Things to Do in Savannah: A Local’s Guide for 2026
Looking for the best things to do in Savannah in 2026—beyond the typical tourist checklist? Whether you’re planning a trip, visiting friends, or searching “what should I do in Savannah this year?”, this local’s guide goes deeper than the usual must-see lists. This local’s guide is designed for travelers who want authentic experiences and for locals ready to rediscover their city. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or asking yourself, “What should I do in Savannah this year?”, this guide highlights culture, food, festivals, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that define Savannah right now.
Start With the Best Way to Explore Savannah: Eat Your Way Through It
If you’re wondering what’s the best way to experience Savannah for the first time—or the tenth? locals will tell you it starts with food. Start your journey with a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park, a 30-acre oasis adorned with Spanish moss-draped oaks and a stunning fountain. Designed by the same renowned landscape architect that gave us Central Park in New York City, this iconic community greenspace is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a peaceful picnic. Need a coffee and pastry? Stop by the Collins Quarter in Forsyth Park for a pick-me-up. As you sip, check out the local artists’ market that convenes almost every day in the center promenade.
Savannah’s food scene is a highlight of any visit. Savannah Taste Experience Food Tours offer a relaxed, walking introduction to the city through its restaurants, history, and hidden stories. It’s an ideal way to get oriented, discover locally owned spots you might miss otherwise, and learn how Savannah’s past still shapes its food scene today. These expertly guided tours offer a delectable journey through the city’s culinary landscape, introducing you to local favorites and hidden gems. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative gastronomic creations, you’ll savor the essence of Savannah’s rich culinary heritage.
To continue your culinary experience, you can stop by The Olde Pink House, a historic mansion turned restaurant, for a taste of refined Southern cuisine. While you have to have a reservation for a chance to sit in the upstairs dining room, the more casual downstairs tavern level doesn’t take reservations. So even if you don’t have a reservation for The Pink House, you might still be able to sample the same famous menu downstairs. For visitors searching for “things to do in Savannah that locals recommend” or residents looking to play tourist in their own backyard, a daytime food tour is a smart place to begin.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to Do in Savannah (That Locals Actually Love)
If you’re Googling “unique things to do in Savannah Georgia” or “Savannah experiences tourists don’t know about,” start here.
Photo credit: Old Town Trolley
Explore African-American and Gullah/Geechee Heritage
Day Clean Journeys offers a deeply enriching way to explore Savannah’s past through expert-led cultural and history tours. Founded and guided by local historian Amir Jamal Toure, these tours take participants on “journeys through time” that illuminate the African American and Gullah/Geechee heritage of Savannah and the Lowcountry in Georgia and South Carolina.
Designed for curious travelers of all ages and backgrounds, Day Clean Tours goes beyond surface-level sightseeing to share authentic stories, traditions, and historical context that many visitors often miss. Whether you’re passionate about history, culture, or discovering a fresh perspective on Savannah’s roots, Day Clean Journeys provides an informative and inspiring experience that connects the past to the present in meaningful ways.
Photo credit: Salvatore Tonnara
Try Glass Blowing or Hands-On Art Experiences
What’s something unique to do in Savannah? The city’s creative energy goes far beyond galleries. Hands-on experiences like glass blowing workshops give visitors or locals a chance to make something truly memorable while learning from local artists. These experiences are perfect for couples, creative travelers, and anyone looking for unique things to do in Savannah beyond sightseeing.
If you’ve ever searched “unique activities in Savannah Georgia”, this belongs at the top of your list. Try Blown Studios in Midtown to experience something new!
Photo credit: Outside Brands
Take a Port of Savannah Boat Tour
Most visitors don’t realize Savannah is home to one of the busiest ports in the country. Last year alone, the Port of Savannah handled an incredible 5.7 million container units. Port tours with Outside Savannah offer a fascinating look at the working waterfront—cargo ships, tugboats, and maritime history included. There’s no better way to see the port than by boat.
This is a great option for travelers interested in history, logistics, or simply seeing a side of Savannah that’s rarely discussed in traditional history tours. This is one of the most unique tours in Downtown.
Photo credit: Lucky Savannah
Festivals & Events That Define Savannah
Planning your trip around events? Many visitors search “Savannah festivals by month” or “best time of year to visit Savannah”—these are local favorites worth timing your visit around.
If you’re planning a trip and asking “What’s happening in Savannah this year?”, timing your visit around one of these events is a great move.
Photo Credit: Savannah Music Festival
Savannah Music Festival
The Savannah Music Festival is one of the city’s most beloved annual events, drawing world-class musicians across genres—from jazz and classical to folk and global music. This citywide celebration of music last over a week and lights locals’ schedules up with a nonstop lineup of incredible performers from all over the world.
Concerts take place in iconic venues throughout the city, making it both a cultural and architectural experience. The 2026 lineup is already up on their website, so get your tickets while you can! The 2026 Savannah Music Festival will take place March 25th through April 5, 2026.
Last Year’s Jazz Festival
Savannah Jazz Festival
Held each fall, the Savannah Jazz Festival fills the city with the smooth sounds of live jazz—completely free and open to the public. Performances pop up in iconic public squares and intimate venues, blending nationally recognized artists with incredible local talent. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming: bring a blanket, grab a drink nearby, and settle in under the live oaks. It’s one of the best ways to experience Savannah’s creative spirit and strong sense of community, all set to a soulful soundtrack. The dates for Savannah Jazz Fest 2026 aren’t out quite yet, but keep checking back for updates!
Sidewalk Arts Festival (SCAD)
One of Savannah’s most unique traditions, SCAD’s Sidewalk Arts Festival transforms Forsyth Park into a massive chalk-art showcase created by students. It’s free, colorful, and a perfect example of how art is woven into everyday life here.
These festivals often come up when people search for “Savannah festivals 2025” or “best time of year to visit Savannah”—and for good reason.
Antiquing & Local Shopping Gems
Looking for authentic Savannah shopping or local gifts that aren’t mass-produced? These spots are local staples.
Photo credit: Savannah Film Commission
Tapley’s Antiques
A true Savannah institution, Tapley’s Antiques is a must-visit for antique lovers and curious browsers alike. Tapley’s is located on the south side of Savannah at the intersection of Waters Avenue and Montgomery Cross Roads. The building has been in the family for generations and used to be a grocery store.
In addition to the rows of one-of-kind vendor booths, Tapley’s is also known for its line of Southern pantry staples—pickled okra, bacon ketchup, jams, and more—all perfect souvenirs or gifts that actually get used.
It’s a favorite stop for visitors looking for authentic Savannah gifts and locals who appreciate a little Southern flair. Not headed to the Southside? You can find a wide variety of Tapley’s pantry staples at the Savannah Taste Experience® Marketplace in the heart of downtown.
Photo credit: Picker Joe’s
Picker Joe’s
For another eclectic antiquing experience, Picker Joe’s offers a rotating mix of vintage finds, collectibles, and unexpected treasures. Their new location, conveniently located down the street from Tapley’s on Montgomery Cross Roads, just opened their doors and boast more space than the previous Midtown location .
Between the dozens of vendor booths and the famed architectural room, Picker Joe’s is a can’t-miss shopping experience and worth the short drive to the other side of town. It’s the kind of place where you never know what you’ll walk out with—and that’s the fun of it!
Locally Made
This cute shop has a retro vibe and is located in the heart of downtown. Locally Made lives up to its name. Just about every single thing they carry is designed and/or handmade by local artists and creators.
From crocheted stuffies to hand-sewn dog bandanas…tote bags to greeting cards, this shop is the perfect place to find a perfect and wholly unique gift for anyone who’s on your mind. They’ve also got a milkshake bar and wine slushies in the back, if you’re into that kinda thing!
Live Music, Nightlife & Evening Experiences
Photo credit: Savannah Taste Experience
Savannah comes alive at night, especially if you’re searching for things to do in Savannah after dinner. Tucked behind the vibrant energy of Mint to Be Mojito Bar and Bites is La Aparicion Speakeasy Lounge, a chic Latin-inspired speakeasy that feels like Savannah’s best kept secret.
Hidden just past a discreet entrance, La Aparicion pairs craft cocktails with an intimate, stylish atmosphere — think dim lighting, velvet seating, and specialty drinks that go beyond the mojitos out front.
For another speakeasy-style experience, try Alley Cat Lounge. This cozy, underground speakeasy is tucked down an alley off Broughton Street. With expertly crafted cocktails, a dimly lit vibe, and a vintage newspaper-style menu, it’s a favorite local spot for a relaxed nightcap in downtown Savannah.
Why 2026 Is a Great Year to Explore Savannah Like a Local
With new restaurants, evolving art scenes, and a growing focus on locally owned businesses, Savannah continues to reward curious travelers—and locals who take the time to explore beyond their routines.
If you’re researching:
- “Best things to do in Savannah in 2026”
- “Local recommendations Savannah Georgia”
- “Unique Savannah experiences”
This guide is your reminder that Savannah is more than a checklist—it’s a city best experienced slowly.
Final Tip: Explore Your Own Backyard
Still wondering “is Savannah worth visiting in 2026?” or “what should locals do in Savannah this weekend?”
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, Savannah always has something new to show you. From food tours and festivals to antique shops and hands-on art, the best experiences often come from following local recommendations.
Book a Savannah Taste Experience Food Tour and start exploring the city the way locals do—one bite, one story, and one city block at a time.
Looking for more ideas? Keep checking back as we update this local’s guide with new events and experiences throughout the year.