Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Soumya
Traveling to Savannah, GA on a budget? Looking for cheap and free things to do in Savannah? You’re at the right place.
Savannah, the beautiful hostess city of the South, has tons of amazing things to do.
But traveling to Savannah, Georgia, does not have to be super expensive. There are many free things to do in Savannah, making the city absolutely affordable and an attractive destination for budget travelers.
The first time I visited Savannah was when I was a student at UNC-Chapel Hill. As you can guess, I did not have a ton of money to spend.
I did Savannah on a budget, and honestly, I wasn’t disappointed.
In this budget travel guide, you will find the 13 best things to do in Savannah, GA, for free. And this is real free stuff in Savannah. Not just things that are free for under 12 years! Lol!!!
I also have tips on the best budget accommodation in Savannah and nearby, as well as the best way to get around Savannah for cheap.
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13 Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA, for Free
Explore Forsyth Park and its majestic fountain
Taking a walk in Forsyth Park is something I always do, even if I am in Savannah for a day.
Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most beautiful spaces. With its wide green spaces, massive oak trees, winding nature paths, and a fragrant garden designed especially for the blind, Forsyth Park is a must-have on every Savannah itinerary.
The most iconic of Forsyth Park’s attractions is its majestic fountain, which inspires both artists and the common man.
Modeled after the water fountains of Paris’ Place de la Concorde, this cast-iron fountain is more than 150 years old and extremely beautiful. It is often the preferred spot for romantic photo shoots in Savannah, including weddings, proposals, and engagements.
Forsyth Park is a gorgeous place to visit in Savannah for free! If you are here in spring, the park is even prettier, with blooms all around.
It plays host to several festivals, including the very famous St. Patrick’s Day, when the fountain water is dyed all green.
✦ Pro Tip: Want to learn more about Forsyth Park but don’t have the money to spend on tours? Opt for this self-guided tour from Chippewa Square to Forsyth Park for less than $10!
Walk through Savannah’s Historic District
Savannah has a long and intriguing history, which is amply reflected in the lanes of the Historic District
Easily one of the most charming parts of Savannah, the Historic District is filled with museums, churches, mansions, and public squares.
Take a long walk through the cobbled streets of Savannah’s Historic District under moss-covered canopies, admiring buildings and monuments that have witnessed 250+ years of American history.
Savannah’s Historic Downtown offers many things to do, including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum, Mercer Williams House, Owen Thomas House, Wright Square, and Chippewa Square.
If you’re a history buff and would love to dig deeper into Savannah’s past, sign up for this Historic Savannah Guided Walking Tour, which is also one of the most budget-friendly ones. This tour was my first introduction to Savannah, GA and I totally loved it.
✦ Pro Tip: If you cannot spend on a guided tour, here’s a cheaper option. Try this self-guided audio tour of Savannah’s Historic District for less than $10!
Check out Savannah’s public squares for free
While you are exploring the historic center, I recommend that you spend some time at Savannah’s popular public squares.
There are 22 of them, and they are named after famous people or historical events. Many contain statues, plaques, and memorials and are usually shaded by tall live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss. There’s ample seating space.
Some of these squares, of course, are more famous than others.
Take the case of Chippewa Square, which got its big screen moment in the movie “Forrest Gump” as a pretty bus stop.
Yet another prominent one is the Monterey Square, made famous by the Mercer-Williams House that stands right next to it. Remember the grisly murder of Danny Hansford from the movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil? That happened right here!
✦ Pro Tip: Many of Savannah’s squares are believed to be haunted! There’s nothing better than to explore them on this Haunted Savannah Squares Ghost Tour, priced less than $25!!!
Click gorgeous pictures at Jones Street
Savannah’s Jones Street is one of the prettiest streets in the whole world.
Jones Street is studded with beautiful Greek Revival houses, manicured gardens, brick-lined sidewalks, and large moss-covered trees.
The ivy-covered mansions with their red brick walls and historic architecture form the perfect backdrop for classic Southern photographs. You do not want to forget your camera when you come here.
Savannah, GA is especially beautiful in spring when azaleas are in full bloom.
Jones Street has recently garnered a lot of attention, thanks to Instagram. Come here early in the morning to get the best photos.
✦ Pro Tip: Looking to click some cool pics in Savannah, GA? Book this highly-rated private photoshoot in Savannah.
Get amazed by the Cathedral of St. John, The Baptist
I was pleasantly surprised to discover some really unique churches in Savannah, GA, with beautiful architecture.
One of the prettiest examples of this is the Cathedral of St. John, The Baptist.
Also known as the Savannah Cathedral, the Basilica of St. John is replete with stained glass windows, tall steeples, terra cotta gargoyles, and Italian marble floors.
The Great Rose Window directly above the organ is an absolute must-see. And so are the 34 outstanding murals (more than 100 years old) that adorn the cathedral walls.
I recommend taking a self-guided tour of Savannah Cathedral to experience its beauty.
The Cathedral has dedicated touring hours (not open during mass. So, check their calendar before going.
While it is free to enter the church, a small donation of $3-5 is appreciated.
Ride the Savannah Belles Ferry
Did you know that Savannah, Georgia has two free transportation systems?
I did not know either until I found out about the dot Shuttle and Savannah Belles Ferry.
While the shuttle connects visitors to visitor offices, attractions, and parking spaces, the ferry takes a more impressive route and provides free passage across the Savannah River.
You can board the ferry at River St. and go to the other side, Hutchinson Island, and vice versa.
Catch some amazing views of Downtown Savannah by the Talmadge Memorial Bridge during your ferry ride.
★ Trivia: Did you know the Savannah Ferry fleet includes 4 vessels named after 4 iconic women of Savannah? They are Juliette Gordon Low, Susie King Taylor, Florence Martus, and Mary Musgrove. That is why the fleet is called Savannah Belles Ferry!
Stroll along Savannah’s River Street
If you are not a ferry person, you can still enjoy stunning river views by taking a walk along River Street.
Plus, there is so much more to do on River Street. There are open-air markets, art galleries, antique shops, wall-in-the-hole restaurants, and amazing food. This place is the best way to experience Savannah for free.
Take a leisurely walk along the riverfront while learning about Savannah’s history at the same time. Stop by the African-American Monument, the World War II Monument, or the Waving Girl statue.
Many of the buildings here were actually holding pens for enslaved labor, giving deep insights into Savannah’s dichotomous past.
No one will tell you, but River St. is also one of the most haunted areas in Savannah. If you’re
📖 Related Read: Find more about the city’s spooky past in our detailed guide on the best haunted spots in Savannah, GA, or join this budget-friendly Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl.
Attend one of Savannah’s free festivals
Savannah hosts several festivals every year, many of which do not have admission charges.
The Sidewalk Arts Festival (SCAD) in spring, St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Children’s Book Festival (November), and plenty of performances at the Savannah Jazz Festival are completely free.
Check out Savannah’s events calendar here.
Visit Bonaventure Cemetery
Visiting Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the best free things to do in Savannah, Georgia.
Known as one of the prettiest cemeteries in the USA, Bonaventure is beautiful, historical, and spooky all at once.
It has been operational as a public cemetery for more than 100 years now with many notable people interred here.
However, the most famous grave is that of Gracie Watson, a 6-year-old who suddenly died after being photographed in her fine Easter clothes.
Unique architectural elements, attractive marble filigree work, years of history, and canopied tree-lined pathways make Bonaventure an absolute must-visit on every trip to Savannah.
The cemetery is open from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. every day and is free to visit.
✦ Pro Tip: Bonaventure Cemetery offers free guided tours on the second weekend of every month. For more information, visit their official website here.
Explore Savannah Botanical Gardens for free
Want to spend some time in nature? Visit Savannah Botanical Gardens, located just minutes away from the historic district.
The garden is spread over 10 acres and filled with roses, camellias, and other seasonal blooms.
It also has an herb garden, a beautiful pond, an amphitheater, a beautiful fountain, several nature trails, and the historic Reinhard House.
They also have picnic tables. It’s a great place to enjoy a quiet lunch or spend quality time with friends and family.
Savannah Botanical Gardens is open to visitors all year round during daylight hours. It is pet-friendly.
The best part is that access to all public areas in the garden is free. A small charge may apply for groups larger than 10.
Take a stroll through Colonial Park Cemetery
Colonial Park Cemetery in the historic district is one of the best places to experience the ghosts of Savannah.
Unlike me, if you are an adventurous, paranormal-seeking soul, I suggest you visit the cemetery only after it gets dark for the full effect.
But, if you don’t want to get spooked, go during the day. The cemetery looks beautiful even in broad daylight.
The cemetery is open to the public every day between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. in spring and summer and 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. in winter.
✦ Pro Tip: Visiting Colonial Park Cemetery on a haunted tour like this one or this one is a great way to learn about the ghosts that inhabit this city.
Catch a glimpse of the stunning Wormsloe Live Oak Avenue
The Live Oak Avenue at Wormsloe is an iconic Savannah attraction, just like the fountain at Forsyth Park.
It is a crime not to visit Wormsloe Avenue when in Savannah.
Wormsloe Historic Site is a little further away from the historic center, about 12 miles. If you have a car, you can get here in 15 minutes.
Wormsloe was once the colonial estate of an immigrant carpenter Noble Jones. It still features the ruins of a tabby and several nature trails.
However, the most attractive part of Wormsloe is the live oak avenue.
If all you wish to do is catch a glimpse of the stunning oak alley, there is a parking area right at the entrance where you can get down and adore this famous driveway.
Get some adorable pictures in this gorgeous location absolutely free.
📖 Related Read: Check out our Wormsloe Historic Site Guide to plan an epic trip.
Head to the beach on Tybee Island
Craving some beach time? Don’t worry. Savannah, GA, takes care of your beach needs.
Just 30 minutes away from the historic district is Tybee Island, with wonderful white sand beaches.
There are oceanfront beaches as well as river beaches, each with its own appeal—take your pick.
While visiting the Tybee beaches is definitely one of the best free things to do in Savannah, GA, the fun does not stop there.
The island is filled with parks and playgrounds, picnic spots, and nature trails, perfect for hiking and biking.
Not to forget the gorgeous Tybee Pier and Pavilion which gives you some amazing views at sunset.
✦ Pro Tip: Book a Historic Tour of Tybee Island here.
Best Budget Accommodation in Savannah GA
Savannah’s Historic District is the best place to stay when visiting Savannah.
However, accommodation in the historic district is also significantly more expensive than if you stay in midtown or further away.
Here are a few budget stay options in Savannah, GA, that caught my eye – both in the historic center and midtown.
- Best Western Premier I-95 Savannah Airport/ Pooler West: Located less than 15km away from the historic center, Best Western Premier I-95 has spacious rooms, comfy beds, and a nice sun terrace. Because of its location right on I-95, it is a preferred stay when visiting Savannah GA. Click here to read more reviews.
- Home2 Suites By Hilton Savannah Airport: The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness center, and comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes and dining areas. Guests love the breakfast and friendly service.
- 5 BR Downtown Savannah GA: Absolutely one of the best picks in downtown Savannah, 5 BR Downtown Savannah GA is located in an old house with beautiful furnishings and artwork. The property is charming and spotless, and the host is extremely friendly.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Savannah Downtown/Historic District: This one is located right in the historic district, and if you are lucky, you might get a good deal. Guests love their customer service, location, and amazing breakfast. Read more reviews here.
Getting around Savannah on a budget
- Walk. Savannah is flat and pleasantly walkable. You can literally walk to every square, historic home, and restaurant in the historic district. Make sure you carry a good pair of shoes with you.
- If you ever get tired of walking around, catch a CAT (Chatham Area Transit) bus. It is cheap, convenient, and environmentally friendly.
- You can also ride free on Savannah’s dot shuttle, which runs every day of the week. Click here for the map and schedule. Plus, there is the free Savannah Belles Ferry to take you across the river.
- Trolley tours in downtown Savannah, GA, are usually paid. If you’re okay with spending a little, I recommend investing in a good Savannah trolley tour. It is a great way to see the city and learn all about its history.
| Experience more of Savannah, Georgia Read our posts on Best Things to Do in Savannah, GA | From touring spooky cemeteries to learning all about Southern USA’s complicated past, there are lots of good things to do in Savannah, GA. Perfect Savannah Itineraries | From spending one busy day in Savannah to enjoying a Savannah trip of 3 days, our itineraries are definitely going to wow you. Historic Sites and Haunted Houses | From notable historic sites and scary haunted houses, there’s a lot to do in Savannah, GA. Visiting Wormsloe Plantation | Grab this guide for visiting Wormsloe Plantation from Savannah. |
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I could even think of a thousand more fun stuff to do there! A few days will never be enough to experience all the fun in Savannah GA! I really think that because of the cheap hotels in the area, the attractions over at Downtown, and great restaurants make the place really so great to visit!
This is so cool! Thanks so much for sharing this! Now I have ideas on the fun stuff to do over at Savannah GA! When my girl read this, she really pushed me to look for hotels near Downtown and made me choose the ones nearest to the places you featured on this blog! Thanks again!
Glad you found this useful, Edward. Hope you and your girl friend have a memorable time enjoying the amazing attractions of Savannah.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing this! I’m already checking on https://www.visitsavannah.com/hotels-motels to find cheap hotels in Savannah GA for my vacation there next week! I’m so excited!