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Explore Savannah
Find the Best Things to Do in Historic District
By Amy Pine
About Historic District
Savannah’s Historic District, a 2.5-square-mile area known for its 18th- and 19th-century architecture, majestic live oak trees and 22 beautiful squares, seamlessly blends the old with the new to create a welcoming environment for people of all walks of life. The area, which is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the nation, boasts the city’s loveliest hotels, a terrific selection of restaurants, striking monuments and fascinating historic sites, fabulous shopping, and lively bars and clubs.
See & Do
Historic attractions are found all over Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District. Visitors can get an up-close view of the city’s 18th- and 19th-century architecture, grand statues and quaint charm by taking a carriage ride with Carriage Tours of Savannah or hopping on board one of the city’s many tour busses. The Historic District is also easy to explore on foot. No matter what your preferred mode of transportation, be sure to take a stroll through Savannah’s beautiful squares and check out the gorgeous live oak trees and magnificent monuments that have made the city so famous.
Eat
The Historic District is the dining destination in Savannah, whether you want a fancy, romantic feast in a restored historic building or a quick, cheap and tasty meal at a back-alley dive. For lunch, bring comfortable shoes and wait in line at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining House. The family-style restaurant serves up some of the best down-home Southern cuisine in town. When the sun goes down, impress your dinner date with a meal at 45 Bistro or the Olde Pink House. Be sure to order fish as one of your entrees at these fine restaurants; seafood is always done right in Savannah.
Party
There’s no arguing that the Historic District is the best place to go for a lively night on the town. The area is teeming with bars, clubs and restaurants that have late-night bites and fantastic drinks. For the best live music and cheap beer, head to the Jinx on Congress Street. For drinks and a good time, Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub and Grill and Rocks on the Roof always deliver. And you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to dessert heaven at Lulu’s Chocolate Bar. While you're there, be sure to order the Lulutini, a heavenly chocolate-infused martini.
Stay
There’s no question that the loveliest accommodations in Savannah are in the Historic District. From posh boutique hotels such as the Mansion on Forsyth Park to quaint bed and breakfasts like the Gastonian Inn, there are numerous options for travelers looking for a good night’s rest. Even if you don’t spring for a nicer hotel like the Bohemian on River Street, you can still take advantage of its awesome view and exquisite ambiance by grabbing a drink at Rocks on the Roof, the hotel’s chic rooftop bar.
Shop
Be sure to bring some extra spending money when you visit the Historic District. The area’s shops have a little bit of something for everyone, from chic clothing boutiques to avant-garde art galleries to gourmet markets with delectable local treats. Plan to spend time exploring the shops of Broughton Street, in City Market and on River Street, but don’t leave the Historic District without visiting ShopSCAD, a unique store featuring items crafted by students and alumni of the Savannah College of Art and Design. The store, located on Madison Square, is the perfect place to get a one-of-a-kind piece that is uniquely Savannah.