Our third and final day in Savannah, Georgia, wrapped up our December getaway with more history, charm, and festive cheer. After touring the city, exploring the riverfront, and enjoying a ghost tour on our second day, we were ready for another day of discovery. Savannah truly shines as a holiday destination, and our last day proved just how magical this historic city is.
Morning in Forsyth Park: History and Local Culture
We started our day by hopping on the trolley and heading to Forsyth Park, one of Savannah’s most iconic landmarks. The park, established in the 1840s, is famous for its expansive green spaces and picturesque layout.
On Saturdays, the park comes alive with a vibrant farmer’s market, where locals and visitors alike can browse fresh produce, handmade goods, and local art.
At the heart of the park stands the Confederate Memorial, a solemn monument dedicated in 1879 to honor those who served in the Confederate Army. This towering granite structure serves as a reminder of the city’s complex history.
Nearby is the park’s crown jewel, the Forsyth Fountain, installed in 1858. Its design was inspired by fountains in Paris and remains a favorite spot for photos, particularly when lit up during the holidays.
Strolling Through Historic Squares
From Forsyth Park, Scott and I made our way toward the Armstrong Kessler Mansion, a beautifully restored estate built in 1919 for Savannah businessman George Ferguson Armstrong. It later became the home of Benjamin and Nancy Kessler, who ensured its preservation. The mansion exemplifies the city’s rich architectural history.
We continued to Madison Square, created in 1837 and named after James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. This charming square features the Pulaski Monument, a tribute to General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman and Revolutionary War hero who died during the Siege of Savannah in 1779. The monument, completed in 1855, is a stunning example of Savannah’s dedication to preserving its past.
Touring the Owens-Thomas House
Next on our itinerary was the Owens-Thomas House, one of Savannah’s most significant historical homes. Built in 1819, the home has remained largely untouched, retaining much of its original furnishings and structure.
Our tour began in the Carriage House, where the names of enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the property are preserved on the walls—a powerful and humbling reminder of the city’s history.
As I mentioned in the last blog, the slaves lived in terrible conditions, while their owners lived an opulent lifestyle. The images below depict their entire home including their sleeping arrangements.
Notice in the image below that the ceiling has a blue hue, also known as “haint blue”. Haint blue is a pale blue or greenish-blue shade traditionally used in the southern United States, particularly in the Lowcountry, as a form of spiritual protection. Rooted in Gullah culture, the color was believed to ward off restless spirits, or “haints,” by tricking them into thinking the painted surface was water or the sky, which they could not cross. Often seen on porch ceilings, doors, and window frames, this tradition reflects a blend of African spiritual practices and Southern folklore, preserving a unique cultural heritage.
The Owens-Thomas Mansion
The courtyard garden, once a working space for the household, led us to the mansion itself. Inside, we were struck by the stark contrast between the opulence of the Owens-Thomas family’s lifestyle and the harsh conditions endured by the enslaved workers.
From the intricately painted doors designed to mimic expensive wood to the unique upstairs bridge adorned with wave-like patterns, the home is a testament to early 19th-century ingenuity and luxury.
In the basement of the home, they have created a sort of museum. It’s unfinished, but it showed how their cistern worked along with their sewer system.
Afternoon at City Market and Ellis Square
After the tour, Scott and I headed to City Market, which was transformed into a festive Christmas square.
A highlight of the market is the Haitian Monument, honoring the soldiers of the Chasseurs-Volontaires de Saint-Domingue, who fought for American independence during the Revolutionary War.
No trip to City Market is complete without stopping at Byrd’s Famous Cookies, where we indulged in holiday treats. I opted for the savory pecan cheddar bites, while Scott satisfied his sweet tooth with classic cookies.
Adjacent to the market is Ellis Square, originally laid out in 1733. It has been beautifully restored as a gathering space and features a playful fountain that children (and adults) enjoy year-round.
Ellis Square, one of Savannah’s original squares laid out in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, was historically a bustling hub with the City Market at its center. Named after Henry Ellis, Georgia’s second Royal Governor, it was controversially replaced by a parking garage in 1954. In 2010, after significant preservation efforts, the square was restored as a vibrant public space with modern features like a fountain, seating areas, and a statue of Savannah-born lyricist Johnny Mercer, blending its historic significance with contemporary urban charm.
Savannah’s River Front
As the day wound down, Scott and I made our way to the Bohemian Hotel to enjoy a cocktail at Rocks on the Roof, a chic rooftop bar with spectacular views of the Savannah River and the city skyline. Watching the marine traffic, including a huge yacht ,was the perfect way to relax before dinner.
While the views were breathtaking, you could also see your breath, so we eventually moved inside. At the bar, the lights were made out of oyster shells.
Along the river front, you will find the Florence Martus statue, also known as the “Waving Girl”. As the story goes, she fell in love with a sailor and he was soon shipped off to sea. Every day, she waved a handkerchief or lantern to greet every ship entering or leaving Savannah’s port from 1887 to 1931 in hopes that her sailor would return, but he never did. The statue commemorates her 44 years of unwavering dedication and hospitality, making her a beloved symbol of Savannah’s welcoming spirit and maritime heritage.
Dinner at Boars Head Grill and Tavern
For our final meal in Savannah, we dined at the Boar’s Head Grill & Tavern, a cozy spot steeped in history. No this is not the lunch meat Boar’s Head. This charming eatery, housed in a building dating back to the 1800s, is Savannah’s oldest brick building on the riverfront. It was beautifully decorated for the holidays, adding to its warm ambiance.
Scott and I sat in the far corner and were accompanied by what looked to be a figure head. Historically, figureheads were carved wooden sculptures, often depicting women, mythical beings, or other symbolic figures, mounted on the prow of sailing vessels. Female figureheads were particularly popular and often represented ideals like grace, beauty, or protection. They were believed to bring good fortune and safeguard the ship and its crew on their voyages.
The food at the restaurant was absolutely fantastic. I enjoyed the creamy shrimp and grits, which were perfectly seasoned and rich with flavor. Scott savored the stuffed shrimp with linguine, a beautifully prepared dish that was both hearty and delicious. The drinks were festive, adding a fun touch to the meal, and the service was excellent, making it a memorable end to our culinary adventures.
Festive Evening Stroll
After dinner, we strolled through the Christmas Market on the riverfront, where the twinkling lights and holiday decorations created a magical atmosphere.
Our final stop was the Alley Kat Lounge, a hidden speakeasy known for its unique cocktails. This cozy spot was the perfect way to toast our Savannah getaway.
A Holiday Destination to Remember
Savannah captivated us with its rich history, vibrant culture, and festive holiday spirit. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in Southern cuisine, or simply soaking in the charm of the city’s squares, Savannah is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. We highly recommend visiting during the holidays for a truly enchanting experience.
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