If I could describe Savannah Georgia in one word, it would be charming. Cobblestone streets shadowed by mossy oak trees, the smell of southern cookin’ at every turn, the historic character proudly displayed by the architecture and the unique finds inside are all interwoven with Southern Charm. It’s like walking back in time when life was simpler and slower paced.
My husband and I share a love for all things vintage and recently spent a weekend in this charming town for our anniversary. There’s just something in that sweet Savannah air that makes you check out of your worries, your social media accounts, and invest your attention in the one you’re with in that moment. So it makes for a perfect getaway with your special someone.
Where to Stay
Since we were going for our anniversary, we picked a place that was a little…swanky, in a good way. The Bohemian Hotel is located downtown by the River. It’s puts you within walking distance to lots of great restaurants and shops. We parked our car in the hotel and didn’t pick it up until we were headed home (when you stay downtown, there’s really no need to drive anywhere. Just pack comfy shoes). The atmosphere was what I would call Gatsby-ish. Rich colors, lots of fabrics and textures, mood lighting…swanky.
It also has one of the hottest spots in Savannah. Rocks on the Roof gives a great view of the river and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink. If that’s not the ambiance you’re looking for there are lots of historic Bed and Breakfasts (on the list for our next trip), and more traditional hotels downtown. Tip: If you’re celebrating something special, be sure to let the Hotel know. We were pleasantly surprised with a card and a bottle of champagne after returning from dinner, so sweet.
Where To Eat in Savannah
B. Matthews (Breakfast/Brunch)
So onto the good stuff, the FOOD! Please oh please do not go while on a diet. You’ll break my southern heart and miss out on some delicious food- detox when you get home. Let’s start with the most important meal of the day, breakfast. After all, a girl can’t shop on an empty stomach. B Matthews Eatery was the perfect breakfast/brunch spot. Vintage lighting, original hardwood floors, exposed brick, and just another example of how much character this charming town has. I highly recommend the Bay Street Scramble. It’s basically every good breakfast food (eggs, potatoes, bacon, veggies, and of course, a southern melt in yo’ mouth biscuit). Don’t worry, if you choose to walk around Savannah (instead of drive) you’ll walk off plenty of those carbs.
The Lady and Sons aka Paula Dean’s (Lunch)
No trip to Savannah is complete without visiting The Lady and Sons. It’s southern food at its best. The popular favorite is the serve yourself buffet where you can load (and re-load)your plate on southern staples like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and okra, just to name a few, and don’t forget the sweet tea. If you can, try to save room for dessert (the banana pudding did not disappoint).
The Olde Pink House (Dinner)
This is a perfect “date night” restaurant. It’s set in Savannah’s only 18th century mansion. Flickering candlelight, antique paintings, and white linens all reminiscent of times past when dinner was more than just a meal, it was an experience. The almond crusted fish was A-mazing! I’m generally not a fish person, but that’s the magic in Southern cooking, even the healthy options taste deliciously unhealthy. We went in January during a cold front so we enjoyed our dinner by the fireplace with a nice glass of Merlot. The perfect anniversary dinner. The Olde Pink House will be a staple for our future trips to Savannah.
Lulus Chocolate Bar (Dessert)
No trip is complete without dessert. When asking the locals where to go for dessert, their answers were all the same Lulu’s Chocolate Bar. So we almost froze our Floridian tushies off walking there in freezing temps, but when we made it, it was delicious. They have sweets for everyone, the chocolate lover (that’s me), the crème brulee taster (the hubs) and even the gluten free guys and gals. They also have sweets with a little kick (hence the Bar part of the name). Due to its popularity you may have to wait, but it’s worth it.
Where to Shop
No trip (in my humble opinion) is complete without a little shopping. The streets of Savannah are full of all types of shopping: big name brands, local gift shops, and wonderful antique and thrift stores. Since we can visit Gap anytime, we spend the majority of our time at vintage stores.
The Paris Market
If you like unique items, you know those pieces that tell a story and are loaded with character, I think you’ll love this gem on West Broughton Street. In one corner you may find handmade Parisian soaps and vintage candy brands you haven’t seen since you were a kid (candy cigarettes anyone?) The next corner may be an assortment of original European drawings across from grab bags of vintage jewelry. I could go on and on. It’s basically the coolest conglomerate of vintage and unique finds from around the world, nestled sweetly in Savannah. This is also the perfect spot to rest your tired tootsies and recover with a caramel macaroon in one hand and a French press coffee in the other. And don’t forget to walk downstairs for inspiring displays of antique furniture, lighting and more. The Paris Market is really a one of a kind and I can hardly wait to go back!
Civvies
Located on East Broughton Street is the hippest vintage fashion store I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. I wandered there by mistake on my first trip to Savannah years ago and I’m so glad I did. Civvies has a plethora of vintage clothes. From the 20’s and beyond their racks are full of fashions from flappers to flower childs, they cover it all. Kudos for my husband who endearingly stood around while I spent quite some time trying on one decade after another. I was a bit giddy to have found such a cool place. I ended up buying this black little number that I cant wait to wear. I’m thinking it will be perfect for a Mad Men themed party or even just a retro date night look. Just below Civvies is also a great thrift store with unique pieces and reasonable prices, definitely worth a look.
So there you have it, my favorite stops in Savannah. I hope you get to visit one day and fall in love with her sweet, southern charm. ~Amy
I’ve never been to Savannah but always heard it’s so beautiful! I’ll index this in case we ever go 🙂