*Featured Photo Courtesy of @ZioandSons via Instagram*
Even though a combined 98% of employers offer paid vacation time, American workers aren’t taking the maximum time off. This unfortunate trend has resulted in a combined 429 million wasted paid vacation days.
But when workers take their earned vacation, their work and personal lives improve. Some of the benefits include higher productivity and performance, a positive work outlook, increased happiness and improved mental and physical health.
Here are a few reasons why you should take a day in Savannah.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
The city of Savannah was built with squares in mind. Originally designed with 24 squares, 22 remain today, and are still enjoyed by travelers and locals alike. Each square contains its own piece of Savannah history, and many contain monuments, statues, and places to sit. The squares are surrounded by Savannah’s historic homes and bustling businesses. And since Savannah is so walkable, it’s easy to visit all 22 in a day.
Photo by @lilyshih_ via Instagram
Bordering the Savannah River, River Street imparts old-world charm. With nine blocks full of red brick and historic architecture, River Street is perfect for strolling and ship-watching. More than 75 boutiques, galleries, artists’ studios, restaurants, and pubs line the river walk – the possibilities for fun are endless!
Photo by @megan_huxford via Instagram
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Also known as the ‘Sistine of the South,’ this cathedral is one of Savannah’s most beloved developments. It’s filled with elaborate stained glass, tall marble-like columns, and 34 elaborate murals. Enjoy a guided tour or Sunday worship. Either way, the cathedral is sure to take your breath away.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Spend a day in the sand and sun at Savannah’s beach. Tybee Island is only a 20 mile drive from historic downtown. Relax on the beach or bring the kids for a day of sand castle building and wave splashing. Tybee Island is full of beach shops and restaurants, as well as famous attractions like Fort Pulaski and the Tybee Island Lightstation.
Photo by Casey Jones of Visit Savannah
Savannah is known as the most haunted city in America – and there are plenty of spooky activities to do and places to visit. Take a walk through Bonaventure Cemetery to see historical graves surrounded by greenery and Spanish moss. There are plenty of ghost tours to go to – including midnight tours, ghost trolley tours, and haunted pub crawls. While your here, ask locals about their experiences with ghosts and the paranormal!
Photo by Visit Savannah
Food Culture
No matter what dish you’re craving, you’ll find it in Savannah. If you’re looking for a down South dining experience, head over to Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room for family-style Southern cooking or to the The Olde Pink House for a true Savannah dining experience.
Newer additions to the Savannah food scene, like The Grey, Cotton & Rye, and The Florence have put Savannah on the map for modern cuisine lovers. And for dessert? No Savannah trip is complete without a trip to Leopold’s Ice Cream. Be sure to arrive with an appetite!
Photo courtesy of Historic Tours of America
Tours and Adventure
Trolley tours, ghost tours, food tours, architectural tours, walking tours, pub tours – no matter what your interests are, you’ll probably find a tour for it in Savannah. Go on a walking tour to get some exercise while learning Southern history, or pedal away on a Savannah Slow Ride from pub to pub while enjoying local beer. Tours are perfect for big groups and small couples alike. By the time you leave, you’ll be ready to give your own tour of Savannah!
Photo courtesy of the Savannah Music Festival
Music Festivals
From performers on the street to local bands playing venues – music is everywhere in Savannah. Multiple times a year, Savannah welcomes acts from around the world thanks to its many music festivals. Get tickets for Savannah Stopover to get a taste of indie SXSW bands who are traveling to Austin. Go to the Savannah Music Festival to see prominent first class artists from around the globe. See iconic jazz musicians jam on stage at the Savannah Jazz Festival. No matter what style or genre you prefer, you’ll find something that moves your musical soul in Savannah.
Photo courtesy of Savannah Art Walk
Art, art, and more art
The Savannah College of Art and Design has brought thousands of young, up-and-coming artists to the city of Savannah, who fill the city with vibrant art and gallery showings. Museums like the Jepson Center of the Arts brings well-renowned works for public display. Local artists and galleries participate in events like the Savannah Art Walk and the Sidewalk Art Festival. Savannah will bring out the inner artist in you.
Photo by @GessCassie via Twitter
Sip & stroll
Tours, art walks, ship strolling – all instances that would be even better with a cocktail! Savannah’s open container law allows you to take your drink to-go if it’s in a clear, plastic cup and you are located south of Jones Street. Mimosas on River Street, anyone?
Project: Time Off is a coalition of organizations that encourages Americans to relax, refresh, and to ‘Take a Day’ off. What’s your #1 reason for taking a day in Savannah?
Larissa Allen is Visit Savannah’s social media coordinator. She received her BA in English and Professional Communications from Armstrong State University. Larissa is a Savannah native, and is addicted to watermelon juice from the Forsyth Farmer’s Market.
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