Founded in 1733, Savannah, Georgia's first city, has long been a sought after destination for travelers. Savannah was the home of many historical figures, including author Flannery O'Connor and Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts. Savannah and nearby Tybee Island offer many attractions for family vacations, where tourists can become immersed in history while taking in the scenic views that Savannah has to offer.
Constructed in 1851, Forsyth Park was the first large park created in Savannah. The park spans 30 acres of downtown Savannah, and it has wide, open spaces that are popular for the various sporting events and free annual concerts and festivals held in the park. Forsyth Park also is home to the famous Forsyth Fountain, added in 1858, which has appeared in several movies filmed in Savannah, such as “Forrest Gump” and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Forsyth Park is a popular afternoon destination for family walks and picnics, and its location on Bull Street places it in the heart of downtown Savannah.
The stretch of riverfront that encompasses River Street is full of shops, restaurants and attractions for visitors. A large, open air market offers merchandise from local artisans and craftsmen and play areas for children, all within view of the Savannah River. Locally owned restaurants, shops and art galleries also line River Street and provide an opportunity for tourists to share in the culture of Savannah. Some of the most popular destinations on River Street include Kevin Barry's Irish Pub, River Street Sweets, the Olympia Cafe and Gallery 209. Also, from River Street, families can take a Riverboat Cruise and learn about the history of the town and its relationship with the Savannah River.
Tybee Island is one of the most popular beach destinations in Georgia. Families visiting Savannah can also take a quick drive to the beach and experience different forms of cuisine, explore various historical sites and swim and play all along the 3-mile stretch of coast. Tybee's lighthouse and Fort Screven are two popular historical sites where families can tour the areas and learn about Tybee's rich history. Tybee also offers dolphin tours, which are brief cruises around the coast where tourists can learn of the native wildlife and more often than not see dolphins swimming nearby.
The Telfair Museum of Art is the oldest public art museum in the South. In 1883, Mary Telfair left her home and its furnishings to the Georgia Historical Society with the express directions that it be transformed into a museum. Now, however, the Telfair Museums consist of three separate buildings: the early 19th century Telfair Academy and Owens-Thomas House buildings and the contemporary Jepson Center for the Arts. Each building's collection is representative of the era in which it was constructed, and the three buildings combined bring into focus three centuries worth of artistic styles. Family programs at the Telfair museums include free of charge family days and educational programs for children.
The Telfair Academy
121 Barnard St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-790-8800
telfair.org/telfair/
The Owens-Thomas House
124 Abercorn St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-233-9743
telfair.org/owens-thomas
Jepson Center for the Arts
207 W. York St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912-651-9651
telfair.org/jepson/
