Savannah's best neighborhoods: beaches, bourbon and brunch

07.08.2023 - 13:57 / lonelyplanet.com / Art

Savannah's small size doesn’t mean it lacks distinct neighborhoods – each one has its own character and charm that will entice you to linger.

From picturesque Downtown to artsy Starlands, each neighborhood has its own distinct attractions. Its grid-like layout makes it the perfect city to explore on foot and the green spaces and parks are among the best you'll find in an urban setting. Here’s everything you need to know about the top neighborhoods in Savannah.

Best for being in the heart of the hustle and bustle, Downtown Savannah is full of charm and Southern hospitality but is also one of the nation's most notable historic districts. The neighborhood is composed of Savannah's historic squares, museums, homes, restaurants and other structures dating back hundreds of years.

The 22 historic squares, each located within the downtown historic district, provide common areas for public use and recreation, which include benches and shaded areas for picnics. They are mostly 200 x 200 ft.

The neighborhood boasts some of the best museums in the country, such as the Telfair Academy – the oldest public art museum in the South, dating back to 1886. There are over 6300 works of art ranging from American Impressionism to European sculpture.

The Savannah History Museum contains more than 10,000 artifacts dating back to 1733 when the city was incorporated. The Railroad Museum is a National Historic Landmark and is located in the former Central of Georgia Railway.

For a killer brunch, visit The Collins Quarter (don’t miss their Lavender Mocha either); for dinner head to a.Lure for low-country gourmet or B. Matthew’s Eatery for some southern fusion fare. A few perennial Savannah favorites include The Olde Pink House or Mrs Wilkes Dining Room. Local favorite Zunzi’s serves South African sandwiches of all types – people line up around the block at peak times for these sandwiches, especially the Godfather. Top places to stay in the neighborhood include the Alida or The Drayton Hotel.

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About a mile south of Forsyth Park is the Starlands District. Though the streets are lined with art galleries and other creative establishments, it’s the beautiful homes and even office buildings that draw visitors in. Filled with character, these aren’t your average ho-hum residences.

When not marveling at the architecture, visitors also love taking pictures of the many murals found throughout the neighborhood. For the best tiki oasis (yes, a tiki bar in Savannah) you could ever hope to find, head to the Water Witch Tiki, named after a famed (and possibly haunted) Union ship that was burned off the coast of Savannah in 1864. Try the Banana Spliff made with dark rum, bourbon, banana liquor, Mezcal and bitters.