Savannah Off the Beaten Path
Updated: October 25, 2023
Sherry Mims
With Savannah’s downtown so walkable — and historic — it can be easy to forget that there are natural hangouts and interesting sights to see within the greater Savannah metropolitan area. If you want to explore off the beaten path, however, consider fun places to go like the beach and artistic attractions as alternative things to do in Savannah.
If you're building a day trip, there's Fort Pulaski National Monument, a nearby fort full of history and scenic beauty just east of the city. Continue toward Tybee Island for a relaxing day at the beach; with miles of coastline, there's plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun. For those who want to explore the local art scene, numerous galleries and architecturally significant attractions often are both convenient and fun. So why not switch up your Savannah itinerary and discover a different side to the Southern city?
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Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument, Georgia
This historic fort is named after Kazimierz (Casimir) Pulaski, a general who died from injuries sustained from the siege of Savannah in the American Revolution. The Union Army seized it during the Civil War, adding another dimension to the fort's background. These days you will find it a good place to stroll and learn about history. The attraction lies just outside the historic downtown on the way to Tybee Island.
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Mansion on Forsyth Park
700 Drayton St.
Sure, this is one of the most well-known Savannah hotels. However, did you know that you can find more art than you can shake a brush at? In addition to the historic hotel’s current selections, the property features a fancy hat collection; one specimen dates to the mid-19th century. For a long-lasting souvenir, you can buy objets d’art from an on-site gallery.Book Now
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SCAD Museum
601 Turner Blvd.
It’s hard to miss the Savannah College of Art and Design since many restored buildings in the Savannah historic district belong to the campus, but you’ll want to head to the contemporary art museum for a different take. SCAD Museum offers eye-catching, sometimes provocative art by professional artists. The pieces change often, so every visit could be different, a plus if you’re a repeat visitor to the city of Savannah.Read More
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Temple Mickve Israel
20 E. Gordon St.
Savannah has one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the United States after New York and Newport, R.I. The colony welcomed the immigrants around 1733 during a yellow fever epidemic. Found along beautiful Monterey Square, the current synagogue was built circa 1878 and features Gothic Revival architecture, an uncommon architectural type for synagogues in America.Read More
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Tybee Island
Tybee Island, Georgia
Once marketed as Savannah Beach, this barrier island offers a sandy shore, where you can put down a towel and relax. Easy to access from U.S. 80, North Beach is only about 30 minutes away from the Savannah historic district—an outing here is a perfect way to end your trip.
Sherry Mims
Sherry is an experienced #AAAEditor and former journalist who enjoys writing informative travel articles and reviews. Her commitment to making meaningful connections with people and places fuels her work for AAA. Sherry's favorite activities range from skiing to backpacking abroad and taking ghost tours.