Savannah’s Historic District was laid out in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, founder of the colony of Georgia, as a grid of wards each built around a public square. That plan survives, and the district is now a National Historic Landmark. This guide is independent and not run by the city.
Our top pick: Savannah Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour
The main areas
- The squares: Chippewa, Madison, Monterey, Lafayette and others, joined by tree-lined streets. See our guide to the squares.
- Bull Street: the main spine, running south to Forsyth Park and north to City Hall and the river.
- River Street: the cobblestone waterfront; see River Street.
- City Market: a pedestrian area of galleries and shops in restored warehouses.
- Churches and museums: the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and several house museums are within a few blocks.
How to see it
| Way | Best for |
|---|---|
| Walking | A flexible day with time in each square |
| Trolley | Hop-on stops and live commentary; see trolley tours |
| Guided walk | History and architecture explained |
| Riverboat | Views of the waterfront |
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn bring mild weather. Summer is hot and humid, so plan indoor stops for the middle of the day. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Savannah Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour
A guided walk through the district. 4.8/5 from over 260 reviews.
Old Savannah Tours Historic Overview
A narrated loop around the district. 4.6/5 from over 1,000 reviews.
Guided Segway Tour of Historic Downtown Savannah
Cover more ground with a guide. 4.9/5 from over 300 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Walk the squares in a loop: start at Forsyth Park, walk north along Bull Street and return by a parallel street so you see more squares.
Check hotel prices in the Historic District
Frequently asked questions
How big is Savannah's Historic District?
It covers about 2.2 square miles, one of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in the United States, and is easy to walk.
How many squares are in Savannah?
There are 22 squares in the Historic District today. General Oglethorpe's 1733 plan had more, and a few were later lost.
How long do you need in the Historic District?
A full day covers the highlights on foot. Two days lets you add museums, the riverfront and Forsyth Park without rushing.
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