Weekend in Savannah & Tybee Island, GA
Updated: Jun 3
In the spring of 2025, we finally crossed Georgia off our bucket list. We spent a weekend exploring bits of Savannah and Tybee Island. Between historic streets, beach time, local food stops, and camping under towering live oaks, this trip packed a lot into just a couple of days. We tried to keep the trip inexpensive, full of highlights, and casual enough to bring our (then) one year old along.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Even though this was a city escape, we still kept it inexpensive and outdoorsy by camping at Skidaway Island State Park. It was about a 30 minute drive to downtown, but we loved sleeping and eating breakfast among the mossy trees. We didn’t get to explore much other than our campsite, but the 588 acre park has several miles of hiking and biking trails, and is great for wildlife viewing.
SAVANNAH ACTIVITIES
Bonaventure Cemetery (free) - This was one of those hidden gems absolutely
worth adding to the itinerary. It feels more like a peaceful park than what many people imagine when they think of a cemetery. Long roads lined with live oaks, Spanish moss hanging overhead, and historic monuments create one of Savannah’s most iconic landscapes. We love that this was a free alternative to the Wormsloe Site and we were able to drive around while our toddler napped.
Savannah Botanical Gardens (free) - This ended up being one of the quieter stops on the trip and felt like a hidden gem. The botanical garden isn’t huge, which actually made it easy to enjoy without feeling rushed. It’s volunteer-run, and was a nice break from the busier tourist areas and gave us time to slow down and enjoy the greenery. There was virtually no one here when we went.
Forsyth Park (free) - No Savannah weekend feels complete without spending time here. Forsyth Park is probably one of the city’s most recognizable spots and lives up to the reputation. Between the famous fountain, open lawns, and tree-lined paths, it’s one of those places that invites you to linger. This became more of a “wander and enjoy the city” stop than a checklist item.
Exploring Savannah’s Historic Squares & River Street (free) - one of the best parts of Savannah wasn’t a specific attraction—it was simply walking. Savannah has 22 historic squares scattered throughout downtown, and each one feels a little different. Some are lively gathering places while others feel tucked away and peaceful.
Walking between them became one of our favorite ways to experience the city. We definitely didn’t make it to all in our short weekend, but hopefully can if we make other trips back.
River Street felt completely different from the rest of Savannah. Cobblestone paths, waterfront views, shops, restaurants, and people everywhere—it’s more energetic than the quiet historic squares. We enjoyed walking along the river and taking in the atmosphere.
SAVANNAH FOOD
Crystal Beer Parlor - One of Savannah’s classic local spots. Open since 1933, this felt like the kind of restaurant with history and character. We stumbled upon this one while walking around and it ended up being a great stop for American fare.
ShellHouse Seafood - if you’re craving seafood and wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of downtown, this family owned restaurant could be the spot. They even have their own little pond with a dock to wander around after eating. We came specifically for the fried gator and really liked it.
Service Brewing - as always, we love to add a brewery stop. Its veteran-owned operation located in downtown was very vibrant and hip. There is no food, but they have plenty of beers/ciders to choose from.
Georgia Tasting Room - this was a fun and cheap tasting in the City Market area. It was only $3 for 6 local wine/slushie samples - really can’t beat it. It was designed to be a grab-and-go experience; instead of traditional tables, there are only long counters and standing areas with a lot of people moving in and out. Although we usually love being able to sit down, we didn’t mind too much since we were able to take drinks with us due to downtown Savannah’s open container law.
Leopold’s Ice Cream - The line can be long, but it’s one of those places people continue recommending for a reason. Truly one of the most authentic ice cream places with way so many options to choose from. We loved the nostalgic retro atmosphere.
TYBEE ISLAND
North Beach - after Savannah, Tybee felt like a complete change of pace. North Beach was quieter and exactly what we wanted—sunshine, ocean views, and a slower afternoon. This was Nolan’s first time at the beach, so it was really fun and special watching him explore the sand and the waves (he wasn't a huge fan of the water). Parking at Tybee can be paid through their app @ $4/hour
Tybean Coffee - beachy vibe with a cute name. Your usual coffee classics
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Savannah felt like stepping into another era — one filled with oak-lined streets, salty breezes, flickering lanterns, and stories tucked into every square. From slow mornings under the Spanish moss and sunset walks along Tybee’s shore, this trip reminded us how special it is to simply wander somewhere new together. Georgia gave us a little bit of everything: history, charm, great food, and space to slow down for a weekend. Since we live so close, I’m sure we will be back to uncover more - we had quite a few recommendations and not enough time to try them all. Until next time, Savannah.
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