SAVANNAH
By Anita R. Paul

Treat the kids (and yourself) to a history lesson by visiting
Savannah, Georgia.  Established in 1733, “Georgia’s First
City” is rich in history and offers an eclectic mix of celebrated
elegance and contemporary flair sure to please everyone in
your family.

Savannah Weather
With moderate year-round temperatures, Savannah enjoys
mild winters at an average of 51 degrees and warm, humid
summers averaging 80 degrees.  Scattered showers in the
spring and fall are a regular occurrence in this riverside city,
typically lasting 15-20 minutes.

Savannah's Historic District
Savannah’s historic district is a thriving centre with 23
charming neighborhood squares, most of which feature an
active water fountain, monument, bench or statue of a great
figure in Savannah history.  

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has
renovated many of the buildings in the historic district to their
original appearance.  The contemporary influence the SCAD
students bring is evident by the swanky nigh clubs, bars and
coffee shops that cater to this Generation X crowd.  

This “Hostess City of the South” is also a center of African
American heritage, marked by the many historic sites,
museums, monuments and tours dedicated to over 250
years of contributions African Americans have made to
Savannah’s history.  

Savannah Hotels
With over 10,000 rooms, Savannah’s hotels, inns, and bed
& breakfasts offer a variety of comfortable, family-friendly
accommodations at a range of prices.

The Marshall House (123 E. Broughton St., 800-589-6304)
in the historic district is the oldest hotel in Savannah.  This
bed & breakfast-style inn features quaint rooms and
elegantly appointed common areas.  The Hampton Inn –
Savannah North (7050 Hwy. 21, I95 exit 109) is a moderately
priced hotel located in greater Savannah.  Offering
complimentary continental breakfast, this site is a great
family value.  

If your visit takes you to relaxing Tybee Island, check out the
Lighthouse Inn (16 Meddin Dr.) for a peaceful atmosphere
and a warm, friendly feel.

Savannah Family Activities
The one-hour trolley tours offer the opportunity to take note of
places of interest that you will want to return to later during
your visit.  

Take a carriage ride through the historic district and
experience the charming architecture and unique
“personality” of Savannah’s downtown areas.  Parents and
teens will enjoy the haunted history walking tour, which
provides a spooky glimpse into Savannah’s ghostly secrets.

Savannah Restaurants
With views of the Savannah River and its paddlewheel
boats, River Street offers a variety of restaurants located in
converted cotton warehouses.  Or for a more unique dining
experience, the River Street Riverboat Company (912-232-
6404) operates cruises for lunch, brunch and dinner.

City Market (Jefferson at W. St. Julian Street) a hub of
nightlife in Savannah, also offers several eateries.  From
elegant dining to more casual faire, City Market’s charm
offers dining options for everyone, as well as small shops
for quick snacks, gourmet candies or gelato.

Shopping in Savannah
Stroll down River Street where you will find bookstores and
specialty shops.  Visit the River Street Marketplace, a
bustling open-air bazaar featuring unique cultural gifts from
Africa, Asia and other countries, as well as Savannah
collectables.

City Market features an array of shopping options to suit
many interests.  This historic area, which began in 1755,
features 23 art studios and 8 art galleries and is located just
two blocks from River Street.

The historic district features small boutiques and art
galleries that wind throughout the neighborhood squares,
showcasing unique fashions and original artwork by local
designers and artists.

Savannah’s “Hollywood” Connections
A jewel of the south, Savannah’s charm and elegance has
attracted the attention of Hollywood filmmakers for decades.  
Arguably one of the best-known films to feature Savannah
as its backdrop is the Clint Eastwood directed “Midnight in
the Garden of Good and Evil”.

Other notable motion pictures filmed in Savannah include
“The Legend of Baggar Vance” starring Wil Smith, and “The
General’s Daughter” starring John Travolta.  Not to be
forgotten is the famous scene in the movie “Forest Gump”,
where the lead character, played by Tom Hanks, sits on a
park bench in Chippewa Square at Bull and McDonough
streets, munching on chocolate candies while reflecting on
the unpredictable nature of life.
FAMILY TRAVEL FUN
SAVANNAH