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Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home

207 E Charlton St, Lafayette Square, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-233-6014

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Take the opportunity to view the home of one of the South's most famous authors at this now-renovated structure. Two floors of the home have been restored to mimic the style of the 1920 and 1930s, which is when O'Connor spent her childhood here. A library of books typical of the period has been acquired, along with relevant furnishings. Readings and lectures are hosted in the house each spring and fall to keep the literary tradition going.

Georgia Historical Society

501 Whitaker St, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-651-2125

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Looking for information on Georgia history? This is the place to go! They have extensive archives of historical objects from the 1700s to the present day. The organization also publishes books on Georgia history and genealogy and hosts workshops and monthly lectures. The capable staff is very friendly.

Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

142 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-233-4501

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. If you were ever a Girl Scout (or knew someone who was), you have to visit this beautiful home. Juliette Low, best known for founding the Girl Scouts, was from a wealthy family, and this 1821 home reflects her status and period comforts. Furnishings and artwork that belonged to the family are back in place, and the Victorian era is stylishly portrayed. The Girl Scouts now own the home, having purchased it in the 1950s to save it from being torn down.

Mercer Williams House Museum

429 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-236-6352

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Built in 1871, this house is one of the most beautiful homes in Savannah and also one of the most famous. Formerly owned by Jim Williams, it was featured in both the book and the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Although 429 Bull Street was a private residence for many years, it now invites visitors to step inside and meander through rooms impeccably decorated with 18th- and 19th-century furniture, Chinese porcelain, and 18th-century English and American portraits. A true Savannah must.

Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum

175 Bourne Ave, (exit 102 on I-95), Pooler, GA 31322 · 912-748-8888

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This museum is a must-see if you're interested in learning more about aviation history. Open since 1996, it features exhibits concerning the history of the Eighth Air Force Division, which was created in Savannah in 1942. More than one million men and women have served in this division, and they flew bombing missions over Nazi Germany during WWII.

Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum

460 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-231-8900

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Occupying what was formerly a five-story bank for African-Americans, this engaging museum tracks the fight for, and history of, civil rights in Savannah. The guiding force behind it, Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert, was a tireless advocate for equality and spent his life working for the cause. Today, the museum that bears his name features photographs, exhibits, memorabilia, maps, and videos that relate to the struggle. It also showcases a lunch counter where sit-ins were staged.

Savannah History Museum

303 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-238-1779

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Tracing centuries of city history, this museum presents a film and multiple exhibits that highlight life in Savannah from its founding in 1733 to the present. While the overview is fascinating, so are the exhibits. Among them are the famous Bird Girl statue from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Forrest Gump's bench from the eponymous movie, and 19th-century apparel. The historic building that the museum occupies was formerly the passenger station for the Central of Georgia Railway.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

41 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 · 912-232-1511

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HISTORIC DISTRICT. Housed in the historic Scarborough House (circa 1819), this museum is a fantastic source of information about Savannah's seafaring history. The port city was a major player in the import and export trade, and the ships that sailed its waters were amazing vessels. Many of them are replicated here in models, and the collection also features artwork and antiques. A gift shop and beautiful gardens are also part of the fine home's charms.

Tybee Island Light Station

30 Meddin Dr, Tybee Island, GA 31328 · 912-786-5801

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TYBEE ISLAND. Commissioned in 1732, this distinctive tapered lighthouse has been a landmark for centuries. The supporting buildings on the lighthouse campus are unusual for having survived, and the head keeper's house is also open to visitors. Climb the lighthouse's 178 steps, see its lens, and take in the astounding panoramic view. Then, back on the ground, check out what life would have been like for the head keeper and his family. A great history lesson for kids.

Wormsloe Historic Site

7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406 · 912-353-3023

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After traveling down an avenue of magnificent live oaks, visitors to Wormsloe reach the ruins of what was once the home of Noble Jones, an Englishman and one of Savannah's first settlers. Jones' mansion was built in 1739 of tabby, a type of local concrete made with oyster shells. Although it's now gone, the site is spectacular, and guests have access to a nature trail, living history presentations, and guided tours. You'll also find a museum with period artifacts, not to mention special programs throughout the year.

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You want quality attractions and activities for your lesiure time. To that end, we've researched a diverse list of options, ruled out the wastes of time, and delivered only the 10Best. We provide quality information about historical sites, theme parks, sporting events, and city parks that you won't want to miss. Peruse our lists, see what grabs your fancy, and then head out for some personal time!

 

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