Discovering Savannah, Georgia: A Perfect Spring Family Escape
Just a few weeks ago, my family and I embarked on a delightful, spontaneous adventure to Savannah, Georgia, just in time for the enchanting Easter weekend. Having previously experienced the captivating charm of Savannah a few years prior, my husband and I had always dreamed of returning with our children. Our eldest son, a budding history enthusiast, found endless fascination in the city’s storied past, while my daughter, like me, was utterly mesmerized by the picturesque scenery. Even our energetic 18-month-old, our “little man,” thrived with the ample space to explore and run wild. It truly was the quintessential getaway, offering something special for everyone in our family. Experiencing the vibrant rebirth of spring amidst Savannah’s historic beauty was an absolute treat, a symphony of blooming azaleas, fragrant jasmine, and the gentle rustle of Spanish moss.
Family-Friendly Comfort: Our Stay at Embassy Suites Savannah
Where We Chose to Stay:
For our accommodation, we opted for the Embassy Suites in Savannah, a recommendation that proved to be invaluable. As a growing family of five, we’ve come to realize that a standard hotel room simply no longer meets our needs, especially with a lively 18-month-old in tow. Space, privacy, and convenience have become paramount. The Embassy Suites exceeded our expectations by providing two connecting rooms. One room offered the traditional comfort of two queen beds and a private attached bathroom, while the adjoining suite featured a comfortable pullout sofa, its own large television, a dedicated desk area, and a convenient kitchenette equipped with a sink, mini-fridge, and microwave, along with access to a second bathroom. This thoughtful setup was, without a doubt, one of the best decisions we made for our trip. For any family seeking ample room and a home-away-from-home feel, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Beyond the spacious accommodations, the hotel itself was impressive—large, immaculately clean, and exceptionally welcoming. The lobby area was expansive, offering numerous seating arrangements, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. But the real highlight, according to both my children and myself, was the spectacular, complimentary breakfast spread offered every single morning. It wasn’t just a continental breakfast; it was a lavish hot food buffet featuring everything imaginable: fluffy scrambled eggs, hearty oatmeal, golden pancakes, savory breakfast meats, and classic biscuits & gravy. For lighter options, there were fresh yogurts, an array of seasonal fruits, and an assortment of sweet pastries and breads. The ever-popular omelet station was a particular favorite, where I indulged in the most delicious spinach, mushroom, onion, and Swiss omelet two mornings in a row – a rare treat as I seldom order omelets when dining out. The value this complimentary breakfast provided for our family was immense, saving us both the hassle of finding a breakfast spot each day and the significant cost, which can quickly add up when feeding always-hungry children. Typically, I pack bagels, peanut butter, and fruit for in-room breakfasts, so having such a generous spread provided was a true luxury.
As if the breakfast wasn’t enough, Embassy Suites also hosts an evening happy hour reception for its guests. This delightful perk offered a welcome respite, providing complimentary snacks (the homemade potato chips were my absolute weakness!) and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A chilled glass of sangria, paired with a plate of cheese, fresh vegetables, and those irresistible homemade potato chips and dip, was precisely what this mama needed to relax and recharge after a long day of walking and sightseeing. Staying at Embassy Suites truly enhanced our Savannah experience, offering unparalleled value, comfort, and convenience for our family.
Exploring Savannah: A Walk Through History and Beauty
What We Experienced:
Our Savannah adventure was defined by one simple, yet incredibly rewarding activity: walking. We walked a tremendous amount, and every step was a journey through beauty and history. The weather could not have been more perfect—a comfortable warmth that was inviting but never stifling, ideal for leisurely strolls. What makes Savannah an exceptional destination for families, and what drew us back, is its incredible walkability. The city’s historic core is a pedestrian’s paradise, designed for discovery on foot. Those of you who track your steps on a FitBit will appreciate that we easily clocked over 18,000 steps by 5 PM on one of our days!
Savannah is broadly characterized by two main areas: the bustling River Street and the serene, historically rich District. While we enjoyed a brief visit to River Street, marveling at the cobblestones, the river traffic, and the charming shops, our family spent the majority of our time immersing ourselves in the historical area and the magnificent Forsyth Park. Our primary goal was to traverse as many of Savannah’s iconic squares as possible and dedicate an entire afternoon to play and relaxation in Forsyth Park.
Forsyth Park: Savannah’s Green Oasis
Forsyth Park is, in a word, amazing. You’ll instantly recognize its majestic fountain, an iconic landmark frequently gracing postcards, photographs, and paintings. However, the park offers so much more beyond this famous centerpiece. It boasts multiple well-maintained playgrounds, offering endless fun for younger children, and vast, sprawling lawns that are perfect for energetic toddlers to “run baby run!” and for older kids to kick a ball. It’s also an incredible place for people-watching, a true cross-section of Savannah life. During our visit, we observed numerous college students relaxing on blankets with their sketchpads, artists capturing the park’s beauty, and even an impromptu group of acrobats practicing their trapeze skills—they had ingeniously tied a rope between two trees, literally walking a tightrope and performing flips. The park was alive with the joy of frisbees soaring, balls being thrown, kites dancing in the sky, and families enjoying picturesque picnics. I honestly felt I could spend every single day there. We had the foresight to bring our own ball, but regrettably forgot a blanket to sit on. It didn’t deter me from simply laying in the soft grass, gazing up through the ancient, moss-draped trees—a silent reminder to myself to embrace such simple pleasures more often.
The Allure of Savannah’s Historic District: Architecture and Charm
My fascination with Savannah’s Historic District is profound. Every turn revealed breathtaking homes, meticulously kept gardens, and architectural details that captured my imagination. The intricate doors and the elegant wrought-iron balconies and gates were particularly captivating, each telling a silent story of the city’s rich past. The graceful squares, shaded by ancient live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, are the heart of this district, offering tranquil respites and a sense of timeless beauty. Each square possesses its own unique character, often featuring monuments, fountains, or statues that commemorate Savannah’s historical figures and events. Strolling through these verdant spaces, lined with stately mansions and charming row houses, felt like stepping back in time, a truly immersive historical experience.
One of the most profound and memorable experiences of our Easter weekend trip was attending Mass at The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist on Easter morning. This magnificent church is simply stunning, defying adequate description with words alone. Its soaring Gothic architecture, intricate stained-glass windows, and opulent interior create an atmosphere of unparalleled grandeur and spiritual reverence. It is, without exaggeration, the most visually breathtaking church I have ever had the privilege of entering, leaving an indelible impression on us all.
To our daughter’s delight, a horse-drawn carriage ride was high on her wish list. While our hotel concierge recommended the hop-on/hop-off trolley tour for a more extensive and informative historical overview, our children were far more captivated by the romance and novelty of a carriage tour—and I perfectly understood why! There’s a certain magic to clip-clopping through the historic streets, guided by the gentle rhythm of a horse, that truly enchants young and old alike. We secured our tickets for a tour through Carriage Tours of Savannah in person at the lively City Market, though for convenience, booking ahead by phone is always an option. Our guide shared captivating stories and snippets of history, bringing the past to life as we rolled past magnificent homes and tree-lined squares. It was a charming and memorable way to experience the city’s unique atmosphere, offering a different perspective than exploring on foot.
Savannah’s Culinary Delights: Family Dining Experiences
Where We Indulged:
Savannah boasts an incredible array of restaurants, offering something for every palate. While I would have loved to share a gallery of food photos from every dining experience, the reality of dining with three young children—especially an energetic 18-month-old—often makes snapping perfect shots a challenging feat! But that’s perfectly fine; the memories of good food and family time are what truly count, and there’s always a next time for more culinary photography. (Judging by the few photos I did manage, it seems I enjoyed quite a few beers and Bloody Mary’s, and absolutely no judgment, please!)
Our first culinary stop was the charming Six Pence Pub, a classic British pub with a cozy atmosphere that we had loved on our previous visit. I relished their Grilled Salmon BLT, a perfect blend of fresh flavors in a relaxed setting.
For a more casual and equally delightful experience, we visited McDonough’s Pub. Here, we enjoyed delicious snacks and, for me, one of the best Bloody Marys I’ve ever had—their secret ingredient is a splash of Guinness! The freshly cut and fried tortillas were a delicious accompaniment, and the bartenders and cook provided incredibly friendly service, making us feel right at home in this lively Irish pub.
Our special Easter lunch was celebrated at The Public. This restaurant quickly became a favorite for its sophisticated yet approachable menu and inviting ambiance. We absolutely adored our meal here and are already looking forward to a return visit on our next trip to Savannah.
Finally, for some relaxed family fun, we spent time in the charming beer garden at Moon River Brewing Company. It was a fantastic spot to unwind, enjoy some craft brews, and let the kids play in a casual, outdoor setting. The friendly atmosphere and historic building made it a memorable stop for the entire family.
Savannah, with its unique blend of history, beauty, and Southern hospitality, holds a truly special place in my heart. Just yesterday, my children, while savoring some delicious pralines we brought back from our trip, eagerly expressed their desire to return. That heartfelt sentiment filled me with such joy. I genuinely cannot wait to experience the magic of Savannah again with them, creating even more cherished family memories.
Plan Your Savannah Adventure: Essential Resources
To help you plan your own unforgettable trip to this enchanting city, here are some helpful websites to guide you through all that Savannah has to offer:
- http://www.savannah.com/ – A comprehensive guide to Savannah attractions, dining, and events.
- http://blog.visitsavannah.com/ – The official Savannah travel blog, full of insider tips and stories.
- http://www.visitsavannah.com/ – The official tourism site for Savannah, offering planning tools and information.
For more travel inspiration and family adventure ideas, be sure to check out my dedicated Travel section!