Savannah River Street

The Basics

The best way to experience River Street is by foot, letting you easily and leisurely stop into its many inviting shops, bars, and restaurants. Some guided walking tours of Savannah’s historic district include River Street on their route, providing insight into the street’s history as a cotton warehouse district and highlighting other historic landmarks, such as the Waving Girl statue. Additionally look for River Street on the itinerary of Savannah ghost tours, which reveal spookier aspects of the street’s history, or on hop-on hop-off trolley tours, which let you stay on the thoroughfare as long as you’d like before continuing through downtown Savannah. For the most spectacular views, book a helicopter tour that flies over the Savannah River, River Street, and more.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Plan to spend up to a few hours on River Street.

• Explore with a guide to learn about the street’s past as one of the oldest areas in Georgia.

• Wear flat, comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones.

• A wheelchair accessible entrance is available through an elevator at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

• River Street offers great nightlife as well as kid-friendly attractions.

How to Get There

River Street is located below the level of the rest of Savannah’s downtown, and is accessible by a series of stairways and ramps from East Bay Street. Though you can drive to River Street, parking is very limited; it is recommended to park elsewhere, or take the city’s free downtown area shuttle, which drops off within two blocks of River Street. River Street runs for nine blocks, roughly the length of Savannah’s historic district.

When to Get There

River Street is open year-round. Savannah’s summer months are notoriously hot and humid, so if you’re planning to spend much time walking around, aim for a spring or fall visit. If bars and clubs are on your radar, be sure to check out River Street at night—it’s a popular nightlife location.

River Street for History Buffs

River Street is one of the oldest continuously used areas in all of Georgia. In fact, it is the site where James Oglethorpe first landed and established the Savannah colony in 1733.

Ways to explore

The best way to experience River Street is on foot, so you can easily stop into its many inviting shops, bars, and restaurants. Come on your own, or as part of a tour. Some guided walking tours of Savannah’s historic district include River Street on their routes, providing insight into the street’s history as a cotton warehouse district and highlighting other historic landmarks, such as the Waving Girl statue. Additionally, look for River Street on the itinerary of Savannah ghost tours, which reveal spookier aspects of the area’s history.

Accessibility

River Street has paved sidewalks, though its main thoroughfare is cobblestones. Some shops and restaurants may have steps at entrances, but it’s largely accessible.

Age limits

Some bars and nightlife venues may have 21+ age restrictions in the evenings.

What to pack

Camera, wallet, sunglasses

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers as needed

Not allowed

Glass containers in public, soliciting, littering

Amenities

Restaurants and cafes, gift shops, galleries, free Wi-Fi in certain areas, benches, restrooms

Address 

River Street runs along the Savannah River in downtown Savannah's historic district. It’s easily accessible from multiple points throughout the city.

Driving

Street parking is limited. If you’re driving, aim to park in one of the three city parking garages: the Barnard Ramp, Abercorn Ramp, or Lincoln Ramp. They’re open 24/7.

Public transportation

The most entertaining way to explore River Street is via the Old Town Trolley. Of course, you could also get around via bus, taxi, or rideshare, too.

Best times to visit

Come in the early morning for peaceful riverfront walks, or in the late afternoon into evening for sunset views, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere. Midday can be hot and crowded, especially in the summer.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Friday and Saturday evenings offer the most energetic nightlife and entertainment.

Best months to visit

March through May and September through November have the most comfortable weather, with mild temperatures and lower humidity.

Special events

Savannah’s River Street hosts numerous annual events, including the First Friday Fireworks, select shows during the Savannah Jazz Festival, and various holiday celebrations.