A quick 45-minute drive South from the sandy beaches of Hilton Head Island will place you over the Savannah River into historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. Indulge yourself with the rich history of Savannah that makes it one of the country’s most beloved historic cities.
The beautiful city squares, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and live oak trees will have you already planning your next trip to the Hilton Head and Savannah area. With walking and trolley tours, a plethora of incredible restaurants, and world-class art, a day trip to Savannah is a must when visiting Hilton Head Island.
Here is a guide to having the perfect day trip to this charming city.
Top 4 Things to do on a Day Trip to Savannah, GA
#1 - Historic Trolley Tour
The most successful way to enjoy and experience all of Savannah in a day would be to take a historic trolley tour from the Old Savannah Tours company. When attending a historic trolley tour ride, you will be driven all around Savannah observing all the great historic areas and immense beauty that Savannah has to offer.
The extremely knowledgeable trolley drivers and tour guides will entertain you with all the rich history of downtown Savannah. And if you opt for their historic on and off tour, you can hop on and off any of the 16 stops throughout downtown. This gives you the opportunity to further explore Savannah and be more flexible with your time. The trolleys arrive every 15 minutes.
#2 - Telfair Museums
The Telfair Museums is another astonishing mix of art, history, and architecture all accessible within a day trip to Savannah. The Telfair Museums consist of the Telfair Academy, Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center. The Telfair Academy is the first art museum in America and the oldest public art museum in the South. It recently added the Bird Girl statue made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters is a guided tour through the exquisite period-correct architectural home, along with a look at the original slave quarters.
The Jepson Center is a beautiful contemporary art museum that consistently displays world-class art. Purchasing one ticket will allow you access to all three museums and is a great way to experience what Savannah has to offer.
#3 - SCAD Savannah College of Art and Design
The SCAD Savannah College of Art and Design is very present throughout the whole city of Savannah and has some great things to offer for non-students. SCAD bookstores, cafes, and shops are scattered throughout downtown, however, the SCAD Museum of Art is always worth a visit.
Located in the heart of downtown, this contemporary building houses amazing contemporary artwork. The building has over 10 separate gallery spaces that feature established, local, and international artists. Making the SCAD Museum of Art a great way to see Savannah's immense artistic side.
#4 - Take a Walk
If nothing listed above entices you on your way to Savannah, one of the best recommendations we have is to get out and walk around! Savannah is an incredible and safe walking city. Take a stroll up Bull Street and experience all the historic squares with monuments and placards. Observe all the beautiful architecture and live Oak trees with their Spanish moss while you stroll.
Take a walk down Jones Street to enjoy Savannah’s most beautiful street, with its breathtaking homes and brick laid road, Jones Street is a sight you won’t want to miss. And finally, a walk along River Street to admire the Savannah River that separates Georgia from South Carolina and all the amazing restaurants that line the beautiful street.
Plan Your Hilton Head Vacation Now
There's so much to explore on Hilton Head and the surrounding areas. Start planning your vacation today with Vacation Homes of Hilton Head! We offer a great selection of luxury vacation homes to call basecamp during your stay. Learn about our island communities to find the perfect place for your family.