Savannah Off the Beaten Path

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?

AAA/Sherry Mims

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.

AAA/Sherry Mims

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

AAA/Sherry Mims

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

AAA/Sherry Mims

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

AAA/Sherry Mims

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.