous including a massive nativity set!
3. The Juliette Gordon Low Historic District
Location: 10 E Oglethorpe Ave, Savannah, GA 31401 (Birthplace Museum)
Admission to the Birthplace Museum: Adults $15 | Girl Scouts $10 | Ages 5-21 $12
Birthplace Museum Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
One of the most popular Savannah historical sites actually contains three important buildings: the Wayne-Gordon house (also known as the Juliette Gordon Low house), where the founder of the Girl Scouts was born; the stunning Andrew Low House (pictured above), where Juliette Gordon Low lived with her husband; and the First Girl Scout Headquarters. Low’s birthplace house is now a historic house museum dedicated to Low’s life and the history of the Girl Scouts.
This National Historic Landmark is located in the Savannah historic district and is an easy walk from most things! Although I’ve seen the outside, I have to admit I’ve never visited as I wasn’t ever a Girl Scout. These days you can often see large groups of Scouts lined up outside to visit as this is a very popular field trip!
Aside from the connection to the Girl Scouts, the historic houses are famous in their own right as Savannah historic sites for their beautiful architecture in the Federal and Greek revival styles.
4. The Mercer Williams House Museum (Mercer House)
Location: 429 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401
Admission: Adults $13.50 | Reduced for Certain Groups $9 | 6 or Under FREE
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday 11:30 to 5:00 PM
A piece of more recent Savannah history – and dark history at that – the Mercer-Williams House has been the site of numerous important historic and tragic events in Savannah. The Mercer-Williams House Museum is now one of the most visited Savannah historical sites, especially because of the popularity of the book and film “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
Beginning in the nineteenth century, the Mercer House in Savannah served as the headquarters of the local chapter of the Shiners, a Masonic society.
Much later, in 1969, eccentric restorationist Jim Williams bought the house as a part of his overall work to preserve and restore Savannah’s most important historic houses on the main squares that make up the city. Tragically, this house – one he chose to live in – became the scene of the “crime of the century” in Savannah when Jim Williams shot his lover and employee.
This death would become the focus of a book, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and the 1997 movie adaptation directed by Clint Eastwood, which also featured Bonaventure Cemetary. (Note: I’ve avoided reading the book or watching the film…I’ve heard about this murder so much and my Dad played an important role as a reporter during the time, so I can’t quite bring myself to read the fictionalized version! Everyone I know says it’s amazing, though!)
Nowadays, the Mercer-Williams house operates a public guided tour and has a museum based in the rear carriage house. Tours run every 20-40 minutes.
For a more comprehensive tour of Savannah historical sites featured in the book and movie consider this Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Walking Tour.
The Danny Hansford Murder & Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil
Savannah’s fame exploded in the 1980’s because of a brutal and shocking murder, and the subsequent three murder trials that captivated the entire country. The murder of Danny Hansford in 1981 by his on-again-off-again lover, powerful historical preservationist James Williams, inside one of Savannah’s most beautiful preserved mansions completely shocked the residents of Savannah.
Later, the world would learn about the murder through a famous book written on the story: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The book is a fictionalized and rather sensationalist account. When the book became a hit movie it drew even more people to the complex and shocking story – and to visit Savannah as a result. The statue on the cover of the book, called “The Bird Girl”, comes from Savannah’s most famous cemetary, Bonaventure Cemetary, recommended above – it’s one of the most important historical sites in all of Savannah!
Ultimately, James Williams was aquitted after not one, not two, but three trials. My father, who was a news reporter for the television station (WKOW) just down the road from the Mercer House where the murders occurred, sat in the trials and reported the story when it unfoled in the early 80’s – so while strange to say, this murder has been an important part of my own family history in many ways!
5. Wormsloe State Historic Site
Address: 7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah
Admission: Adults $12 | Seniors $9 | 6-17 $5.75 | Under 6 $3.25
Opening Times: 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM
The Wormsloe Historic Site is one of the most important Savannah historical sites. It protects part of what used to be the Wormsloe plantation and contains many historic landmarks and buildings that matter to the full story of Savannah’s history – including Georgia’s role in the enslavement of African peoples.
Womsloe Historic Site sits on the beautiful Isle of Hope and is surrounded by Spanish moss and a famous (and Instagrammable!) avenue of live oaks. This Savannah historical site is gorgeous whether you’re just going for a stroll with ice cream or looking for in-depth historical knowledge.
Some historical sites within Wormsloe include a fortified house established by British General James Oglethorpe, a simulated colonial living area with insights like a wattle-and-dab hut, and a very well-done museum.
How to get there from Savannah’s Historic District: The best way to get to Wormloe Historic Site is by car – it is about a 20-minute drive southeast of the Historic District. You can also take a tour that includes Wormsloe Historic Site and Bonaventure Cemetary for a full day of exploring Savannah’s historic sites (and convenient transportation around Savannah).
While you’re in Savannah, stop for your afternoon pick-me-up coffee at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. I absolutely love this chain that employs adults who happen to have intellectual disabilities. My cousin’s son has Down syndrome and her daughter has intellectual disabilities – I absolutely love knowing there are amazing employers like Bitty & Beau’s, a Christian-owned business, that will create meaningful employment for people with disabilities. Stop in, enjoy some great coffee to fuel your Savannah adventures, and support Bitty & Beau’s mission.
6. First African Baptist Church of Savannah
Location: 23 Montgomery St
Admission: Free.
Tours: Tours are $15 for adults and $12 for certain groups and run Monday – Wednesday at 1:00 PM and Thursday – Saturday at 11:00 AM & 1:00 PM
Opening Times: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM
George Leile, an enslaved person who was freed before the American Revolution, laid the roots for this historic church in Savannah, which is claimed as the oldest still-active African-American congregation in the country.
The history of the First African Baptist Church in Savannah includes serving as an important point on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. Today, breathing holes can still be seen in the floorboards of the church.
In the 20th century, the church became the birthplace of the Savannah Civil Rights movement.
Today, the church is still in operation and offers guided tours of both the church and the attached museum. The original lectern and pews carved with African symbols still remain. You can also visit the small on-site museum to learn more about this important Savannah historical site and the story of enslaved Africans in Savannah, GA.
7. The Owens-Thomas House
Address: 124 Abercorn St
Admission: Adults $22 | Concessions $20 | 13-25 $15 | 6-12 $5 | Under 6 FREE
Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 4:15 PM
This historic house is operated by Telfair Museums (a group of museums that make up the main art museums in Savannah – outside of the Modern art museums connected to Savannah College of Art and Design) and is a registered National Landmark due to its history, beautiful English Regency architecture, and internal furnishings, which are displayed as museum pieces for the public to view.
The most important historic event in Savannah to happen at the house occurred on its famous veranda that served as a podium for Lafayette when he addressed the city in 1825.
This Savannah historic site contains the most well-preserved and oldest urban slave quarters in the country. While it can be difficult to witness, this is an important reminder that much of Savannah’s historic beauty and historic homes came from wealth built through enslavement – and it is something that any visitor should see, whether alone or with a tour guide.
8. Congregation Mickve Israel
Address: 20 E Gordon St, Savannah, GA 31401
Admission: $5
Opening Times: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
This synagogue stems from a congregation initially gathered in 1735, one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the United States. The current version of the building was consecrated in 1876 in the beautiful Gothic Revival style and is an integral part of Savannah’s historic district.
On weekdays, for a small fee, you can take guided tours through the synagogue. Tours last 40-45 minutes. You’ll also be able to view letters from US presidents such as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
The site also contains a Jewish history museum that focuses on the congregation’s history and artifacts, such as the two oldest Torah scrolls in North America.
9. Davenport House Museum
Address: 323 E Broughton St, Savannah
Admission: Adults $15 | Students $12 | 6-17 $10 | Under 6 FREE
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM
This stunning Federal-style house in the coastal city is a window into Savannah’s past. Built by master carpenter Isaiah Davenport and his slave crew, the restoration and protection of the house were important victories for the Historic Savannah Foundation.
Highlights include a fantastic spiral staircase and beautifully preserved period rooms. It’s an important reminder of the realities of daily life in the 1920s, remembering the original buildings of the era in historic Savannah.
Tours run every 30 minutes to 1 hour.
A Quick (and Sweet) Savannah Travel Tip
You’ll pass numerous locations of Savannah Candy Kitchen as you make your way through the Savannah Historic District. Each location gives out a generous sized sample – almost 1/4 – of their famous Pralines. See how many you can stop by throughout the day and you can probably get yourself a whole free praline (always hot and fresh!).
10. Georgia State Railroad Museum
Address: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401
Admission: Adult $15 | Child 2-12 $8 | Under 2 FREE
Opening Times: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Known as the Roundhouse Railroad Museum, it is part of the Central of Georgia Railway: Savannah Shops and Terminal Facilities National Historic Landmark District. It offers a complete glimpse into an Antebellum railroad complex as it was.
The museum’s main attractions include many original railroad buildings, a massive roundhouse with a working turntable, a model railroad, and many special events like daily tours and trips.
11. Old Fort Jackson
Address: 1 Fort Jackson Rd, Savannah, GA 31404
Admission: Adult $12 | Child (4-12) $7 | Under 4 FREE
Opening Times: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Located on the Savannah River just one mile east of Savannah’s historic district, this National Historic Landmark is a restored nineteenth-century fort built to protect the coastal city from sea-based attacks. This fort is one of the best places to visit in Savannah for families, and one of the coolest Savannah historical sites.
It was captured from the Confederacy by General Sherman and his Union army in 1864 and was briefly known as Fort Oglethorpe.
Now, the fort is a visitor attraction owned by the state, containing a museum and guided tours. Daily cannon firings and demonstrations of firearms take you back in time. Its position is on the path.
Old Fort Jackson is on the Islands Expressway, making it easy for those headed toward Tybee Island or the Fort Pulaski National Monument to visit.
12. Christ Church Savannah
Location: Johnson Square, Savannah, GA
Admission: Free
Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Closed on Saturday | Open for Worship on Sunday
Christ Church in Savannah, often called the “Mother Church of Georgia,” was established in 1733. It was the first church founded in the colony of Georgia.
Fun Fact: It was also the first church ever to hold a Sunday School class in what is now the United States!
It is located on Johnson Square, Christ Church’s beautiful structure, classic white steeple, and colonial architecture.
Inside, the church is equally impressive, with its beautiful stained glass windows and detailed woodwork.
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, was once a rector here. While he was a rector, he published America’s first hymn book!
Best Places to Stay in Savannah
Savannah has so much to see, from Foresyth Park to River Street, from the city market to live theatre, that it’s hard to do all in one day. If you plan to stay for a night or more, here are a few great options to consider to be close to Savannah historical sites to visit!
Springhill Suites by Marriott: Savannah Downtown Historic District
Located in downtown Savannah on Montgomery Street in the center of the Historic District, Springhill Suites by Marriott is an all-suite hotel ideal for short or long stays.
Each suite is designed with separate living, working, and sleeping areas. Amenities include a mini-fridge, microwave, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning featuring a variety of hot and cold options. The hotel also has a fitness center and an outdoor pool.
The hotel is perfect for large groups, and rooms sleep up to 5 adults and 4 children.
Book your stay at Springhill Suites by Marriott >>>
Olde Harbour Inn: Historic Inns of Savannah Collection
Located on River Street amongst the boutiques and restaurants on East Factor’s Walk, this hotel is housed in a building dating back to 1812 and overlooks the Savannah River. The Olde Harbour Inn has its original character with exposed brick walls and hardwood floors.
The inn features suites with a kitchenette, living area, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms even offer stunning views of the Savannah River. You will also have a nightly wine and cheese reception. A continental breakfast is also served each morning.
Complimentary bicycles are available for guests.
Rooms sleep 2 adults and 1 child to 4 adults and 3 children, depending on the room type chosen.
Book your stay at Olde Harbour Inn: >>>
Hotel Bardo Savannah
For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Bardo Savannah.
Each room is thoughtfully designed with plush bedding, beautiful furnishings, and everything you’ll need for a fantastic stay. Some rooms also feature balconies with breathtaking views of Forsyth Park and the South historic district.
During your stay, you can enjoy the outdoor pool.
The hotel also has a rooftop bar, where you can unwind with a cocktail while taking panoramic views of Savannah’s skyline. The on-site restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience with a menu focusing on local ingredients.
You’ll have easy access to places like Lafayette Square and Savanna Cathedral.
Rooms sleep 2 adults and 1 child to 4 adults and 3 children, depending on the room type chosen
Book your stay at Hotel Bardo Savannah >>
Photo by Dan Desjardins sometime in the 80s.
Getting To Savannah, GA and Getting Around Savannah
Savannah Hilton-Head Airport
I wanted to write a quick note about the Savannah Hilton-Head Airport which is not all that close to downtown Savannah! It’s a tiny little airport (seriously!) although it has one of the sweetest atriums with rocking chairs (that yes, my parents fell asleep in once and missed their flight!!!).
If you are hoping to visit any of the Savannah historic sites in this guide that are a little ways outside of Savannah, like Wormsloe or Old Fort Jackson, or visit any of Savannah’s nearby beaches like Tybee Island, I do recommend renting a car while you are in Savannah. While parking downtown isn’t a simple cup of tea, it isn’t horrible and can be done! Some of the recommended hotels above also have parking options.
Walking & Buses in Savannah, GA
The best way to get around the Savannah Historic District is by walking. That said, there is a highly rated Hop-on and hop-off bus tour that is great if you have limited mobility, but the city is small and walkable. There are also plenty of ride-share services available, like Uber and Lyft.
You can also consider a local Trolly Tour as a way of seeing lots of Savannah historic sites in one day!
Cycling in Savannah, GA
Biking is another excellent way to explore Savannah. The city is bike-friendly, with many bike rental shops available. You can rent a bike for a few hours or a whole day. Biking is particularly enjoyable in the historic district, along the scenic paths in Forsyth Park, and around the squares – though I definitely don’t recommend it on River Street – those cobblestones will jostle you up!
From exploring Factors Walk and River Street to visiting historic squares or strolling in Forsyth Park, Savannah always has something new to do. The top 12 on this list scratch the surface of a city that contains some of the largest national historic landmark districts in the country – an example of the living, breathing history of the United States and how it still remains important to this day.
More Travel Resources from Sacred Wanderings
💳 Best Travel Credit Cards:
✈︎ For years I’ve been loyal to American Express, and these days exclusively use American Express Platinum whenever I can. The travel benefits on the Platinum Card are 100% worth the steep fee if you use them consistently. The built-in travel insurance has been a godsend and each of the last two years has fully covered the annual fee for me.
✈︎ Check out American Express Platinum and its benefits here.
✈︎ I also carry the Venture Rewards card as an Amex alternative since some countries aren’t great about American Express. The 2x points per dollar is a great incentive for Venture Rewards!
✈️Find Cheap Flights:
✈︎ Most travel bloggers don’t recommend Google Flights for one reason: bloggers don’t make a commission off of them. But here’s the thing – I still think Google Flights is the best platform for finding cheap flights and comparing different options! It’s what I use daily. I appreciate the alerts feature as well, and it will notify me if a flight I’m watching is likely to go up in price.
✈︎ As an alternative, Expedia has a good search platform for flights and I occassionally see deals there I didn’t find anywhere else.
💶 Travel Insurance:
✈︎ Do not forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance, especially for international travel or if you are international coming to the USA. I always use SafetyWing Travel Insurance to make sure I’m covered for medical bills abroad, and have always been very happy with their service and pricing. They have great options for long-term travel, too, and provide insurance that includes the USA and covers Covid-19.
Author Bio
Cate Michelle previously served as pastor to the oldest Mennonite church in the United States (founded in 1683!) and now writes about religious travel and is a prominent researcher in religion and healthcare. She grew up visiting Savannah and loves to share her knoweldge of the South and the best things to do in Savannah and surroundings!
