Between Spanish Moss and Neon Signs: A Day at Savannah City Market
A historic market that’s also Savannah’s best starting point for food, music and walking tours.
You round a brick corner and the city unfolds like a map stitched to the ground: cobbled lanes, iron balconies, and a tangle of live oaks draped in Spanish moss that move like slow curtains in the breeze. You have arrived at Savannah City Market—not a single stall but a small city within a city where food, music, history and on-the-street performances collide. Morning here smells of strong coffee and frying dough; by night the market glows with string lights, live bands and the low murmur of river traffic. It’s the kind of place that rewards slow wandering, but it also serves as a practical hub for every kind of exploration the Historic District offers.
Trail Wisdom
Start early or late
To avoid crowds and heat, schedule walking tours for early morning or late afternoon—many bike and walking tours run multiple times daily.
Mind the pavement
Cobblestones and brick sidewalks are charming but uneven—wear sturdy shoes and watch your step after rain.
Bring a refillable bottle
Vendors and tours often provide water, but a reusable bottle saves money and reduces single-use plastic.
Book themed tours in advance
Popular experiences—haunted pub crawls, Johnny Mercer tours, and culinary walks—fill up on weekends and holidays.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Factors Walk staircases and river outlooks—less crowded vantage points of the Savannah River
- •Colonial Park Cemetery—quiet, historical gravestones that reveal the city’s early civic story
Wildlife
great blue heron, bottlenose dolphin (occasionally in the Savannah River)
Conservation Note
Historic District preservation and nearby marsh restoration initiatives work together to protect cultural heritage and the Lowcountry’s fragile tidal ecosystems—visitors are encouraged to support local conservation organizations.
City Market occupies blocks that functioned as a commercial center since Savannah’s 18th-century founding and was revitalized as a public market and cultural hub during downtown preservation efforts in the late 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: blooming trees and squares, cultural festivals, outdoor dining
Challenges: occasional showers, rising tourist numbers near Easter
Spring brings mild temperatures and flowering live oaks—excellent for walking and food tours, though bring a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
summer
Best for: late-night music, special seasonal menus, riverboat cruises
Challenges: high heat and humidity, afternoon thunderstorms
Summer is lively with outdoor concerts and long evenings; plan for heat by staying hydrated and scheduling tours early or after sundown.
fall
Best for: pleasant walking conditions, film and art festivals, comfortable sightseeing
Challenges: busy festival weekends, higher hotel rates during events
Fall is ideal—cooler air and thinner crowds make it the best season for walking tours, bike rides, and river excursions.
winter
Best for: holiday lights and trolley tours, cozy indoor dining, museum visits
Challenges: sporadic cold snaps, shorter daylight hours
Winters are mild compared to northern cities; holiday decorations and special trolley tours add seasonal charm despite shorter days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Cobbled streets and long walking tours demand supportive, grippy footwear.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated during humid days and reduces single-use plastic waste.
Light rain shell
Quick showers are common—compact rain gear keeps tours comfortable.
Compact camera or phone with extra battery
The market and nearby squares are full of photo opportunities; battery life matters for a day out.
Common Questions
Where do most tours depart from at City Market?
Many walking, food and haunted tours use City Market as a meeting point—check your booking confirmation for the exact meeting spot, often near the Georgia Tasting Room or central square.
Are dogs allowed in the market area?
Leashed dogs are generally welcome outdoors, but check individual shops and tour policies—indoor eateries and some guided tours may restrict pets.
Can I combine a trolley tour with a riverboat cruise?
Yes—land-and-sea combo options are available; note there is sometimes a short time gap between the trolley finish and riverboat check-in.
How long should I plan to explore City Market?
Allow at least 2–3 hours to browse galleries, grab a bite, and join a short walking tour; half- to full-day visits let you sample multiple activities.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
The Historic District is generally safe and well-patrolled, but exercise usual urban caution—stay in lit areas and travel in groups when possible.
Can I rent bikes from the market area?
Yes—several operators offer bike tours that start near City Market and many provide free water, helmets and baskets.
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes for cobbles, refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, sunscreen/hat for southern sun, compact rain shell for sudden showers
Did You Know
Johnny Mercer, the Savannah-born composer of 'Moon River', grew up in the city and the local music scene still celebrates his legacy with tours and memorials.
Quick Travel Tips
Book popular themed tours in advance; carry small cash for street vendors; use the hop-on hop-off trolley to save walking time; avoid midday heat in summer by touring early or late
Local Flavor
Savannah City Market pulses with Lowcountry flavors—try shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and pralines at nearby eateries; live music and evening ghost tours add sonic texture to the food and gallery crawl.
Logistics Snapshot
Meeting hub: central City Market squares. Best access: walkable from River Street; trolleys and bike tours depart nearby. Book tours 24–72 hrs ahead in high season. Expect 2–4 hours for a combined market + short tour visit.
Sustainability Note
Support independent vendors, carry reusable water, avoid single-use plastics, and respect historic sites and marsh ecosystems—sustainable choices help preserve both culture and natural habitat.