Explore Savannah's History

As Georgia's first city, Savannah has a rich history that dates back to it's founding in 1773. From historic homes to Civil War forts, a trip to Savannah is not complete without a visit to one of these historic sites.

• Trolley Tours: The best way to experience all of Savannah and her rich history is to take a trolley tour of the city. There are several different tours that cover a variety of subjects. For the food lover, check out the Paula Deen Tour. If you want to learn about the history of Savannah, check out the Historic Overview Tour or the Land and Sea Tour. Check out the different packages Savannah Lodging offers and get the most out of your Savannah vacation.

The Mercer Williams House

• Historic Homes: Savannah has several historic homes that showcase the Hostess City's southern charm. The Mercer Williams House was made famous by the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil and has since been converted into a museum. Girl Scouts of all ages will enjoy a visit to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, where they can learn more about the founder of the Girl Scouts.

Roundhouse Railroad Museum (Image Via Coastal Heritage Society)

• Coastal Heritage Society: Take a trip back in time at the Savannah History Museum, Roundhouse Railroad Museum, and Old Fort Jackson. The Coastal Heritage Society has been devoted to preserving these historical sites and offers several activities for families and children. The Savannah History Museum showcases Savannah's history from it's founding to modern day. Check out Forrest Gump's iconic bench and one of Johnny Mercer's Oscar awards. The Roundhouse Railroad Museum features seven different railroad structures and offers several tours for student groups. Visit the Coastal Heritage Society's website for more information.

Old Fort Jackson (Image via Coastal Heritage Society)

• Experience the Civil War: Savannah is home to several forts that date back to the Civil War. Fort Pulaski, Old Fort Jackson, and Fort Screven served to protect the port city of Savannah and are now open to the public to explore.
  

Off The Beaten Path

(Image Via Get Outdoors Georgia)

If you are looking for some adventure during your Savannah vacation, the Hostess City offers several opportunities for exploration.

• Skidaway Island State Park: Located 15 miles southeast of downtown Savannah, this state park offers camping and picnicking under Spanish moss-draped live oaks. Follow trails that lead through maritime forests and salt marshes. Also keep an eye out for wildlife on this barrier island. Visit their website for more information on campsites and events. (Image via Georgia State Parks)
  

• Wormsloe Historic Site: The colonial estate of Noble Jones, one of Georgia's colonial founders, is located on Isle of Hope, only 10 miles southeast of the historic district. Walk down scenic nature trails lined with Spanish moss-draped live oaks and explore the living history area and museum showcasing colonial Georgia. For more information visit their website.

• Oatland Island Wildlife Center: A visit to Oatland Island allows you to catch a glimpse of varied wildlife in natural exhibits. Many of the animals found at Oatland Island are native to Georgia and the Barrier Islands. Oatland Island offers several activities for children, so make sure to check out their website for the latest events. Located only five miles from the Historic District, make sure to check it out during your next visit.

• Wilderness Southeast: If you are looking to explore the Savannah Wildlife Refuge, Wilderness Southeast offers group and private tours by walking, paddling, and boating. Explore Savannah's freshwater rivers, cypress swamps, rockeries, and estuaries. For tour information and costs, visit their website.

• Little Tybee Island: For the adventurer at heart, grab your kayak or boat and venture over to Little Tybee Island. Located off the south coast of Tybee Island, Little Tybee is a pure uninhabited nature preserve only accessible by boat. Explore Little Tybee's beautiful beaches, forests, and wildlife. For a great adventure, camp out on the island! Visit Tybee Island's website for more information.
  

The Mulberry Inn: Now Pet Friendly!

Savannah Lodging is making it easier for you to travel with your four legged friend! The Mulberry Inn, our boutique hotel located on Washington Square in downtown Savannah, is now pet friendly! With a $75 non-refundable deposit per stay, two of your canine companions can join you on your next Savannah vacation. Each pet that stays at the Mulberry Inn will receive a bed and dish to use during your stay and a complimentary leash and collar as our gift to you! If you would like to purchase the bed and dish, you may do so at check out. Savannah offers several grassy squares and pet friendly restaurants to explore. If your dog loves the beach, take a day trip to Hilton Head Island and enjoy the Atlantic Coast's beauty and charm. For more information on our pet policy, contact the Mulberry Inn and view our Pet Policy Agreement.

We would love to feature you and your dog on our blog! Make sure to send us a picture of your visit to the Mulberry Inn to SavannahLodgingBlog@gmail.com and you may be featured on our blog!

When the Sun Goes Down, The Fun Begins: Savannah Nightlife

Savannah is a city known for its southern hospitality and historic charm, but it is also offers a diverse nightlife scene. There are several restaurants, clubs, and theaters within walking distance of all three of Savannah Lodging’s hotels. River Street and City Market are the heart of Savannah’s nightlife and offer something for everyone. River Street has several shops and restaurants, ranging from seafood to pizza, and offers great views of the Savannah River. Walk alongside the river on the cobblestone streets and enjoy the beauty and excitement that Savannah has to offer. River Street also offers several festivals throughout the year. St. Patrick’s Day, Fourth of July, and Oktoberfest are all celebrated on River Street. Stop by on the first Friday of every month for First Friday Fireworks on the River. A few streets down from River Street is City Market, which features over 30 local shops, restaurants, art galleries, and bars. “To Go” cups allow you to explore the historic district and river front while still enjoying your beverage. For a scare, check out one of the ghost tours that the city offers. Walk around the city by candlelight or take a ride in a hearse and learn about Savannah’s haunted history. The Savannah Theatre and Lucas Theatre for the Arts offer musical and theatrical productions ranging from Broadway to Southern Rock. For more information on Savannah’s nightlife visit the following websites:
http://www.riverstreetsavannah.com/
http://www.savannahcitymarket.com/
http://www.hearseghosttours.com/
http://www.savannahtheatre.com/
http://www.lucastheatre.com/

For the best of land and sea..Visit Tybee!

If the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has put a damper on your beach vacation, look no further than Georgia's Barrier Islands. The New York Times recently featured Tybee Island as an alternative to Gulf Coast vacations. This laid-back beach town makes for a perfect day trip during your Savannah vacation.

A short twenty minute drive east of downtown Savannah you will find Tybee Island, one of Georgia's most well-known beaches. This barrier island offers five miles of beautiful beaches as well as museums, forts, and lighthouses. Tybee Island offers both riverfront and oceanfront beaches, which are all open to the public. This enjoyable island offers several resturants and shopping areas that have a unique island style. The history buff will enjoy visits to Fort Pulaski and Fort Screven as well as climbing the 178 steps of the Tybee Island Light Station, Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse. Visit the Tybee Island Marine Science Center to learn more about the barrier islands and local marine life found in Georgia. Tybee Island is an important nesting area for endangered sea turtles and each year during nesting season, from May 1 until October 31, several nests can be found on Tybee's beaches. Some annual events on Tybee Island include Mardi Gras Tybee in March, Island Beach Bum Parade in May, Labor Day Bash in September, and Tybee Pirate Fest in October. For more information about Tybee Island visit the Tybee Website.