savannah
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Photo courtesy Savannah Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

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Vinnie Van Go-Gos, Savannah GA

Savannah's best pizzaria

by Scott Schambelan | July 27, 2010

The late night doughy slices offered up at Sweet Melissa’s, the bohemian pies baking over at Mellow Mushroom, these are just a few options that greet any pizza lover walking Savannah’s side streets. But these viable venues pail in comparison to what awaits you over at Vinnie Van Go-Gos.

Nestled along the back end of City Market on Franklin Square, this pizzeria has been voted best (pizza) in …



J. Christopher’s, Savannah, GA

This Gerogia staple serves up some of the best lunch and brunch in town

by Scott Schambelan | July 25, 2010

Savannah has no shortage of bars and clubs to occupy the evening hours, but come daybreak, there are decidedly few decent breakfast and brunch options. But, luckily, you know about VisitSouth’s great inside travel tips, and therefore now know about J. Christopher’s.

Located on Liberty St. in downtown Savannah, this breakfast and lunch shop is open from 7am-2pm and serves up some of the best brunch and lunch in city …



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ArtZeum at the Jepson Center, Savannah, GA

A children's museum where kids can get hands-on with history and art

by Scott Schambelan | July 19, 2010

With no official zoo, aquarium, or children’s museum listed on any travel brochure or website, Savannah might not seem very child-friendly on paper. But these attractions do exist (if you know where to look for them) and make for a special and unique experience on your next family vacation. 

While there is no city-run zoo, Oatland Wildlife Refuge is a one-of-a-kind walk-through animal habitat free of concrete motes and Plexiglas and allows …



The sand gnats in action in a recent game in Grayson Stadium

The sand gnats in action in a recent game in Grayson Stadium

Historic Grayson Stadium, Savannah, GA

America's oldest minor league park still draws crouds night after night during the summer baseball season

by Scott Schambelan | July 16, 2010

During these balmy nights of midsummer, one of Savannah’s favorite pastimes is getting the whole family together and heading on out to the ballpark to watch the local Sand Gnats in action.

A single-A feeder team for the New York Mets, the Sand Gants always have young, energetic talent filling out the roster, which make for quality games night after night. That, along with nightly promotions like ‘Dollar Mondays’ ($1 …



Just before the band takes the stage at Livewire

Just before the band takes the stage at Livewire

Livewire, Savannah, GA

In a city with a vibrant undeground music scene, this is Savannah's best venue for live acts

by Scott Schambelan | July 12, 2010

Savannah doesn’t see too many big bands these days. With an aging event center, and the more populace Atlanta just up the road, the big names tend to skip us over on their national tours.

While they may seem like a dagger in the heart of the Savannah musicscape, it has actually help to foster a devoted and ever-growing music scene. Revered local groups and up-and-coming bands from as far away as California love …



The cast iron veranda and front entrance of the Marshall House

The cast iron veranda and front entrance of the Marshall House

The Marshall House, Savannah, GA

Seamlessly blending contemporary comfort with historical authenticity, Savannah’s first hotel is still one of its best.

by Scott Schambelan | July 09, 2010

With a commanding four-story façade of cast iron arches, high ceiling balconies, and iconic green shutters, The Marshall House has become a downtown landmark and makes for great accommodation option during your next visit to Savannah.

Credited as Savannah’s first hotel, the Marshall House was originally constructed in 1851 on the corners of Broughton St. and Drayton St. It was the principle accommodation of the city for over 50 years …



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Tom Triplett Park, Pooler, GA

This hidden gem offers some of the best lakeside access in Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | July 06, 2010

With miles of beaches and riverfront surrounding Savannah, most people tend to overlook the extensive amount of lake access that proliferates the county.

And while they flock to the tidal flats and sand dunes with there deck boats and beach chairs, the plentiful 3-4 acre size lakes, most of which are encompassed by city parks and hiking trails, are left alone. But one person’s loss is another’s gain, as these locations are an uncrowned …



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Dolphin Magic Tours, Savannah, GA

This history/nature cruise is a great way to tour Savannah from a different point of view

by Scott Schambelan | July 02, 2010

While Savannah provides a host of activities and diversions on land, we should not forget that she’s surrounded by water, both a river and an ocean, which include attractions of their own. One such draw is Dolphin Magic Tours

Departing daily from the docks at 313 River St. (on the East end, just in front of the Shrimp Factory) this two-hour guided tour takes you down the Savannah River, past …



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The Savannah Film Festival, Savannah, GA

The big names of Hollywood unite with the small town charm of Savannah to create a unique and accessible film fest!

by Scott Schambelan | June 28, 2010

Every October, the red carpets are rolled out on the sidewalks of Broughton Street, the spotlights fan the city walls, and film stars and enthusiasts from around the world descend on downtown for the Savannah Film Festival.

Put on by the Savannah College of Art and Design, the festival Features everything from pre-release Hollywood features to cutting-edge independents and draws big names (such as Michael Douglas, John Waters, and Jane Fonda) and …



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The Olde Pink House, Savannah, GA

The best restaurant in downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | June 27, 2010

Recently receiving honors from Savannah Connect Magazine for best restaurant and wait staff, the Olde Pink House is one of the town’s top spots for food and drinks.

True to its name, the Olde Pink House inhabits an 1800th century two-story mansion on one of Savannah’s city squares. And, with its elegant Victorian décor, original hard wood flooring, and colonial-era table and chairs, you really do feel like your dining in antiquity. …



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Moon River Brewing Company, Savannah, GA

Savannah's local distillery of fine craft beers

by Scott Schambelan | June 21, 2010

After a long day of sightseeing and walking tours, there is nothing more enjoyable than sitting back in one of Savannah’s shaded corners with an ice-cold beer. But, while you can garner a no-thrills draft at any five n’ dime on River Street or City Market, there is only one place where you can get a local quality-crafted brew and that is Moon River Brewery

With large street-front windows looking out over …



The Andrew Low House

The Andrew Low House

The Wayne Gordon (Low) House, Savannah, GA

A Mecca for girl scouts; take a tour of the birthplace its founder in downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | June 18, 2010

Crowned as the first Historic landmark in Savannah, the Wayne-Gordon (Low) House, birthplace of the famed founder of the Girl Scouts of America Juliette Gordon Low, draws thousands of visitors and scouts every year.

Located on Bull St. and Oglethorpe Ave. in downtown Savannah, this majestic double story English Regency house was once the home of Savannah Major and future Chief Justice James Moore Wayne before Juliette’s grandfather …



Photo by defrostca, via Creative Commons

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa, Savannah, GA

The best links in a town that is known of its love of, and rich history in, the game of golf.

by Scott Schambelan | June 14, 2010

With PGA tour courses and a rich history that inspired films like The Legend of Bagger Vance, Savannah has long since been a golfer’s haven. And, with over 15 clubs within 10 miles of downtown there are plenty of courses to choose from that fit everyone’s skill level and budget.

If you have the right connections, you might be able to pencil yourself in on a scorecard over at the



The front step of The 1895 Inn

The front step of The 1895 Inn

The 1895 Inn, Savannah, GA

The Best Victorian Bed & Breafast In Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | June 12, 2010

Just across the street from Colonial Park Cemetery and close to all the other major downtown attractions lies The 1895 Inn; a recently restored bed and breakfast that has been receiving a lot of praise from its guests.

Set in a Queen Ann high-style Victorian on Oglethorpe Ave, the inn offers four well-appointed guest rooms, each complete with a queen size bed and private bathroom. All rooms come with a …



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4th of July on River St., Savannah, GA

The place to celebrate our nation's independence in Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | June 07, 2010

This year’s 4th of July falls on a weekend, and with Savannah’s famous two-day firework show (Saturday and Sunday), it affords a prefect opportunity to get the family and friends together and come down and participate in all the fun.   

To start things off, Tybee Island will be putting on a beach fireworks show at the Pier and Pavilion on Saturday, July 3rd. The first rockets won’t be set off until …



Before the sun (and the crowds) decend on this late night food stop

Before the sun (and the crowds) decend on this late night food stop

Sweet Melissa’s, Savannah, GA

The best late night food options in downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | June 05, 2010

While many of Savannah’s downtown bars stay open well into the early morning hours, most of the restaurants and café’s close before midnight. And, if you’re like me, after an extended evening out on the town (maybe having a few drinks along the way), you need a post-party snack before you pack it in. So, here’s a list of some of the top late night eateries in the downtown area.

There’s Wild …



photo courtesy of Pretty Savannah Weddings & Events

Savannah Squares, Savannah, GA

The best wedding venue in town is right out on the streets among the spanish moss and mansions

by Scott Schambelan | June 01, 2010

A secluded cove along a wind-swept beach; a century-old oak grove draped in Spanish moss; or a historic church old as America itself. These are just a few venues that make Savannah a prefect place for a destination wedding.

If you are looking a little piece of history mixed in with your nuptials, head out to the ramparts of Old Fort Jackson. A restored Civil War fort sitting on the banks of the Savannah …



Just a sampling of the assortments offered at Harris

Just a sampling of the assortments offered at Harris

Harris Baking Company, Savannah, GA

The best baked goods in town are found at this artisan pastry shop

by Scott Schambelan | May 28, 2010

You’re in Savannah for the weekend and are staying at one of the great accommodations located downtown. You've just awoken from a refreshing night's rest and you’re ready to hit the town for a full day of sightseeing, but your stomach is grumbling and you know you’re going to need something to nibble on before you head out. And that’s when you remember that I recommended Harris Baking Company, and both you and …



photo by James Disley, via creative commons

Skidaway Island Marine Education Center & Aquarium, Savannah, GA

The short list of the best sea centers in the Savannah area

by Scott Schambelan | May 24, 2010

A city by the sea, Savannah is surrounded by salt marshes, rivers, and the ocean. So it comes as no surprise that it also boasts a healthy assortment of aquariums displaying the wide variety of marine life found the area.

Along with a large selection of aquatic pet shops like Exotic Underworlds and the Coastal Aquarium, there is the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. Located on the beach, this center …



Planters Inn entrance next to Reynolds Square

Planters Inn entrance next to Reynolds Square

The Planters Inn, Savannah, GA

A historic luxury hotel set on one of Savananh's beautiful shaded squares

by Scott Schambelan | May 22, 2010

Looking for a place to stay during your next trip to Savannah? Someplace that carries the same historic feel and authentic look as the rest of the city? Then you’ll want to check in to the historic Planters Inn, one of Savannah’s top downtown accommodations.

Perched on a shaded corner of Reynolds Square, this 60-room luxury hotel is centrally located and just a few blocks from City Market, Broughton St.,



photo by Mykl Roventine, via creative commons

Memorial Day on Tybee Island, Tybee Island, GA

What to do on Memorial Day in Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | May 17, 2010

Memorial Day weekend is upon us once again, and with it a steady stream of travelers making their way to Savannah for the long weekend.

While temperatures will be nearing the 90s, the humidity will still be relatively low, making for perfect picnic whether. And with lots of outdoor options, all of Savannah will be filled with holiday cheer.

Some like to grab a picnic blanket and claim a plot of grass out …



photo by Jeff Kubina, via Creative Commons

Hilton Head Island, SC

Near Savannah, Hilton Head is a resort island that the whole family can enjoy

by Scott Schambelan | May 15, 2010

About 45 minutes up the coast from Savannah lies an island paradise that the whole family can enjoy. One of a string of beach-lined barrier islands buffering the eastern seaboard, Hilton Head Island, SC is only 12 miles long, but is packed full of adventure.

If you’re looking for an island retreat, Hilton Head has an array of accommodations and restaurants to fit anybody’s budget.

Sports more your game? …



photo courtesy of Jazz’d

Jazz’d Tapas Bar, Savannah, GA

A stylish downtown restaurant and bar with great live musical offerings

by Scott Schambelan | May 10, 2010

While Savannah’s music scene may not be as prominent as tune towns like Austin or Memphis, there is one place where you can always find smooth sounds filling the downtown air after dark: Jazz’d Tapas Bar.

Featuring local legends like Jeff Beasley, Eddie Wilson, and Trae Gurley during the week and big bands such as the Georgia Kyle Trio, Bottles and Cans, and the Bluesonics on the weekends, locals and visitors …



photo by Def110, via Creative Commons

Beach Bum Weekend, Tybee Island, GA

An action-packed weekend of fun in the sun on Tybee Isand

by Scott Schambelan | May 08, 2010

It’s heating up here in Savannah and the community is gearing up for another summer of fun on the beach. To kick things off, the Beach Bum Parade and the EVP Pro-Am Beach Volleyball Tournament are coming to town (May 21st and 22nd respectively) in what is shaping up to be a wild weekend on Tybee Island.

The fun starts on Friday with the Beach Bum Parade. A parade just like any …



photo by Dennis Wong, via Creative Commons

Heavenly Spa by Westin, Savannah, GA

The Best Spa In Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | May 03, 2010

With an unhurried Southern pace and a warm spring breeze, Savannah is the perfect place to visit this time of year for a relaxing weekend away-from-it-all. And, what better way to unwind then at one of Savannah’s world-class spas?

There are many proprietors to choose from throughout the city, from small boutique health spas such as the Vanilla Day Spa (! East Broughton St.) to large hotel relaxation centers like the Mansion’s



Photo by Art Comments, via Creative Commons

2010 SCAD Fashion Show, Savannah, GA

One of the country's biggest student fashion shows is getting ready to take over the runway on May 15th.

by Scott Schambelan | May 01, 2010

Move over New York, on May 15, the fashion world’s spotlight beams down on Savannah for he annual SCAD Fashion Show.

In one of the top school fashion shows in the country, students battle it out on the runway in front of some of the top names in the fashion world such Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley and renowned international designers Oscar de la Renta, Karl Lagerfeld, Miuccia Prada, Tom Ford, Vera …



Photo by stevendepolo, via Creative Commons

Sandfly BBQ, Savannah, GA

A bit off the beaten path, this smokehouse has the best BBQ in Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | April 26, 2010

Savannah has a reputation as being a progressive town with a diverse community, an international art school, and many modernisms of a budding metropolis. But make no mistake, she’s still a SOUTHERN town at heart and what would a Southern town be without its BBQ?

There are a host of options awaiting anyone looking for a tangy rib plate or a smoky pulled pork sandwich in this town. Downtown notables include Blowin’ …



The AVIA hotel looking out over Ellis Square

The AVIA hotel looking out over Ellis Square

AVIA Hotel, Savannah, GA

This luxury hotel is one of the fantastic new additions to this recently restored sections of downtown

by Scott Schambelan | April 24, 2010

Two new jewels have recently emerged along the northwest end of the historic district in downtown Savannah.

The first is the long-awaited reopening of Ellis Square. One of Oglethorpe's original plazas, it was converted into a parking structure in the 1950s but has now been restored to a grassy mall with water works for the kids, shaded patio seating along its perimeter, and a parking garage below.

The second sits just …



The art-filled dinning room at Soho South Cafe

The art-filled dinning room at Soho South Cafe

Soho South Cafe, Savannah, GA

An artsy cafe where food is a work of art

by Scott Schambelan | April 19, 2010

With a string of riverfront brasseries, corner cafes, and upscale bistros throughout the downtown area, Savannah has no shortage of eateries. But not all restaurants are created equal, and epicureans should beware: Some are far better than others. The Soho South Café is one of the those better places.

Open for lunch Monday-Friday days a week and for brunch on Sundays, this artsy cafe serves up mouthwatering dishes that will have you …



The rear gardens and slave quarters

The rear gardens and slave quarters

photo by mhowry, via creative commons

Owen-Thomas House, Savannah, GA

Tour one of Savannah's famous historic homes

by Scott Schambelan | April 17, 2010

Savannah has always been known for its abundance of period architecture and historic homes. One of the most famous of these buildings is the Owen-Thomas House. A residence of grand opulence, it was one of the first in America to have indoor plumbing (a few years before the White House).

Built in 1819 by the notable English architect William Jay, the house is a classic example of British Regency design …



Bohemian Hotel Rooftop Bar, Savannah, GA

One of the best spots in town to grab a drink as the sun goes down

by Scott Schambelan | April 12, 2010

With eye-lulling skylines and clear, balmy nights, Savannah is the prefect backdrop to sit back with a cocktail and watch the sun melt into the horizon. And, with an abundance of rooftop bars to choose from, you're afforded that opportunity at many different locations throughout the downtown area. 

Across from the Hyatt on Bay Street, Churchill's has a cozy rooftop terrace. While the views aren’t great—mostly office buildings and distant bell towers—they …



Photo by defrostca, via Creative Commons

The Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf Tournament, Savannah, GA

by Scott Schambelan | April 09, 2010

The PGA tour returns to Savannah for the annual Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf Tournament, to be held Friday, April 23 through Sunday the 25th at the Westin Savannah Harbor Resort and Spa.

Known as ‘the tournament that launched the champions tour’ (a compitiion for elite golfers over the age of 50), the Legends of Golf is a favorite among players and fans. Located on Hutchinson Island in the middle …



Photo courtesy of Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs, Inc.

Chatham County Garden Center & Bontanical Gardens, Savannah, GA

10 acres of spring bloom await you at this off-the-beaten-path Savannah attraction

by Scott Schambelan | April 05, 2010

NOTE: Now opperating under its new name - Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs, Inc. (SACGC)

Curator Dyanna Byers calls the Chatham County Garden Center and Botanical Gardens “the best kept secret in Savannah.” And with good reason. Because if you’re not paying attention, you’ll pass right by it and not even know it was there.

The center lies down a nondescript commercial block in midtown Savannah, discretely out of street view­—and …



Photo courtesy Tybee Island Inn

Tybee Island Inn, Tybee Island, GA

An easy-going B&B a block from one of the best beaches in the US

by Scott Schambelan | April 02, 2010

With spring in full bloom and the thermostat already bobbing in the high 70’s, folks are pulling out their beach chairs and boogie boards and heading out to Tybee Island.

Recently voted the cleanest beach in America, the gentle surf and soft sand of Tybee offers mile after mile of pristine coastline, backed by the small town feel of a mellow island community. And, with no shortage of seafront villas, resort hotels, …



The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Savannah, GA

A church that replenishes the soul, whether you believe you have one or not

by Scott Schambelan | March 29, 2010

Founded as a colonial port town, early Savannah attracted migrants from all walks of life. And, as a testament to the religious fervor of those early days, those migrants were sure to bring their religion(s) ashore with them when they landed here.

As a result, Savannah’s skyline is adorned with Gothic steeples and bell towers of historic churches and temples of all faiths and denominations; some of which with histories as old as the …



Savannah Dan’s Walking Tours, Savannah, GA

Take a guided tour through Savannah's historic district with a bona fide Southern gentleman

by Scott Schambelan | March 26, 2010

With his commanding 6’5” stature and a personality twice that size, it’s pretty hard to miss Savannah Dan. A former police officer and longtime resident of the city, this Southern gentleman leads leisurely paced walking tours through the hallowed squares and past the classic 19th-century homes of the historic district.

He delights visitors with amazing stories, humor, and bits of local knowledge revealing "the history they don’t know" about the city: the …



A host of java options await you at the Sentient Bean

A host of java options await you at the Sentient Bean

The Sentient Bean, Savannah, GA

A funky coffee house with a real community feel

by Scott Schambelan | March 22, 2010

‘Serving coffee and community’ is the motto at Savannah’s Sentient Bean, a small, hip coffee house that backs up to the southern rim of Forsyth Park. Living up to that creed, they supply only fair-trade brews and teas, use organic ingredients in their menu offerings, and offer a full social calendar of weekly events ranging from Indie movie nights and live music to poetry readings and educational forums.

With this wide array …



In the heart of downtown Savannah

In the heart of downtown Savannah

The Suites on Lafayette, Savnnah, GA

A group-friendly alternative to hotels and Inns while staying in downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | March 20, 2010

Are you planning an extended trip or vacation to Savannah and want something a bit homier than the traditional inn or hotel? Well, be sure to check out the friendly folks over at the Suites on Lafayette before your next visit.

With 10 luxury-style apartments sharing the tree-studded Lafayette square with restored antebellum mansions and grand, gothic cathedrals, the Suites are a perfectly located accommodation in the heart of Savannah’s historic district.




photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/savannahgrandfather courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

The Savannah Music Festival, Savannah, GA

With big names in small venues, Georiga's largest music fest is looking strong in 2010.

by Scott Schambelan | March 15, 2010

The grass is beginning to speckle green, the stiff evening air is easing into warm breezy nights, and flowers are emerging from their winter cocoons. Yes sir, spring is coming to Savannah; and with it, music revelers from all over the world for the 2010 Savannah Music Festival.

The 18-day event (March 18-April 3) has made a name for itself by offering world-class music in intimate and historical settings. While …



photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/amonroy courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, Savannah, GA

Customers happly line up for hours for this authentic lowcountry diner

by Scott Schambelan | March 13, 2010

It doesn’t look like much from the outside. If you didn’t know any better, you’d just presume it another elegant, yet unassuming, house fronting the oak-lined sidewalks of Jones Street… that is, if it weren’t for the hundreds of people lined up outside the front door.

That front door would be to Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, where, every day starting at 9:15am, a line forms for some of the best …



photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjones0856 courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

The Rail Pub, Savannah, GA

THE place to start out your St. Paddy's day celebration at Savannah's biggest event of the year

by Scott Schambelan | March 08, 2010

With its sleepy southern intonations and easygoing residents, Savannah has always been known as quaint and quiet get-away. But, come St. Patrick’s Day the city takes on a much more outgoing and euphoric tone.

With one of the oldest and largest parades in the US, the whole city comes alive with green flowing fountains, Gaelic drinking songs, and 400,000 plus party-goers filling every bar, restaurant, and street corner in town.    




photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/rjones0856 courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA

A hallmark of Savannah, this iconic park is worth a stroll (or two!)

by Scott Schambelan | March 05, 2010

Owning over 20 acres of prime real estate in historic Savannah, Forsyth Park straddles Bull St. and the lower reaches of the downtown area at its north end and the beginning of the Victorian District at its southern tip.

Starting at the north end, a main concrete walk, interspersed with runners, dog-walkers, and fellow strollers takes you past the iconic Forsyth Fountain and through a shaded grove of old oak …



photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/amonroy courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

SCAD, Savannah, GA

This premier art school brings both historical elegance and pop-culture to downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | March 01, 2010

Founded during the ‘restoration years’ of the late 1970s, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has purchased and renovated over 60 buildings throughout the downtown area and is as much a benefactor to the historical preservation of the city as the historical and heritages societies have been.

Being one of the premier art schools in the country, Savannah serves as the perfect backdrop for those studying at SCAD and …



Carriage Tours of Savannah, Savannah, GA

Savannah's oldest horse carriage tour operator

by Scott Schambelan | February 26, 2010

With a myriad of parks, museums, and historical monuments spread throughout the downtown area, Savannah can seem a little daunting for the first-time sightseer. But alas, have no fear; Carriage Tours of Savannah (CTOS) is here.

With a fleet of carriages and impressive horses, CTOS is the oldest carriage tour operator in Savannah and a prefect way to get your bearings on what there is to see and do downtown. …



Along the Big Ferry Trail

Along the Big Ferry Trail

Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah GA

Within 10 miles of downtown, but a world away, this isolated state park offers great camping opportunities

by Scott Schambelan | February 22, 2010

Located just a few miles from downtown, yet tucked away among the secluded salt marshes and maritime forests of the barrier islands, Skidaway Island State Park is the perfect site for your next camping trip to the Savannah area.

The 588-acre park has 87 spacious campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, as well as group sites, all set in the recesses of shaded oak groves and shoreline palmetto thickets. Running …



lavish bedrooms at the Mansion

lavish bedrooms at the Mansion

courtesy of The Mansion of Forsyth Park

The Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA

A stylish hotel overlooking one of Sanvannah's most prominent landmarks

by Scott Schambelan | February 19, 2010

Gazing out on the rolling greens and sleepy oaks of Forsyth Park stands the majestic Mansion Hotel. Which, for the 5th year running, has been enshrined on Conde Naste Traveler’s Elite Gold list.

Opening in 2005, this boutique hotel has quickly become the fashionable place to say in downtown Savannah. Part of the Kessler Collection hotel chain, this restored redbrick Victorian welcomes you with a stylish lobby, sated with antique chairs, museum-worthy …



photo by Alex Cheek courtesy of creativecommons.org

Travel Guide to Savannah

Why You Should Visit Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | February 15, 2010

Savannah: where the serene meanderings of a small Southern community meet the hustle and bustle of a beachside destination. Be it the historic architecture of early America, the charming city squares and parks that speckle the downtown, the romantic riverside restaurants, or the tranquil beach community of the islands, whatever your pleasure may be The ‘Hostess City of the South’ has a little something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, stay …



courtesy of Mulberry Inn

The Mulberry Inn, Savannah, GA

An elegant Inn in the heart of the historic district

by Scott Schambelan | February 11, 2010

Just off the river, but aloof of most of the tourist foot-traffic from downtown, lies the Mulberry Inn. Tucked away on the eastern side of Bay St. this European-style boutique hotel makes for a graceful stay during your next visit to Savannah.

Restored to its original historic elegance, the hotel is filled with antique furniture, original artwork and reclaimed pine floors and if one didn’t know any better, they would think they were …



courtesy of Tybeefest

2nd Annual Mardi Gras Tybee Party, Savannah, GA

Tybeefest's own version of carnival, amid the sand dunes and beach bars

by Scott Schambelan | February 08, 2010

Carnival season is just around the corner and with it comes the 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Tybee celebration; the place to be for the festival here in Savannah. With a sundry of beach bars, and easy-going residents that frequent them, Tybee Island serves as the prefect backdrop for this vivacious affair. And both locals and travelers alike go all-out for this event, with crazy costumes, colorful body paints, and a… healthy supply of spirit-lifting libations to …



Zunzi’s, Savannah, GA

international flavors, big plates, and small prices - Zunzi's is the best take-out in Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | February 05, 2010

If you find yourself ambling through the tree-dappled squares of downtown Savannah around lunchtime and you want a quick bite that allows you to get to your busy site-seeing schedule, Zunzi’s Takeout & Catering is your Graceland.

Just off of Oglethorpe square on E. York St., this whole-in-the wall serves up delicious lunch specials from 11:00am-6:00pm everyday (closed on Sunday). If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, try their Conquistador – baked …



Wild Wing Cafe, Savannah, GA

Where every sport-lover can feel like they're in their favorite bar watching the game.

by Scott Schambelan | February 01, 2010

When it comes to sports bars, Savannah is in no short supply. Whatever your preferred viewing setting might be—a gritty dive bar like the backroom at McDonough's, a family-friendly atmosphere like Beef’O’Bready’s out on Wilmington Island, or the polish of an upscale establishment such as the Bohemian rooftop—this city’s got something for everyone. But there is one bar that manages to cater to every sport-lovers …



Elizabeth on 37th, Savannah, GA

This famous Savannah restaurant offers a fresh California Cuisine approach to classic Southern cooking

by Scott Schambelan | January 29, 2010

Much like the fountain in Forsyth Park or the Waving Girl Statue on River St., Elizabeth on 37th has become an iconic image of Savannah. Widely considered the best restaurant in town, this fine-dinning establishment takes a California cuisine approach to low-country cooking—using only fresh, locally-produced ingredients in all their Southern-inspired dishes—and the results have garnered them great reviews and a top-25 posting in Food and Wine.



Photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/apium courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

The Ballastone Inn, Savannah, GA

This historic inn is the cream of the crop for romantic accomodations in downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | January 24, 2010

A candle-lit table for two overlooking the river, a horse-drawn carriage ride through breezy town squares, an evening stroll amid the antebellum houses and gas lamps of downtown; these are just a few of the activities that make Savannah one of the South’s top romantic destinations.

As is the case with any lovers’ retreat, there are plenty of accommodations catering to amorist sensibilities. There is The Gastonian, with its private …



Photo by http://www.flickr.com/photos/javajoba courtesy of http://creativecommons.org

Gallery Espresso, Savannah, GA

A downtown Savannah cafe with great coffee and great art

by Scott Schambelan | January 23, 2010

While many come here to escape the bitter cold that other Eastern states have to endure during these harsh winter months, Savannah can get its fair share of chilly afternoons. So, if you find yourself strolling through the downtown squares, donning a scarf and buttoning up your wool coat, head straight for Gallery Espresso; where you’ll be greeted with a warming cup O’ Joe and a relaxing café atmosphere.  

Set …



Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, GA

A remarkable cemetery renowned for its amazing headstones and vistas makes for a prefect Savannah side trip.

by Scott Schambelan | January 18, 2010

Few people think of a graveyard as a tourist destination, but, much like La Recoleta in Buenos Aires, Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery draws scores of camera-toting tourists every year.

Made famous by ‘The Book’ and the movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, this burial site claims over 100 acres of shaded shores along the Wilmington River and serves …



Fort Pulaski National Monument, Savannah, GA

A civil war fort minutes from historic downtown Savannah

by Scott Schambelan | January 11, 2010

Halfway between downtown Savannah and Tybee Island, along the final stretches of the Savannah River, lies Fort Pulaski National Monument. Completed in 1847, the fort was perched on an island bluff in the middle of the river; a perfect defense against foreign naval attacks. But, as history would have it, the first assaults came from land, as Union and Confederate soldiers batted there in the early years of the Civil War.

Today, it is …



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Meet the Savannah Insider

Scott Schambelan

Scott Schambelan has always had a passion for seeking out and exploring new places. When… more

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