Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is Georgia's oldest city.  It was a strategic port city in the American Revolution and during the American Civil War.  Savannah's downtown area, which includes the Savannah Historic District, Savannah Victorian Historic District, and 22 park-like squares, is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.  The downtown area largely retains the original town plan and many streets have the original cobblestones.

We took a 1 1/2 hour cruise from Hilton Head to Savannah and spent an afternoon exploring the downtown area, enjoying the shops, architecture, and town squares.

Heading for Savannah

On our way to Savannah!

It's windy at the front of the boat!

As we approached shore, we could see City Hall in the distance with its shiny gold dome.  City Hall was built in 1905.  The original copper dome was gold leafed in 1987.

We walked around the City Market which consists of several blocks of shops and restaurants.

We went into a candy shop where they toss freshly made taffy to the customers!

We stopped for a cold beer on River Street, a riverfront shopping and restaurant area.

Cobblestone street with stone retaining wall

Among the many historic churches in Savanah are St. John's Episcopal Church and Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

There are many downtown historic houses that have been renovated.

The many town squares provide opportunities to stop and rest and enjoy the fountains and scenery.

Time to take the 1 1/2 hour boat ride back to Hilton Head.  We're ready for the rest!

The lighthouse is a welcome sight

Since we had only 4 hours to tour Savannah, we walked at lightening speed so we could see as much of it as possible.  It is a beautiful historic city and was worth the visit!

Next up is Skyline Drive in Virginia!