Known for its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and stunning architecture, there’s a lot to love about Savannah, Georgia. It’s not only one of the most charming cities in the South, it’s a budget-friendly destination no matter the time of year — it even made our list of cheap places to travel in the U.S.
From beautiful parks to historic landmarks, there are plenty of free things to do in Savannah that make it an affordable destination on any budget.
To save even more on travel expenses, consider taking a bus or train instead of flying. With affordable routes from cities like Atlanta, Jacksonville, and Charleston, traveling by train or bus lets you skip baggage fees while enjoying the scenic ride. Wanderu makes it easy to compare prices on cheap bus tickets and cheap train tickets so you can spend less on transportation and more on exploring this historic city.
Now, let’s dive into some of the best free things to do in Savannah that will make your trip unforgettable!
OUTDOORS
1. Forsyth Park
| 2 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Forsyth Park is one of the most photographed spots in Savannah for a reason. It offers a mix of relaxation, history, and people-watching—all for free. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a book, have a picnic, or simply soak in the Southern charm, this park is an essential stop.
2. Savannah Botanical Gardens
| 1388 Eisenhower Dr, Savannah, GA 31406 | |
| Hours: Mon-Sat, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sun, 8:00 AM - 8:45 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: This free garden offers a serene escape from the city with walking trails, a pond, and a historic 19th-century farmhouse. The floral displays change with the seasons, making it a great place to visit no matter how many times you’ve been. It’s a quiet, less crowded alternative to some of the more tourist-heavy attractions in Savannah.
3. Tybee Island Beach
| Tybee Island, GA 31328 | |
| Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Just a short distance from Savannah, Tybee Island offers a relaxing beach escape. Take a morning walk on the beach, collect seashells, and unwind by the waves. You can also explore the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse and grab some fresh seafood if you’re feeling hungry.
4. Skidaway Island State Park
| 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31411 | |
| Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: This coastal state park offers free access to scenic hiking trails, salt marsh views, and abundant wildlife like deer and fiddler crabs. The interpretive center provides insight into the region’s history, and the Big Ferry Trail leads to remnants of Prohibition-era moonshine stills.
HISTORY
5. Armstrong-Kessler Mansion
| 447 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Daily outside, event reservation required to enter | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Originally built in 1918 for businessman George Ferguson Armstrong, the mansion has lived many lives—including a stint as part of the Savannah College of Art and Design. Today, it’s been painstakingly restored to its former glory and stands as one of the last great private homes on historic Millionaire’s Row. Even if you don’t get to peek inside, the exterior alone is worth a visit. It’s a dreamy backdrop for photos, a love letter to Savannah’s elegance, and a reminder that this city knows how to do “extra” in the classiest way possible.
6. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
| 222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Mon-Sat: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM, Sun: 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Often called the “Sistine Chapel of the South,” the cathedral features stained glass windows, soaring ceilings, and intricate murals. Visitors can learn about the church’s history through informational plaques inside the building.
7. Bonaventure Cemetery
| 330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA 31404 | |
| Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily. Free guided tours Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Take a free guided tour and learn why this is one of the most famous cemeteries in the country. Made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery features elaborate tombs, sculptures, and popular gravesites such as Gracie Watson and Johnny Mercer. Whether you’re into history, photography, or just want to experience a peaceful walk, this spot is worth a visit.
8. Savannah’s Historic Squares
| Throughout downtown Savannah | |
| Hours: Open 24/7 | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Savannah’s 23 historic squares each have their own unique character, with statues, gardens, and fountains that tell the city’s story. Popular squares include Chippewa, Ellis, Lafayette, Oglethorpe, and Wright Square.
9. Savannah African Art Museum
| 201 E 37th St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Weds - Sat, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: Savannah’s 23 historic squares each have their own unique character, with statues, gardens, and fountains that tell the city’s story. Popular squares include Chippewa, Ellis, Lafayette, Oglethorpe, and Wright Square.
MISCELLANEOUS
10. Savannah MLK Visitor Information Center
| 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: If you’re new to Savannah, make the Savannah Martin Luther King Jr. Visitor Information Center your first stop where you can pick up information about nearby historical landmarks, Civil Rights-related sites, and free public transportation.
11. River Street
| River St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Open 24/7 | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: The blend of history, stunning views, and lively atmosphere make River Street a must-visit. With massive cargo ships passing by, street musicians performing, and historic architecture all around, it’s a perfect place to take in Savannah’s unique character. The cobblestone streets and vintage storefronts add an old-world charm that makes for great photos and a memorable walk.
12. SCADStory
| 342 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Mon - Sat, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sun, 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: SCADstory is a free, immersive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history and impact of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Blending storytelling with cutting-edge technology, this 4D experience showcases the creativity and innovation that define SCAD, one of the country’s top art and design schools.
13. City Market
| 219 W Bryan St, Savannah, GA 31401 | |
| Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: A hub of art, music, and history, City Market is a great place to explore without spending money. Strolling through the area, you’ll find galleries with open doors, live music performances, and historic buildings. The vibrant atmosphere makes it one of the best places to experience Savannah’s local culture.
14. Savannah Belles Ferry
| Multiple locations: City Hall, Waving Girl, The Westin (see website for specific details) | |
| Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM | |
| Official site |
Why You Should Visit: A hub of art, music, and history, City Market is a great place to explore without spending money. Strolling through the area, you’ll find galleries with open doors, live music performances, and historic buildings. The vibrant atmosphere makes it one of the best places to experience Savannah’s local culture.
15. Forrest Gump Tour (Self-Guided)
| Multiple locations | |
| Hours: Varies |
Why You Should Visit: Movie lovers can take a self-guided tour of iconic filming locations from Forrest Gump, which was filmed in Savannah. Start at Chippewa Square, where Forrest famously sat on a bench telling his life story (the bench is no longer there, but you can still visit the spot). Then, stroll down the oak-lined paths of Wormsloe where you can envision a young Forrest running. Along the way, you’ll see historic landmarks and charming streets that bring the movie to life. Best of all, exploring these locations is completely free!
Now that you have plenty of free things to do in Savannah to add to your itinerary, don’t forget to maximize your savings by booking a cheap train or bus ticket at Wanderu.com! The sooner you book, the more you’ll likely save.
Looking for other affordable cities to explore on a budget? Check out our list of cheap places to travel in the U.S.
