A Transplanted View of Savannah

Growing up as the son of an airline pilot, I got to travel all over the United States. It seemed that every place I visited, I enjoyed. Why, you may ask? I am the type of person that loves history and any type of adventure.

I have lived in large cities, such as Dallas, Denver and Indianapolis. Mid-size cities like Louisville, Lexington and Charleston. I would have to say, that Savannah is probably the smallest town that I have lived in. When I tell locals that I moved here from Charleston, SC, they always follow up with, “Which city do you like the best?” I always reply Savannah. Having said this, Savannah is by far my favorite place to call home.

For the travelers to the Jewel of The South, we have much to offer. We have great accommodations, great restaurants, beautiful parks with majestic live oaks, and loads of history. We also have Tybee Island and the Atlantic Ocean. If you are looking of sun, surf or deep sea fishing we can help. There are many golf resorts and Hilton Head is just a Tiger Woods drive away.

There are many fine places to stay downtown. First, I would try Savannah Bed and Breakfast. If it was booked, I would try the Mulberry Inn or the Hampton Inn. Both hotels are very clean with great concierge service. My favorite restaurants downtown are Garibaldi’s Café and the Sapphire Grill. Both establishments are located on E. Congress St. My wife and I ate upstairs in Garibaldi’s. The room is beautifully decorated with floor to ceiling mirrors and large chandeliers. The food was divine. When we went to the Sapphire Grill, we ate at the bar. The restaurant was packed and the food made sitting at the bar a forgotten inconvenience. The Pirate House on E. Broad St. is also a neat place. It is one of the oldest structures in Savannah. It is mentioned in Robert L. Stephenson’s Treasure Island. The restaurant has tunnels under it that lead to the Savannah River. It is reported that many a man was shanghaied there. Finally, while in downtown, I would visit The City Market. It has many restaurants, pubs and art galleries. They often have live bands playing outside.

Savannah has 24 squares, or city parks that are beautiful. Most of them have statues or memorials in their centers. British General Oglethorpe, planned the city of Savannah to be beautiful with many parks. Like many cities in England. Our large park downtown is Forsyth Park. Forsyth Park is a must see.

Historically, Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the United States. I would recommend learning about our history by taking a tour of Savannah. By bus, I would take the trip with either, Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah or Old Savannah Tours. For a walking tour, try Tours by BJ.

Tybee Island is roughly 14 miles east of downtown. There, you will find unique places like Fish Art by Douglas Jones and “The Pier.” You won’t forget the beautiful beach. For deep sea fishing, I would call Miss Judy Charters. There are too many golf courses to mention in this article. All of them are great.

Just remember, you’ll need to bring sunglasses, a camera, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes!

My wish is that y’all enjoy Savannah as much as I do!

By – Tom Baker