Savannah - How to spend a full day?
 

Hello,
I have a full day to tour in Savannah. Got a AAA tour book and have been researching on the web. Would like to get some tips from people who has been there.
What places are worth in the historic district? (not into cemetery tours). Anything outside? Good restaurants? (heard about the Olde Pink House...)

Thanks and have a wonderful 2005!

Savannah Hstoric District is wonderful for walking. Each square is unique and delightful. I would recommend the Owen-Thomas House and the Isaiah Davenport House to tour and a look inside the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. If you are interested in "The Book" I understand that the Mercer House is now open.

I'm jealous, can't wait to see Savannah.

I've heard The Lady & Sons restaurant is wonderful, down home cooking. This restaurant is owned by Paula Deen, who has a show on the Food Network, Paula's Down Home Cooking.

If you try it, I'd love to hear how great it was.

As a displaced native of the Savannah area, I took some friends for a day's outing there a few years ago. (It's been a long time since I've lived there.) First, go to the Visitor's center. They are well versed in ways to see the area. You can take tours starting at the center if that is the way you wish to see it. Trust them. They live there and want you to enjoy yourself so you will return.

Because I know the area (though it has changed) we rented the auto-tape tour and along the way stopped to tour a couple of the houses in the historic area. One thing that they dont tell you (maybe the pleasure it gives me has to do with my childhood) that we did is drive south of the historic area until (whichever road you choose) intersects with Victory Drive. Then drive west along that road to see some really beautiful historic old residences. You can only see them from the exterior, however. This street is particularly beautiful in the spring when the median of the divided highway is abloom with azaleas at the base of palm trees, a very unique sight.

Locals give Lady and Sons mixed reviews. I can't say. I've never eaten there. I do know that the best true southern meal you will ever eat is served only at lunch and at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House which is not really a boarding house but a family sytle restaurant. Get in line by 11 and you will be in time for the first seating.

I just checked online. Grayline has a "Historic Savannah Grand Tour" which does not include the cemetery but does include other historic areas. Link to it from grayline.com. That looks like a good one and afterward you can go back to areas that intrigued you.

Do spend some time walking around the squares and along Factor's Walk, the part facing the street. The part facing the water is VERY commericial (tourist-trapey).

Excuse me...my husband says I'm directionally challenged and one line in this post proves it! Drive EAST (toward the ocean) along Victory Drive. :-)

If you like antiques, you can spend the whole day on Factors Walk. I like just walking downtown. Start at the Hampton Inn downtown and walk away from the river toward the park. I would walk along River Street at the water. Yes, it is touristy, but you'll be a tourist, right? You should not miss River Street. I second the visitor's center. City Market is fun for shopping.

Thanks for the tips!

What about the forts in the area? Are they worth visiting? Also, is it worth spending some time in Tybee Island?

Regards!