Best Things to Do in Savannah Georgia with Kids

Families can experience the perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventure when they visit Savannah, Georgia with kids. With its picturesque cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, and stunning architecture, Savannah is an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories with their kids. Below, we’ll talk about why you should check out downtown Savannah and all the fun stuff there is to do!

Why You Should Stay in Savannah for a Family Vacation

Photo: Ashley Knedler

Savannah is the perfect destination for a family vacation, with its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. From exploring the historic district to taking a stroll along the Savannah River on River Street, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Kids will love visiting the interactive museums, taking a ghost tour, and indulging in delicious treats at the local bakeries.

Parents can unwind and enjoy the stunning views while sipping a sweet tea or trying out the famous southern cuisine. A free ferry, the Savannah Belles Ferry, offers beautiful river views. Savannah has it all if you’re interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying quality time with your loved ones.

Savannah Historic District: A Family-Friendly Walk Through Time

Forsyth Park

Photo: Jessica Furtney

One of the best free things for kids to do is hang out at Forsyth Park. This popular park in historic Savannah offers a large playground with slides, swings, and climbing equipment to keep the little ones happy for hours. There are also open grassy areas in the square for running around and playing games and a splash pad where kids can cool off on hot days.

Families can also stroll around the park’s beautiful gardens and fountains, providing a scenic and relaxing experience for both kids and adults. Savannah is known for its beautiful oak trees draped in Spanish moss, so make sure you take advantage of the picturesque view of town.

Trolley Tours

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With the convenience of hopping on and off at various stops around the historic district, trolley tours may be a unique means of transportation for you and your kiddos. Kids will love the open-air trolley ride and seeing the city differently. Many trolley tours also provide entertaining and informative commentary, keeping children entertained and engaged. With stops at top attractions like Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market, kids can easily access popular destinations without the hassle of navigating the city on foot.

Fun Things to Do in Savannah on a Family Trip

Savannah Bananas Baseball Team

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The Savannah Bananas baseball team is like no other baseball team! With their colorful uniforms and lively atmosphere, the team brings the excitement of baseball to a whole new level. Kids can enjoy delicious snacks, play interactive games, and even participate in on-field activities during the game. Watch for Split, the team’s engaging mascot, who entertains with silly antics and high-energy performances. The team prioritizes kid-friendly entertainment, making it a great choice for parents looking for a fun outing with their kids.

The Children’s Museum of Savannah

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The Savannah Children’s Museum offers many exhibits and activities to stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity. From a pretend grocery store and farm to a giant bubble station and a water table, the museum provides a variety of hands-on experiences for kids to engage with. One of the best ways to experience this museum is by checking out the Exploration Maze, a popular and educational labyrinth of pathways.

The museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, such as story time sessions, science demonstrations, and art workshops. In addition, the museum features a dedicated play area for toddlers, ensuring that children of all ages can have a meaningful and enjoyable experience.

Nature Encounters: Best Things to Do with Kids in Savannah

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center

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The Marine Science Center offers a variety of hands-on activities and exhibits that will engage children of all ages. Kids can learn about the marine life that inhabits the surrounding waters through interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, and educational programs led by knowledgeable staff members. They can also explore the center’s aquariums and touch tanks, which allow them to get up close and personal with various sea creatures. In addition to the indoor exhibits, the center also offers nature walks and beach climbing tours, allowing kids to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center

Photo: visitsavannah.com

Visiting the Oatland Island Wildlife Center offers a variety of interactive and educational programs specifically designed for children, such as guided tours, animal encounters, and hands-on activities. Kids can learn about the importance of conservation and the various animal species that call Oatland Island home. They can witness amazing creatures up close, including bald eagles, alligators, and playful river otters.

The wildlife refuge also features beautiful walking trails and scenic overlooks, perfect for outdoor exploration and wildlife observation. With its focus on environmental education and wildlife conservation, the Wildlife Center provides children with an enriching and entertaining experience, fostering a love and appreciation for the natural world.

Educational Family Travel: Museums and Cultural Sites

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace

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Kids can visit this historic home and learn about the life of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts, as well as the history of the house and the period in which she lived. The tours often include interactive activities like trying on period clothing or participating in traditional crafts. In addition to the tours, the birthplace also has a museum with exhibits that showcase the impact of Juliette and the Girl Scouts on American history. Special programs and events, such as scavenger hunts and badge-earning opportunities, are tailored for kids.

Georgia State Railroad Museum

Photo: mcmillaninn.com

The Georgia State Railroad Museum offers an impressive collection of historic trains and railcars, as well as interactive exhibits that will engage children and educate them about the history of the railroad in Georgia. Kids will love exploring the trains and learning about the different types of locomotives and cabooses. The museum’s highlight is riding on a historic train, offering the whole family a unique and memorable experience. Families can learn about the Central of Georgia Railway Carpentry Shop, a significant part of the city’s history.

Culinary Delights: Tasty Treats in Savannah GA with Kids

Candy Kitchen

Photo: savannahcandy.com

Visiting the Candy Kitchen in Savannah, GA, with kids is filled with colorful and delicious candies, offering a wide selection of treats for children of all ages. From traditional chocolates and gummies to unique handmade confections, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Kids will have the opportunity to watch skilled candy makers create their favorite sweets right before their eyes, adding an element of entertainment to the visit. The friendly staff are always happy to provide samples and assist with any questions or special requests, making the experience even more enjoyable.

River Street Sweets

Photo: discoverlancaster.com

As soon as you walk in to River Street Sweets, the intoxicating aroma of freshly made pralines, hand-stretched taffy, and homemade chocolate will indulge the senses. Kids will love watching the candy-making process through the shop’s large viewing window and tasting samples of the prepared sweet treats. Kids can then pick out their favorite candies and create a custom bag of goodies to take home for a yummy souvenir!

Leopold’s Ice Cream

Photo: tripadvisor.com

Leopold’s Ice Cream is a famous ice cream parlor that’s known for its rich history, vintage decor and old-fashioned ambiance. They offer a wide range of flavors, including classics like vanilla and chocolate, as well as unique flavors like tutti frutti and honey almond. They also serve other treats such as sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream sandwiches. Over the years, Leopold’s has become an iconic destination in Savannah, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

FAQs: All You Need to Know About Savannah with Kids

Are there any kid-friendly ghost tours in Savannah?

Yes, there are kid-friendly ghost tours in Savannah. These tours are specifically designed to be suitable for children and include less spooky stories and more lighthearted, fun content. The guides are trained to tailor the tour to younger audiences, making it an enjoyable and entertaining experience for the whole family. These tours typically focus on the history of the city and its ghostly legends without delving into any overly frightening or disturbing content.

What are the safety precautions for families in Savannah’s historic district?

It is advisable to stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, and to be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. Following street signage and traffic rules is important, as the district can get busy with tourists and locals. By being mindful and taking these precautions, families can have a safe and memorable visit to Savannah’s historic district.

How can families best experience the Savannah Music Festival with kids?

Families can best experience the Savannah Music Festival with kids by taking advantage of the family-friendly events and activities. The festival offers a variety of performances and workshops specifically designed for children, allowing them to engage with different styles of music in a fun and interactive way. Families can also enjoy picnics in Forsyth Park while listening to the free outdoor concerts, providing a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the music together.

Are pets allowed in most of Savannah’s attractions?

Most of Savannah’s attractions are pet-friendly, with many offering outdoor spaces where pets are welcome. From parks and historic sites to outdoor cafes and even some shops, there are plenty of places to explore with your furry friend. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time to ensure pets are allowed in specific locations, as some indoor attractions may have different policies. Nonetheless, Savannah is generally a pet-friendly city with plenty of options for pet owners.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a destination that will captivate and educate your kids while providing plenty of fun and adventure, a trip to Savannah, Georgia with kids is the perfect choice for your next family vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Savannah and around the city, so this list of things to do will be a great starting point. Whether traveling with young kids or older kids, there’s a variety of things to keep kids happy and interested in the city of Savannah.