How long does it take to walk through Savannah's Historic District?

A typical walk through the Historic District takes 2 to 3 hours. This specific 1.5-mile route includes six major stops and accounts for time to grab a snack or take photos.

Is the Savannah culinary walk accessible for strollers?

Generally, yes, as Savannah is quite flat. However, the cobblestones on River Street and the brick sidewalks on Jones Street can be bumpy, so use caution in those specific areas.

Where can I find the best pralines in Savannah?

River Street Sweets is one of the most famous locations for pralines. You can watch them being made fresh in copper kettles right on the riverfront.

Can I visit Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room on a weekend?

No, Mrs. Wilkes is traditionally closed on Saturdays and Sundays. It is best to plan this walk for a weekday if you want to see this specific landmark in action.

What is the best time of day to do this walking route?

Late morning, around 11:00 AM, is ideal. This allows you to reach the lunch spots as they open and finish with ice cream or a drink in the mid-afternoon.

Are there public restrooms along the Savannah walking route?

Yes, public facilities are located at City Market and near the riverfront. Most of the historic restaurants also provide restrooms for their customers.

Is it worth walking down to River Street?

Absolutely. River Street offers a unique perspective on Savannah's maritime history and some of the best views of the Savannah River, despite the uneven cobblestones.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Savannah is a city that invites you to slow down, and there is no better way to experience its soul than through its flavors. This self-guided walk takes you through the heart of the Historic District, where the air is thick with the scent of blooming jasmine and simmering Lowcountry boils. On this neighborhood stroll, you will discover how African, European, and Caribbean influences merged to create the unique culinary identity of the Hostess City of the South. From the bustling commerce of the 18th-century City Market to the legendary communal tables of the mid-20th century, this walking route tracks the evolution of Southern hospitality. You will explore the riverfront where pecans and sugar became the city's signature sweets and visit landmarks that have served locals for over a century. This audio walk is designed for those who want to understand the history behind the plate, moving at your own pace without the constraints of a rigid schedule. Whether you are sampling world-famous ice cream or learning about the prohibition-era secrets of a local tavern, this experience offers a deep dive into the culture that makes Savannah one of the most delicious cities in America. Along the way, you will pass through iconic squares and see how the city's architectural preservation has kept its culinary history alive. This walking tour Savannah enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike will enjoy provides the flexibility to stop for a snack, browse a shop, or simply sit on a bench and soak in the atmosphere. By the time you reach the final stop, you will understand why food is more than just a meal here—it is a connection to the past and a celebration of the present. This self-guided adventure ensures you see the most important landmarks while having the freedom to linger wherever your appetite leads you. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The vibrant history of the 18th-century City Market

River Street’s famous praline-making tradition

Leopold’s Ice Cream, a cinematic landmark since 1919

The communal dining legacy of Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

Prohibition-era stories at the Crystal Beer Parlor

Architectural gems of the Savannah Historic District

Tour Stops (6)

City Market

Begin your exploration at City Market, a four-block area that has been the commercial heart of Savannah since the 1700s. Originally a place where farmers brought their produce and livestock to sell, it survived fires, hurricanes, and the Civil War. Today, the open-air courtyards are filled with restaurants and shops, but the spirit of the old market remains. Imagine the hustle and bustle of centuries past as you walk the cobblestone corridors. This area is a great example of how Savannah repurposes its historic spaces, blending 18th-century structure with modern Southern life. Keep an eye out for local artists in the overhead lofts, a nod to the city's creative spirit.

Lady & Sons

Located in a refurbished 1800s building that once housed a white-glove grocery, this restaurant became a national sensation. While the menu often changes, the focus remains on traditional Southern comfort food—dishes that were once staples of the family home. The building itself is a piece of history, showcasing the industrial brickwork typical of Savannah's old business district. This stop highlights the 'New South' culinary movement, where family recipes were brought from home kitchens to the global stage. It’s a testament to how Southern hospitality can transform a neighborhood's reputation and draw visitors from around the world.

River Street Sweets

Head toward the Savannah River to find a place that smells like pure sugar and nostalgia. River Street Sweets is famous for its World Famous Pralines, a treat with roots in French culinary tradition that was adapted using the abundant pecans of the American South. Watch through the window as the candy makers work the hot copper kettles, a process that hasn't changed much in decades. The riverfront location is significant; these warehouses once held the goods that made Savannah a global trade hub. Today, the trade is in sweets, and the praline remains the city's most iconic edible souvenir.

Leopold's Ice Cream

Founded in 1919 by three Greek immigrant brothers, Leopold’s is a Savannah institution. The interior still features the original black marble soda fountain and wooden phone booth. Beyond the legendary 'Tutti Frutti' flavor, the shop is known for its connection to Hollywood; co-owner Stratton Leopold is a major film producer, and you'll see movie memorabilia lining the walls. This stop illustrates the immigrant influence on American food culture and the enduring power of a simple, well-made treat. Expect a line, as locals and visitors alike consider a scoop here to be a mandatory part of any Savannah stroll.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

Walking toward Jones Street, you'll find Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. Since 1943, this former boarding house has served meals family-style at large communal tables. It represents a vanishing era of Southern life where neighbors and strangers sat together to share bowls of fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. The Gullah-Geechee influence is present in the heavy use of local grains and slow-cooked vegetables. While the menu is seasonal and subject to change, the tradition of the 'boarding house reach' remains. It is a place that prioritizes community over privacy, a core tenet of Lowcountry culture.

Crystal Beer Parlor

Conclude your route at the Crystal Beer Parlor, which opened its doors in 1933. It was one of the first establishments in the city to serve alcohol after the repeal of Prohibition. The walls are covered with photos of Savannah’s past, making it feel like a living museum. This tavern was a pioneer in the local casual dining scene, famous for its burgers and crab stew. It captures the transition of Savannah from a formal, high-society town to a place where people of all walks of life could gather for a cold drink and a hearty meal. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the city's journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided culinary walk is the best way to explore at your own pace. This route covers iconic spots like Leopold's and Mrs. Wilkes, allowing you to skip lines or linger as you choose.