Your Family’s 3-Day Savannah Road Trip: A Kid-Friendly Guide to Landmarks, Beaches, and More
Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most charming and walkable cities in the American South — and it happens to be a surprisingly great destination for families with school-age kids. With cobblestone streets, Spanish moss, 22 grand historic squares and a beach just 30 minutes away, this city delivers the kind of trip where everyone stays entertained without draining your wallet.
At just under 4 hours from Myrtle Beach, Savannah falls just within long weekend road-trip range. Here’s how to make the most of three days with kids in tow.
Day 1: Exploring the Squares and River Street
Start your morning at Johnson Square, the oldest and largest of Savannah’s 22 landmark squares, and walk the grid along Bull Street. Kids will get a kick out of Chippewa Square, the site of the iconic Forrest Gump bench scene — a fun movie moment even younger kids can appreciate.
Duck into the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist for its genuinely stunning interior. Entry is free, which helps keep the budget in check while giving kids a chance to see architecture that feels larger than life.
For lunch, head to The Pirate House for pirate lore and a casual buffet of Southern staples. The pirate theme alone should buy you a smooth meal with minimal complaints.
Spend the afternoon along River Street for shops and sweeping views of the Savannah River. The cobblestones and riverfront energy give kids plenty to look at, and there’s room to stretch their legs after lunch.
Day 2: Forsyth Park and Ice Cream on Broughton Street
Morning at Forsyth Park is a must. This 30-acre green space features the iconic 1858 fountain and is popular with locals on weekends. For families, it’s the perfect place to let kids run, throw a ball or just burn off energy before the rest of the day’s adventures.
From there, explore the Victorian District on foot — ornate painted houses line quieter streets than the tourist core, making for an easy stroll with kids who might be fading on the busier blocks.
After lunch at Goose Feathers Café, browse Broughton Street for local boutiques and vintage shops. The real draw for families? Leopold’s Ice Cream, open since 1919. Consider it a well-earned afternoon treat.
Day 3: Bonaventure Cemetery and Tybee Island
Start with a morning walk through Bonaventure Cemetery, which is free and open to the public. Older kids especially may find the moss-draped oaks and historic sculptures fascinating. You can also sign up for a guided tour if your crew is up for it.
Then head to the highlight of Day 3: Tybee Island, about a 30-minute drive from downtown. Savannah’s beach town is low-key and local — the kind of place where kids can swim, build sandcastles and simply enjoy the shore without the chaos of bigger beach destinations.
Make sure to climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse, the oldest and tallest in Georgia, for panoramic coastal views. It’s the kind of activity that feels like an adventure for kids and a genuine experience for adults.
Cap the trip with a seafood dinner on Tybee at The Deck Beach Bar or Fannie’s on the Beach before heading back.
Tips for Families
Getting around: The Historic District is walkable. For Tybee Island (~18 miles from downtown), you’ll need a car or rideshare. The free dot shuttle loops through the Historic District and can save tired legs.
Best time to visit: March–May and October–November offer the best weather. Summers are hot and humid with peak crowds — not ideal for little ones.
Where to stay: Downtown puts you walking distance from most of Days 1 and 2. Airbnbs in the Victorian District offer a quieter, more residential feel that can work well for families needing a calmer home base.
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.
