A Timeless Romance in Savannah: An Anniversary Getaway Guide

(Forsyth Park – Savannah, GA)

Celebrating a decade of marriage is a significant milestone, and for our 10th anniversary, my husband and I sought a destination rich in history, charm, and culinary delights. Our choice, Savannah, Georgia, proved to be an impeccable backdrop for this special occasion. As my second visit and his first, it’s safe to say this enchanting Southern city has captured our hearts, ensuring it won’t be our last trip. Savannah, with its cobblestone streets, majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and a pervasive sense of timeless elegance, offered the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for a romantic escape. We immersed ourselves in the historic district, primarily exploring the exquisite Jones Street, spending two glorious days simply walking, dining, and soaking in the city’s unparalleled charm. It was, in every sense, perfect.

Where We Found Our Southern Comfort: Accommodations in Savannah

(Front Entrance to Eliza Thompson House, Jones Street)

The Eliza Thompson House: A Historic Bed & Breakfast Gem

For our stay, we chose the Eliza Thompson House, a truly captivating historic bed and breakfast nestled directly on Jones Street. This choice perfectly aligned with my vision for an authentic Savannah experience. The Eliza Thompson House, an antebellum mansion built in 1847, exudes an old-world charm that transports guests back in time while offering modern comforts. Our room, aptly named The Savannah Room, boasted a unique feature: its front door opened directly onto the street, under the elegant stairway leading to the main house. This offered a delightful blend of privacy and immediate access to the historic streetscape.

Each morning, breakfast was a highlight, served in a stunning open courtyard that felt like a secret garden. We cherished starting our days outdoors, savoring delicious fare, and then retreating to rocking chairs with our coffee and the morning newspaper. The breakfast menu, consistent both days, offered a delightful spread: a savory egg casserole, crispy hash browns, an assortment of bacon and sausage, various breakfast breads, refreshing yogurt, a sweet berry compote, and hearty granola. These leisurely mornings set a wonderful tone for our explorations.

The hospitality extended beyond breakfast. In the late afternoons, guests were invited to the sitting room for complimentary wine and appetizers, creating a convivial atmosphere. Later in the evening, a decadent dessert selection was served. These thoughtful touches significantly enhanced our stay, providing moments of quiet indulgence and an opportunity to unwind after a day of sightseeing. We made sure to partake in these offerings at least once on both days, adding a layer of luxury and convenience to our anniversary retreat.

This marked our first experience staying in a bed and breakfast, and we were thoroughly charmed. The Eliza Thompson House proved to be an ideal choice for a weekend getaway. Its prime location meant we were within comfortable walking distance of virtually every major attraction in the historic district. We were constantly in awe of the house’s preserved history and impeccable condition. From the architectural details to the warm service, the entire experience was simply wonderful, offering a glimpse into Savannah’s rich past while providing a cozy, intimate setting for our celebration.

(Jones Street)

A Culinary Journey Through Savannah: Where We Indulged

Savannah is a city renowned for its vibrant food scene, blending traditional Southern comfort food with innovative culinary creations. Our anniversary trip was as much a gastronomic adventure as it was a historical exploration. Here’s a taste of where our travels led our palates:

Satisfied: A Cozy Spot for Sports and Southern Flavors

Our first evening coincided with a major Gator game, so our immediate quest was to find a welcoming sports bar. After a bit of research and a confirming phone call, we discovered Satisfied. This spot proved to be excellent for catching the game, despite being outnumbered as two of only four Gator fans in the entire establishment (which meant enduring a fair bit of good-natured opposition cheering!). We settled in at the bar, where the bartenders were exceptionally friendly and attentive, ensuring we felt right at home. Satisfied boasts an impressive selection of craft beers and wines, catering to diverse preferences, alongside a well-curated menu.

We started with classic chips and salsa. Larry, my husband, opted for the roasted wings, praising their awesome sauces, while I chose the fried green tomato BLT. While I appreciated the concept of the BLT, my only wish was for the bread to have been toasted. The bread itself was fantastic, but a little too soft for my personal BLT preference; a minor detail I’d easily remedy by requesting it toasted on a future visit. For anyone seeking a lively sports bar atmosphere with great food and drinks in Savannah, Satisfied is a solid choice.

Huey’s On The River: New Orleans Flair by the Water

Upon our arrival in town, before even checking into our bed and breakfast, we made a bee-line for Huey’s On The River to grab lunch. This charming restaurant, situated directly on historic River Street, offered a fantastic start to our weekend. Their signature Bloody Marys were exactly what we needed, perfectly hitting the spot, and the food was both delicious and incredibly satisfying. Larry enjoyed a classic Southern dish, Shrimp and Grits, while I, still enamored with the local specialty, opted for a Fried Green Tomato Muffaletta. My weekend culinary quest for fried green tomatoes was definitely fulfilled here!

Huey’s offers both outdoor seating overlooking the Savannah River and a cozy interior. As it was a beautiful day, the large glass doors were open, allowing fresh air and captivating views of the bustling River Street to flow in. River Street itself is a dynamic area, always abuzz with activity. It’s lined with an array of bars, restaurants, and shops, attracting crowds, especially during the festival that was underway during our visit. While we enjoyed strolling along the riverfront, absorbing the energy and watching ships glide by, I confess I found myself more drawn to the quieter, more serene ambiance of Savannah’s historic squares and residential streets.

(River Street)

Six Pence Pub: Our Favorite Savannah Hangout

Without a doubt, Six Pence Pub became my absolute favorite spot during our Savannah visit. Following a substantial late breakfast and with a special anniversary dinner planned for later, we were looking for a light lunch option – a sandwich and a drink or two – after spending a delightful morning walking through Savannah’s picturesque squares. We once again opted for seats at the bar, where our bartender, Laurie, immediately made us feel incredibly welcome. Her genuine friendliness and engaging conversation truly elevated our experience.

We both ordered the Smoked Salmon BLT, a revelation in itself, accompanied by a couple of refreshing Snakebites. As we enjoyed our meal, we watched the Sunday lunch crowd fill the pub, many gathering to watch football. The atmosphere at Six Pence Pub is wonderfully homey and low-key, evoking the cozy charm of a traditional English pub. Laurie, our exceptional bartender, took the time to inquire about our plans, even offering taxi and pedicab contact numbers for that evening, showcasing the kind of genuine Southern hospitality that makes Savannah so special. The Smoked Salmon BLT was utterly divine, so good that Larry is patiently awaiting my attempt to recreate it at home!

The Olde Pink House: An Unforgettable Anniversary Dinner

Our celebratory anniversary dinner was reserved for The Olde Pink House, an iconic Savannah institution. I had dined here years ago with friends and couldn’t wait to share its unique charm with Larry. It’s widely regarded as one of Savannah’s must-visit restaurants, set within a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion—reputedly haunted, adding to its mystique. As a pricier establishment, it’s perfectly suited for marking special occasions, and our anniversary certainly qualified.

Every dish we savored was absolutely exquisite. We began our meal by sharing a Caesar salad, uniquely elevated with cornbread fried oyster croutons—an inspired, delectable touch! We also enjoyed a basket of warm rolls and corn muffins. For my main course, I couldn’t resist ordering the same dish I’d enjoyed years prior, a dish that had lingered in my memory: the Crispy Scored Flounder with Apricot Sauce, served alongside creamy grits and tender collard greens. Be prepared, this magnificent fish is served whole (though thankfully headless!), cooked to absolute perfection. The staff graciously provides instructions on how to best enjoy it, a helpful gesture for first-timers. The apricot sauce, in particular, is an absolute dream.

Larry chose the Braised Pork Shank with Pineapple Glaze, accompanied by rich Macaroni and Cheese and collards. The pork shank was incredibly tender, effortlessly falling off the bone, and its pineapple glaze was simply amazing. I’m now determined to try and replicate that sauce in our kitchen at home. Despite our immense satisfaction, we managed to make room for dessert: a decadent chocolate pecan pie, a decision we were immensely glad we made. Needless to say, after such a sumptuous meal, we happily opted to walk the mile back to our hotel, allowing us to slowly digest and enjoy the romantic evening stroll.

Zunzi’s: A Savory Farewell to Savannah

On our departure day, we made one last essential stop: Zunzi’s. To be honest, at this point, I felt I couldn’t eat another bite, but I am so incredibly glad we persevered. Zunzi’s came highly recommended by my friend Katie, and the more I researched it, the more intrigued I became. It’s widely celebrated as a quintessential Savannah foodie hotspot, a fact undeniably confirmed by the perpetual line out the door throughout the day. I especially appreciated their thoughtful gesture of providing a bucket of shade umbrellas on the sidewalk for those patiently waiting in the sun! We arrived even before opening at 11 AM, and already about eight people were ahead of us in line, a testament to its legendary status.

All I can say is that the food is uniquely interesting and incredibly delicious. Larry braved the infamous Conquistador, a towering sandwich bursting with flavors, while I opted for the Portobello Sub. Both were absolutely amazing, showcasing Zunzi’s distinctive South African-inspired menu. Zunzi’s is a “quaint”, walk-up-and-order-at-the-counter type of establishment. We were fortunate to snag a table in their bustling outdoor seating area, though we had prepared to find a bench in a nearby square if necessary. The owner herself made rounds outside, greeting regulars and checking in with all her customers, fostering a wonderful sense of community. It’s a fantastic little spot to grab a meal, and we absolutely loved Zunzi’s!

Embracing the Charm: Beyond Dining and Lodging

While our focus was largely on the culinary delights and the comforts of our historic bed and breakfast, our time in Savannah was also filled with leisurely explorations of its iconic landscapes. The city’s 22 historic squares, each with its own unique character, invite endless strolling. From the grandeur of Forsyth Park, with its famous fountain and sprawling green lawns perfect for people-watching, to the serene beauty of the smaller, oak-shaded squares, every turn offered a picturesque vista. We spent hours simply wandering, admiring the antebellum architecture, the intricate ironwork balconies, and the pervasive beauty of the Spanish moss dripping from ancient oak branches, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. The quiet charm of the historic district, with its blend of residential elegance and hidden courtyards, truly encapsulated the soul of Savannah.

A Savannah Story: Our Enduring Impressions

Friends, Savannah, Georgia, is truly an amazing destination, offering an abundance of sights and experiences. For Larry and me, it was the ideal place for a romantic escape, conveniently located just a four-hour drive from home. Being outdoors, beneath those magnificent oak trees heavily draped with Spanish moss, walking the old cobblestone streets, and soaking in centuries of history and culture, creates an indelible impression. You can’t help but leave feeling utterly content and wonderfully refreshed.

Savannah is a place I wholeheartedly recommend if you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, whether with your spouse, family, or friends. Its unique blend of Southern hospitality, historical richness, architectural beauty, and a sensational culinary scene makes it an unforgettable travel destination. We are already eagerly anticipating our next visit, especially looking forward to bringing our little ones along to experience the magic of Savannah themselves!