5 Best Shopping in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah's "main street" has long served as an indicator of the city's changing economic and demographic trends. The first of Savannah's department stores, Adler's and Levy's, emerged on Broughton, followed by the post-WWII introduction of national chains Sears & Roebuck, JCPenney, and Kress. During the 1950s, ladies donning white gloves and heels did their shopping, while kids gathered at the soda counter or caught the matinee. Downtown's decline began in the late 1950s and continued through the '70s, when boarded-up storefronts were the norm rather than the exception. Today, Broughton is again thriving, not only with local boutiques and world-class shops, but with theaters, restaurants, and coffeehouses.

Known for its array of fine antiques shops, galleries, lighting showrooms, and interior design boutiques, the Downtown Design District is worth a visit. Stop in some of Savannah's trendier fashion stores, many of them housed in charming historic storefronts. Nearby are the famed Mercer Williams House and the landmark Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, known for some of the area's best family-style Southern food. The picturesque surrounding neighborhoods are also enjoyable for a nice afternoon stroll.

You'll discover an array of unique local shops nestled around historic Madison Square. Grab lunch on the rooftop of The Public Kitchen and Bar before stopping in longtime favorites like Saints & Shamrocks and E. Shaver, Bookseller. ShopSCAD offers some of the finest gifts, clothing, and home decor items designed and produced by students of the highly regarded Savannah College of Art and Design. Take afternoon tea at the college's Gryphon Tea Room, located inside a remodeled old-time pharmacy. For something a little stronger, head to Artillery, a speakeasy-inspired bar housed in a restored cavalry artillery; the bartenders make some of the city's best handcrafted cocktails.

Though it's often crowded and a little rowdy after dark, no visit to Savannah would be complete without a stroll through Riverfront/Factors Walk. These nine blocks of renovated waterfront warehouses were once the city's cotton exchange. Today, you'll discover more than 75 boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and pubs, as well as a spectacular view of the Savannah River. Glimpse impressive cargo ships as they head to port while you shop for souvenirs, specialty treats, and local art. Tired of shopping? Catch a dolphin tour or dinner boat and see the waterfront from a different perspective.

River Street's cobblestones and Factors Walk's steep stairwells can be rough, so be sure to wear comfortable footwear.