Savannah, GA

The 30-acre Forsyth Park is Savannah's largest and most popular park. Created in 1851, the park forms the southern border of Bull Street in the historic district. Here, visitors can explore Confederate and Spanish-American War memorials or hike the

The 30-acre Forsyth Park is Savannah's largest and most popular park. Created in 1851, the park forms the southern border of Bull Street in the historic district. Here, visitors can explore Confederate and Spanish-American War memorials or hike the one-mile perimeter pathway that sweeps past beautiful historic homes. Also popular is the park's namesake fountain, a two-tiered, ornate cast iron piece constructed in 1858.

Forsyth Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. On-site parking is available.

Savannah's Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum honors the famous Eighth Air Force. Activated in Savannah in 1942, the Eighth Air Force had the original mission of conducting aerial bombardment missions against Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II.

Savannah's Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum honors the famous Eighth Air Force. Activated in Savannah in 1942, the Eighth Air Force had the original mission of conducting aerial bombardment missions against Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II. Today, the Mighty Eighth is one of just three active duty numbered Air Forces in the Air Combat Command.

Guests can explore thousands of Air Force objects, ranging from personal gear to aircraft, at the museum. Highlight artifacts include hand-painted bomber jackets, Medals of Honor and personal prisoner of war materials. Among the most popular of the museum's features are the computer-generated B-17 gunner interactive exhibit and the re-created World War II airfield and base.

The museum features several spaces for private events, including the General Lewis E. Lyle Rotunda, which features a 50-foot-tall simulated parachute ceiling with space for 600 guests. The Chapel of the Fallen Eagles is a stunning venue with its stained glass windows and a vaulted ceiling, while the Museum Pub features authentic British antiques, a mahogany bar and period aircraft. The museum's Flight Room functions as a corporate meeting room for up to 40 people.

The Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $6 for children ages 6-12 and $10 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free.

Built in 1808 and named in honor of former Georgia Governor and Revolutionary War soldier James Jackson, Savannah's Old Fort Jackson is the oldest standing brick fortification in the state. In fact, the fort is one of only eight Second System

Built in 1808 and named in honor of former Georgia Governor and Revolutionary War soldier James Jackson, Savannah's Old Fort Jackson is the oldest standing brick fortification in the state. In fact, the fort is one of only eight Second System fortifications, a series of forts built prior to the War of 1812. Once used as the headquarters for Confederate Savannah River defenses during the Civil War, Old Fort Jackson now welcomes thousands of visitors each year.

Guests can wander the halls of this historic fort and experience breathtaking views of the Savannah River. The fort also offers a number of educational programs. Lucky guests can even get the chance to see or hear a cannon blast, as Old Fort Jackson is the only historic fort in the country that delivers cannon salutes to passing military vessels.

The fort, part of the Coastal Heritage Society, is available for private events. It hosts a number of unique, historically-themed dinner programs for groups of up to 50 people. Old Fort Jackson is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $3.75 for students and $4.25 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free.

A National Historic Landmark, Savannah's beautiful Historic District is well-known for its grid plan. Bordered by the Savannah River, East Broad Street, Gwinnett Street and Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard, the historic district was laid out in

A National Historic Landmark, Savannah's beautiful Historic District is well-known for its grid plan. Bordered by the Savannah River, East Broad Street, Gwinnett Street and Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard, the historic district was laid out in 1733 around four public squares to be used for forums and meetings. By 1851, it had expanded to 24 public squares, 21 of which remain today within the half-square-mile district.

Millions of people visit the Savannah Historic District every year, most notably the five squares located along Bull Street: Monterey, Madison, Chippewa, Wright, and Johnson. Known as Savannah's "Crown Jewels," these five locations serve as grand monument spaces to major events and people who have shaped Savannah's history. Chippewa Square features a bronze statue of Georgia founder General James Oglethrope, while Madison Square features a vintage cannon that marks the starting points of the first highways in the state.

The historic district is marked by buildings and homes built in the Georgian, Gothic and Greek Revival styles. Notable structures include the 1818 Owens-Thomas House at Oglethorpe Square, the 1795 Spencer Woodbridge House on Habersham Street, the 1853 Gothic Revival Greene House at Madison Square, and the 1865 Beach Institute, the city's first African American school, on East Harris Street. The Mercer House in Monterey Square was recently the home of antiques dealer Jim Williams. The home, as well as the square itself, was featured in John Berendt's novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

In addition to historic monuments and stunning architecture, the Savannah Historic District is the location of many of Savannah's most cozy cafes and unique boutiques. Guest can enjoy a traditional tea over scones and jam at The Tea Room, or indulge in fried chicken and Southern sides at Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room. Shopaholics can pick up all manner of items, from sheets and linens to French antiques to handmade jewelry, at stores such as Savannah Fine Linens, Paris Market & Brocante, Shop SCAD and E. Shaver, Bookseller.

Self-guided tours of the historic district are available from the Savannah Visitor Center. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Housed in the former Central of Georgia Railway passenger shed, the Savannah History Museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, the largest collection of artifacts in Savannah. Showcasing the city's history from its 1733 founding to present day,

Housed in the former Central of Georgia Railway passenger shed, the Savannah History Museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, the largest collection of artifacts in Savannah. Showcasing the city's history from its 1733 founding to present day, exhibits range in topics from 19th and 20th century women's fashions to the Revolutionary War Battle of Savannah. Artifacts on display include weapons, military items, railway items, rare 1800s dugout canoes, a carriage belonging to Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, and even the bench from the movie Forrest Gump.

The museum offers private event space and special event packages for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Closed for roof renovations in early 2009, the museum is expected to re-open in March. Museum hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $3.75 for children and $4.25 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free.

Founded in 1830, Savannah's Telfair Museum of Art is the oldest art museum in the South. The museum complex consists of three distinct buildings: the 1818 Telfair Academy; the Owens-Thomas House, regarded as the finest example of the English Regency

Founded in 1830, Savannah's Telfair Museum of Art is the oldest art museum in the South. The museum complex consists of three distinct buildings: the 1818 Telfair Academy; the Owens-Thomas House, regarded as the finest example of the English Regency style in the country; and the Jepson Center for the Arts. Opened in 2006, the museum's newest addition is a contemporary 64,000-square-foot building that houses modern works.

Guests to the museum complex can explore a permanent collection of 4,500 pieces spanning the art and architecture of the 18th through 21st centuries. Paintings, photographs, sculptures and decorative arts from the United States, Europe and Asia are on display. The Telfair Museum of Art is also home to more than 80 paintings and drawings by writer Kahlil Gibran, the largest such public collection in the United States.

The Telfair Museum of Art offers several spectacular venues for private events. The Telfair Academy's impressive rotunda accommodates 250 people, while the Owens-Thomas parterre garden and fountain area have space for 100 people. The Jepson Center features a three-story atrium and third-floor outdoor sculpture terraces, as well as a sweeping 200-seat auditorium.

Both the Telfair Academy and Jepson Center are open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM and Sunday from noon to 5 PM. The Owens-Thomas House is open Monday from noon to 5 PM, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 to 5 PM. Admission, which includes entrance to all three buildings, is $5 for students grades K through college and $15 for adults. Admission for children under 5 is free.

Housed in a 1902 brick building, Belford's Savannah is a local favorite nestled in the heart of the Savannah Historic District. The building's huge arched windows, exposed brick and wooden floors transport guests back to simpler times as they enjoy

Housed in a 1902 brick building, Belford's Savannah is a local favorite nestled in the heart of the Savannah Historic District. The building's huge arched windows, exposed brick and wooden floors transport guests back to simpler times as they enjoy the restaurant's traditional lowcountry cuisine. Menu specialties include the local shrimp with buttery grit cakes and wilted collard greens and the lobster-stuffed ravioli with shrimp, scallops and Cajun cream sauce.

The restaurant offers private dining for up to 150 guests. Belford's Savannah Seafood and Steaks serves lunch Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 3 PM and dinner daily from 5:30 to 10 PM. Breakfast is served Monday through Saturday from 8 to 11 AM and Sunday brunch is offered from 11:30 AM to 3 PM. Entrees range from $20 to $37.

One of the most highly-regarded restaurants in Savannah, Elizabeth on 37th is located in a palatial 1900s Southern mansion. Original paintings, fresh flowers and priceless ceramics adorn the interior, creating a cozy atmosphere that's the perfect

One of the most highly-regarded restaurants in Savannah, Elizabeth on 37th is located in a palatial 1900s Southern mansion. Original paintings, fresh flowers and priceless ceramics adorn the interior, creating a cozy atmosphere that's the perfect match for the savory Southern coastal cuisine. Prepared with local ingredients and house-grown herbs, innovative menu items include mustard-garlic glazed salmon, corn meal-crusted soft shell crabs and rack of lamb with corn pudding and okra.

The restaurant's private dining room is available for functions. Elizabeth on 37th is open daily from 6 PM to close. Entrees range from $27 to $34. The chef's seven-course tasting menu is $70 per person.

One of the most popular and celebrated restaurants in Savannah is undoubtedly The Lady and Sons. Owned and operated by Food Network celebrity chef and Savannah resident Paula Deen, The Lady and Sons specializes in homestyle comfort food, served in a

One of the most popular and celebrated restaurants in Savannah is undoubtedly The Lady and Sons. Owned and operated by Food Network celebrity chef and Savannah resident Paula Deen, The Lady and Sons specializes in homestyle comfort food, served in a cozy 200-year-old renovated brick building. Residents and visitors alike line up to enjoy Deen's award-winning fare, which has received accolades such as International Meal of the Year by USA Today. Menu favorites include the world-famous chicken pot pie; bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with crab and served with lemon basil cream sauce; and local black grouper with peach barbecue sauce and cheddar cheese grit cakes.

The restaurant features a private dining room for up to 100 guests. The Lady and Sons serves lunch Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM and a lunch buffet Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Dinner is served nightly starting at 5 PM. Entrees range from $19 to $28.

Located in the heart of Savannah's downtown shopping district, Il Pasticcio is one of the area's most popular restaurants. Specializing in homemade pasta entrees, the restaurant resembles an authentic Italian trattoria with its floor-to-ceiling

Located in the heart of Savannah's downtown shopping district, Il Pasticcio is one of the area's most popular restaurants. Specializing in homemade pasta entrees, the restaurant resembles an authentic Italian trattoria with its floor-to-ceiling windows, tile floors and marble and brass accessories. Menu favorites include grilled gorgonzola-encrusted filet mignon; spaghetti with shrimp, sea scallops and saffron sauce; and homemade taglioni with mushroom tomato sauce.

For functions, the restaurant offers its state-of-the-art private wine cellar for up to 120 guests. Il Pasticcio serves dinner Monday through Thursday from 5:30 to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday from 5:30 to 11:30 PM and Sunday from 5:30 to 9:30 PM. Entrees range from $23 to $40.

Aside from being a world-famous dining locale, the Pirates' House is also one of the most intriguing historic sites in Savannah. First opened in 1753 as an inn for seafarers, the building quickly became a gathering place for pirates and sailors. The

Aside from being a world-famous dining locale, the Pirates' House is also one of the most intriguing historic sites in Savannah. First opened in 1753 as an inn for seafarers, the building quickly became a gathering place for pirates and sailors. The on-site Herb House is said to be the oldest house in Georgia, while the restaurant's adjacent Trustees Garden is regarded as the country's first experimental garden.

Today, the charmingly rustic and reputedly haunted building houses a casually elegant eatery that proudly displays its heritage with details such as hanging fish nets and displays of pages taken from a rare edition of Treasure Island. Specializing in traditional Southern comfort food, Pirates' House is known for its award-winning honey pecan fried chicken. Other menu favorites include pork chops with lowcountry grits and flounder served with native crabmeat and shrimp.

Private dining is available for up to 150 guests. The Pirates' House serves lunch Monday through Thursday from 11 AM to 4 PM and dinner Monday through Thursday from 4 to 9:30 PM and Friday and Saturday from 4 to 10 PM. Entrees range from $17 to $26.

Savannah's Sapphire Grill is a relaxed eatery specializing in fresh seafood and coastal cuisine. The restaurant's sleek dcor of white linens, steel accents and dark woods is the perfect backdrop to its award-winning cuisine. Making the most of local

Savannah's Sapphire Grill is a relaxed eatery specializing in fresh seafood and coastal cuisine. The restaurant's sleek dcor of white linens, steel accents and dark woods is the perfect backdrop to its award-winning cuisine. Making the most of local and regional organic ingredients, the seasonal menu has featured favorites such as rice-seared tuna "mignon" with black rice grits; crispy veal sweetbreads with wild mushroom sausage; and barbequed Colorado lamb shank with warm heirloom tomato salad.

The restaurant is available for private events and offers a range of customized event menus. Sapphire Grill serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 6 to 10:30 PM and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 to 11:30 PM. Entrees range from $27 to $39.

As America's most haunted city, Savannah has a lot of stories to share. Cobblestone Tours offers two informative and historically-accurate walking tours led by fully-costumed guides. The 90-minute Haunted History Tour immerses guests in tales of the

As America's most haunted city, Savannah has a lot of stories to share. Cobblestone Tours offers two informative and historically-accurate walking tours led by fully-costumed guides. The 90-minute Haunted History Tour immerses guests in tales of the area's most famous ghosts and local folklore. The two-hour Haunted Pub Crawl leads guests to some of the area's most haunted drinking locales.

Private tours are available for groups. The Haunted History Tour departs nightly at 7 PM and 9 PM from the front gates of the Colonial Park Cemetery. The Haunted Pub Crawl departs nightly from Moon River Brewing Company at 8 PM and Monday through Saturday from Molly MacPherson's at 9 PM. Haunted History tours are $5 for children ages 5-12 and $10 for adults. Admission for children under 5 is free. Haunted Pub Crawls are $10 for adults; children are not permitted.

Savannah's first National Historic Landmark is the birthplace and childhood home of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low. Built in 1821, the home was originally built for former mayor of Savannah James Wayne. It was then sold to the Gordon family

Savannah's first National Historic Landmark is the birthplace and childhood home of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low. Built in 1821, the home was originally built for former mayor of Savannah James Wayne. It was then sold to the Gordon family in 1831.

Purchased by the Girl Scouts in the 1950s, the two-story home has been elegantly restored and furnished with original family pieces, including Low's own artwork. More than 65,000 people visit the attraction each year to take guided tours of the "Savannah box" style home, known for its simple, practical design marked by a center hall flanked by rooms on both sides.

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, November to February, and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. From March to October, it is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $7 for students ages 6-20 and $8 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free. Girl Scout discounts are available. Special theme tours for groups are available by reservation.

Named after the father of Savannah's modern-day Civil Rights Movement, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum explores the struggle of Georgia's oldest African American community. The museum building itself is part of the story, as it was

Named after the father of Savannah's modern-day Civil Rights Movement, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum explores the struggle of Georgia's oldest African American community. The museum building itself is part of the story, as it was originally constructed in 1914 as an African American bank. Inside, three floors of 15 photographic and interactive exhibit areas house attractions such as a fiber optic map of significant civil rights sites and events and a lunch counter where sit-ins once occurred.

Private event spaces at the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum are available. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $2 for students and $4 for adults.

Located in historic downtown Savannah, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum showcases ship models, paintings and antiques focusing on English-American trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum is housed in the elegant Scarborough House, built

Located in historic downtown Savannah, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum showcases ship models, paintings and antiques focusing on English-American trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum is housed in the elegant Scarborough House, built in 1819 for William Scarborough, one of the owners of theSteamship Savannah and president of the Savannah Steamship Company. Built in the Greek Revival style and used as a public school from the 1870s to the 1950s, the Scarborough House underwent a full restoration in 1997.

Today, the museum houses a number of ship models. The City of Savannah re-creates the 245-foot-long, part-sail, part-steam powered ship built in 1877 for freight service among Savannah, New York and Boston. The Steamship Savannah model represents the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean, while the museum's Titanic model represents the 882-foot-long, 45,000-ton ship that sank in April 1912.

The museum is also home to the largest garden in the Savannah Historic District. The 19th century parlor garden features all plant material that is native to the region or has been available since the early to mid-1800s. Lush azaleas, magnolias and boxwood surround the garden's large brick terrace and copper-roofed pavilion.

The museum's garden is available for private events for up to 200 people. The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $6 for students through high school or with college identification and $8 for adults. Admission for children under 8 is free. Group rates are available.

Located just east of Savannah, the impressive Tybee Island Lighthouse has been guiding mariners into the Savannah River for more than 270 years. Ordered by General James Oglethorpe in 1732, the lighthouse is one of just a few 18th century American

Located just east of Savannah, the impressive Tybee Island Lighthouse has been guiding mariners into the Savannah River for more than 270 years. Ordered by General James Oglethorpe in 1732, the lighthouse is one of just a few 18th century American lighthouses still in operation. The current lighthouse is the 4th to be built on the site. The original 90-foot-tall lighthouse was completed in 1736 and destroyed by a storm in 1741. The two to follow were destroyed by battle and storm forces.

The current lighthouse stands at 154 feet tall and became electrically-driven in 1933. Visitors are welcome to climb the 178 stairs to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy breathtaking views. They can also tour the Headkeepers Cottage, the oldest building on Tybee Island.

The Tybee Island Lighthouse is open every day except Tuesday from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Self-guided tours are $5 for children ages 6-17 and $6 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free.