Looking for family-friendly things to do in Savannah GA?? Here’s the list with all the travel information you need to plan a family tour.
With so many fun and educational activities for the whole family, Savannah is the perfect destination for a vacation. Children will be fascinated by the city’s rich history and architecture.
The city offers many attractions for kids, including the Savannah Children’s Museum, which welcomes children as young as 18 months.
A trip to the Savannah History Museum will teach a bit of the city’s past for you and your little ones. The museum will educate visitors about the local culture and provide a fun and educational experience.
If you have younger children, you can also take them on a Savannah Ghost Tours by Ghosts and Gravestones.
Aside from that, the most popular family-friendly tourist attractions in Savannah are UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium, Savannah Belles Ferry, Leopold’s Ice Cream, Tybee Island, and Savannah African Art Museum.
Let’s discover the complete list of the best things to do in Savannah GA. Just check the list and add them to your bucket list.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
1. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Savannah Children’s Museum
Savannah Children’s Museum features story time, water play, arts and crafts activities for the whole family to enjoy. Especially if you’re visiting the city with small children, consider bringing them here.
This two-level museum encourages kids to play with their hands, make noise, and interact with their surroundings. With more than 100 exhibits, you’ll never run out of things to do with your kids.
The museum’s highlights are a pirate-themed sensory garden, an exploration maze, a splash pad, and a story reading nook.
Since this museum is located just a few minutes away from Savannah Children’s Museum, anyone can easily get there.
Being an entirely outdoor museum, this place with help your kids to discover their new skills and creative ideas.
So, come along with your kids.
Address: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-651-6823 ext. 203
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
2. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Savannah Belles Ferry
Savannah Belles Ferry in Georgia is a FREE water ferry system that operates seven days a week along the stunning Savannah River to Hutchinson Island.
This ferry service is available from 7 a.m. to midnight and makes regular stops on Hutchinson Island and City Hall Landing. Since it is ADA accessible, you can bring your loved ones with mobility issues.
It has four vessels in its fleet. Each vessel is named after a prominent woman from the city’s history. For example, one named Juliette Gordon Low founded the first American Girl Scout troops on Hutchinson Island in 1912.
And, there’s another one named Susie King Taylor, who was freed from slavery at the age of 14 and later opened the first school for African-American children in Savannah.
Savannah Belles Ferry was founded by Savannah’s Downtown Transportation system in 2006. Actually, this 30-minute river excursion is a great way to tour around the Historic District.
So, just try it with your family.
Address: Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: (912) 704-9624
Planning to visit Georgia?? Here’s the list of the 60 best things to do in Georgia. Just add them all to your bucket list.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
3. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Historic Savannah Theatre
Historic Savannah Theatre first opened for business in 1818 on Chippewa Square in Savannah, Georgia.
It is one of the United States’ oldest continuously-operating theatres. In addition, to live performances, the Historic Savannah Theatre has also served as a movie house.
Today, you can enjoy classic movies and catch a live performance on your visit.
The same architect designed it for Telfair Mansion. So, it presents an impressive structure.
Still, the theater has maintained its historical look and character while incorporating modern sound and entertainment sensibilities into its interior.
Whether you’re a fan of old-fashioned theatres or the latest blockbuster, the theatre will always be a fun place to go. Therefore, you can visit there even with your young kids.
It also features live performances and special holiday shows. The schedule can be viewed on the website of the Historic Savannah Theatre.
Address: 222 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-233-7764
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
4. UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium
If you enjoy seeing marine invertebrates, you may want to pay a visit to the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium, located on Skidaway Island in Savannah, Georgia.
Opened in 1976, this center contains 16 exhibit tanks with different species of fish and invertebrates. It includes over 200 saltwater and freshwater creatures. And the staff have caught the majority of them.
For example., you can see American alligators, striped mullet, horseshoe crabs, pompano, stingrays, sport fish, seahorses, longnose gar, sea turtles, lionfish, and many other species.
Especially, its educational public touch tank is a great way to get close to these creatures and learn about Georgia’s unique marine life. So, kids will love it.
When finished with the educational exhibits, head to the covered Pavillion for archeology displays. It shows Native American artifacts found from various places in Georgia and fossils found from the Skidaway River.
UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium is Georgia’s first saltwater aquarium and features a coastal environment and maritime forest. Since it is located close to downtown Savannah, you can easily get there to spend a wonderful afternoon with your family.
On the other hand, there are plenty of birding opportunities on the property, including a feeder site and a nature trail.
The UGA Aquarium also offers plenty of outdoor activities throughout the year. So, it is a great place to educate your family while enjoying the sea.
Address: 30 Ocean Science Cir, Savannah, GA 31411, United States Phone: +1 912-598-2496
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
5. Savannah Ghost Tours by Ghosts & Gravestones
The historic district of Savannah is home to many haunted sites. So, many Savannah ghost tours focus on the city’s scariest residents and most haunted places.
While some tours focus on the area’s history, others are more about the legends and eerie tales associated with the dead. Whatever your reason for visiting Savannah, you will be amazed at this southern city’s rich history and mysterious stories.
Take a Ghosts and Gravestones Savannah tour to uncover some of the city’s most haunted sites and learn more about the city’s mysterious past. The tour is affordable and takes you through the historic district and a few of the most haunted sites.
So, it will be an incredible experience to try with your family.
Another famous tour operator in the city is the Savannah ghost tour.
This 75-minute tour explores the haunted areas of the city’s historic district. It will take you to historic graveyards, ancient cemeteries, and former battlegrounds.
For example, the tour includes a visit to the Andrew Low House and Perkins & Sons Ship Chandlery, where you’ll see haunted people wearing old-fashioned clothing and moving furniture.
Surely grab this unique experience with your family.
Address: 31405, 412 E Duffy St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-695-1578
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
6. Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah
Hey ice cream lovers, here’s the best place for you.
If you want to enjoy an ice cream treat while visiting Savannah, make sure to check out Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Stratton Leopold married Mary Leopold in 1995 and took his father’s recipe from the safe deposit box. Since then, only he made the ice cream base; he’s the only person in the world who makes the entire 5,000 gallons of ice cream sold each month.
Although the other employees make the flavor mixtures, the base remains a secret.
The original owners of Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah wished to pass on the family’s tradition of community service and entrepreneurship. They hope to find a successor who will carry on their passion for helping people.
In addition to ice cream, Leopold’s Ice Cream also offers a menu of other delicious treats.
This popular escapist destination has a marble soda fountain, serving up regular and seasonal flavors. You can also get a bowl of soup or a sandwich while you’re there.
In fact, you can’t go wrong with this unique Savannah ice cream shop. So, surely visit there with your kids.
Address: 212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-234-4442
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
7. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Tybee Island
The barrier island of Tybee Island is located near Savannah, Georgia.
This charming destination is known for its sandy, wide beaches. South Beach is the most popular and best place to spend the day and features a pavilion and a pier.
Fort Screven is a 19th-century concrete gun battery. While you’re there, do not forget to check out the Tybee Light Station and Museum, an 18th-century lighthouse and a museum.
Actually, it is the tallest lighthouse in Georgia. And the Museum on Tybee Island is an important place to learn about the local history.
If you’re interested in eating, try some of the island’s seafood restaurants. For example, Crab Shack is a delicious option.
On the other hand, you can visit the Marine Science Center on Tybee to see how different creatures live underwater.
If you’re more adventurous, you can take an eco-kayak tour or a sunset cruise to discover Tybee Island uniquely.
However, you can enjoy the beach, picnic areas, water activities, fishing at the pier, birdwatching, whale and dolphin watching, boating, kayaking, and scenic views at the museum’s observation deck while you are on Tybee Island.
So, plan for a trip to Tybee Island with your family.
Address: 3 Old US Hwy 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, United States Phone: (912) 658-2322
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
8. Savannah African Art Museum
The Savannah African Art Museum is a non-profit institution that aims to introduce people of all ages to the culture and history of Africa. So, this is a great place to visit, even with kids.
Through interactive and meaningful experiences, the museum hopes to educate and inspire its audience to learn about the meaning and power of African art.
The collection contains over 1,000 works of art from 22 African countries, and the guides will teach you all about the history of the art you see.
You can find the museum at the Southern Business District, about 2 miles south of the Historic District.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see some fascinating objects related to African history.
Savannah African Art Museum is led by Billie Stultz, a B.F.A. in art history. Her passion for African culture and artisanship shifted a few decades ago. She now manages the museum’s collections and also gives tours and educational programs.
Those interested in art history can take an internship and learn more about African art and culture. Moreover, volunteer positions at the Savannah Asian and Pacific Arts Center are also available.
Savannah African Art Museum is open from 1 to 5 pm Wednesday to Saturday. Parking is free on the premises, but you can also find nearby parking lots.
Address: 201 E 37th St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-721-7745
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
9. Georgia State Railroad Museum
Located in the Savannah Shops and Terminal Facilities National Historic Landmark District, the Georgia State Railroad Museum is a must-see attraction in Savannah.
The museum is housed in the United States Railway’s former headquarters Central.
The Georgia State Railroad Museum offers interactive exhibits to explore the city’s rich railroad history.
Also, Georgia State Railroad in Savannah is the largest railroad museum in the world.
You can experience a real train ride on the museum’s fully functioning turntable. The museum also offers guided tours of its vintage steam and diesel locomotives.
The locomotives will run in the Museum’s working roundhouse for some days. Those with young children can enjoy the enchanting model train display. Since the exhibits are interactive and offer a steam train ride, your kids will love this place.
The Georgia State Railroad Museum in Savannah features several play areas for children to enjoy while learning about the region’s history. And also it features historic cars and carriages.
That’s why this museum considers a must-see place for any Savannah tourist.
The museum is open daily, except on Mondays.
Address: 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-651-6823
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
10. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Savannah’s Waterfront
One of the most popular and most beautiful sections of Savannah, Georgia, is Savannah Waterfront which is located adjacent to River Street.
This quaint waterfront is home to shops, restaurants, and restored Cotton Warehouses. You can also see ships of all kinds sailing in the Savannah port and even watch street performers.
Savannah Waterfront is a popular spot for visitors to see the sights and sounds of the city. And also, it is a beautiful place to spend the day by enjoying scenic Savannah River views. Just take a walk along the historic Riverwalk to explore the city.
On the other hand, the River Street Market Place is a quaint open-air market on the east end of River Street. Here, you can browse the wares of more than 75 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to framed museum-quality prints.
In addition, there are specialty food stores and artisanal candles. So, you’ll also find lots of food and drink options. Kids will surely love it.
A trip to Savannah Waterfront is not complete without visiting the famous Cotton Exchange Tavern. This old-fashioned tavern, located on the edge of the river, offers a taste of southern cuisine. They serve you delicious seafood.
Address: 1 W River St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-234-0295
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
11. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Chatham County
The 31.551 acres Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is located in Chatham, Effingham, and Jasper counties in Georgia and South Carolina.
It is a wonderful refuge for bird watching, observing wildlife, and nature walks. The habitat is also a great place to spot endangered species. (purple gallinules, bobcats, and American alligators)
And of course, the area is a popular tourist attraction because of its diverse wildlife, and it is one of the few places in the state where you can see a variety of native species.
You can see the wood ducks feeding with their downy offspring during the summer months. And you can also spot turtles and long-legged wading birds.
While there, you can tour the refuge’s museum and view the many displays and interactive exhibits too.
A drive to the refuge’s Laurel Hill Plantation is a great way to learn about its history. Laurel Hill is the site of a rice plantation, and there are alligators along the banks.
The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge has a visitor center located on SC 170, about seven miles from downtown Savannah. Its nature store features information about the various wildlife found in the area.
And there are plenty of hiking trails that you can try with your family. The azaleas are in peak bloom in March. So, plan your tour for March.
Address: 694 Beech Hill Ln, Hardeeville, SC 29927, United States Phone: +1 843-784-2468
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
12. Historic Grayson Stadium, East Victory Drive
The historic William L. Grayson Stadium is a baseball stadium located in Savannah, Georgia. It is located on the campus of Savannah State University and is home to the famous Savannah Bananas.
In 1926, General Grayson played baseball in Grayson Stadium, so the ballpark was named for him.
The Savannah Bananas play in the Coastal Plain League. Before the bananas joined the Coastal Plain League, they played for the Savannah State University college baseball team from 2009 to 2011.
Aside from that, baseball legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig have played in this stadium.
During the game, fans are encouraged to enjoy the stadium’s concessions. The stadium’s concession stand serves classic baseball fare and unique dishes.
Hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, chili cheese fries, popcorn, nachos, and many drinks are just a few of the items you can purchase. And all these delicious dishes are affordable.
Come along with your kids to enjoy a baseball game at the historic Grayson Stadium.
Address: 1401 E Victory Dr, Savannah, GA 31404, United States Phone: +1 912-712-2482
Planning to visit Atlanta GA? Here’s the list of the best things to do in Atlanta GA. Just add them to your bucket list.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
13. Ellis Square Fountains, Barnard and West Congress
Located on the corner of Barnard Street and West St. Julian Street in Savannah, Georgia, Ellis Square is one of 22 squares that comprise the city.
Ellis Square was established in 1799 and is now one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the city.
This historic square is one of the first four to be laid out and is the first of its kind in the state. It’s east of Johnson Square, Franklin Place, and Telfair and north of St. Paul’s Square.
Visitors can enjoy the fountains that shoot water upwards from underground in a random pattern during the summer. Or it is possible to walk through the fountain’s entire length without getting wet.
At night, the lights that shine on the water jets change colors to match the city’s mood.
If you’re looking for a place to spend your afternoon or evening, make sure you visit the area with your toddlers. They will love to play with water fountains at Ellis Square.
And there are several areas with shaded tables to sit and enjoy the park’s beautiful surroundings. Or you can rent a bike to explore the area.
Address: Barnard St & W Congress St, Savannah, GA 31410, United States Phone: +1 912-651-6610
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
14. Old Fort Jackson, Fort Jackson Road
Old Fort Jackson is one of the unique attractions in Savannah, Georgia. The restored nineteenth-century fort sits near the Savannah River, just one mile east of downtown.
The fort’s history dates back to the American Revolution, when Gen. James Jackson, an American soldier, fought for the British. After accepting the British surrender of Savannah, Jackson built the fort on the site to protect the city from sea attacks.
During the early years, the fort was referred to as the “Mud Fort.” The reason was the tidal nature of the Savannah River. After Savannah fell to the British in 1864, it was garrisoned by Union troops.
When the City of Savannah purchased Old Fort Jackson in the 1920s, they planned to turn it into a park. However, the construction of the park was a lengthy process.
Several setbacks and the Great Depression slowed the construction. However, after more than two decades, the fort was finally opened to the public. It has been a popular attraction ever since.
Visitors can tour its museum and see many restored military vehicles and other artifacts. So, this is a must-see for history buffs.
There are several tours to choose from to learn more about the city’s past. Or you can also tour the fort itself. Aside from knowing the history, you can enjoy stunning views of the Savannah River.
So, surely bring your camera.
Address: 1 Fort Jackson Rd, Savannah, GA 31404, United States Phone: +1 912-232-3945
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
15. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Amphibian Air
Taking an Amphibian Air tour is a unique way to see Savannah from the sky.
The flight is led by an FAA-certified flight instructor who will explain the ins and outs of the flight and answer any questions you might have.
Safety is of utmost importance during the tour, and it is staffed with certified flight instructors who will ensure your safety. so, just hire a pilot and enjoy the ride.
Savannah-based company Amphibian Air offers this unique experience. It provides introductory flights for visitors with instructions on flying a weight-shift-controlled powered hang glider.
You can take a scenic flight over Georgia’s sky. The experience is like riding a motorcycle in the air.
After your flight, enjoy a delicious meal at Graffito Pizza, located at 500 W River St.
Address: 109 Bowman Ave, Garden City, GA 31408, United States Phone: (912) 572-8055
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
16. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is a large city park in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia.
The park is 30 acres and borders Gaston Street on the north, Drayton Street on the east, Whitaker and Greene streets on the south.
If you’re looking for a place to spend your afternoon, this park is a great choice.
Originally known as ‘Place,’ Forsyth Park was laid out in the 1840s. William Hodgson, a local planter, donated 20 acres of land for the park.
John Forsyth, the 33rd Governor of Georgia, contributed an additional 10 acres. Now, the park is one of Savannah’s most beautiful parks and is a popular attraction for visitors.
In addition to the fountain, Forsyth Park features a pavilion, picnic areas, a playground, and a cafe. During warmer months, you can enjoy live music at Forsyth Park too.
So, plan for picnicking with your family at this park.
Address: 2 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States Phone: +1 912-351-3841
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
17. Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA: Hilton Head Beaches
The sandy strip on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a popular destination for boating and fishing. (only one hour from Savannah GA)
There are also designated swimming areas and lifeguards on duty during the summer months on Hilton Head Beaches.
In addition to the beautiful sandy strip, Hilton Head has a wide variety of other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
For free things to do on Hilton Head, consider Mitchelville Beach, otherwise known as Fish Haul Park, on the northeastern portion of the island.
This area has less tourist traffic and an unspoiled charm perfect for families. Visitors can also find tide pools and salt marshes in this region.
The area is also home to some of the state’s most beautiful beaches.
And golfers will enjoy the scenery at several top courses. The Atlantic Dunes and Palmetto Dunes are two of the best courses in the area.
History buffs will enjoy learning about the history of the Gullah People of South Carolina. These people were enslaved West Africans during the Civil War, but they still managed to establish a community here.
A museum and a freedom village can also be found, making this an important site to visit while on vacation in Hilton Head.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
- Savannah Children’s Museum
- Savannah Belles Ferry
- Historic Savannah Theatre
- UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium
- Savannah Ghost Tours by Ghosts & Gravestones
- Leopold’s Ice Cream
- Tybee Island
- Savannah African Art Museum
- Georgia State Railroad Museum
- Savannah’s Waterfront
- Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Chatham County
- Historic Grayson Stadium, East Victory Drive
- Ellis Square Fountains, Barnard and West Congress
- Old Fort Jackson, Fort Jackson Road
- Amphibian Air
- Ellis Square Fountains, Barnard and West Congress
- Hilton Head Beaches
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Savannah GA
