June 21, 2026

196. Savannah, Georgia - Spanish Moss, Cobblestones and Southern Secrets

Show Notes
Transcript

Some episodes use AI for research, writing assistance, and occasional voiceover when Johnny Mac is unavailable. His point of view, and his insistence on finding the best local taco remains entirely human.

WEBVTT

1
00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:02.439
Hey, we made it to Savannah, Georgia. If you haven't

2
00:00:02.439 --> 00:00:04.160
been here yet, you're in for a treat. This city

3
00:00:04.200 --> 00:00:07.000
is an absolute gem. With its historic charm and Southern hospitality.

4
00:00:07.280 --> 00:00:09.359
You're going to feel like you've stepped into another world,

5
00:00:09.400 --> 00:00:13.160
one filled with Spanish moss draped trees and beautifully preserved architecture.

6
00:00:13.199 --> 00:00:16.239
Let's dive right in. First off, you'll want to start

7
00:00:16.280 --> 00:00:18.920
your journey in the Historic District. It's like the beating

8
00:00:18.960 --> 00:00:21.120
heart of Savannah, and it's the kind of place where

9
00:00:21.160 --> 00:00:23.199
you'll feel like you're walking through a living history book.

10
00:00:23.320 --> 00:00:26.440
The cobblestone streets and old buildings instantly transport you back

11
00:00:26.480 --> 00:00:29.239
in time. Make your way to Forsyth Park, a thirty

12
00:00:29.239 --> 00:00:32.079
acre green space that's perfect for a morning stroll. You'll

13
00:00:32.119 --> 00:00:35.200
find locals jogging, walking their dogs, or just enjoying a

14
00:00:35.200 --> 00:00:37.359
cup of coffee on one of the many benches. Don't

15
00:00:37.359 --> 00:00:40.200
forget to snap a picture of the iconic Forsyth Fountain.

16
00:00:40.640 --> 00:00:42.679
It's one of those spots you've probably seen in every

17
00:00:42.719 --> 00:00:47.079
travel guide about Savannah. While you're wandering through the Historic District,

18
00:00:47.159 --> 00:00:49.439
pop into the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. This

19
00:00:49.479 --> 00:00:52.880
cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and stepping

20
00:00:52.920 --> 00:00:55.600
inside feels almost like entering a different kind of world.

21
00:00:55.960 --> 00:00:58.679
The stained glass windows are breathtaking, and on a sunny day,

22
00:00:58.719 --> 00:01:01.119
the way the light filters through oh is awe inspiring.

23
00:01:01.719 --> 00:01:04.400
Even if you're not particularly into architecture, there's something about

24
00:01:04.400 --> 00:01:08.239
this space that invites quiet contemplation. One of the things

25
00:01:08.239 --> 00:01:10.920
you're going to love about Savannah is the abundance of squares.

26
00:01:11.079 --> 00:01:13.319
There are twenty two of them scattered throughout the city.

27
00:01:13.799 --> 00:01:16.760
Each one has its own character and charm, with plenty

28
00:01:16.760 --> 00:01:18.640
of benches where you can sit and just watch the

29
00:01:18.640 --> 00:01:22.680
world go by. Chipwa Square is a must visit, especially

30
00:01:22.719 --> 00:01:24.879
if you're a movie buff. It's where the famous bench

31
00:01:24.920 --> 00:01:27.480
scene from Forest Gump was filmed. You won't find the

32
00:01:27.480 --> 00:01:29.760
actual bench here, it's in a museum now, but the

33
00:01:29.760 --> 00:01:33.400
square itself is still a lovely spot. Now let's talk

34
00:01:33.400 --> 00:01:36.000
about food, because you simply cannot come to Savannah without

35
00:01:36.040 --> 00:01:39.359
indulging in some Southern cuisine. For breakfast, try out Clary's Cafe.

36
00:01:39.560 --> 00:01:41.840
It's got that classic diner feel and serves up all

37
00:01:41.840 --> 00:01:44.879
your breakfast favorites, from pancakes to omelets. If you're in

38
00:01:44.920 --> 00:01:47.599
the mood for something truly Southern, go for the shrimp

39
00:01:47.680 --> 00:01:49.879
and grits. It's a hearty dish that'll keep you going

40
00:01:49.920 --> 00:01:53.560
as you explore the city. For lunch, Missus Wilkes's Dining

41
00:01:53.640 --> 00:01:57.000
Room is a Savannah institution. Arrive early because there's always

42
00:01:57.040 --> 00:02:00.239
a line, but trust me, it's worth the Weight'll sit

43
00:02:00.239 --> 00:02:02.719
at communal tables and be served family style, so it's

44
00:02:02.760 --> 00:02:05.120
a great way to meet other travelers and even some locals.

45
00:02:05.719 --> 00:02:08.159
The fried chicken here is legendary, and the sides like

46
00:02:08.199 --> 00:02:11.039
collared greens and black eyed peas are the perfect compliment

47
00:02:11.080 --> 00:02:12.960
to your meal. It's the kind of place that makes

48
00:02:12.960 --> 00:02:15.000
you feel right at home, even if you're far from it.

49
00:02:16.120 --> 00:02:18.280
When you're ready for a little bit of shopping, head

50
00:02:18.319 --> 00:02:20.599
over to Broughton Street. This street is lined with all

51
00:02:20.599 --> 00:02:23.199
sorts of shops, from quirky boutiques to well known brands.

52
00:02:23.319 --> 00:02:26.199
You'll find everything from clothing to home goods to unique souvenirs.

53
00:02:26.560 --> 00:02:28.759
Don't miss the chance to stop by the Paris Market

54
00:02:28.800 --> 00:02:31.360
and aclectic store that's part cafe, part shop and full

55
00:02:31.400 --> 00:02:33.879
of curiosities. Grab a coffee or a macaron and take

56
00:02:33.879 --> 00:02:36.280
your time browsing it's easy to lose track of time

57
00:02:36.280 --> 00:02:38.759
in a place like this, where there's always something interesting

58
00:02:38.840 --> 00:02:42.719
to catch your eye. Savannah's River Street is another must visit.

59
00:02:42.919 --> 00:02:45.240
This is where you'll find cobblestones beneath your feet in

60
00:02:45.280 --> 00:02:48.439
a lively atmosphere that's infectious. The Savannah River flows right

61
00:02:48.479 --> 00:02:50.520
alongside and you can watch the boats go buy as

62
00:02:50.560 --> 00:02:53.000
you explore. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to

63
00:02:53.080 --> 00:02:55.479
choose from, and you'll definitely want to try some pralines

64
00:02:55.520 --> 00:02:58.280
while you're here. River Street Suites is a great place

65
00:02:58.280 --> 00:03:00.319
to sample these sweet treats, and they'll even let you

66
00:03:00.400 --> 00:03:02.840
try a free sample as you walk in. It's hard

67
00:03:02.840 --> 00:03:05.759
to resist buying a few to take home For a

68
00:03:05.759 --> 00:03:08.159
deeper dive into Savannah's history. A ghost tour is a

69
00:03:08.199 --> 00:03:10.360
thrilling way to spend an evening. This city is known

70
00:03:10.360 --> 00:03:13.039
for its haunted tales, and there are plenty of tours

71
00:03:13.120 --> 00:03:15.280
to choose from. The stories range from the eerie to

72
00:03:15.319 --> 00:03:17.879
the downright chilling, and walking through the city streets at

73
00:03:17.919 --> 00:03:20.800
night adds an extra layer of mystery. Whether you believe

74
00:03:20.840 --> 00:03:23.759
in ghosts or not, the storytelling alone is worth the experience.

75
00:03:24.840 --> 00:03:26.919
Another way to soak up history is by visiting one

76
00:03:26.919 --> 00:03:29.759
of the many museums in the city. The Telfair Museums,

77
00:03:29.800 --> 00:03:33.560
for example, includes three different sites, the Telfair Academy, the

78
00:03:33.599 --> 00:03:36.639
Owens Thomas House and Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center.

79
00:03:36.680 --> 00:03:39.039
Each offers a unique perspective on the history and culture

80
00:03:39.080 --> 00:03:42.080
of Savannah. The Owens Thomas House, in particular, gives an

81
00:03:42.120 --> 00:03:44.560
insightful look into the lives of both the wealthy and

82
00:03:44.599 --> 00:03:47.479
the enslaved in the early nineteenth century. When it's time

83
00:03:47.520 --> 00:03:49.719
for dinner, the Old Pink House should be on your list.

84
00:03:50.000 --> 00:03:53.479
This historic restaurant offers a dining experience that combines Southern

85
00:03:53.479 --> 00:03:56.240
tradition with a bit of elegance. The building itself is

86
00:03:56.280 --> 00:03:59.280
a landmark, and inside you'll find rooms filled with character

87
00:03:59.319 --> 00:04:02.719
and charm. The menu features Southern classics with a modern twist.

88
00:04:03.280 --> 00:04:06.199
Try the crispy scored flounder or the she crab soup,

89
00:04:06.599 --> 00:04:08.520
dishes that are as much a part of Savannah as

90
00:04:08.599 --> 00:04:14.000
the city's famed squares. Speaking of drinks, Savannah does not disappoint.

91
00:04:14.400 --> 00:04:16.959
The city has an open container policy, which means you

92
00:04:17.000 --> 00:04:19.800
can take your drink to go as you explore. One

93
00:04:19.800 --> 00:04:22.639
great spot to grab a cocktail is the Gray located

94
00:04:22.680 --> 00:04:26.079
in a renovated Greyhound bus terminal. The ambiance is a

95
00:04:26.120 --> 00:04:29.040
perfect mix of vintage and contemporary, and the cocktails are

96
00:04:29.040 --> 00:04:31.560
crafted to perfection. It's the ideal place to reflect on

97
00:04:31.600 --> 00:04:34.160
your day of exploration before heading back out into the city.

98
00:04:35.160 --> 00:04:37.680
If you're visiting Savannah over a weekend, take a short

99
00:04:37.759 --> 00:04:40.639
drive to nearby Tybee Island. It's only about twenty minutes

100
00:04:40.680 --> 00:04:42.800
away and is the perfect spot for a beach day.

101
00:04:43.279 --> 00:04:45.399
You can relax on the sandy shores, dip your toes

102
00:04:45.439 --> 00:04:47.519
in the Atlantic, or even rent a bike to explore

103
00:04:47.519 --> 00:04:49.680
more of the island. Grab some fresh seafood at the

104
00:04:49.680 --> 00:04:51.759
Crab Shack before you head back to the city. Their

105
00:04:51.800 --> 00:04:55.000
Low Country Boil is a local favorite for those who

106
00:04:55.079 --> 00:04:57.639
love a good walk. The Bonaventure Cemetery is a fascinating

107
00:04:57.680 --> 00:05:00.199
place to explore. It's one of the most beautiful cemetery

108
00:05:00.360 --> 00:05:04.240
you'll ever see, with its sprawling layouts and gorgeous monuments.

109
00:05:04.240 --> 00:05:06.560
You might recognize it from the book Midnight in the

110
00:05:06.600 --> 00:05:09.360
Garden of Good and Evil. It's one of those places

111
00:05:09.360 --> 00:05:13.199
where you can spend hours wandering and reflecting as you

112
00:05:13.240 --> 00:05:15.680
wind down your stay in Savannah, take a moment to

113
00:05:15.759 --> 00:05:17.560
just sit on a bench in one of the squares,

114
00:05:18.199 --> 00:05:20.319
listen to the sounds of the city, the distant hum

115
00:05:20.360 --> 00:05:23.040
of conversation, the rustle of leaves. Savannah has a way

116
00:05:23.040 --> 00:05:25.600
of slowing you down, inviting you to breathe a little

117
00:05:25.639 --> 00:05:28.560
deeper and just be present. It's a city that welcomes

118
00:05:28.560 --> 00:05:32.120
you with open arms and leaves a lasting impression. When

119
00:05:32.120 --> 00:05:34.839
you're ready to leave, you'll likely find yourself already planning

120
00:05:34.839 --> 00:05:37.800
your next visit. There's something about the mix of history, culture,

121
00:05:37.839 --> 00:05:41.439
and that unique Savannah charm that's utterly captivating. And whether

122
00:05:41.480 --> 00:05:44.160
you're exploring solo, with friends or family, you'll find that

123
00:05:44.199 --> 00:05:47.720
Savannah has a way of making everyone feel welcome. So

124
00:05:47.800 --> 00:05:49.519
there you have it, a little glimpse into what makes

125
00:05:49.519 --> 00:05:51.439
Savannah such a special place. I hope you get the

126
00:05:51.480 --> 00:05:53.480
chance to experience it for yourself and that you fall

127
00:05:53.519 --> 00:05:55.439
in love with it, just as many do. There's always

128
00:05:55.439 --> 00:05:57.920
more to discover and enjoy, but for now, hold on

129
00:05:57.959 --> 00:06:00.000
to those memories and think about what you'll explore next time,

130
00:06:01.519 --> 00:06:03.600
And before you leave, make sure to carve out some

131
00:06:03.720 --> 00:06:06.600
time to explore the Starland District. This up and coming

132
00:06:06.639 --> 00:06:08.959
area is often overlooked, but is definitely worth a visit.

133
00:06:09.079 --> 00:06:11.319
It's full of creativity, from the street art that splashes

134
00:06:11.360 --> 00:06:14.360
color across brick walls to the indy galleries showcasing local talent.

135
00:06:14.519 --> 00:06:16.360
A stroll down Bull Street will take you past some

136
00:06:16.399 --> 00:06:18.759
of these vibrant murals and into a neighborhood that's buzzing

137
00:06:18.759 --> 00:06:22.319
with artistic energy. You might want to stop by Starlin Yard,

138
00:06:22.319 --> 00:06:24.240
a sort of open air food court with a rotating

139
00:06:24.279 --> 00:06:26.519
selection of food trucks and a bar. It's a great

140
00:06:26.519 --> 00:06:29.120
spot to try something different, like wood fired pizzas or

141
00:06:29.199 --> 00:06:32.279
delectable street tacos. The atmosphere is laid back and inviting,

142
00:06:32.319 --> 00:06:34.360
and it's easy to spend an afternoon here just soaking

143
00:06:34.360 --> 00:06:36.439
in the local vibe. You can grab a seat at

144
00:06:36.439 --> 00:06:38.279
one of the picnic tables and chat with locals or

145
00:06:38.319 --> 00:06:41.839
fellow travelers over a craft beer or chilled wine. If

146
00:06:41.839 --> 00:06:44.319
you're a fan of vintage fines and unique treasures, the

147
00:06:44.360 --> 00:06:47.160
nearby Picker Joe's Antique Mall is a mussy. It's a

148
00:06:47.199 --> 00:06:50.920
treasure trove filled with everything from antique furniture to quirky collectibles.

149
00:06:51.480 --> 00:06:53.439
Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's fun

150
00:06:53.480 --> 00:06:55.879
to browse through the eclectic mix and imagine the history

151
00:06:55.879 --> 00:06:58.439
behind each piece. Who knows you might just find the

152
00:06:58.439 --> 00:07:01.519
perfect souvenir to remind you of your time in Savannah.

153
00:07:02.160 --> 00:07:04.279
For the perfect way to end your day, head back

154
00:07:04.319 --> 00:07:06.279
toward the heart of the city and take a leisurely

155
00:07:06.319 --> 00:07:09.000
walk along Jones Street. Often touted as one of the

156
00:07:09.000 --> 00:07:11.959
most beautiful streets in America, it's lined with stately historic

157
00:07:12.000 --> 00:07:14.759
homes and enormous live oaks that create a canopy overhead.

158
00:07:15.360 --> 00:07:17.680
The soft light filtering through the leaves and the gentle

159
00:07:17.720 --> 00:07:20.399
sway of the Spanish moss make it feel almost magical.

160
00:07:20.560 --> 00:07:22.399
It's a peaceful place to reflect on your day and

161
00:07:22.439 --> 00:07:25.639
appreciate the timeless beauty of Savannah. As evening sets in,

162
00:07:25.759 --> 00:07:28.839
consider catching a live performance at the Savannah Theater, one

163
00:07:28.879 --> 00:07:31.800
of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States.

164
00:07:32.279 --> 00:07:34.639
The shows here range from musicals to comedy, and it's

165
00:07:34.680 --> 00:07:37.079
a wonderful way to cap off a day full of exploration.

166
00:07:37.160 --> 00:07:40.399
The venue itself is an architectural gem, and there's something

167
00:07:40.439 --> 00:07:43.120
special about watching a performance in a place that's been

168
00:07:43.279 --> 00:07:47.319
entertaining guests for generations. Before you call it a night,

169
00:07:47.759 --> 00:07:50.480
take a moment to enjoy Savannah's night life. Whether in

170
00:07:50.519 --> 00:07:53.439
the mood for a quiet drink or a lively night out,

171
00:07:53.680 --> 00:07:57.079
Savannah's got you covered. The Alley Cat Lounge offers a

172
00:07:57.160 --> 00:08:00.360
speakeasy vibe with a menu full of creative cocktail, while

173
00:08:00.360 --> 00:08:03.399
the nearby Congress Streets Social Club provides a more laid

174
00:08:03.399 --> 00:08:06.199
back pub environment with live music and a friendly crowd.

175
00:08:07.279 --> 00:08:09.639
Savannah is one of those places that offer something new

176
00:08:09.680 --> 00:08:12.399
every time you visit. From its beautiful historic streets to

177
00:08:12.439 --> 00:08:14.560
the welcoming charm of the locals, it's a city that

178
00:08:14.639 --> 00:08:17.759
invites you to relax, explore, and embrace its unique blend

179
00:08:17.800 --> 00:08:20.519
of old world charm and modern flair. And as you

180
00:08:20.600 --> 00:08:23.439
prepare to say goodbye, you'll likely find yourself already dreaming

181
00:08:23.480 --> 00:08:28.120
of your next adventure. Here. I'm Johnny Mack and Travel

182
00:08:28.279 --> 00:08:32.120
is Back. Follow Travel Is Back wherever you listen to

183
00:08:32.159 --> 00:08:35.360
podcasts and find all two hundred plus destinations in our

184
00:08:35.399 --> 00:08:36.120
back catalog.

196. Savannah, Georgia - Spanish Moss, Cobblestones and Southern Secrets

Listen On

Featured Episodes

Recent Episodes