A Summer Stay in Savannah Georgia
Ever since reading the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt, I had always been intrigued by Savannah. We got the opportunity to go as a side trip after a family reunion in North Carolina and had no regrets. Check out these fun and easy tips to get you started.
Where to stay:
Nothing says southern hospitality than being greeted by a charismatic concierge named Rodney fanning himself with a huge handmade fan and offering up cold beverages in the lobby. A stay at the Kimpton Brice Hotel has an urban resort vibe, is centrally located for exploring and fun. It comes with kid and dog friendly access to an outdoor pool and peaceful garden – a must have during hot and humid summer days. The adjoining restaurant called Pacci Italian Kitchen and Bar serves up coffee drinks, smoothies, a juice bar and freshly made pastries. For lunch and dinner the chef purveys a selection of cicchetti (Italian tapas) panini, house cured meats and picked vegetables. Like many Kimpton Hotels, the Brice atmosphere delivers an oasis and an escape. While it is a luxury brand, prices are reasonable, and the experience is memorable.
Top 5 Sightseeing Activities!
Savannah is a city of history, mansions, Revolutionary and Civil War landmarks and known as one of the most haunted cities in the US. There are walking, trolley riverboat, ghost and motorized and carriage tours and many more other types of tours in this historic city.
- Walking Tour! Savannah is made up of iconic historic squares and parks that are best experienced by foot. Downloading Savannah Walking Tour app by Tour Buddy on your phone and exploring this way is the most affordable option and good if you want to avoid crowded tour groups. Or just do what we did and start walking around. Forsyth Square was our favorite area with its beautiful cast iron fountain modeled after the Place de Concorde in Paris, draping Spanish Mos, pine trees and beautiful light.
- Leopold’s Ice Cream after walking (in humidity) with kids, treat them and yourselves to Leopold’s Ice Cream. This Savannah tradition delivers on the hype.
- Bonaventure Cemetery is famous for its architecture, sculptures and notable burials. In this serene and quiet part of Savannah you can learn about a rich history of authors, generals, military officers buried at the site. Be sure to visit Little Gracie’s grave site surrounded by a cast iron fence. Her story of death at a young age and that she was left alone in Savannah has captivated many for over 100 years.
- Mercer Williams House Museum is a historic home designed by New York Architect John S. Norris for General Hugh W. Mercer, great grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer. In 1969 a prominent socialite Jim Williams bought the property. The book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” was based on Jim Williams life and a tour through the estate is worth it regardless of if you’ve read the book or not. Even school aged kids will find the historical elements of the tour and the interior design and architecture fascinating.
- Head to Tybee Island for some fun in the sun! Tybee Island is a city and barrier island located 18 miles from Savannah and so much fun. Getting there by car is the easiest way to access the island. Once you arrive, rent a bike at Tim’s Bike and Gear and pedal your way along the bike route. Spend the rest of your time laying on the beach and swimming in the warm Atlantic Ocean waters.
